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 Custom fountain pen in superb condition throughout.
The pen is finished in Teal with a 12 Ct. rolled Gold cap which carries a rolled Gold '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 Teal colour of the Mk. III 51, named after the wing flash on the duck of that name, is an attractive mid blue with a green tinge.
The 14 Ct. Gold nib writes with an extra fine line, well suited to someone with a small 'hand' or for more detailed work.
The overall condition of the fountain pen suggests that it has seen little use. The pen body is flawless with a deep, lustrous shine, the cap shows no dings and the 'pli-glass' ink sac is unstained.
Despite being around 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.