{"title":"Archived Restorations","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"tray-18-4-wahl-eversharp-pen-gold-seal-lazulitic-blue-gpt-2-flexible-nib","title":"Wahl Eversharp Pen Gold Seal, Lazulitic Blue GPT, #2 Flexible nib","description":"\u003ch2\u003e📒 History\/Provenance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWell worn standard sized Wahl Gold Seal Pen with a gold plated military clip and gold medallion on the cap finial, from the late 1920's (1927\/1928). In the exceptionally popular and beautiful lazulitic blue colorway, which found popularity across many of the the top pen manufacturers with slight variations especially with the addition of white celluloid, but Wahl kept their blue celluloid a pure mix of light and dark blues, similar to Mabie Todd Swan's xylonite.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe military clip is a very cool snapshot of history where we see the move towards fixed clips that were manufactured as a modular part of the cap assembly.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e🧪 QA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFantastic Semi-noodle flex nib that is nice and wispy through all strokes and especially smooth on the downstroke with perfect snapback.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTested on Rhodia 80gsm A5 pad and Pelikan 4001 Royal Blue ink.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e🔧 Restoration Commentary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCelluloid Nitrate has been polished lightly to get rid of microscratches but deeper scratches are not polished down to preserve as much of the material as possible. Celluloid under cap has darkened due to prolonged exposure to ink most likely, and there is a hairline crack in the cap which has been sealed and shouldn't be a structural issue.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEbonite grip section rejuvenated and lightly polished, \"softness\" of ebonite restored.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFitted with a latex sac, nib heat set and tuned\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45609873440956,"sku":"HM1225001","price":335.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/IMG_0467.jpg?v=1766538501"},{"product_id":"tray-18-5-wahl-eversharp-wahl-pen-gold-filled-overlay-colonial-pattern-3-wahl-noodle-nib","title":"Wahl Eversharp Wahl Pen, Gold-Filled Overlay Colonial Pattern, #3 Wahl Noodle nib","description":"\u003ch2\u003e📒 History\/Provenance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbsolutely mint Colonial overlay, a pattern made as early as 1917 but officially cataloged from years 1919-1925. (Referenced: Eversharp Cornerstone of an Industry by J. Veley) Often these full overlay pens were used as gifts to accompany jewelry sets and often in matching overlay pen pencil sets for gifting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese full overlay pens often have wear or dents on their gold-filled plated but this NOS is in scarcely found mint condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e🧪 QA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuperb nib that is a stubbish and would recommend writing with an oblique angle when flex writing for maximum effect. Incredibly great for calligraphy and flourished daily script, very very soft noodle flex nib that spreads to 1.65mm line width with only 200g of pressure (very light). Juicy feed that keeps up perfect, would recommend wetter ink like Waterman's or Parker's Quink (or use Quink as a base to tone with other inks).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWriting sample is using Pelikan 4001 Royal blue on a 70gsm A5 Rhodia Pad.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e🔧 Restoration Commentary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMint, boxed, replaced latex sac and lightly shined\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45612991938748,"sku":"HM1225002","price":355.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/IMG_0422.heic?v=1766617093"},{"product_id":"tray-14-3-tacos-mottled-safety-pen-9k-solid-gold-barrel-band-2-curzons-14ct-gold-nib","title":"Tacos Mottled Safety Pen, 9k solid gold Barrel Band #2 Curzons 14ct gold Nib","description":"\u003ch2\u003e📒 History\/Provenance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSafety-Eyedroppers followed the mass production of eyedropper fountain pens in the 1890's, with some very early ones with incredible mechanisms to retract and extend the nib. Some famous ones include Montblanc, Caw's, and of course Waterman's. This filling mechanism was eventually deprecated in favor of latex sacs in the 1930's, but Europe continued to love this mechanism well into the late 1940's. Safeties are well known for their amazing lack of maintenance needs and ease of cleaning without needing to dissemble the section from the barrel etc. When the nib is retracted, the barrel opening is exposed to allow you to fill it up with ink, 1-2ml in this pen, and extending the nib will create the airtight seal in the barrel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis safety is finished in an extremely beautiful solid mottled red ebonite with matching mottled feed and uses a mechanism that Waterman made popular in the 1910's, roughly dating this to about the 1910-1920's given the design of the feed. To elevate this pen further is the addition of a 9ct solid gold band on the lower section of the barrel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTip for Safeties\/Eyedroppers: you can diminish the likelihood of burping by filling the pen up with 80%+ full of ink, it will cut down the air bubble in the barrel when it sloshes about when writing. A benefit of safety pens is that you can retract the nib and extend it back out when writing to balance the air pressure as well. Fun fact if you drop a safety on the nib, there's a better chance the nib survives as the impact will send the nib mechanism back into the barrel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e🧪 QA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis nib could be a retrofit or factory, as many mottled safeties of the era were subbrands or limited production runs by small manufacturers in both the US and greater Europe. However, this nib is an incredible experience if you like feedback (i.e. Sailor\/ HB pencils), very controlled flex that allows for easy hairlines as the flow is controlled nicely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFantastic for journaling as the EF lines when not flexing allow the ink to dry quickly, and is an extremely portable size.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e🔧 Restoration Commentary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEbonite rejuvenated and lightly polished, \"softness\" of ebonite restored.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeals replace with o-rings, won't need replacement for decades.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNib tuned and polished\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45612994953404,"sku":"HM1225003","price":235.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/IMG_0345.heic?v=1766617689"},{"product_id":"tray-19-4-waterman-52-double-gold-filled-floral-bands-clipless-2-can-nib","title":"Waterman's 52 Double Gold-Filled Floral Bands Clipless, #2 CAN nib","description":"\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e📒 History\/Provenance\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli value=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA classic early production (1916-early 1920) 52 filigree banded barrel fitted with a ring top 52V cap from a prior restorer. Priced accordingly, but a model \u0026amp; era accurate cap can be swapped in, negotiable.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🧪 QA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli value=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGreat flex with moderate pressure and excellent snapback. Nib is a very consistent Fine in line width under no pressure and minimal nib feedback. Ebonite feed is very well controlled but is very juicy when flexed, great for sheening inks. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli value=\"2\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTested on Rhodia 80gsm A5 pad and Pelikan 4001 Royal Blue ink.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🔧 Restoration Commentary\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli value=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEbonite rejuvenated and lightly polished, \"softness\" of ebonite restored.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli value=\"2\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGrip section and lip of cap have some oxidization (browning), can request for full color restoration once purchased.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli value=\"3\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eChasing is worn but visible, with sharp hallmark imprints.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli value=\"4\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBrassing on the floral bands and leverbox. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli value=\"5\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNib and feed heat set for crisp flow and smoothness. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45613556859068,"sku":"HM1225005","price":265.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/IMG_8777.heic?v=1769702902"},{"product_id":"tray-19-5-waterman-52-solid-9k-gold-cap-band-barrel-band-18k-gold-filled-cap-clip-2-pat-stub-nib","title":"Waterman's 52 Solid 9k Gold Cap Band \u0026 Barrel Band, 18k Gold-Filled Cap Clip, #2 CAN nib","description":"\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e📒 History\/Provenance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli value=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAn ornate Canadian pen exported to London in 1934.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli value=\"2\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDecorated with an incredible amount of gold plate and solid bands with 18k filled clip on the cap, solid 9k gold cap band, and a solid 9k gold barrel band.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli value=\"3\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePersonalized with an emblem that looks like \"ACO\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli value=\"4\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFDW (frank d. waterman) 9ct 0.375 London Assay Office gold stamps from 1934, given the italic \"t\" and Leopard's head.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e🧪 QA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli value=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA great fine, borderline fine medium nib, with very controlled flex and perfect snapback, needs light to moderate pressure to flex to 2.0mm lines on the downstroke. Incredibly beautiful hairlines on the cross stroke and even upstrokes.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli value=\"2\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSurprisingly it performs more similarly to a cursive italic when writing as it lays a very smooth downstroke with a nice crisp side stroke that is a lot more expressive than a normal F grind. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli value=\"3\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGreat nib for beginners and intermediate calligraphers alike.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e🔧 Restoration Commentary\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli value=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEbonite rejuvenated and lightly polished, \"softness\" of ebonite restored.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli value=\"2\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eChasing and model imprint is well worn but hallmark imprints are fair.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli value=\"3\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGold trim polished lightly\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45613582680252,"sku":"HM1225006","price":325.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/IMG_8811.heic?v=1766638532"},{"product_id":"tray-19-8-waterman-52-bchr-npt-early-clip-cap-2-ny-stub-nib","title":"Waterman's 52 BCHR NPT Early Clip-Cap, #2 NY Stub nib","description":"\u003ch2\u003e📒 History\/Provenance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA timeless classic in an exceptionally clean nickel trim variation dating from early 1917-early 1920's given the dating on the clip. This clip style changed to the more streamlined clip silhouette in 1927. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e🧪 QA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVery well balanced writer with soft writing, awesome stub cursive italic New York nib with fast ink flow for flourishing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e🔧 Restoration Commentary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWorn chasing with imprints but very legible with mint trim\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEbonite rejuvenated and lightly polished, \"softness\" of ebonite restored.