The Parker Duofold AF replaced the button filling version in 1948 and was, in turn, replaced by the 'Aerometric' in 1953. The 'AF' stands for 'Aluminium Filler', in place of the brass button on the earlier model. This particular pen features the seldom seen yellow coloured filler, the vast majority are 'plain' aluminium.
This is a fine example in Black with Gold filled trim. It is in outstanding condition throughout, having undergone a complete restoration. The pen has a deep lustrous shine which complements the Gold trim very well. The barrel imprint is clear and the Gold filling is first class.
The pen was disassembled, thoroughly cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner and hand finished. A new ink sac and pressure bar were fitted as the old sac had hardened and the pressure bar showed slight pitting. The nib was not removed from the section as it was correctly aligned and all channels were clear, it is usually best to leave the assembly intact unless there is reason to disturb it.
The 14 Ct. Gold nib, is straight and well aligned. It is clearly stamped:
Parker Duofold 14K Pen. N.
The 'N' was used for the first nibs to be produced at the Parker Newhaven factory, this is an early pen, probably late 1940s.. Given that it is clearly an English nib it is curious that Parker used the '14K' designation rather than '14Ct.'.
Testing showed that the filling system works well, filling easily with a single press of the button. At around six inches in length when posted the pen has a very well balanced and substantial 'chunky' feel. The 14Ct. Gold nib has excellent ink flow, writes with a very smooth, medium line and has the pleasing 'soft' feel of a top quality Gold nib.
The Parker Duofold AF is a large, attractive, and prestigious pen, it is very collectable but would make an excellent every day vintage writer.