June 1984 IBM Wheelwriter 5 Keyboard Assembly (P/N 1351000)
Posted: 26 Jan 2023, 20:36
I think this is the earliest Model M/Model M-based/membrane buckling spring keyboard I've seen, and it's a beauty! Includes typical early Model M and Wheelwriter/Quietwriter keyboard assembly perks such as rainbow plate, 'cushionless' pivot plates and factory-fitted O-rings. Plus, all rivets are intact!
It was the keyboard assembly for the IBM Wheelwriter 5 electronic typewriter, which alongside the Wheelwriter 3 and Quietwriter 7 were collectively the first vessels of the Model M design when they were released in the latter half of 1984. Judging by the style of sticker, this keyboard was possibly produced by IBM Netherlands as its very similar to confirmed examples of IBM Netherlands Model M's internal sticker. IBM Netherlands' Amsterdam plant(s) was known for its typewriter production and was known to produce electronic typewriters and keyboards as per IBM, so it's believable that it was produced there.
It was the keyboard assembly for the IBM Wheelwriter 5 electronic typewriter, which alongside the Wheelwriter 3 and Quietwriter 7 were collectively the first vessels of the Model M design when they were released in the latter half of 1984. Judging by the style of sticker, this keyboard was possibly produced by IBM Netherlands as its very similar to confirmed examples of IBM Netherlands Model M's internal sticker. IBM Netherlands' Amsterdam plant(s) was known for its typewriter production and was known to produce electronic typewriters and keyboards as per IBM, so it's believable that it was produced there.