Although the Parker Classic had been around, as a ballpoint, since 1971, it wasn't until 1986 that Parker added a fountain pen to the range, it served to replace the Parker 180. It is very similar to the 180, could have been called a '180 Mk. II. This pen carries a date code for the third quarter of 1989, the Classic was discontinued iaround 1996. This is the Matt Black version, it is coated with epoxy resin and has 22Ct. gold filled trim.
This is a new old stock pen, in perfect condition throughout. The box is original and also pristine, as is the ink converter. An original converter is essential for a Classic, as the 'standard' Parker ink converters of the time are too wide to fit in the slim Classic barrel. Two ink cartridges are also included.
The Classic is a slim and elegant yet very robust pen. The cap closes, flush to the barrel, with a satisfying and secure click. The stud at the barrel end is slightly flared so that the cap also clicks on to the barrel when the pen is posted for use. This device prevents the cap rim from coming into contact with the barrel in order to stop scratching.
The partially hooded, large, robust nib is triangular in shape, very similar to that found on the Parker 180. Although it is quite striking it looks perfectly suited to the pen in the aesthetic sense. The collar of the nib is stamped 'M' for extra medium.
The pen is fitted with the original ink converter for use with bottled ink and two ink cartridge are supplied so it is ready to write in either configuration.