The Parker 25 was introduced in 1975 and continued into the early 1990s. The Matt Black version, known as the '25B', was added in 1978. As date coding started in 1979 and this pen, made in the U.K., does not have a code, it can be dated to1978.
The matt finish is produced by applying layers of black epoxy resin. The 25B did not sell well and was withdrawn from production in 1981 while the standard 'Flighter' brushed steel pen continued into the early 1990s.
The pen is fitted with an ink converter and is supplied with a new ink cartridge so it is ready to write in either configuration.
The unusual shape of the 25 barrel is designed for ease of posting the cap when writing, it attacches easily and securely. The pen delivers a very smooth medium to fine line efforttlessly, it is a really good writer.
Although the 25B is hard to come by and very collectablle, with its somewhat quirky design, indestructible construction and the practicality of a cartridge/converter system this would make a great vintage every day pen.