December 4, 2008
Vintage pens, in particular fountain pens, are highly collectible and come in a wide variety of colors and styles, from elaborate jewel-encrusted casings to sleek and simple cigar-shaped designs. There are three main types of vintage pens: 1) dip pens have a nib to dip into an inkwell; 2) fountain pens have a self-contained ink reservoir; and 3) ballpoint pens have a little ball that allows ink to flow out when the pen is put to paper.
The 1920s were a time of innovation and prosperity for pen manufacturers, who started developing plastic pens in a variety of colors and styles. The Sheaffer Balance, released in 1929, started a trend toward streamlined pens. The 1930s saw the introduction of more affordable models, sold in dime stores. The 1940s ushered in ballpoint pens, and a more modern look typified by the famous 'Parker 51', the classic collector pen released by Parker in 1950.
Up until the 1960s, the emphasis in the pen industry was on the development of better-performing and easier-filling pens through innovations in nib and reservoir technology. In the mid-1880s, craftsmen had created the first reliable fountain pen, but it had a long way to go.
By the 1960s, ball point and cartridge technology had made performance a non-issue, and manufacturers like Parker, Sheaffer, Waterman and Montblanc began to focus on fancier material and designs, with a variety of colors, lacquers, and engravings to differentiate their high-end products. Pens became a gift item and fashion statement, and were ultimately produced as limited editions for the collector market.
When I got my first job out of college, I did what a lot of people do: I ran out and bought myself a Montblan… [more]
The Parker "51," produced by the Parker Pen Company, is considered by many collectors to be the best pen ever… [more]
Ernesto Soler's extensive homage to one of the most popular pens ever produced, the Parker "51," introduced in 1941… [more]
Jim Mamoulides' vintage and modern pen-cyclopedia. Start at the main gallery, featuring detailed articles (with pho… [more]
This site has lots of great photos and descriptions of rare vintage ink bottles. In particular, check out the Water… [more]
Got a site to suggest? Let us know.
Are we missing one? Tell us.
Independent, UK -
For purists, nothing beats the quality of a vintage model. Expertly restored, the solid gold nib writes smoothly, and you can fill the pen from an ink ...
The Tribune-Democrat, PA -
He also is making an assorted seven-pen collector’s set, which comes in a wooden display box. Prices for each pen can range from $25 to $200, depending on ...
Malaysia Star, Malaysia -
A pen collector is also someone who appreciates artistic pieces.” Justifying the price tag too are the materials used, and everything is of the highest ...
Economic Times, India -
Pens from The Louis Cartier Precious Pen Collection are no less striking. A collection of yellow gold or white gold pens, available in three different ...
Globe and Mail, Canada -
Madell hopes that the draw of the Thomson collection, which includes Canadian and European paintings, model ships and antique pens, will level out these ...
Newspost Online, India -
Jolly today feels like putting his huge pen collection on public display. “I think of conducting an exhibition as I have variety that are now not seen these ...
