The Parker Duofold , along with the smaller Demi version, was the first Aerometric Duofold to be made in the Newhaven factory. This is a superb example, bearing a clear date code for the second quarter of 1953.
The pen is in superb condition, could well be new old stock It has a bright showroom finish, with a clear imprint. The Gold filling to the clip and decorated cap band is pristine. The clip is secured by a colour coded 'jewel'. The original 'pli-glss' ink sac is clear and unstained, always a sign of little, if any use.
The factory 'chalk marks' are still intact. These marks were stencilled in wax as an aid to the retailer when selling the pen, and were meant to have been wiped off as the pen was sold. They are very fragile and would erode rapidly if the pen was handled to any extent.
The original 14Ct. Gold nib is straight and well aligned. As I believe the pen may have been unused I haven't filled it with ink but have dip tested the nib, it delivers a smooth, medium line.
The Parker Aerometric Duofolds of the 1950s were excellent writing instruments which sold very well, despite the competition from the ballpoint. Parker probably under-priced the pen in order to resist the pressure. Over seventy years later the pen is still outstanding value, particularly when compared with a new Gold nibbed pen of similar quality. In this condition the pen is highly collectable but would also make a very good vintage daily writer.