Introduced in 1961, the Parker 17 was made in two very different models, the '17 Standard' and this '17 Super Duofold', characterised by the very wide gold filled cap band and the distinctly 'Duofold style' clip and cap stud.
Finished in classic black, the set is in outstanding condition, it has a very good finish with a deep shine and the gold filling has held up very well. There is the slightest suggestion of a capping mark on the hood, only visible from certain angles. The original 'pli-glass' ink sac is unstained and still usable to view the ink level.
The filling system works well and is east to use. The hooded nib is 14Ct. gold, it writes well, producing a smooth, firm, medium line.
The pencil was made specifically for the 17 Super and has a proportionately wide cap band. It has a rotary action, activated by turning the cap to expel and retract the lead. the eraser appears unused.
The Parker box has a light pink discolouration in the pen recess but is in good sound condition and is probably original to the set.
The 17 Super Duofold was more expensive than the 17 Standard so sold in far fewer numbers and is consequently less common, complete sets are particularly hard to find.