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNib and feed heat set and adjusted\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45613604569276,"sku":"HM1225007","price":295.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/IMG_8897.heic?v=1769702915"},{"product_id":"tray-13-10-watermans-lady-elsa-ring-top-2-gp-steel-nib-blue-gold-casein-gpt","title":"Waterman's Lady Elsa Ring-Top, #2 GP-Steel Nib, Blue Gold Casein, GPT","description":"\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"0\"\u003eIn 1987, Waterman launched the \u003cb data-path-to-node=\"0\" data-index-in-node=\"31\"\u003eLady Elsa\u003c\/b\u003e, a clipless, \"flat-top\" style fountain pen crafted from vintage 1920s galalith (casein) stock as a tribute to the women in the brand's founding family. This luxurious model featured gold-plated accents, a heart-shaped vent hole on the nib, and was designed specifically for women, utilizing a mini-cartridge filling system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"1\"\u003eDespite its influence in paving the way for a variety of successful 1990s female-oriented models like the Lady Agathe, the Lady Elsa remains poorly documented and highly rare today. Its unique material composition and historical naming—honoring Elsa Fagard and Elsa Le Foyer—make it a distinctive piece of Waterman’s heritage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA fantastic slip-cap with a strong seal, and super convenient cartridge swaps as the rear finial is threaded so you can pop it cartridges in without needing to unscrew the nib section, much less risk of ink going everywhere. Very solidly built pen that is primarily brass for all high stress points, very well balanced both uncapped or posted at 141.58mm (the rear finial is recessed for this reason).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe gold-plated nib is incredibly soft and smooth, perfect for everyday writing. another fun fact is that it fits perfectly in most hobonichi cover pockets, I tested on my Roterfaden A5, ymmv.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIncludes leather pouch and Waterman short ink cartridges\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45613676232892,"sku":"HM1225008","price":225.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/IMG_6617.jpg?v=1766642620"},{"product_id":"wahl-eversharp-signature-gold-seal-lazulitic-blue-gpt-5-flexible-nib","title":"Wahl Eversharp Signature Gold Seal, Lazulitic Blue GPT, #5 Flexible nib","description":"\u003ch2\u003e📒 History\/Provenance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAn incredibly beautiful Lazulitic Blue Gold Seal Wahl Signature pen in full size with an early production 1927-1928 ball clip.  In the exceptionally popular and beautiful lazulitic blue colorway, which found popularity across many of the the top pen manufacturers with slight variations especially with the addition of white celluloid, but Wahl kept their blue celluloid a pure mix of light and dark blues, similar to Mabie Todd Swan's xylonite.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e🧪 QA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eA holy grail of a size 5 noodle nib with dreamy hairlines and extremely well control snapback and ink flow control. Performance of a Waterman 7 Pink nib for half the price and in an incredible celluloid nitrate colorway. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSuper hairline nibs like these that can also flex very wide tend to favor more saturated inks that have their inkflow enhanced with some super small amounts of lubricants such as the super juicy Parker Quink Washable Blue, or a ink flow enhancer (\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/maisonarclaire.com\/products\/la-goutte-ink-flow-enhancer\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003emy own version\u003c\/a\u003e). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e🔧 Restoration Commentary (repairs done, feed\/nib adjusted, polishing notes)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eCelluloid Nitrate has been lightly hand-polished to get rid of microscratches but deeper scratches are not polished down to preserve as much of the material as possible.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eEbonite grip section rejuvenated and lightly polished, \"softness\" of ebonite restored.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFitted with a latex sac, nib heat set and tune\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45632417398972,"sku":"HM1225021","price":875.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC02407.jpg?v=1778567998"},{"product_id":"omas-milord-1968-black-celluloid-gpt-5-noodle-flex","title":"Omas Milord 1968, Black Celluloid GPT, #5 Noodle Flex","description":"\u003ch2\u003e📒 History\/Provenance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAn incredible version of the 1968 Omas Milord with the grailed hand-engraved Omas Arrow nib famous for the insane snapback and softness. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Milord was the successor to the top of the line 55X\/F line featuring diamond shaped straight clips, celluloid facetted barrels, and the signature 14ct Omas Extra Lucens nib. The same nib used on the Extra Lucens from the late 1930's, which to many are seen as the holy grail of Omas nibs. [\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.tenpen.it\/article\/milord-paragon\"\u003eLetizia's Site\u003c\/a\u003e]\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e🧪 QA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOmas handmade nibs like this one are truly so special to write with with extremely high snapback and smoothness throughout the range of flexing.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSuper hairline nibs like these that can also flex very wide tend to favor more saturated inks that have their inkflow enhanced with some super small amounts of lubricants such as the super juicy Parker Quink Washable Blue, or a ink flow enhancer (\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/maisonarclaire.com\/products\/la-goutte-ink-flow-enhancer\"\u003emy own version\u003c\/a\u003e). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTested on Rhodia 80gsm A5 pad and Pelikan 4001 Royal Blue ink.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e🔧 Restoration Commentary (repairs done, feed\/nib adjusted, polishing notes)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCelluloid Nitrate has been lightly hand-polished to get rid of microscratches but deeper scratches are not polished down to preserve as much of the material as possible.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEbonite grip section rejuvenated and lightly polished, \"softness\" of ebonite restored.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNib heat set and tuned for flex\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45632485458108,"sku":"HM1225013","price":895.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/IMG_0744.heic?v=1767203505"},{"product_id":"mabie-todd-swan-eternal-44-mottled-gpt-eternal-4-14ct-ny-nib","title":"Mabie Todd Swan Eternal 44 Mottled GPT, Eternal #4 14ct NY nib","description":"\u003ch2\u003e📒 History\/Provenance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMabie Todd's \"Swan Self-Filling Pen\" (Lever-Filler) was first introduced in 1920 as a patented \"self-locking lever\" to prevent accidents where the lever arm catches onto something. It was also during this time that we began to see a greater adoption of mottled hard red rubber being used to make pens by MT\u0026amp;Co. as earlier eyedroppers and safeties were often black or cardinal (red) hard rubber. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe \"Eternal Swan\" line up was introduced in Great Britain in 1924, but were almost all made in the New York factory until 1925 where the popularity and management changes moved production over to England. Given the New York made nib, this will date the pen to 1924\/early 1925.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e🧪 QA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBeautifully soft Swan Eternal Nib, with some nice line variation up to 0.90mm with moderate pressure, but not suggested to flex as it was not manufactured for extra tensile strength for flexing.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eExtremely smooth great daily writer with very well regulated ink flow, reserse writing around 0.20mm.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTested on Rhodia 80gsm A5 pad and Pelikan 4001 Royal Blue ink.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e🔧 Restoration Commentary (repairs done, feed\/nib adjusted, polishing notes)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eImprints are extremely crisp and clear, with minty gold plated trim.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMottled ebonite rejuvenated and hand polished, \"softness\" of ebonite restored. Very beautiful mottled ebonite rejuvenated to an incredible condition on color and shine without over polishing.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNib heat set and tuned for smoothness\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45632709427388,"sku":"HM1225017","price":495.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/IMG_0774.heic?v=1767213118"},{"product_id":"mabie-todd-swan-eternal-44-mottled-gpt-eternal-4-14ct-ny-nib-copy","title":"Mabie Todd Swan Eternal 46 | Mottled Ebonite GPT NY | #6 14ct ENG Nib","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis Eternal 46 sits at a transition point in Mabie Todd's history. The Swan \"Self-Filling\" lever pen arrived in 1920 with its patented self-locking lever, and the Eternal Swan range followed in Great Britain in 1924, though most early examples were still built in the New York factory until production crossed to England in 1925. This is one of those transitional pens: a New York body fitted with an English-made Swan #6 nib, which dates the writing end to 1925\/1926.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe body is mottled red ebonite, rejuvenated and hand-polished back to depth of color without flattening the chasing or imprints. The gold-plated trim is minty with minimal brassing, and the imprints read worn but clear, which puts the body at B+. It is a substantial pen at 140mm capped and posts to 178mm, closer to an oversize than a standard Swan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe nib is a Swan #6 in 14ct, ground as a cursive italic and built to flex, a combination that rarely turns up together at this size. Held flat, the italic grind alone gives line variation, near 0.95mm down the stroke against a 0.50mm cross. Lean into it and the line opens to a full 2.64mm, better than five times its finest width, with quick, clean snapback on release. That comes to 5.28x variation from a single nib, before the italic character underneath. Most Swan Eternals of this period shipped as rigid manifolds, so a wide-flexing cursive italic like this is a real rarity. At 410g it sits in Semi Flex territory: it wants a firm, deliberate hand, and it writes a wet, smooth line with superb tipping and flow that stays regulated to the edge of its range.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMottled ebonite rejuvenated and hand-polished. The English Swan #6 nib fitted, heat-set, and tuned for smoothness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested on Sanzen TR 52gsm cream with Pelikan 4001 Brilliant Black.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45632725188796,"sku":"HM1225018","price":1300.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC03187.jpg?v=1781378348"},{"product_id":"watermans-lady-patricia-moss-agate-celluloid-gpt-2-pat","title":"Waterman's Lady Patricia Moss Agate, Celluloid GPT, #2 PAT.","description":"\u003ch2\u003e📒 History\/Provenance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Patrician lineup was introduced in 1929 by Waterman's as their flagship model made of extremely premium celluloid nitrate in bright colors: jet black, onyx, turquoise, emerald, nacre, and moss agate. In typical mass market fashion, there were two skews: the larger Senior Patrician and the smaller Lady Patricia. The 1\/2 (thinner), V (shorter), 1\/2V (thin and short) models of many Waterman's pens were made to target this later demographic of women who preferred smaller pens for ease of carry in handbags and smaller pockets, this Lady Patricia follows the same sizing as a 52 1\/2V. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe later models were fitted with a tip-fill feed that was meant to make it easier to fill fountain pens without submerging the pen's grip section to close the front air gap. Needless to say it was more of a marketing gimmick but as a result the feed looks very neat haha (pain to restore though).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eI have my personal Senior Patrician in Moss Agate to show how the set would look like.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e🧪 QA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFantastic #2 nib with wispy hairlines on the upstroke, and nice wide flex on the down, comfortably reaches 1.77mm wide lines with light pressure, but even more impressive is the ink flow matching the snapback where you get super crispy thin lines even after flexing super wide. