What Was Old Is New Again

Looking for a gift for the writer who has everything? Look no further: here’s one that turns even an antique typewriter into a USB keyboard. Seriously, we’re not making this up. From the USB Typewriter
Web page:

The USBTypewriter™ is a new and groundbreaking innovation in the field of obsolescence. Lovers of the look, feel, and quality of old-fashioned manual typewriters can now use them as keyboards for any USB-capable computer, such as a PC, Mac, or even iPad! The modification is easy to install, it involves no messy wiring, and does not change the outward appearance of the typewriter (except for the USB adapter itself, which is mounted in the rear of the machine). So the end result is a retro-style USB keyboard that not only looks great, but feels great to use.

If you would like one of these, I have the feeling you’d better move fast. USB Typewriter inventor, Philadelphia-based Jack Zylkin, sells his contraption through Etsy, the social commerce Web site that focuses on handmade art and art-related items.

Prices vary according to the model of typewriter that is being converted, but they start at about $500. Zylkin also sells a conversion kit with instructions for $55 (it comes with a warning that you must have good soldering skills). If you already own a manual typewriter, he will convert it for you for $350 plus shipping costs.

READ MORE: “Found Typewriters,” by Janet Rudolph (Mystery Fanfare).