The New Hermes Vanguard 3400. The name itself evokes a certain era – an era of robust, reliable typewriters that were built to last. My own Vanguard 3400, recently retired after a long and faithful service, is a testament to this. While it’s undeniably a product of the 1980s, its sturdy construction and surprisingly smooth typing action still hold a certain charm and appeal, even in the age of digital keyboards. This article will delve into a comprehensive review of this iconic machine, exploring its strengths and weaknesses, potential upgrades, and its place in the broader context of typewriter history.
Vanguard 3400 Review: A Relic of a Bygone Era
The Vanguard 3400 is not a machine for the faint of heart. It's a substantial piece of equipment, weighing in considerably more than modern portable typewriters. This weight, however, contributes significantly to its stability and the satisfying "thunk" of each keystroke. The build quality is exceptional; the chassis feels incredibly solid, with minimal flex or rattle. This robust construction is a hallmark of typewriters from this period, when durability was paramount. It wasn't designed for portability in the modern sense; it was designed to be a workhorse, a permanent fixture on a desk, ready to churn out countless pages of text.
The typing experience itself is distinctive. While not as feather-light as some modern keyboards, the key action is surprisingly smooth and responsive once you get used to the slightly heavier touch. The keys offer a satisfying tactile feedback, confirming each keypress with a distinct and audible click. This tactile feedback is a significant advantage for many writers who appreciate the physical connection to the writing process, a connection largely absent in the silent operation of modern keyboards.
The features are relatively straightforward. The Vanguard 3400 boasts a standard QWERTY layout, a sturdy carriage return lever, and a selection of type styles, usually achieved through the use of interchangeable type elements (also known as type balls or print elements). This allows for some customization of the typeface, providing options beyond the standard font. There are also features like margin settings and tab stops, enabling more precise document formatting. However, don't expect the sophistication of modern word processors; this is a machine focused on the core function of typing, and it excels at that.
One notable characteristic is the machine's loudness. It's not a subtle machine; the clacking of the keys and the whirring of the carriage return mechanism are definitely noticeable. This can be a drawback in quiet environments, but for some, the audible feedback adds to the overall writing experience, providing a rhythmic accompaniment to the writing process. It's a sound that many associate with productivity and the focused work environment of a bygone era.
The ribbon mechanism is another aspect worth mentioning. Replacing the ribbon is a relatively simple process, but it requires a bit of familiarity with the machine's mechanics. The quality of the ribbon significantly impacts the clarity and darkness of the printed text. Using a high-quality ribbon is essential to maximize the machine's output. The ribbon itself is a consumable, meaning it will need replacing periodically, adding to the ongoing cost of ownership.
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