Original Item: Only One Available. Now this is something we have only had a very few of: an original German WWII Schutzstaffel (SS) typewriter! Even better, this is a rare "Groma" brand Modell T by G.F. Grosser Fabrik für Büromaschinen, located in Markersdorf / Chemnitztal, Germany. We have never had an SS typewriter by this maker before, and overall the makers typewriters are hard to find on the market, Part of this is due to the use of bakelite materials, which unfortunately makes them much more prone to damage, which this example does have. It comes complete with it's original case, which is inlet for the feet of the typewriter, and actually has latches that hold it in place.

We checked the bottom of the typewriter, and it is marked with serial number 242721, which indicates production at the end of 1943, as the first serial number for 1944 was 243000. With a weight under 11lbs, this typewriter is quite bit lighter than others we have had before, mostly by Olympia. Those look to have used cast frames, however the frame on this example looks to be mostly cut and bent steel, with some portions made from bakelite, which further reduced the weight. The typewriter measures 12 1/4"W x 13 1/2"D x 5"H, and is partially functional. The keys definitely still work, and the platen still advances correctly. The ribbon handling system is partly detached, and definitely is not working correctly. It is definitely way overdue for a servicing.

As mentioned previously, the bakelite portions of the typewriter have suffered damage, particularly the outer housing, which has front area around the keys break off, part of which has been lost on the left. There is also a crack through the right side near one of the securing screws. The GROMA logo is still mostly present on the platen cover, however the front address logo on the bakelite housing is now a bit worn. It originally read as follows:

G · F · Grosser · Fabrik für Büromaschinen, Markersdorf / Chemnitztal

Of interest is that there is also an old sticker on the back from an office machine repair shop in Dortmund, Germany. There is also a name written on the inside of the case: B. Sjauken / Dtmd..

Now, the question most have is "what makes this an SS typewriter?". On this example, the shift symbol for the number 3, which would normally be the ℳ︁ symbol for German Currency, is instead the double Sig rune emblem of the SS: ᛋᛋ. The key bar itself has this on it, and it is definitely the original one. Very few of these survived the war intact, as most were modified for use post war with replacement of the key and striker.

The original case is in good condition, made from non-laminated wood with finger joint corners. It does show some damage, and two of the corner reinforcements are gone. The top piece of wood for the slot on the back where the base fits in is also broken away, but included. The bottom of the case has pads on the bottom, so it's clear that the typewriter was intended to be left attached to the base. The front latch still closes correctly, though we would definitely still handle the case with care. It measures 13 1/4"W x 12 7/8"D x 5 1/2"H.

This is a great opportunity to own a rare piece of military office equipment, still in the original case. Ready to add to your collection and display!