The original Parker Duofold Senior, more commonly, the 'Big Red' is a good candidate for the most iconic fountain pen of all time. This fine example is in outstanding condition throughout, and has been fully restored and tested.
The pen was made in the U.S.A but George Parker's plans to expand worldwide sales were hindered by restrictive legislation which prevented exports to the British Empire direct from America. It was therefore necessary to establish base abroad, and Canada was selected as the most convenient location. Some american pens were assembled in Canada with canadian nibs.
At around seven inches in length when posted, and with a proportionate girth, the Big Red is an enormous pen.
The surface is excellent and the imprints just legible, and the colour is still bright. The cap has four vent holes, to prevent ink surge as the pen is uncapped. The Gold filling is in good condition, the slightly raised cap band being consistent with the year of production.
The button operated filling system works well and the large 14 Ct. Gold Duofold nib writes with a smooth, fine to medium line with a small but very effective amount of flex. I think this pen would produce impressive resultd in the right hands, my scrawl does it no justice.
Parker currently list a new 'Big Red' fountain pen as their 'flagship' model, and it is a very nice pen. It is, however, a pale imitation of the original to which it bears only a superficial resemblance.
The original Parker Duofold Senior is amongst the most collectable of pens. It represents pen making at its very best, and, despite Parker's most recent offerings, will never be repeated. There is only one Big Red, this is it, and it comes along very rarely. It is hugely attractive and has a great deal of prestige.