A Parker 51 Classic set comprising a fountain pen and pencil in mint condition. The set shows no signs of use, although it has been inked, once, for testing purposes.
The set is a 51 'Classic' model in Black with lustralloy caps, each with a narrow lip, and stamped as made in England. The caps are totally ding free and the frosting on the caps is fully intact. This is quite fragile, it is rare to find a 51 with the cap surface in this cndition.
The original 'pli-glass' ink sac is clear and unstained and the pencil eraser shows no wear. the black Lucite barrels and hood is also in showroom condition.
The clutch inside the 51 peb cap was changed to a 'finger' design in 1963 and the cap lip was removed later that year. this pen has the finger clutch and a cap lip so 1963 is a good date for production of this English made set.
The 14Ct. Gold hooded nib writes with a super smooth, medium line, perhaps a little on the fine side. The hooded design precludes any flex but Parker somehow manage to endow their 51 nibs with a pleasing 'soft' feel, it is a very comfortable and 'easy' writer.
The Parker 51 has gained a reputation as a first class writer with a good deal of prestige. At over sixty years old this set is in remarkable condition and will continue to give good service for decades to come.