Ryan Norbauer designs and builds what might be the most exquisite keyboards on the planet. He is a self-described nerd but in the best possible way in terms of his passion for aesthetics, function and attention to detail.

Would it surprise you to know that there's a large global keyboard community, where other fanatical folks gather to press the flesh and the keys of their favorite creators?

How does Norbauer view this spirited subculture?

Ryan writes:
"Through the sense of touch, keyboards connect us, transmitting our thoughts instantly across continents and enabling some of the greatest acts of human creation. They hail from the dawn of personal computing in the second half of the 20th century, a time of dizzying optimism—when it was still possible to imagine that a global digital network linking all of humanity would inevitably lead to a better tomorrow."

This is a fascinating case study into building a bespoke luxury brand that's not designed for the masses. More from Ryan:

"Each Norbauer is meticulously inspected, tuned, and assembled by hand at our keyboard laboratory in the birthplace of the personal computer: Silicon Valley, California.

We spare no expense and take no shortcuts, because I believe the technical achievements of our craft must be worthy of this venerable device and all that its noble history represents."

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