Gramercy Typewriter Company was opened in 1932 by Abraham Schweitzer — Paul’s father and Jay’s grandfather — who arrived in New York City from Europe sometime in the early 20th century.

The Gramercy Typewriter Company was founded by Abraham Schweitzer in 1932; today, his grandson, Jay Schweitzer, is the third-generation owner.

It all began with one broken typewriter. “So I bought a typewriter because I was going to write a book and I got it home, got my desk all set up, ready to go, and it didn't work,” French said.

Jones Typewriter mechanic Charlie May, 76, right, shares a laugh with customer David Baldree, left, and inventory buyer Shane Byrne, center, after Baldree dropped off a typewriter for repair at ...

Students wrote letters to Tom Hanks using typewriters. He responded to each message. 04:57 When writing instructor Fred Durbin assigned his students to type letters to Tom Hanks on vintage ...

Hanks' typewriter was then put up for sale on eBay. "The auction was announced through the thrills of social media and within a day, it was up to $1,000. This was well above what we hoped.

There, typewriters are displayed behind glass like precious objects, including a 1950s metallic-green model autographed by its previous owner, Tom Hanks. Others are out in the open, ready for use.