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNice juicy flex strokes, will show off ink characteristics very well.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTested on Rhodia 80gsm A5 pad and Pelikan 4001 Royal Blue ink.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e🔧 Restoration Commentary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCrisp hallmark imprints on barrel and excellent gold plated trim.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCelluloid Nitrate has been lightly hand-polished to get rid of microscratches but deeper scratches are not polished down to preserve as much of the material as possible.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEbonite grip section rejuvenated and lightly hand polished, \"softness\" of ebonite restored.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNib heat set and tuned for smoothness\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45632770310332,"sku":"HM1225022","price":342.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/IMG_0798.heic?v=1767220618"},{"product_id":"montblanc-144g-celluloid-gpt-4-14c-flex-ob","title":"Montblanc 144G, Black Celluloid GPT, #4 14c Flex OB","description":"\u003ch2\u003e📒 History\/Provenance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e1940's to 1950's production Montblanc 144G in black celluloid with a matching OB nib with piston knob imprint. Featuring the grailed ski-slope feed, 14c flexible nib, and telescopic piston.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e🧪 QA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eFantastic oblique broad nib that lays down an extremely expressive line from wispy upstrokes to bold downstrokes. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTested on Rhodia 80gsm A5 pad and Pelikan 4001 Royal Blue ink.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e🔧 Restoration Commentary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCrisp model number and nib imprints on piston knob and minor wear on gold plated trim. Ink window moderately transparent.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCelluloid Nitrate has been lightly hand-polished to get rid of microscratches but deeper scratches are not polished down to preserve as much of the material as possible.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEbonite grip section rejuvenated and lightly hand polished, \"softness\" of ebonite restored.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNib heat set and tuned for smoothness\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45663989235900,"sku":"HM1225014","price":655.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/IMG_0993.heic?v=1767674989"},{"product_id":"rose-dor-meteore-mottled-ebonite-2-18ct-flex","title":"Rose D'Or (Météore), Mottled Ebonite, #2 18ct Flex","description":"\u003ch2\u003e📒 History\/Provenance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis Rose d'Or was an early model of La Plume d'Or which later became Meteore, a titan of the french pen market in the later 1930's. This nib was an American export made exclusively for the french market as 18ct was the minimum gold content required for something to be marketed as gold in France. A hefty safety pen with a very robust internal mechanism, which you can see in my vintage safety guide. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e🧪 QA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eButterflex nib with nice juicy flex that can flourish to hairlines very quickly. The needlepoint nib is super well balanced with such a large section grip, will make long journaling sessions much less fatiguing than with thinner pens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested on Rhodia 80gsm A5 pad and Pelikan 4001 Royal Blue Ink.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e🔧 Restoration Commentary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDeep crisp hallmark imprints on the barrel body.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNew tight and lubricated o-ring seals on the reverse pinned knob.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEbonite rejuvenated and lightly hand polished, \"softness\" of ebonite restored.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNib heat set and tuned for flex\/smoothness\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45806522794172,"sku":"HM1225028","price":395.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/IMG_1057.heic?v=1769698223"},{"product_id":"rose-dor-meteore-mottled-ebonite-2-18ct-flex-copy","title":"Excelsior Safety, Chased Black Ebonite, #2 18ct Flex","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn export Excelsior, a Montblanc subbrand, that sports a Parisian 18ct flex nib (18ct was required in France under regulations on marketing gold products) and a pinned turning-knob mechanism. A very American-style mechanism, tested on subbrand pens to capture more of the market. A key benefit of these mechanisms was manufacturing simplicity: no holes need to be drilled into the ebonite for retention pins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrush flex nib that is a fantastic performer with sharp crisp hairlines and nice smooth flourished swells that easily reach 1.6mm. Very good snapback that brings the ink flow right back to transition into thin hairlines. Very precise and comfortable daily writer with a smooth bouncy EF nib.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeakened hallmark imprints and chasing on the barrel, with great chasing on the cap. The friction-pinned turning knob was serviced with modern FKM O-rings and the knob action calibrated. Ebonite rejuvenated and lightly hand-polished, natural softness restored. Nib heat-set and tuned for flex and smoothness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested on Rhodia 80gsm A5 pad with Pelikan 4001 Brilliant Black.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45806817935548,"sku":"HM1225047","price":255.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/IMG_3003.heic?v=1769699298"},{"product_id":"hm1225026-g-a-mercier-6-safety-chased-mottled-ebonite-gold-bands-6-18ct-flex","title":"G.A. Mercier 6 Safety, Chased Mottled Ebonite  Gold Bands, #6 18ct Flex","description":"\u003ch2\u003e📒 History\/Provenance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eG.A. Mercier was a french luxury pen company specialized in ebonite, and frequently decorated with solid precious metal bands of gold or silver, but are gold-filled on this pen. French made pens rarely had nibs larger than size 5, size 8 are rather mythical, so this is a very rare piece in this condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen has a rare night-and-day chased pattern lined across the middle of the barrel with the hallmark imprints: G.A. Mercier, Marque Deposee, J. Mercier Fondateu, Toulon 1915.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e🧪 QA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuperb long tines on this #6 nib that has amazing flex and snap. Tines are on the sharper side for super crisp line edges but will required a trained hand to get the perfect hairlines. An absolute delight to load up ink and journal away, an exceptionally satisfying nib to journal with and the larger girth allows for very relaxed hand positioning.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested on Rhodia 80gsm A5 pad and Pelikan 4001 Royal Blue Ink.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e🔧 Restoration Commentary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTactile and visible chasing and hallmark imprints on barrel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToledo clip in NOS condition. Some brassing to barrel bands.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNew tight and lubricated o-ring seals on the reverse pinned knob.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEbonite rejuvenated and lightly hand polished, \"softness\" of ebonite restored.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNib heat set and tuned for flex\/smoothness\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45807014281404,"sku":"HM1225026","price":1000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/IMG_2991.heic?v=1769702462"},{"product_id":"unic-17-safety-mottled-gold-waves-overlay-2-14ct-utility-pen-co-nib","title":"Unic 17 Safety, Mottled Gold \"Waves\" Overlay, #2 14ct Utility Pen Co. Nib","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e📒 History\/Provenance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBeautiful mottled ebonite overlayed with a gold-plated metal overlay in the distinct waves chased pattern. The overlay is commonly seen on many of Unic's pens of the era and the pen itself was found in a beautiful Unic gift box (included with your purchase).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Utility Pen Co. Chicago nib #2 might have been original or a replacement given that this pen was likely an export to the USA given it's lack of hallmarking besides the model printed on the finial turning knob. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e🧪 QA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eExtremely precise and responsive nib that is a very fun daily driver. Writes like a soft manifold with the option to flex, has a very nice and juicy matching mottled ebonite feed.\u003cbr\u003eTested on Rhodia 80gsm A5 pad and Pelikan 4001 Royal Blue.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e🔧 Ebonite Restoration Commentary\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eStrong model number imprint on rear finial.\u003cbr\u003eGold-filled overlay has some microscratches, with one deeper scratch near the bottom of the cap overlay.\u003cbr\u003eEbonite rejuvenated and overlay lightly hand polished, \"softness\" of ebonite restored. \u003cbr\u003eNib heat set and tuned for flex\/smoothness.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45814547480764,"sku":"HM1225046","price":355.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/IMG_1152_aa045d75-c175-4264-876b-f1894c782a9b.heic?v=1769967779"},{"product_id":"omas-milord-1968-black-celluloid-gpt-5-noodle-flex-copy","title":"Pelikan 400NN 1958-1965, Green Striped, #5 14C OBB Nib","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e📒 History\/Provenance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWhile the pointed dome 400NN (double chicks) was produced from 1956 to 1965, this particular 400NN was produced after 1958 as it deploys a safety mechanism in the cap where there is a skip in the cap threading that allows the cap to stay on even when not fully turned taught. These torpedo shaped Pelikans were the longest of the 400 series and of the last vintage production pens with the classic green celluloid nitrate binde (thin celluloid nitrate sheet wrapped around a transparent barrel).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e🧪 QA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAmazingly responsive snappy OBB nib that glides across the page with substantial line variation that changes in magnitude with how you angle the nib. For incredible hairlines I would suggest slanting the nib almost 90 degrees so you're writing with just the horizontal axis of the nib, as you flourish, turning the nib back to horizontal will swell the line immensely. This nib is one of the more flexible I've come across and amazing to show off ink characteristics like sheen and shading of inks. \u003cbr\u003eTested on Rhodia 80gsm A5 pad and Pelikan 4001 Royal Blue.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e🔧 Ebonite Restoration Commentary\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSome brassing on top of clip.\u003cbr\u003eFresh piston seals.\u003cbr\u003eIncredibly clear celluloid barrel and green striped binde.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45819087552700,"sku":"HM1225050","price":425.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/IMG_3042.heic?v=1769854678"},{"product_id":"w-a-sheaffer-balance-lifetime-oversized-black-celluloid-with-gold-trim-6-lifetime-14k-gold-nib","title":"W.A. Sheaffer Balance Lifetime Oversized, Black Celluloid with Gold Trim, #6 Lifetime 14k Gold Nib","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e📒 History\/Provenance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Radius clip, smooth rounded clip without a hump or a clip-ball end, was introduced in 1935 which gives us a production date range to the early 1940's. Additionally, earlier Balance models did not have a transparent ink window in the grip section made from clear celluloid nitrate. Over time transparent celluloid naturally yellows as the fibers oxidize, uncommon to see no crazing in the material. Ink stains have been enzymatically removed, without ammonia\/bleach\/abrasives to preserve celluloid integrity and thickness. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1924, Sheaffer marketed the \"White Dot\" on its top of the line pens, and represented an unconditional lifetime guarantee\/warranty on the pen. Similarly this marketing extended to the nibs used in said pens with the stamping of \"LIFETIME\" rather than any other indicators of quality (i.e. purity of the gold alloy used 14k). \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Oversized Balance is probably one of the more famous vintage pens ever for it's consistent durability and proven track record as an extremely comfortable everyday writer for fast writing and drying even on carbon copy paper. