The Parker 51 Aerometric was introduced in 1948, replacing the original Vacumatic version. In 1952 the clip was shortened and in 1957 Parker added a 'Halo' motif to the cap. This pen has the short clip and no halo.
The pen is in exceptional condition throughout. It has been thoroughly cleaned, serviced, and tested. Finished in classic black with a factory finish, it has a ding free lustralloy cap, which has retained its frosted coating, with a Chrome 'arrow' clip and a pearl end stud.
The filling system takes up a good volume of ink and the 14Ct. Gold nib is a great writer. It is super smooth and lays down a consistent medium line, perhaps a little on the fine side. As the nibs were hand finished there is some variation between nibs of the same specification. The hooded nib design precludes any flexibility in the Parker 51 but Parker somehow managed to give it a pleasant soft feel, it is a very easy writer.
The Parker 51 has been described as 'the best pen Parker ever made' and this example certainly supports that claim, it would make a first class, and prestigious, every day writer.