If you’re a fan of all things vintage, then you’ll probably like this new LEGO set that looks like a classic typewriter from the 1950s.
The 2079-piece typewriter model was designed by LEGO fan Steve Guinness from Chester, U.K. Guinness submitted his concept to the LEGO Ideas platform, where fans around the world can pitch their ideas for a LEGO set. After gaining more than 10,000 votes from the public, Guinness’ winning concept was improved by the LEGO Ideas team and ultimately turned it into reality.
Though the LEGO Ideas Typewriter set doesn’t actually type, it is designed to mirror the function and style of a classic typewriter. It has a center typebar that rises each time a key is pressed, which links to the carriage that moves across as you type. It also features a platen roller into which real paper can be fed.
In a nod to the lost art of letter writing, every LEGO Ideas Typewriter set comes with a signed letter from Thomas Kirk Kristiansen, which is translated into 43 different languages. Kristiansen is the chairman of the LEGO Group and a fourth-generation member of the family which still privately owns the business to this day.
In a statement, Guinness briefly discussed his inspiration for the LEGO Ideas Typewriter set. “I wanted to create something totally different from anything that LEGO has ever done before and showcase that you really can make anything out of LEGO,” he said. “I bought a vintage typewriter for my research and then played around with bricks and the mechanism until I was happy with the design. I hope it will bring nostalgia to adult fans like me, and wonder and curiosity to younger fans who might not have ever seen a real typewriter!”
Measuring 12cm high, 27 cm wide, and 26 cm long, the LEGO Ideas Typewriter set makes a great decorative piece at home or in the office. Priced at $199.99, the typewriter replica will be available for purchase via LEGO VIP early access starting June 16th and will be on sale on LEGO.com/ideas from July 1st.
Watch LEGO designers Wes Talbott and James May talk about the LEGO Ideas Typewriter set in detail, including all its functions, in the video below: