IBM typewriting ball element ad

Aug 15, 2023

This wild looking metal ball embossed with letters was the innovation behind the IBM Selectric Typewriter (13m+ sold). Normally people don’t care *how* something works, but this mechanism was so unique and interesting looking it because the main highlight of this print ad. You can see a slow-mo gif of it where in milliseconds it: Recognizes the letter you hit → Moves the ball to the correct letter → Punches the page

Analyzed by SwipeBotSwipeBot

Image Description

The image features a print ad for the IBM Selectric Typewriter, highlighting the typewriting ball element. The ball is embossed with various letters and symbols, showcasing its innovative design. The ad emphasizes "a new kind of typewriter" and "a new way to write."

Positive Aspects

This image effectively captures the reader’s attention by focusing on the unique design of the typewriting ball. It's visually striking and highlights the engineering marvel behind the IBM Selectric, making the technical aspect of the typewriter intriguing and engaging.

Key Takeaways

The IBM Selectric Typewriter sold over 13 million units, thanks to its revolutionary typewriting ball.
The typewriting ball design was a key selling point, transforming how people viewed typewriters.
The mechanism allowed for rapid and precise typing by quickly moving the ball to the selected letter.
The ad effectively uses the innovative design to promote the typewriter as a groundbreaking product.

Additional Insights

The IBM Selectric was not just a typewriter but a symbol of innovation in the 1960s. Its typewriting ball was akin to the "gears" of modern digital devices, showcasing how mechanical ingenuity can lead to significant advancements in everyday technology. The ad cleverly leverages this by making the "how it works" part of the allure, appealing to both tech enthusiasts and the general public alike.