The Parker 51 Mk. III was introduced in 1969, and gave way to the Mk. lV in 1971 a very short production run. This is a Mk. lll fountain pen and pencil set in first class, unused condition throughout.
The set is finished in Black with lustralloy caps which carry a rolled chromed 'arrow' clip and a pearl grey end stud. This stud was replaced with an integral metal stud in 1971, apparently there was some concern about toddlers ingesting the pearl stud! This pen therefore had a very short production run, always a good sign for collectors.
The set came to me as unused and the overall condition suggests strongly that this is the case. The set is flawless with a deep, lustrous shine, the caps shows no dings and the 'pli-glass' ink sac is clear and unstained.
The pencil has a smooth rotary action, it operates by turning the cap to expel and retract the lead. I have not removed the cap as they become very tight to the inner barrel and it is not advisable to force the issue as the leads are replaced through the cone.
The correct hard plastic case is in good, clean condition. The hinge is good, interior unstained, and it opens and closes as it should.
Despite being over fifty years old the Parker 51 Mk. III still has a modern appearance but with all the Parker 51 prestige. It would make a great vintage every day user.