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e🧪 QA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eExtremely smooth great daily writer with very well regulated ink flow through its ebonite comb feed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested on Rhodia 80gsm A5 Pad, inked with Pelikan 4001 Brilliant Black.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e🔧 Restoration Commentary\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHallmark imprints are extremely crisp and clear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePen fully disassembled and cleaned throughly with special care taken to restore clarity of celluloid nitrate grip section for clear ink window transparency.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlack celluloid nitrate hand polished, and coated with carnauba wax for UV and moisture protection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome microscratches on the clip, with brassing\/plating-loss around the cap band.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNib heat set and tuned for smoothness\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45888417202364,"sku":"HM1225051","price":225.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/IMG_3269.heic?v=1770892278"},{"product_id":"bayard-baby-safety-sheraton-chased-mottled-french-ebonite-gpt-2-18kt-bayard-nib","title":"Bayard Baby Safety, Sheraton Chased Mottled Ebonite GPT, #2 18kt Bayard Nib","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e📒 History\/Provenance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn 1912, Etienne Forbin, a Parisian bookseller, trademarked the \"Bayard\" name while distributing various American pen products. By 1922, the Panici Frères (Panici Brothers), grandchildren of Forbin, took over the Bayard name and began pen production. This started the legacy of Bayard and established themselves as one of the great pen makers of Europe that rivaled the Big Four (Waterman, Parker, Sheaffer and Wahl-Eversharp) in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBayards are known for their distinctively crisp lined chasing across the pen barrels that play with the light extremely well as the quality of the ebonite used for their pens was top notch in both polished shine and durability (lightweight even when thick).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e🧪 QA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA grail noodle nib from Bayard with an EF (Etienne Forbin) engraving versus the later year PF (\"Panici Frères\"). These nibs were hand-engraved and the tooling marks can be seen on the nib's engraved lettering. Superbly soft bouncy nib that glides through flourishes with incredible controlTested on Rhodia 80gsm A5 Pad, inked with Pelikan 4001 Brilliant Black.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e🔧 Restoration Commentary\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMint chased \"sheraton\" pattern on ebonite. Brassing on barrel bands and clip ring.\u003cbr\u003ePen fully disassembled and cleaned throughly, with brand new FKM o-ring gaskets (should last lifetime of pen).\u003cbr\u003eEbonite rejuvenated and lightly hand polished, ebonite treated for brittleness.\u003cbr\u003eNib heat set and tuned for flex and smoothness.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45890201157820,"sku":"HM1225031","price":275.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/IMG_3282.heic?v=1770917593"},{"product_id":"james-safety-pen-blue-celluloid-gpt-2-steel-gp-flex-nib","title":"James Safety Pen, Blue Celluloid GPT, #2 Steel GP Flex Nib","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e📒 History\/Provenance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e3rd tier pen maker from France or England in a rare celluloid nitrate barrel and cap, that feels very similar to the xyonlite Mabie Todds were made from in this era (1920-1930). Uses an American safety filler mechanism holding sealing gaskets with a friction pin assembly at the end finial. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e🧪 QA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGreat snapback and super precise nib, but does feel like a carbon steel calligraphy nib, think your typical Zebra-G, but with a lot more tipping. Not a lot of flex line variation but can make for some decent downstroke flourishes, otherwise is good for bouncy everyday writing. Nib can be further smoothened down but may impact hairline abilities.\u003cbr\u003eTested on Rhodia 80gsm A5 Pad, inked with Pelikan 4001 Brilliant Black.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e🔧 Restoration Commentary\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCelluloid treated for brittleness and lightly polished. \u003cbr\u003eHallmart imprint \"James\" is worn on barrel but crisp on clip trim. Some wear to clip, mainly plating loss.\u003cbr\u003ePen fully disassembled and cleaned throughly, with brand new FKM o-ring gaskets (should last lifetime of pen).\u003cbr\u003eNib heat set and tuned for flex and smoothness.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45890571927740,"sku":"HM1225053","price":85.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/IMG_3322.heic?v=1770935227"},{"product_id":"onoto-mammoth-1800-mottled-ebonite-gpt-8-18ct-soft-manifold-nib","title":"Onoto Mammoth 1800, Mottled Ebonite GPT, #8 18ct Soft Manifold Nib","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e📒 History\/Provenance\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Onoto Mammoth 1800 (c. 1924) is a strong example of the innovation and craftsmanship that defined Onoto, one of Britain’s great fountain pen makers. Founded in 1905 by Thomas De La Rue \u0026amp; Company (D.L.R., was a completely made up name meant to boost sales), Onoto became famous for George Sweetser’s plunger-filling mechanism, which used a vacuum on the downstroke to draw ink into the barrel. This was a major improvement over the eyedropper pens of the period and remained a hallmark of the brand for decades. Onoto pens have secured a lasting place in fountain pen history, even after production ended in 1958.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e🧪 QA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eButtery smooth #8 nib with softness, immensely enjoyable writing experience gliding across the page. Very juicy feed that can be adjusted given the ink shut-off valve, can close for drier writing experience.\u003cbr\u003eTested on Clairefontaine 90gsm A5 Pad, inked with Pelikan 4001 Brilliant Black.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e🔧 Restoration Commentary\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eImprints are worn but legible, with slight wear to gold plated trim.\u003cbr\u003eMottled ebonite rejuvenated and hand polished, \"softness\" of ebonite restored. Very beautiful mottled ebonite rejuvenated to an incredible condition on color and shine.\u003cbr\u003ePen fully disassembled and cleaned throughly, with gaskets replaced.\u003cbr\u003eNib heat set and tuned for smoothness.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46048126992572,"sku":"HM1225030","price":2500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/IMG_4328.heic?v=1773303268"},{"product_id":"mabie-todd-swan-4sf-m-bchr-npt-toledo-2-mabie-todd-ny-ef-nib","title":"Mabie Todd Swan 4SF M, BCHR NPT Toledo, #2 Mabie Todd NY EF Nib","description":"\u003ch2\u003e📒 History\/Provenance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeautiful smaller pocket sized self-filler from Mabie Todd Swan in the late 1910-early 1920's with an early N.Y. made Mabie Todd nib, and a sterling silver Swan Clip made in England. Extremely rare to find with a toledo cap finial in this partial overlay design looks to be a later factory modification, as the top suggests the use of polished black celluloid rather than pure ebonite.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e🧪 QA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFantastic EF nib with extremely well controlled ink flow from it's finned ebonite feed, and very consistent wetness upon flourishing.\u003cbr\u003eTested on Rhodia 80 gsm, inked with Pelikan 4001 Brilliant Black.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e🔧 Restoration Commentary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eImprints are strong with natural wear to edges.\u003cbr\u003eBlack chased ebonite rejuvenated and hand polished, \"softness\" of ebonite restored.\u003cbr\u003ePen fully disassembled and cleaned throughly, with new latex sac installed.\u003cbr\u003eNib heat set and tuned for smoothness.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46079244697788,"sku":"HM1225071","price":250.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/IMG_4588.png?v=1773898059"},{"product_id":"hm1225077-watermans-patrician-emerald-celluloid-gpt-8-14k-patrician-nib","title":"Waterman's Patrician, Emerald Celluloid GPT, #8 14k Patrician Nib","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e📒 History\/Provenance\u003cbr\u003eThe flagship of L.E. Waterman Company from 1929 to 1936, the Patrician was the shining beacon in the pen world during the Great Depression, \"crafted like a fine car- colored like a fine jewel.\" There were 5 original colors at launch: Emerald, Onyx, Nacre, Turquoise, and Jet. Later on there were additional variations with full celluloid and full ebonite, but the key features remained the same with distinctly huge #8 nibs and specialized feeds for superb writing, dubbed \"The World's Finest Pen for Men,\" and the Lady Patricia \"The World's Finest Pen for Women\" haha. These were considered the Rolls-Royce of pens of this era, and launched with a million dollar ad campaign.\u003cbr\u003eExtremely rare Emerald colorway with extremely strong deep vibrant green celluloid nitrate, this is the 5th Emerald Patrician I've held and it has the closest color to NOS possible as many will look fine but have lost most of their darker green hues and become more of a light mint color.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🧪 QA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003cbr\u003eIncredible flexible stub Patrician nib that is tuned for incredibly smooth flex and flow.\u003cbr\u003eTested on Rhodia 80 gsm, inked with Pelikan 4001 Brilliant Black.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🔧 Restoration Commentary\u003cbr\u003eImprints are strong with natural wear to edges.\u003cbr\u003eBlack ebonite rejuvenated and hand polished, \"softness\" of ebonite restored.\u003cbr\u003eCap has darkened celluloid band due to ink, but celluloid has no signs of crystallization or degradation.\u003cbr\u003eNib heat set and tuned for smoothness.\u003cbr\u003eCoated with carnauba wax to shield from moisture, UV, and celluloid crystallization.\u003cbr\u003eFitted with inert silicone ink sacs to prevent off-gassing that would otherwise darken the mint celluloid nitrate barrels.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46081386807484,"sku":"HM1225077","price":3300.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC01573.jpg?v=1773988992"},{"product_id":"montblanc-144g-black-celluloid-gpt-4-14c-flex-ob-copy","title":"Montblanc 146 1955-1960, Black Celluloid GPT, #6 14C F Nib","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHM2602010\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e📒 \u003cstrong\u003eHistory\/Provenance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a mid-to-late 1950s production Montblanc 146, manufactured after Montblanc had settled the 146 into its mature form following the transitional 1952–1954 first run. Nibs from this window — sometimes called \"later 1950s\" factory grinds — are highly regarded by collectors for their exceptional softness and expressive character relative to their nominal grade. A factory Fine from this era does not write like a modern Fine; it writes closer to an EF in line width but with a springiness and responsiveness that modern nibs do not replicate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNotably, this pen retains the early telescopic piston mechanism, placing it toward the earlier portion of this production window — likely 1955–1956 — before Montblanc fully standardized the simplified piston assembly across production. The telescopic mechanism is mechanically elegant and functions reliably when properly sealed, but it is the detail that separates the earliest 146s from all subsequent production.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe body shows honest wear consistent with decades of use: minor wear to the gold-plated trim and rear finial, and a degree of barrel transparency caused by celluloid thinning in high-contact areas. This is a natural aging process in celluloid material and does not affect structural integrity. The ink window remains fully transparent and the ebonite section is in excellent restored condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🧪 \u003cstrong\u003eQA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 300g, this is a clean butter flex — soft enough to produce meaningful line variation with light intentional pressure, firm enough to write comfortably as a daily pen without babying. The hairlines are genuinely fine, almost EF territory, and the flex strokes land at a solid broad that adds real character to everyday handwriting without demanding calligraphic technique.