The Mabie Todd Swan 6160 was one of the limited number of models that Mabie Todd were allowed to produce during WW1. Government restrictions limited their output to 15% of their normal production as the major pen factories were ordered to concentrate on producing munitions for the war effort. This pen was made around 1941.
A lever filller, the pen is constructed in black celluloid with Gold filled trim. It has been restored and is in excellent condition throughout. The celluloid has a first class surface with very clear multiple imprints identifying the pen, Mabie Todd were very proprietorial and ensured that every removable part was stamped. The Gold filling to the clip, cap band, and filler lever has held up very well.
At 12.8 cm. in length capped the pen increases to an impressive 15.8 cm. when the cap is posted, it is a very long and well balanced pen in use. The dimensions of the pen and it's weight were important features of pen design at the time, more for practical rather than aesthetic purposes. The relatively modest capped length allows for light weight but the long posted length makes for a more comfortable pen in use with a balance point close to the 'jaws' between thumb and index finger, the optimum position for long periods of use.
The Swan N0.1,14 Ct. Gold nib is original to the pen. It writes with a medium line and performs well as a 'conventional' nib but it also has flex. A little pressure spreads the tines giving a broader line, returning to medium as pressure is released. This gives line variation allowing more character in the writing. Someone with a decent 'hand' would enjoy producing impressive results.
In addition to the wartime restrictions on producing Swan pens, the company also suffered heavily from bombing of their London works during the blitz. Relatively few pens were produced during this period and, as restrictions were lifted Mabie Todd moved towards the 'torpedo' shaped pens. As a result, the Swan 6160 is now not a common pen by ay means and it is difficult to find an example in such fine condition.