The web video series “A Different LA” launched with a look at the fading art of typewriter repair. Created by Form Follows Function, the video follows the life and work of the late typewriter repairman, Jesse Flores.
We’ve embedded the video above for your weekend viewing pleasure. What’s your fondest memory of a typewriter? Check it out:
Opening ‘U.S. Office Machines’ in 1962 in Highland Park (and since then operating from 3 different locations on Figueroa St), he is one of the oldest businesses in the neighborhood, and also one of the last remaining typewriter repair shops in the city.Before Flores’ recent passing in 2011, we were fortunate to capture a few moments with him in front of his shop. And just this month, we caught up with his son, Ruben, who is now the heir of his dad’s business along with his brother, Danny. He talks about the hyper speed of today’s technology, how typewriters are once again relevant, and how lucky they are that Jesse held onto all those old machines.