The Parker Vacumatic 3rd generation pens were made, in the U.S.A. from 1942 until 1948, this pen carries a 1948 date code so it is the last of the line, although Canadian production carried on into the 1950s.
Described as 'Laminated Black', the pen is characterised by alternating black and transparent rings on the barrel with an opaque black cap. It is unusual to find a Vacumatic which has maintained it's transparency as well as this pen. The internal workings of the pen can be clearly seen and the ink level monitored.
The pen has been fully restored and is in excellent working condition, the diaphragm has been replaced and the pen takes up a 'barrel full' of ink. The original 'arrow' 14Ct.Gold nib delivers a very smooth medium line with a pleasing 'soft' feel, it is an easy writer.
The surface has a very good finish with a clear imprint, the 'blue diamond' clip is also in first class condition. The blue diamond was discontinued in 1948 due to U.S.A. legislation banning anything that signified a lifetime guarantee.
The Parker Vacumatic was made in a bewildering variety of sizes which don't always correspond neatly with the name of the model. The third generation 'Major' is, however, consistently listed as having a capped length of 131mm, and having a wide cap band, as with this pen. It is an attractive and high quality pen with a good pedigree, highly collectable, but would also make a first class every day vintage writer.