The Parker 51 with the aerometric filling system was introduced in 1948, and went on to become the most successful fountain pen ever made. This is a fine example, made in England in 1954.
The colour is most attractive, it is definitely Blue but has a Green tinge, not a common '51' colour. The pen is in excellent condition throughout and shows little sign of use. The surface is superb and the 'lustralloy' cap is ding free and has retained its frosted finish, although there is a tiny 'flea bite' in the surface. . It is fitted with a 'short arrow' clip, pearl coloured end stud and engraved with:
'PARKER'.
Made in England .4..
The '4' indicates the year, 1954, and three three dots show that the pen was made in the first quarter of that year. The imprint on a Parker 51 is situated at the end of the barrel, just where the cap fits. This is the part of the pen that sustains most wear so a legible imprint is a good sign of little use. The original 'pli-glass' ink sac is unstained, also a good indicator.
The pen has been carefully cleaned, checked and fully tested. The aerometric filling system works well and takes up a good amount of ink.
The 14 Ct. gold nib has a fine point which lays down a really smooth and consistent line, a very pleasant writer. It would suit someone with a small 'hand' or fore more detailed work. Parker is one of the few manufacturers that were capable of producing fine nibs with a smooth performance and 'soft' feel.
The box is new, it is of very high quality and will serve well for transportation, protection, and display.
At seventy years old this is a remarkable top quality vintage pen. The 51 is the first choice of many collectors as a daily user, it is totally reliable, stylish and very practical with a great deal of prestige.