The Parker Sonnet was introduced in 1994 as a replacement, at the high end of the range of Parker pens, for the Parker 75, which was now seen as becoming dated. The Matt Black was among the first designs, this pen bears a date code for 1998, consistent with the 1999 date stamp on the guarantee when the set was sold by Selfridges.
The Matt black finish is produced by applying multiple coats of epoxy resin to obtain a hard wearing surface. The set, comprising a fountain and ballpoint pen, also features a 'Dimonite' trim, this is a coating of 50% Gold and 50% Titanium.
The set is in outstanding condition and may be unused, although it has been inked for testing purposes. I have fitted a new black ink refill to the ballpoint as the original was showing signs of drying with age.
A cartridge/converter filler, the fountain pen is supplied with the original ink converter and an ink cartridge is also included so it is ready to write in either configuration. It produces a fine to medium line.
The original hard plastic box is in good clean condition and the guarantee is stamped for May 1999 from Selfridges.
The Parker Sonnet was very successful and is still made today but these early Mk.1pens are, by far, amongst the most collectable.