This Blackbird fountain pen was made, by Mabie-Todd, in England around 1930. Although it is often described as a hard rubber pen it is actually constructed in celluloid, one of the first of it's kind, with a nickel plated filler lever and a 14 Ct. Gold nib.
This is a very fine example, it's remarkable that it has survived in such super condition. The surface is excellent with really sharp chasing and barrel imprint identifying the pen and carrying the 'Blackbird' logo. Around the end of the cap is a 'Blackbird' stamp, also found on the section and the feed.
The original nib, stamped:
Blackbird. 14CT. Made in Eng. M.T. & Co. N.Y.
It is not unusual to find a New York nib on an English pen as the company was still importing parts from the parent firm at the time. It has a small, but effective amount of flex giving line variation and adding character to the writing.
At 13.5 cm. capped the pen grows to a very impressive 16.5 cm. when posted for use and weighs in at only 17g. When the pen was made, over 90 years ago, lightness was an essential attribute for a pen that could have been used for long periods at a time.
The Mabie Todd Blackbird was made in a variety of sizes, this pen, second only to the 'Big Blackbird' in length, is a long, elegant version with a good deal of presence and an impeccable pedigree. It is rare to find one in such excellent condition.