The Parker '51' Aerometric filling system was introduced in 1948. In England the two '51' versions were designated 'Classic' and 'Custom'. This pen is the high end Custom version with a 12Ct. rolled Gold cap.
An English Parker 51, the pen was not date stamped but, curiously, this does help date the pen. Date stamping ended in 1956 and a 'halo' was added to the cap in 1858, so 1957 is a fairly accurate date. The 'Made in England' imprint is very clear so there is no question that a date letter has been eroded.
The pen has been fully serviced and tested and is in first class working condition.
The 14 Ct. Gold nib writes with a wonderfully smooth broad line, the hooded nib arrangement precludes any flex but Parker managed to achieve a very pleasing 'soft' feel with their Gold nibs. The nib would particularly suit someone with a large, bold 'hand'
This is an outstanding example, it has an 'English Burgundy' finish and a good, deep shine. The rolled Gold cap is stamped:
Parker.
1/10 12CT. R. Gold.
This indicates that the cap is one tenth, by weight, !2Ct. rolled Gold. It is in beautiful condition with a good surface, crisp engraved lines, and is totally ding free.
The colour is most attractive, it is definitely a red, the American version of Burgundy is more of a brown colour than red. In the U.S.A. the English colour is often referred to as 'Bloody Burgundy', the adjective not having the same vulgar connotations as it does in the U.K.
The box is the original 'mock-croc' presentation case it is very high quality, in good condition, and is something of a collector's item in it's own right.
At sixty eight years old this is a remarkable top quality vintage pen. The 51 is the first choice of many collectors as a daily user, it is totally reliable, stylish and very practical with a great deal of prestige.