The Waterman's 52 in Red Ripple hard rubber was made in the U.S.A. for export to England, where the London hallmark was assigned to the 9Ct. gold band in 1929. The hallmark also includes 'F.D.W.', for Frank. D. Waterman, an imprint often found on pens made for export.
The pen is in outstanding condition, although the ball at the end of the clip has sustained some damage. There is no fading, the colours are sharp and vibrant and the surface is excellent. The barrel imprint reads:
Watermans
Reg. US Ideal. Pat.Off.
Fountain pen.
Ripple.
The last line, identifying the pen as a 'Ripple', is very feint, it appears to have been imprinted more lightly than the rest. The '52' on the end of the barrel is very clear and crisp.
The pen has been fully restored, the filling system works well and takes up a good volume of ink. The 14Ct. Gold 'Ideal' nib, made in England, is the correct No. 2 Ideal. It writes with a smooth, medium line and has a good flex to add character to the writing.
At 16.7 cm., 6 1/2 inches in length when posted it is a long, slim, and elegant pen with a very good balance and feel. The hard rubber construction gives the pen a very solid and warm quality, it is a most tactile pen.
The Waterman's 52 is a much sought after pen and very collectable pen, a Red Ripple example in such fine condition comes along quite rarely.