The Hermes Baby, a compact and elegant portable typewriter, holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts. Its enduring appeal stems not only from its sleek design and reliable mechanics but also from the rich history encoded within its serial number. This article delves into the fascinating world of Hermes Baby serial numbers, exploring their significance, how to decipher them, and how they connect to the typewriter's production year. We will examine serial number formats, explore the production history of the Hermes Baby across different years, and provide a detailed overview of specific model years, including the 1958 and 1975 models.
Hermes Serial Number Sizes: A Matter of Consistency and Variation
While the Hermes Baby maintained a consistent design philosophy throughout its production run, the size and format of the serial numbers weren't entirely uniform. Early models might feature smaller, less prominently displayed serial numbers, often stamped discreetly on the typewriter's frame. Later models, particularly those produced closer to the cessation of production, often had larger, more easily visible numbers, sometimes even incorporating a letter prefix or suffix. This variation makes precise dating based solely on the number's size unreliable. However, the size can provide a clue when combined with other dating methods.
Hermes Baby Typewriter by Year: A Chronological Journey
Pinpointing the exact manufacturing date of a Hermes Baby using only its serial number is challenging, even for experts. Hermes' production records are not publicly accessible in a comprehensive, digitized format. However, through careful research and cross-referencing information from collectors, auction listings, and online forums, we can create a general timeline and understanding of the production years and associated serial number ranges.
While precise dates for each serial number range are elusive, the following provides a general overview of Hermes Baby production years:
* Pre-1950s: These early models are highly sought after by collectors due to their rarity. Serial numbers from this era are usually smaller and less standardized than later models. Identifying the precise year of manufacture often relies on stylistic cues, such as the typeface used or the design of the carriage return lever.
* 1950s: This decade represents a significant period in Hermes Baby production. The design remained largely consistent, but subtle changes in materials and manufacturing processes may be present. Serial numbers from this decade are generally more easily identifiable, although precise dating still requires careful comparison and cross-referencing with other data points. The 1958 model, discussed in more detail below, falls within this period.
* 1960s: The 1960s saw continued production of the Hermes Baby with minimal design alterations. Serial numbers from this period continue to show some variation in size and format, but the overall style remains relatively consistent. Identifying a 1960s model often involves comparing features with known models from auction listings and collector databases.
* 1970s: By the 1970s, the typewriter market was shifting, and the popularity of electric typewriters was rising. Hermes continued producing the Baby for a time, but production numbers likely decreased. The 1975 model, discussed below, represents one of the later years of production. Serial numbers from this era may incorporate additional identifying marks or prefixes.
* Post-1970s: Production of the Hermes Baby ceased sometime in the late 1970s. Precisely pinpointing the final year is difficult due to the lack of readily available complete production records.
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