From normal Model Ms in general? Mechanically, not really. Obviously, the general rule of thumb is that the earlier the Model M the better quality though. In my experience though, the earliest of PC/XT (eg, P/N 1390120) and PC/AT (eg, P/N 1390131) Enhanced Keyboards (both formally introduced in April 1986 but production started earlier, in fact at least as early as December 1985 like this keyboard in question) can also have similar quality attributes.thefarside wrote: ↑17 Oct 2023, 18:26Now up to $760. Besides the color is there anything else that differentiates this from a normal Model M?
From other industrial Model Ms? The black-square IBM badge.
Amongst the earliest of early Model Ms? It's unique in that it's PC compatible and has lock-light LEDs, but there are other interesting keyboards during this era. The IBM 7531 Industrial Computer (the earliest host for this keyboard I know of) was officially announced in May 1985, but was quickly followed by the IBM 3161 ASCII Display Station and its keyboard (the other famous early Model M, eg. P/N 1386303) in June 1985. Whilst that P/N 1388032 has a great overall case, P/N 1386303 has lovely ASCII style keycaps (though later IBM 316X and 3151 keyboards had similar sets). Around a year before the Industrial 101/102-key was in production, IBM was already making Model M-based keyboards for the IBM Wheelwriter 3, Wheelwriter 5 and Quietwriter 7 electronic typewriters. I have an example from June 1984 and I'd say these are more unique, using 'cushionless' rockers (they resemble a stubbier Model F-style flippers) and factory O-rings.
The keyboard is a great example of an early Model M with a rare case colour, great looking badge, and happens to be AT compatible so its easy to use on a modern PC (or at least can be used with cheap active converters). It certainly has additional value as a bundle of those desirable traits, but I wouldn't pay this sort of price for one.
