The almost fully functional typewriter designed by LEGO Masters UK champion Steve Guinness has been brought to life through the LEGO Ideas program. Now any LEGO fan can create a charming vintage replica of their own.
Fans of vintage collectibles and classic literature are sure to be delighted by the sophisticated new addition to the LEGO Ideas collection: a typewriter. The #21327 LEGO Ideas Typewriter was born from the passion of a fan who wanted to create something different that would bring wonder to young and old LEGO fans alike. The unique set will reportedly be available for purchase soon.
Practicality aside, it’s a gorgeous piece that is sure to bring a touch of nostalgia to the home office of any LEGO enthusiast. The LEGO replica has been carefully crafted to mirror the function and feel of classic typewriters, featuring printed character keys that move, a sliding carriage, black and red ink spool ribbons, and a roller that real paper can be fed into.
The mint green, mid-century modern design of the 1950s-style typewriter is inspired by the very machine used by the LEGO Group’s founder, Ole Kirk Kristiansen, and you can truly feel the authenticity of its appearance. Upon first glance, you could even be forgiven for mistaking it for a genuine vintage typewriter (though the LEGO blocks do become rather obvious upon closer inspection).
The origins of the typewriter’s design are reiterated in a letter from Thomas Kirk Kristiansen, the fourth-generation owner of the company, which is available in 43 different languages. It’s a sweet gesture driving home the nostalgia behind the piece, and the typed note adds an extra personal touch to the promotional material.
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The idea of a LEGO typewriter was initially developed by Steve Guinness, champion of LEGO Masters UK season one, during his time on the show in 2017. After working to refine the design, he submitted his proposal to LEGO Ideas, a website where fans can upload product ideas for consideration to one day become real sets.
Guinness pitched his idea on the site, suggesting that “it showcases the versatility of the LEGO brick, and would look amazing on any LEGO fan’s desk, at home or even in the office at work”. His submission received 10,000 supporters and was approved for development, with the LEGO master’s dream design now finally about to hit the shelves.
In a press release from the LEGO Group, Guinness explained the motivations behind his creation:
“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… 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!”
Federico Begher, VP of Global Marketing at the LEGO Group, went on to praise Guinness’ idea to replicate a writing tool with such enduring appeal. “For many, the escape from the connected world to the simplicity of the typewriter is a similar experience to the mindful process of building with LEGO bricks,” he wrote, commending the set’s ability to merge these two worlds.
As meticulously crafted as the movement and sound of the LEGO typewriter might be, you probably can’t expect to have much success actually typing with it if you cover the LEGO pieces with ink. You might get some nice looking dots, but keep in mind that this is more of a showpiece.
Regardless, LEGO fans who hold love in their heart for the dying art of the printed world will surely want to get their crafty hands on this 2079 piece set when it’s launched on July 1st. For $199.99 USD ($259 AUD) you can secure a perfectly retro piece that is sure to elevate any modern office, as well as gaining the priceless opportunity to “unplug from your digital life and recall simpler times”.
Check it out via the LEGO website here.