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis nib rewards a relaxed grip. It does not need to be pushed — held at normal writing pressure it lays down a clean, consistent EF line; any additional intention in the downstroke immediately opens the tines toward 4B. Snapback is crisp with no hesitation. The flow is well-balanced for Pelikan 4001 and comparable inks, with no skipping or hard starting observed across extended writing sessions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an ideal entry point into vintage 146 flex writing. The grade B condition reflects honest age and wear, not damage, and the nib performance is fully uncompromised. Recommended for daily writers, intermediate flex users, and anyone wanting a workhorse vintage Montblanc at a grounded price point.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested on Rhodia R 90 gsm with Pelikan 4001 Brilliant Black.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🔧 \u003cstrong\u003eRestoration Commentary\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCrisp model number and nib imprints on piston knob; minor wear to gold-plated trim and rear finial consistent with age.\u003cbr\u003eBarrel shows light transparency at high-wear contact areas — inherent to aged celluloid, structurally sound.\u003cbr\u003eInk window fully transparent.\u003cbr\u003eBlack ebonite section rejuvenated and hand polished, \"softness\" of ebonite restored.\u003cbr\u003eCoated with carnauba wax to shield from moisture, UV, and celluloid crystallization.\u003cbr\u003ePen fully disassembled and cleaned thoroughly, with new piston seals installed and lubricated.\u003cbr\u003eNib heat set and tuned for smoothness.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46088634138812,"sku":"HM2602010","price":900.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC01637Large_3ca98fc4-9681-4299-a29b-78a83ab87855.jpg?v=1774184423"},{"product_id":"parker-jack-knife-28-bhr-red-bakelite-8-14k-lucky-curve-flex-nib","title":"Parker Jack-Knife 28, BHR \u0026 Red Bakelite, #8 14k Lucky Curve Flex Nib","description":"\u003cp\u003eHM2603002\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e📒 History\/Provenance\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Parker Jack-Knife 28 sits in a particularly strong position within Parker’s pre-Duofold lineup: large No. 28 format, Lucky Curve feed, Safety-Sealed button-filler construction, and an early Bakelite barrel. That combination gives it both mechanical and material significance. This washer style clip was introduced in 1916, and used all throughout the 1920's especially for the Parker Duofolds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eParker’s Lucky Curve system was the company’s defining technical claim in this period. In Parker’s own literature, the feed was designed to draw excess ink back into the barrel by capillary attraction when the pen was carried upright, reducing ink accumulation at the nozzle. Whether approached as engineering or marketing, it is one of the core ideas that made early Parker pens distinct.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Jack-Knife line also belonged to Parker’s Safety-Sealed era. The button-filling models were promoted as cleaner and more secure in carry than ordinary lever fillers, with the rear protected by a blind cap and the front sealed by an inner cap over the nozzle. That practical, utility-driven positioning is central to the appeal of the line and fits the Jack-Knife name well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Bakelite material adds another layer of importance. Parker introduced transparent Bakelite pens in 1914, initially as demonstration pieces for salesmen and dealers so customers could see the ink level and the workings of the Lucky Curve and self-filling mechanism. Demand quickly pushed them into regular sale. Parker described Bakelite as amber-like in appearance, tougher than glass, less inflammable than celluloid, and suitable for fountain pen barrels as a distinctly modern material.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy 1918, Parker had expanded Bakelite across much of the line. Surviving period summaries specifically list the No. 28B at $9.00, offered in long or short form, as either self-filler or eyedropper, and noted for its large ink capacity. That places the 28 among the larger, more serious models in the Bakelite range rather than among the novelty or ring-top variants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe red Bakelite examples are especially desirable today. Period references note green and red-pink shades within Parker’s Bakelite production, and the larger red models are far less commonly encountered than standard hard rubber counterparts. In collector terms, this pen checks the right boxes at once: oversized No. 8 platform, early Parker engineering, cataloged Bakelite production, and a materially distinctive colorway. It is the kind of pen that stands on both scholarship and visual impact, which is exactly why examples like this tend to command serious attention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🧪 QA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested on Rhodia 90 GSM lined A5, inked with Pelikan 4001 Brilliant Black.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA superb large-format Lucky Curve writer that balances authority with control. The No. 8 nib lays down a refined Fine under light pressure, but opens with confidence into expressive, well-shaped swells up to 1.95mm. What makes it especially appealing is that it does not behave like an unruly wet noodle; at 370g it sits in a very usable Semi-Butter Flex range, giving you meaningful line variation without demanding the constant delicacy or technical concentration required by softer nibs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🔧 Restoration Commentary\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCrisp barrel and nib imprints, good imprint on cap, and clean trim. Black ebonite section rejuvenated and hand polished, \"softness\" of ebonite restored. Coated with carnauba wax to shield from moisture, UV, and elements. Pen fully disassembled and cleaned throughly, with new latex installed and tested. Nib heat set and tuned for smoothness.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46160945414332,"sku":"HM2603002","price":4500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC01707Large.jpg?v=1775337482"},{"product_id":"montblanc-146-1952-1954-black-celluloid-gpt-6-14c-obb","title":"Montblanc 146 1952-1954, Black Celluloid GPT, #6 14C OBB","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHM2602009\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e📒 \u003cstrong\u003eHistory\/Provenance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Montblanc 146 was introduced in 1952 as a full redesign of the postwar 146G, marking the beginning of what would become Montblanc's most enduring piston filler line. This pen dates to the very early production window — 1952 to 1954 — distinguishable by its telescopic piston mechanism, in which the inner piston tube physically extends and retracts as the knob is turned. This feature was phased out in later production as Montblanc simplified the assembly, making first-run examples mechanically distinct from every 146 that followed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe body is black celluloid — not resin — a period-correct material that carries genuine depth and luster when properly maintained and restored. The gold-plated trim (GPT) and matching piston knob carry crisp model and nib imprints, consistent with top-tier early production quality. The nib is stamped with the iconic \"4810\" imprint (the elevation of Mont Blanc in meters).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe oblique broad-broad (OBB) grind is one of the rarest factory nib specifications from this era. Montblanc produced oblique nibs in small numbers for European correspondents and calligraphers who preferred a more natural wrist angle in formal writing. These were not standard catalog items in most markets and are seldom found in this condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🧪 \u003cstrong\u003eQA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 250g of pressure, this is a true flex nib. The nib responds to the lightest intentional pressure and rewards a trained hand. Snapback is clean and controlled for a nib this soft, with no ghosting or spring fatigue detected after extended writing sessions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe oblique grind does two things at once. First, it allows you to write at a natural 90-degree wrist angle — no need to splay your hand or drop into a formal copperplate posture — while the oblique cut aligns the contact point correctly to the downstroke direction. Second, and more interestingly, rotating the pen slightly counterclockwise in hand shifts the writing character toward a cursive italic stub, sharpening the cross-stroke contrast and adding expressive edge definition without any additional pressure. Very few nibs give you two distinct writing modes in one grind.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe line range — 0.30mm hairline to 2.31mm full flex — is the widest factory specification I have documented from the 1952–1954 production era on a 146. The 7.7x multiplier is exceptional even by vintage standards. This nib is best suited for intermediate to advanced flex writers who want an expressive grail-tier nib in a reliable, full-sized piston filler platform. Not recommended for beginners due to flex sensitivity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested on Rhodia 80 gsm with Pelikan 4001 Brilliant Black.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🔧 \u003cstrong\u003eRestoration Commentary\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCrisp model number and nib imprints on piston knob; minor wear on gold-plated trim consistent with age.\u003cbr\u003eInk window fully transparent.\u003cbr\u003eBlack ebonite section rejuvenated and hand polished, \"softness\" of ebonite restored.\u003cbr\u003eCoated with carnauba wax to shield from moisture, UV, and celluloid crystallization.\u003cbr\u003ePen fully disassembled and cleaned thoroughly, with new piston seals installed and lubricated.\u003cbr\u003eNib heat set and tuned for smoothness.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46163679477948,"sku":"# HM2602009","price":2000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC01620Large.jpg?v=1775430831"},{"product_id":"montblanc-146-1952-1954-black-celluloid-gpt-6-14c-obb-copy","title":"Montblanc 146 1952, Grey Striated Celluloid GPT, #6 14C Bi-Tone EF Nib","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHM2603003\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e📜 \u003cstrong\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Provenance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the early 1950s, Montblanc introduced its line of 14X Meisterstück models manufactured in both black celluloid (with a striped ink window) and lined celluloid (without a separate ink window). The lined celluloids came in green and grey. Green was produced in two shades — light green and sage green, the former rarer than the latter. Grey is the rarest of the three colorways. While the black models scaled up to the large 149, the lined celluloid series topped out at the 146 as the largest model.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis pen's longer-than-typical ink window area and flat grooved ski-slope ebonite feed place it among the earliest 1952 productions. The celluloid 146 was first fitted with Montblanc's innovative telescopic piston — a two-stage mechanism that collapses into itself, promising roughly double the ink capacity of a conventional piston. Only the top-tier 13X, 14X, and 24X models received the telescopic mechanism.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe barrel carries a fully legible \"Made in Germany\" imprint — mint, with no wear to the stamping. The cap band reads \"Montblanc Masterpiece,\" identifying this as an export-market pen. The piston knob is imprinted with \"JB,\" \"146,\" and \"EF.\" According to vintage Montblanc authority Osman Sümer (via direct correspondence), the \"JB\" imprint indicates an importer \"Jhaveri Bazaar\" based in Mumbai, India.