November 2018
From the Collection of The Shy Typospherian
Manufacturer: Royal
Model: P (Portable)
Year: 1933
Color: Red Sunburst, Original
Typeface: Vogue, 10 CPI
Nickname: Little Red Writing Hood
Special thanks to JJ Short and Associates, Steve Dade, Charles Justice, and Everett Henderson, Jr.

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"I own a Royal with Vogue typeface" is the typewriter-equivalent of saying "I own a unicorn". Indeed nothing puts our Facebook forums in a frenzy quite like those sans-serif lines and tilted "e"s. But while the typeface is mesmerizing to look at, it is hard to remember that--while uncommon--it is not exactly "rare".

This second generation Model P's survival is undoubtedly due to a confluence of good fortune. The feed rollers must have been replaced just before it was shelved as they remain in soft, perfect condition; the red sunburst finish has uniform fissures indicating that it was stored in its case and in a very dry environment; and the eBay seller followed my shipping instructions to ensure it survived the journey from upstate California to Central Texas.

The Vogue typeface is luxurious and suited best for short letters, labels, and cards. In my opinion it does not make for a comfortable reading experience beyond a page or two, much like script or fraktur. And how does it type? I am partial to the primitive portables of the 1920s and 30s and this last iteration of the Model P maintains the simple feel that I enjoy. If you prefer a more modern typing experience, you will be happy to know Vogue has been found on typewriters as late as the 1960s! Happy hunting and, as always, Kind regards,