I bought an Olivetti Studio 45 some months ago. The seller’s photo made it appear white. It turned out to be a dull gray, but I bought it anyway–for twenty or so dollars, if memory serves. It was my first paint job, and it turned out rather well. I went for Ferrari red. It’s Italian, after all. No one can resist a Ferrari. In any case, I never loved the mechanics, albeit it typed fine. Later I bought an Olivetti Valentine for my girlfriend, but it was missing a shift key. The Valentine sold for $60, but these often go for more than $400. It is famously red. The 45 was happy to donate its key.

Later, in the interest of consolidating my collection, I brought the 45 to Goodwill. At this very moment, the bid is up to $62 with two hours left. What people will do for the color red. The listing says it’s metal, which isn’t true. It’s plastic.

No worries. Just look at the red.