The Parker 61 cartridge/converter filler was introduced in 1969, replacing the capillary filling model. This pen is an English made 61 Custom Insignia version with a 12 Ct. rolled Gold cap and barrel, a top of the range pen. In 1975 the pearl coloured plastic cap stud was replaced with a Gold filled stud, as in this pen. The update was short lived, as, in the same year the 'cloud series' 61 pens replaced the Insignia.
The pen is in stunning condition throughout and shows very few, if any signs of use. The 12 Ct. Gold filling has an excellent surface with no dings or other blemishes, the pen is in mint condition. The effect of the very unusual turquoise section with the gold is outrageously attractive.
The earlier pearl coloured cap stud was replaced by this fixed metal cap stud because, apparently, there was some concern about toddlers ingesting the cap stud, I'll have to ask a three year old the best way to remove one!
In designing the Parker 61 pen Parker made the curious decision to add an 'arrow' to the top of the hood as they were of the opinion that their customers would not otherwise know which way up to hold the pen! The arrows frequently fall off over time leaving the poor customers confused again about how to hold a pen. There is no such issue with this pen, the Gold filled arrow is present and secure.
The Parker De Luxe ink converter is fitted to the pen and an ink cartridge will be included so the pen is ready to write in either configuration. Both options work very well but the ink converter may give a slightly better ink flow and is more environmentally friendly than the cartridge. It is also much cheaper in the long run but, perhaps, not as convenient for some users.
The 14Ct Gold nib is a truly outstanding writer. The nib and ink collector system is almost identical to that found in the Parker 51 and performs just as well. It delivers a super smooth and consistent medium line, perhaps a little on the broad side.
I believe the pen could have been unused when it came to me, the box is original, but I've serviced and tested it as, sometimes, even new old stock pens don't write as well as they should, no problems here, it's a fabulous writer.
The Parker 61 Custom Insignia is a very attractive, high quality pen with a great deal of 'presence 'but the turquoise section bumps this pen up a level. This example is clearly of collectable quality but it would also make an excellent daily vintage writer.