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe celluloid is entirely transparent in its striations, running the full length of the windowless barrel. The nib was dipped for testing only — the celluloid is incredibly clean with no ambering, no discoloration, and no signs of use. It is difficult to characterize this pen as anything other than new old stock, likely from a liquidated retail inventory or a private collector's pen case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🧪 \u003cstrong\u003eQA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 250g, this is a semi noodle flex — supple enough to produce dramatic line variation on demand, yet controlled enough for extended daily writing without fatigue. The 5.03x multiplier (0.30mm hairline to 1.51mm full flex) places this comfortably in expressive territory: the EF hairlines are crisp and precise, and the flex strokes open to a generous 4B with beautiful ink shading and line definition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis nib is extraordinarily juicy for an EF — ink control is impeccable, with no skipping, no hard starts, and no railroading across sustained writing sessions. The tines are soft and flexible with supple nib tipping that glides across the page. Snapback is immediate and clean. The writing experience is remarkably smooth for a vintage EF, a testament to the quality of Montblanc's 1950s nib work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a museum-grade example of one of the rarest colorways in the celluloid 146 family. The grey striated celluloid in NOS condition is an exceedingly uncommon find — most surviving examples show significant ambering or wear. Recommended for serious Montblanc collectors, vintage flex enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a grail-tier writing instrument with both provenance and performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested on Clairefontaine 90 gsm, inked with Pelikan 4001 Brilliant Black.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🔧 \u003cstrong\u003eRestoration Commentary\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCrisp model number and nib imprints on piston knob; minor wear to gold-plated trim consistent with age.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCelluloid in exceptional condition — no ambering, no discoloration, fully transparent striations.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWindowless striated barrel with full-length transparent stripes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCap band \"Montblanc Masterpiece\" imprint fully legible.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\"Made in Germany\" barrel imprint mint.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCreamy ivory celluloid Montblanc snow star on cap top.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCoated with carnauba wax to shield from moisture, UV, and celluloid crystallization.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePen fully disassembled and cleaned thoroughly, with new piston seals installed and lubricated.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNib heat set and tuned for smoothness.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46163772113084,"sku":"HM2603003","price":3000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC02446.jpg?v=1779497194"},{"product_id":"warranted-8-nib-14k-gold-270g-semi-noodle-flex","title":"Warranted #8 Jowo 6, 14k gold, 270g semi-noodle flex","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHM1225075\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e📜 \u003cstrong\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Provenance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Warranted\" nibs were generic gold nibs produced in the early 20th century by specialist nib manufacturers for smaller American pen companies that did not produce their own nibs in-house. The \"Warranted\" stamp guaranteed the gold content of the nib — in this case, 14K — while the pen maker's own branding appeared on the barrel and cap rather than the nib itself. This particular #8 nib dates to an estimated 1920s production, likely sourced by a third-tier American manufacturer for one of their premium pen lines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNib sizing in the early 1900s had no real standardization — a #8 from one maker could differ meaningfully from a #8 from another, much like today's inconsistent line width metrics across brands. This nib has been fitted into a Nikko black ebonite housing with a JOWO #6 ebonite feed, assembled by Heron's Mooncake for a ready-to-write nib unit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🧪 \u003cstrong\u003eQA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 270g, this is a semi noodle flex — beautifully controlled with a bouncy, soft feel that spreads easily for generous line variation. The 5.36x multiplier (0.25mm hairline to 1.22mm full flex) delivers clean EF hairlines that open to a solid 3B on the downstroke. Flow is perfectly balanced for everyday writing — this is not a temperamental calligraphy nib but a practical flex writer with real character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe nib rewards a light touch. Ink control is excellent with no railroading, no hard starts, and consistent flow across extended writing. The snapback is responsive and the tines return cleanly without hesitation. The all-ebonite housing and feed pairing keeps the writing experience warm and organic — a natural complement to a vintage nib of this quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRecommended for everyday flex writers, vintage nib enthusiasts looking for a plug-and-play unit, and anyone who wants accessible line variation without committing to a full vintage pen restoration. Great for all ink types.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested on Rhodia 80 gsm, inked with Waterman Serenity Blue.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46163999228092,"sku":"HM1225075","price":400.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC01803-2.jpg?v=1775449079"},{"product_id":"warranted-8-jowo-6-14k-gold-270g-semi-noodle-flex-copy","title":"Waterman's Hundred Year Pen #18 Jowo 6, 14k gold, 400g Semi-Flex","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHM1225080\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e📜 \u003cstrong\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Provenance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1939, Waterman introduced the Hundred Year Pen — the world's first Lucite fountain pen, designed by industrial designer John Vassos and originally manufactured from DuPont's polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). The pen was advertised with a bold 100-year guarantee, but the FTC ordered Waterman (along with Sheaffer, Parker, and Eversharp) to cease making unconditional lifetime warranty claims when a service charge was required to honor them. After 1941, Waterman reverted the material back to cellulose nitrate as Lucite was regulated as a wartime resource, and the Hundred Year Pen line was eventually rebranded into the Emblem pen and nib.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis #18 nib is stamped with the \"Waterman's Hundred Year Pen\" imprint and 14K gold content. It has been fitted into a Nikko red ebonite housing with a JOWO #6 ebonite feed, assembled by Heron's Mooncake for a ready-to-write nib unit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🧪 \u003cstrong\u003eQA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 400g, this is a semi-flex — controlled and confident under the hand with enough give to produce a satisfying 6.8x multiplier (0.20mm hairline to 1.36mm full flex). The EF hairlines are exceptionally fine and consistent, with a grippy tipping reminiscent of a Sailor King of Pen — tactile, precise, and satisfying on every stroke. The nib is similar in physical size to a KOP nib as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a very nice extra fine writer first and foremost. The fine lines are extremely consistent and the flow is beautifully controlled — perfect for an everyday pen with the bonus of accessible line variation when you want it. The nib is bouncy and soft, spreading easily into 3B territory on the downstroke without demanding heavy pressure. Snapback is clean and the tines return reliably.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRecommended for everyday writers who want a vintage nib with real character, King of Pen fans looking for a comparable vintage experience, and anyone who values fine consistent hairlines with the option to flex. Great for all ink types.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested on Rhodia R 90 gsm, inked with Waterman Serenity Blue.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46164006699196,"sku":"HM1225080","price":450.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC01807-2.jpg?v=1775449678"},{"product_id":"watermans-4-new-york-nib-14k-gold-280g-semi-noodle-flex","title":"Jowo 6 Nib Unit | Waterman's #4 New York Nib, 14k Gold, 280g Semi-Noodle Flex","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🥇 Grade: B+\u003cbr\u003e🏠 Housing: Nikko Red Ebonite, JOWO #6\u003cbr\u003e🔱 Nib: Waterman's #4 New York, 14k\u003cbr\u003e🖋️ Line Spec: EF–3B | 0.20mm – 1.30mm (6.5x)\u003cbr\u003e🌡️ Flexibility Pressure: 280g Semi Brush Flex\u003cbr\u003e📐 Dimensions: 22.68mm Nib Length\u003cbr\u003e⚖️ Weight: 1.994g\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Waterman's #4 in 14k gold from the New York factory. L.E. Waterman started in New York in 1884 and built the brand on the \"Ideal\" imprint and a patented three-fissure feed. This #4 was a factory fit on the 14, 24, 44, and 54. Early New York 4's run longer in the tine than later production and write softer for it. This one tracks close to the 1927 #7 Pink in feel, with tight hairlines and a clean, well-defined return.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is one of the softer 4's I've tuned. At 280g it sits in Semi Brush Flex, a 0.20mm hairline stretching to 1.30mm for a 6.5x range, and those fine 0.20mm strokes are the point of it, among the finest on a flex nib of this size and clean enough for delicate flourishing. The tines come back tightly controlled, without bounce. Flex engages on light pressure; lean on it harder and the tipping can bite the paper, so it writes as a finesse nib.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTine alignment was corrected and the tipping smoothed to sharpen the return. Seated in Nikko red ebonite on a JOWO #6 ebonite feed. B+, with light honest use and no prior repairs. A drier ink such as Pelikan 4001 crisps up the fine strokes further.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested on Rhodia 80gsm with Waterman Serenity Blue.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46210977464508,"sku":"HM2603012","price":545.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC01817-2.jpg?v=1776462332"},{"product_id":"mabie-todd-swan-6-england-14ct-gold-380g-superflex","title":"Mabie Todd Swan #6 England, 14ct Gold, 380g Superflex","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🖼️ Gallery:\u003cbr\u003e🥇 Grade: B+\u003cbr\u003e🏠 Housing: Nikko Red Ebonite, JOWO #6\u003cbr\u003e🔱 Nib: Mabie Todd Swan #6 England, 14ct Gold\u003cbr\u003e🖋️ Line Spec: F\/BB – 6B | 0.35mm \/ 0.90mm – 2.08mm (5.94x)\u003cbr\u003e🌡️ Flexibility Pressure: 380g Superflex\u003cbr\u003e📐 Dimensions: 23.34mm Nib Length\u003cbr\u003e⚖️ Weight: 2.365g\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e📜 \u003cstrong\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Provenance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMabie Todd Swan had a continuous presence in England from the 1910s and shifted its main gold nib production from New York to the English factories in the mid-1920s, with Birmingham and Liverpool as the principal sites. The Eternal Swan and the standard flexible Swan ran as parallel product lines rather than sequential ones: the Eternal nibs were stiffer manifolds with some softness, while the flexible line — this nib's lineage — retained the true flex character that defined the brand's reputation. Because the two lines overlapped, tight dating within the era is not possible, but the English imprint and size class place this nib likely after the Eternal Manifold Swans were already in production, probably late 1920s into the early 1930s.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe #6 is a substantial size in the Mabie Todd catalog. Its 23.34mm nib length and 2.365g weight dwarf most other size 6 nibs both vintage and modern, and sit dimensionally closer to modern size 8 nibs. The scale pairs visually with oversized modern bodies, no more chunky barrels with tiny nibs (nakaya 😹).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFitted into a Nikko red ebonite housing with a JOWO #6 ebonite feed for a ready-to-write nib unit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🧪 \u003cstrong\u003eQA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA true superflex in the flexible Swan line — 380g of pressure delivers a 5.94x multiplier from a 0.35mm \/ 0.90mm rest to a 2.08mm full flex. What sets this nib apart is the unflexed profile: F horizontal against BB vertical puts it in flexible stub territory before any pressure is applied, and moderate pressure opens the tines cleanly into a solid 6B with the stub edge sharpening the contrast on every downstroke.