Plain, unassuming pens have a way of hiding surprises. Like the pen equivalent of a sexy librarian.
I have many pens with flexible nibs, and many pens whose finish and function are artful. This Parker Duofold is not the most flexible or artful. Still, it has kept its place in the pen case. It must be the sexy librarian vibe.
This librarian’s from Canada, from the very early 20th century. There is an unofficial consensus among Parker people that Parker nibs stamped “Canada” have more flex.
The bottom of the barrel has a cap that twists off to reveal a button. Depress the button and a lever inside compresses the sac, which upon release sucks up the ink.
The stamp on the barrel is readable, just.
The pen has a “Christmas tree” feed, serrated on the sides. I think this is meant to improve ink flow. (I could be wrong. The feed designer could have been a fan of sharks, or corrugated cardboard.)
I love how the nib has oxidized into a golden inky rainbow.
The clip says “Pat. Sep. 5 16” (So 1916?) and “Parker.”
Here it is with another Parker Duofold.
I’d write with a stick if it flexed. This one is pleasantly flexible, crafted from elderwood, dragon heartstring and phoenix feather.
To be honest, I find myself getting bored with the cadence of my pen reviews. I think it’s time for a change. Don’t be too scared. This should be fun. 😉
