The Sheaffer Imperial Sovereign cartridge/converter filler was introduced in 1973 and was phased out as the Sheaffer Targa range was launched. This set dates from1978, when the Sheaffer and Textron company merged, the instruction leaflet is dated December 23rd. 1978.
The set, comprising fountain pen, ballpoint, and pencil is in super condition throughout. The deep cut gold filled diamond surface reflects the light in an interesting manner, the individual facets catching the light at different angles giving subtly changing colours. the Imperial Sovereign is a jewel of a pen that sat at the top of the Imperial range at the time.
The 'inlaid diamond' nib is 14 Ct. Gold and is the original 'long' design, it was shortened in most of the later Imperials. It delivers a lovely smooth, broad line, the stub profile offering some line width variation. It would perticularly suit someone with a large, bold hand who enjoys writing with a flourish.
The pen is a cartridge/converter filler, it is fitted with the original Sheaffer metal ink converter but also accepts Sheaffer ink cartridges. A new one is included so the pen is ready to write in either configuration.
The ballpoint is fitted with a new refill and featuries the Sheaffer 'reminder clip'. This is a very useful device which keeps the clip closed when the point is exposed so it is not possible to risk marking a shirt by putting the pen in the pocket. The point is extended by pressing the bottom of the clip, and retracted by pressing the clip top.
The pencil, which is in full working order, operates by turning the cap to extend and retract the lead.
The box has seen better days but it has done the job of protecting the set well. Along with the instuction leaflet, it is certainly original and should be kept with the set.
The Imperial Sovereign is a gloriously attractive, high quality pen, a complete triple set comes along very rarely.