My first Model M

[Miky2147]

Hello, I would like to buy a keyboard that will last for many years so I thought about buying an original Model M. I have never owned a Model M so I would like some advice from an expert before purchasing. I have no particular budget limits. I am looking for a US layout keyboard in excellent/restored condition.
I found one from 1986, it's one of the first produced in the USA right?
I'll post the photos for you.

https://ibb.co/G9hvSdh
https://ibb.co/zxYpYz2
https://ibb.co/1zXbccR
https://ibb.co/g425qtF
https://ibb.co/jGYVX9G
https://ibb.co/QJJgWCb
https://ibb.co/DCtKvY7

The seller says he did the bolt mod, is this a problem? Is everything in order? Do you notice strange modifications or non-original components? Could I buy it or do you suggest anything else?
Thank you

[wobbled]

If you want your Model M to last a crap load longer then you’re going to want it to be bolt modded, the plastic rivets they used in factory were never really designed to hold up 20-30 years and we’re fast approaching 40 years for some older M’s. The fact the seller has already bolt modded this for you makes it a good deal for you, so long as the price isn’t too high, though if budget isn’t a problem then go for it

[JAZIGamer]

If you're not specifically looking for that original IBM feel, Unicomp makes a variety of brand new Buckling Spring keyboards. I've done business with them over the years. No complaints.

Just a thought.

[Falkenroth]

Looks like a good Model M keyboard to me. Just remember with this model number you don't have any indicator lights.
You could also visit ClickyKeyboards.com and compare prices and models. The boards he sales are bolt modded and gone
through also.

I enjoy all my Model M's and my daily driver here at work is a Unicomp New Model M. I own a trailer repair shop and it gets some
abuse.

[Miky2147]

Thanks for your answers. But I just discovered that Vortex made a case like the IBM Model M but in aluminum. So I was thinking: what if I got a keyboard with this case and paired it with switches similar to the Topre?
My favorite switches are Topre (I use a Realforce with Silent Topre 45g) and I think it would be very cool to have Topre-like switches in an IBM Model M-shaped keyboard!
What do you think of this idea?
In a shop they recommended these switches to me which are comparable to the Topre ones: Geon HG White and Yellow, BSUN Hutts, The Lumia Bitter Teas I don't even know one because I've never assembled a keyboard. Do you know if it's true?
If so, which switch do you recommend?
Thank you

[ModelMenjoyer]

As long as you wish for 'silent model m' you could go for vortex's SSK kit and those modern mx switches, but buckling spring is what makes model m... a model m.
the question is; do you want only the shape of model m, or genuine model m with buckling springs?

so what did you end up with?