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe tipping runs unusually generous for a nib this size. That buys durability and some forgiveness under pressure now, and real room for a future custom grinder to re-profile toward an italic, architect's cut, oblique, or needlepoint flex without compromising structure. Snapback is responsive for a nib this soft — tines return to position without overshoot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTine alignment, tipping, and heat-setting were addressed before the nib was seated into the JOWO housing. B+ reflects honest writing wear with crisp imprint legibility and full structural integrity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBest suited to experienced flex writers drawn to large-format flexible stubs, owners of oversized modern pens who want proportionate nib scale, and collectors open to a future re-grind. Will show off ink characteristics sheen, shade, shimmer, extremely well with it's broad lines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested on Rhodia 80 gsm, inked with Waterman Serenity Blue.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46211116990652,"sku":"HM2603076","price":615.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC01813-2.jpg?v=1776466726"},{"product_id":"hm2603073-mabie-todd-swan-4-england-14ct-gold-330g-butterflex","title":"Mabie Todd Swan #4 England, 14ct Gold, 330g Butterflex","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🥇 Grade: B+\u003cbr\u003e🏠 Housing: Nikko Red Ebonite, JOWO #6\u003cbr\u003e🔱 Nib: Mabie Todd Swan #4 England, 14ct Gold\u003cbr\u003e🖋️ Line Spec: EEF\/B – 4B | 0.15mm \/ 0.80mm – 1.54mm (10.27x)\u003cbr\u003e🌡️ Flexibility Pressure: 330g Butterflex\u003cbr\u003e📐 Dimensions: 22.32mm Nib Length\u003cbr\u003e⚖️ Weight: 1.992g\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e📜 \u003cstrong\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Provenance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMabie Todd's \"Swan Self-Filling Pen\" — the lever-filler that anchored the company's modern catalog — was patented in 1920 with a self-locking mechanism intended to prevent the filler arm from being accidentally tripped in pocket carry. Across the 1920s, the #4 nib became the larger flex size in the core Swan lineup, fitted to the standard Swan 44, the larger Swan 54, and their Eternal siblings. It is the larger size most associated with the Swan flex reputation (where the smaller #2 nibs are commonly found).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe English \"Swan\" imprint places this nib after the mid-1920s production shift from New York to the Birmingham and Liverpool factories. Because the flexible Swan and Eternal manifold lines ran concurrently through the late 1920s and into the 1930s, precise dating within that window is difficult — but the imprint style suggests likely after 1925\/26.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFitted into a Nikko red ebonite housing with a JOWO #6 ebonite feed for a ready-to-write nib unit.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🧪 \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQA \u0026amp; Recommendation\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe flex multiplier is a grail level 10.27x, driven by an extraordinarily fine EEF horizontal profile. At 0.15mm, the cross strokes land finer than what most dedicated needlepoint nibs can deliver, and that range carries cleanly to a 1.54mm full flex under 330g of pressure — butterflex, not superflex, with enough structure to write as a daily pen.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAt rest the tipping lays down EEF horizontal by B vertical (0.15mm \/ 0.80mm) — firmly in crisp flexible stub territory. Moderate pressure opens the tines smoothly into a solid 4B, with well-defined swell-to-hairline transitions and snapback that returns to hairline without hesitation or drift. Flexible stubs and oblique grinds sit among the most expressive vintage nib profiles because the unflexed character and the flexed behavior each contribute an independent range, and this #4 balances both in unusual measure. This is definitely one of the best nibs that I kept from any Swan 4 series for these characteristics haha.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTine alignment and heat-setting were addressed before the nib was seated into the JOWO housing. B+ reflects honest writing wear with crisp imprint legibility.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA natural fit for experienced flex writers, calligraphers drawn to flexible stubs with true hairline cross strokes, and collectors after a top-tier Mabie Todd flex example. Will show off ink characteristics extremely well from hairlines to broad lines and flourishes.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTested on Rhodia 80 gsm, inked with Waterman Serenity Blue.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46211181248700,"sku":"HM2603073","price":645.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC01810-2_cce76e43-433a-49a0-b0c4-7d14d841d2e2.jpg?v=1776469205"},{"product_id":"james-safety-pen-blue-celluloid-gpt-2-steel-gp-flex-nib-copy","title":"Penco 53(B), Gold Filled Cap \u0026 Black Celluloid, 14ct Bouncy Nib","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHM2602015\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Pen-Co 53 was the top model from Fratelli Rossi Vicenza, widely publicized across Italian magazines — and a close enough imitation of Sheaffer's Triumph line to provoke legal action from Sheaffer's Italian distributor. This extremely rare 53B updated the design with a Touchdown filling mechanism using a naked sac rather than one encased in a steel casing. FRV closed on March 30, 1957, making these increasingly scarce outside Italian collections.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTouchdown filling system in mint condition — fills a great amount of ink. The build quality and mechanism feel more solid than many Sheaffer's, there's no wiggle in the piston rod. Fills on the downstroke; the upstroke releases the sac full of ink, so be careful not to make a mess. Full disassembly with lubricated pneumatic piston rebuild. Nib tuned and smoothed. Celluloid treated and refinished. Approximately 2 hours hands-on. Finished with carnauba wax coat. Writes wet and consistent with zero hard starts after overnight capping.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCelluloid has been lightly hand-polished to remove microscratches. Deeper scratches left intact to preserve original material. Imprints are worn but legible, with gold filled cap in honest condition — left unpolished to prevent brassing. Nib tuned for smoothness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested on Rhodia 90gsm with Diamine Imperial Purple.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiscounted for hairline in nib breatherhole, does not impact performance and will not expand given nib thickness.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46237426286780,"sku":"HM2602015","price":125.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC02040.jpg?v=1777180484"},{"product_id":"j-b-lucien-safety-pen-french-mottled-ebonite-14k-gold-semi-flex-nib","title":"J.B. Lucien Safety Pen, French Mottled Ebonite, 14k Gold Semi-Flex Nib","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHM2602014\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA fantastic example of French mottled ebonite — the orange-red and black layers produce incredibly playful patterns that run deeper and brighter than their American counterparts, mainly due to formulation differences. Matching mottled ebonite feed, a detail usually reserved for premium model lineups given the extra material cost. Waterman-style rear-pinned safety mechanism. Small maker or promotional pen produced by a larger French house. J.B. Luciens, 33 Rue des Acacias, Paris.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFull safety mechanism rebuild with fresh gaskets that will last decades. Safety pens are easy to clean and can handle any ink types that would otherwise trouble vintage and modern pens — just flush with a pipette (can be included upon request). Approximately 3 hours hands-on. Ebonite rejuvenated and lightly hand-polished — the natural softness restored. Will not feel brittle or prone to cracking. Clip is worn and barrel imprint is weak. Finished with carnauba to protect the ebonite finish; can be re-polished to a shine with soft fabric.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReplacement Wahl Eversharp flexible nib that writes very well. Not the most line variation given that it's a semi-flex, but a very rare and interesting posting-style nib grind that gives amazingly thin and consistent lines. Smooth on all angles. Identifiable as a replacement nib because French pens from this era almost universally carry 18ct nibs unless exported — unlikely here. Nib heat-set and tuned for flex and smoothness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested on Rhodia 90gsm with Diamine Imperial Purple.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46237431267516,"sku":"HM2602014","price":325.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC02389.jpg?v=1778568264"},{"product_id":"unic-pocket-lever-filler-npt-french-mottled-ebonite-18ct-semi-brush-nib","title":"Unic Pocket Lever-Filler NPT, French Mottled Ebonite, 18ct Semi-Brush Nib","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHM2602013\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA near-mint pocket pen in its original box from a first-tier French manufacturer better known for their safety models and luxury overlay pens — finding a Unic lever-filler is a rare treat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome wear to the imprint hallmarks but exceptional condition throughout. The nib is extremely soft — given the smaller sac on this pocket pen, there is less air pressure helping guide ink to the feed, so after half a page of figure 8's the feed may need a moment to catch up. That said, this is not a realistic writing cadence for any calligraphy workflow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEbonite rejuvenated and lightly hand-polished — the natural softness restored. Will not feel brittle or prone to cracking. Imprints worn but legible, with trim in great condition. Nib heat-set and tuned for flex and smoothness. Approximately 2 hours hands-on. Fitted with a silicone ink sac — compatible with all fountain pen inks including iron gall, shimmer, and alkaline Japanese inks without risk to the sac. Store nib-up when not in use to prevent nib creep.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested on Rhodia 90gsm with Diamine Imperial Purple.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46237432938684,"sku":"HM2602013","price":300.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC02031.jpg?v=1777180804"},{"product_id":"watermans-hundred-year-pen-17-14k-gold-430g-semi-flex","title":"Waterman's Hundred Year Pen #17, 14k Gold, 430g Semi Flex","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🥇 Grade: B+\u003cbr\u003e🏠 Housing: Nikko Red Ebonite, JOWO #6\u003cbr\u003e🔱 Nib: Waterman's Hundred Year Pen 17\u003cbr\u003e🖋️ Line Spec: F - 4B | 0.30mm – 1.72mm (5.73x)\u003cbr\u003e🌡️ Flexibility Pressure: 440g Semi Flex\u003cbr\u003e📐 Dimensions: 22.35mm Nib Length (Past Housing)\u003cbr\u003e⚖️ Weight: 1.980g\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEarly 1940s Waterman nib produced for the famous Lucite Hundred Year Pens and their variations — comparable in size to the 1920s size 5. A piece of one of Waterman's most iconic pen lines, now in a modern-compatible housing. Tipping tuned and smoothed. Nib and feed heat-set into housing. Semi flex writer that delivers very expressive line variation with moderate pressure. Sharp, smooth tip produces a consistent fine hairline at rest — excellent contrast between unflexed and flexed strokes.\u003cbr\u003eTested in a Little Hollow Custom Mistress on Rhodia 80gsm with Diamine Imperial Purple.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46238570381500,"sku":"HM2603014","price":325.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC02055.jpg?v=1777259772"},{"product_id":"pelikan-400-tortoiseshell-celluloid-binde-gpt-14c-flex-om","title":"Pelikan 400, Tortoiseshell Celluloid Binde GPT, 14C Flex OM","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHM2602017\u003cbr\u003eOne of the earliest threaded-nib-unit Pelikan 400s — produced after Pelikan abandoned friction-fit units and before the 400N replaced the line in 1956. Dated 1950–1953 by the threaded nib unit, black piston seal, and unengraved cap band — Pelikan did not begin engraving cap bands until 1954.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe tortoiseshell binde on this pen is about as good as it gets. No fading, no crazing, no ambering — just warm honey-and-amber celluloid exactly as it looked when it left the factory. The \"Günther Wagner Pelikan\" stamping on the binde is exceptionally sharp, and the \"OM\" stamp on the piston knob is crisp and fully legible. Deep dark brown celluloid cap and finials with a gorgeous depth of color.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe nib is the real joy here. Bouncy, expressive vintage flex with perfect snapback — the kind of nib that makes you reach for a pen just to write one more line. Held at an oblique angle as intended, it delivers a consistent 0.35mm hairline in all directions. Rotate the pen to 90° against the paper and you unlock a beautifully sharp stub character: 0.40mm crossstrokes and 0.60mm downstrokes. Imprints sharp throughout with gold-plated trim in excellent condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested with Diamine Sherwood Green on Rhodia 90gsm.