Original IBM "Model M" Keyboard with buckling spring ... still available

A

Arthur

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Anyone remember the original IBM PC keyboards with their signature clickety-click and gorgeous tactile 'feel'? Well, they're still available here here, and I've just taken delivery of one.

The IBM Model M provided unmatched tactile feedback because, unlike today's rubberdome key activation, these are based on buckling spring technology - the keystroke is activated at the precise moment your fingers senses the tactile change and your hear the 'click'.

IBM sold its Kentucky keyboard plant to Lexmark in the early 90s, and for the last 15 years they've been an independent company selling the same Model M keyboards.

It isn't cheap. I ordered the Classic White, for $79, plus $98 shipping. Outrageous, but nostalgia drove me to capitulate.

For people who write a lot, this keyboard is unmatched. Gorgeous.
 
Arthur said:
Anyone remember the original IBM PC keyboards with their signature clickety-click and gorgeous tactile 'feel'? Well, they're still available here here, and I've just taken delivery of one.

The IBM Model M provided unmatched tactile feedback because, unlike today's rubberdome key activation, these are based on buckling spring technology - the keystroke is activated at the precise moment your fingers senses the tactile change and your hear the 'click'.

IBM sold its Kentucky keyboard plant to Lexmark in the early 90s, and for the last 15 years they've been an independent company selling the same Model M keyboards.
Click to expand...

You had my curiosity. But now you have my attention.

It isn't cheap. I ordered the Classic White, for $79, plus $98 shipping. Outrageous, but nostalgia drove me to capitulate.

For people who write a lot, this keyboard is unmatched. Gorgeous.
Click to expand...

...right up until I saw the price. No thanks Jeff.
 
R2000 for a keyboard.

And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”- Luke 12;15
 
abzo said:
R2000 for a keyboard.

And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”- Luke 12;15
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Didn't know you were a bible-puncher, abzo. :p

I'm a keyboard-puncher.
 
Also, what's the difference between one of these and a newer mechanical keyboard?
 
Gorgeous tactile feel. Unmatched quality. Just perfect.

Yes, R2k isn't cheap for a keyboard. But every man (and woman) knows what a difference a quality tool makes.
 
abzo said:
R2000 for a keyboard.

And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”- Luke 12;15
Click to expand...

R2000 for a keyboard is fine.

Personally I would drop that on a top of the line Razor as its a superior keyboard, but for the guys who wanna go retro, there is nothing wrong with one of those old beasts.
 
TehStranger said:
You have my attention once more. Would buy one if not for the stupidly overpriced shipping.
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Yes, it's insane, even if it took only two days to get here.

Oh, and add R305 charged for Customs VAT and handling by the local FedEx agent.

Still, it'll give me years of service, with every typing moment a pleasure. Instantly replaces my Microsoft Wireless Comfort keyboard, which itself isn't bad at all.
 
Order a model with the Win key of you want. Check on their website - link in OP.

You can also get models with an integrated trackball or the little 'pencil eraser' trackpoint pointing device as found on ThinkPads.
 
Arthur said:
Yes, it's insane, even if it took only two days to get here.

Oh, and add R305 charged for Customs VAT and handling by the local FedEx agent.

Still, it'll give me years of service, with every typing moment a pleasure. Instantly replaces my Microsoft Wireless Comfort keyboard, which itself isn't bad at all.
Click to expand...

I have fond memories of those keyboards and would love one (I spend my life typing) but R2000 is a tad dear. I'm well aware that short of it breaking you'll never need another keyboard. Wonder if group shipping would yield any discounts...
 
ghoti said:
R2000 for a keyboard is fine.

Personally I would drop that on a top of the line Razor as its a superior keyboard, but for the guys who wanna go retro, there is nothing wrong with one of those old beasts.
Click to expand...

A top of the line Razor is still a piece of junk compared to a DAS Ultimate. I've never tried a Model M to compare buckling spring vs Cherry MX switch type keyboard. I can hardly imagine there would be such a premium; plus you lose out on the Windows key.
 
I had one of these, at my previous workplace. It's a POS, the most unreliable keyboard that I have used. Your mileage may vary, of course.
 
cerebus said:
plus you lose out on the Windows key.
Click to expand...
No you don't.

UClassic104%20white1000x1000.jpg
 
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