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46359483875516,"sku":"HM2602017","price":350.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC02075.jpg?v=1777417568"},{"product_id":"pelikan-140-green-stripe-celluloid-binde-gpt-14c-flex-ob","title":"Pelikan 140, Green Stripe Celluloid Binde GPT, 14C Flex OB","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHM2602016\u003cbr\u003eThis was my first real vintage flex pen, and letting it go feels a little like passing along a favorite book — bittersweet, but it deserves someone who will use it as much as I did. The 140 is the successor to the Pelikan IBIS, and the green stripe is the colorway most collectors picture when they think of this model. Produced from 1952 to 1965, the 140 was never plated as generously as the 400 — given its lower price point and market position. This example's trim is fully brassed, which might not be for everyone. However, he warm gold-brown of aged brass against green stripe celluloid gives the pen a character that a minty example wouldn't have.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 140 is just the perfect size for calligraphy and writing flourished letters to friends and family — it adds so much character and makes inks shade and sheen like you would not believe. The nib unit threads out easily for cleaning, and the piston seals are super smooth, so flushing inks (even shimmers) is quick and painless. The oblique broad has a learning curve — it was designed for writers who held their flex pens at an angle rather than fully perpendicular to the paper. Lean into the oblique stance and you get a beautifully smooth, consistent experience. But if you do hold it square with the paper, you unlock amazing line variation: 0.35mm crossstrokes and 0.75mm downstrokes. Once you find the angle that works for you, this nib is an absolute delight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested with Diamine Sherwood Green on Rhodia 90gsm.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46359825973436,"sku":"HM2602016","price":250.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC02131.jpg?v=1777417690"},{"product_id":"watermans-42-1-2-v-black-ebonite-chased-14k-flex-nib","title":"Waterman's 42 1\/2 V, Black Ebonite Chased, 14k Flex Nib","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHM1225033\u003cbr\u003eThe no-frills sibling of the filigree-banded 0742 above — same baby safety platform, same #2 Waterman Ideal nib, same vest-pocket proportions, but in black chased hard rubber without the metalwork. And this one is mint NOS. The chasing is crisp throughout, cap imprints are sharp with a date stamp, and the only wear is slight softening to the center of the hallmark imprint. This pen has barely been touched.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSame baby-size formula: 89mm capped, posts to 117mm for a full writing length. The beauty of the safety mechanism is that the nib retracts completely into the barrel, sealing the ink chamber — no dry starts, no ink on your fingers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Waterman Ideal #2 nib delivers 6.95x line variation at 280g Semi Brush Flex — 0.20mm horizontal hairlines opening to 1.39mm downstrokes. Slightly broader hairlines than the filigree-banded sibling, slightly more line variation on the swell. Both are excellent; this one leans a touch more expressive, the 0742 leans more precise. Nib heat-set and tuned for flex and smoothness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFull safety mechanism rebuilt with fresh gaskets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested on Rhodia 90gsm with Pelikan 4001 Brilliant Black.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46553557500092,"sku":"HM1225033","price":225.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC02292.jpg?v=1777718390"},{"product_id":"watermans-0742-1-2-v-black-ebonite-filigree-band-14k-flex-nib","title":"Waterman's 0742 1\/2 V, Black Ebonite Filigree Band, 14k Flex Nib","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHM1225034\u003cbr\u003eWaterman's 0742 1\/2 V — the \"baby\" safety in its dressed-up configuration. The model number tells the full story: \"07\" for the gold barrel band, \"4\" for the safety mechanism, \"2\" for the #2 nib size, \"1\/2\" for the slender barrel, and \"V\" for the shorter vest-pocket length. Baby-sized at 88mm capped, but posts to a regular writing length at 118mm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe filigree band is the standout — set against the black ebonite, it gives the pen a restrained elegance the plain chased version can't match. Great ebonite condition with some wear to the chasing, but extremely crisp imprints. The turning knob had a crack that has been sealed — the repair does not impact the airtight seal or the mechanism's function. Graded C+ for the repair.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe nib is the real story. This Waterman Ideal #2 is a needlepoint flex with a slight cursive italic grind — 0.15mm horizontal hairlines that open to a full 1.27mm on the downstroke. That's 8.47x line variation at only 280g Semi Brush Flex. Fantastic flex nib by any standard. Nib heat-set and tuned for flex and smoothness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFull safety mechanism rebuilt with fresh gaskets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested on Rhodia 90gsm with Pelikan 4001 Brilliant Black.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46553558909116,"sku":"HM1225034","price":225.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC02276.jpg?v=1777718540"},{"product_id":"german-safety-mottled-ebonite-gpt-clip-14ct-flex-nib","title":"German Safety, Mottled Ebonite GPT Clip, 14ct Flex Nib","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe flagship of this batch. Montblanc-style safety mechanism and overall design, with a rare art nouveau clip that immediately sets it apart from the dozens of generic German safeties on the market. Unbranded German safeties from this era are built to an engineering standard that rivaled the American Big Four.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMottled ebonite body with gold-plated trim clip in B- condition, like new aside from a small scratch on the cap finial. The pen caps and posts securely, and at 157mm posted it is a good size for travel journaling. Substantial in the hand at 19g capped without being heavy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 14ct warranted flex nib has a Sailor-like feedback: you feel the paper, you know where the nib is. 4.00x line variation at 300g Super Flex with a natural cursive italic character, 0.35mm vertical hairlines and 0.50mm horizontal cross strokes that widen into a full 1.40mm on the downstroke. The tipping can be polished smoother if you prefer a glassier ride, but the feedback as-is gives excellent control through flourishes. Nib heat-set and tuned for flex and smoothness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe full safety mechanism was rebuilt with modern FKM O-rings and the knob action calibrated. Ebonite rejuvenated and hand-polished.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested on Rhodia 90gsm with Pelikan 4001 Brilliant Black.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHM1225095\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46553560121532,"sku":"HM1225095","price":500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC02262.jpg?v=1777718659"},{"product_id":"gold-starry-baby-safety-mottled-ebonite-gpt-inox-steel-nib","title":"Gold Starry Baby Safety, Mottled Ebonite GPT, Inox Steel Nib","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHM1225032\u003cbr\u003eThe same Gold Starry baby safety platform, but in my favorite kind of French ebonite — mottled, with a rare banded barrel pattern. The orange-brown and black layers produce warm, shifting patterns under different light. Gold-plated trim elevates the pen from pocket workhorse to something worth lingering over. Condition is like NOS — this pen has barely been used.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuper slim, super light, but holds roughly 1ml of ink — generous for a pen this small. Same Inox stainless nib — the chromium-rich alloy that French makers used for their workhorse pens because it simply refuses to corrode. This one shares the same soft, bouncy character as its black ebonite sibling. 3.36x line variation at 300g — not built for excessive calligraphy, but a genuinely wonderful everyday writer. Soft flex that rewards a relaxed grip and natural writing pressure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFull safety mechanism rebuilt with fresh gaskets. Ebonite rejuvenated and hand-polished.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested on Rhodia 90gsm with Pelikan 4001 Brilliant Black.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46553561432252,"sku":"HM1225032","price":120.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC02253.jpg?v=1777718793"},{"product_id":"gold-starry-baby-safety-black-ebonite-inox-steel-nib","title":"Gold Starry Baby Safety, Black Ebonite, Inox Steel Nib","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHM1225096\u003cbr\u003eGold Starry's baby-size safety — a slim pocket pen with a floral filigree cap band that gives it more personality than its size would suggest. Small and thin enough to disappear into a shirt pocket, but writes full-size when posted. Great ink capacity for a pen this compact.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe nib is stamped \"Inox\" — from the French \u003cem\u003einoxydable\u003c\/em\u003e, a chromium-iron stainless steel alloy built for corrosion resistance and durability. These were Gold Starry's standard nibs for their everyday-carry lineup, and they hold up remarkably well after decades. This one has a soft, bouncy quality that gives you 4.54x line variation at 300g. It's not a flex pen for excessive calligraphy — don't railroad it through pages of Spencerian — but for natural handwriting with a bit of expression, it's an amazing writer. The kind of steel nib that makes you wonder why people chase gold.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlack ebonite in B+ condition. Full safety mechanism rebuilt with fresh gaskets. Ebonite rejuvenated and hand-polished.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested on Rhodia 90gsm with Pelikan 4001 Brilliant Black.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46553565659324,"sku":"HM1225096","price":90.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC02246.jpg?v=1777718998"},{"product_id":"gold-starry-254-safety-black-ebonite-amber-glass-nib","title":"Gold Starry 254 Safety, Black Ebonite, Amber Glass Nib","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHM1225065\u003cbr\u003eA genuinely unusual piece. Gold Starry began in 1909 as the French distribution arm of Conway Stewart under the \"Gold Star\" name, switched to \"Gold Starry\" after a 1912 trademark dispute, and became a fully independent French manufacturer by 1921. Their early safeties were among the first pens they produced — honest black ebonite construction with the star trademark engraved on the barrel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe amber glass nib is the draw here. Glass nibs on vintage pens are rare enough that most collectors have never seen one in person. Rigid, completely corrosion-proof, and multiple angles to use the glass tip. No flex — just a consistent FM line on the tip, with lower angles letting you paint the page. The real advantage is practical: glass is the easiest nib material to clean. Flush, wipe, and you're writing with a new ink in seconds. If you like testing inks constantly and switching colors fast, this is the pen for that — cleanup is dramatically faster than any ebonite feed vintage pen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlack ebonite with worn chasing — grade C+. Full safety mechanism rebuilt with fresh gaskets. Ebonite rejuvenated and hand-polished.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested on Tomoe River 52gsm (new) with Diamine Sherwood Green.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46553566544060,"sku":"HM1225065","price":180.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC02238.jpg?v=1777719024"},{"product_id":"bayard-no-120-safety-black-ebonite-18ct-flex-nib","title":"Bayard No 120 Safety, Black Ebonite, 18ct Flex Nib","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHM1225038\u003cbr\u003eA fantastic entry-level safety pen from one of France's great pen houses. Bayard was founded when Étienne Forbin, a Parisian bookseller, trademarked the name in 1912 after years distributing American writing instruments. By 1922 his grandchildren, the Panici Frères, took over production and established Bayard as a genuine rival to the American Big Four. The No 120 is a full-size safety with beautiful chasing and craftsmanship that punches well above this price point.\u003cbr\u003eThe ebonite shows honest wear — deep scratches on the cap, grade C — but the hallmark imprints are tactile and fully visible, and the chasing remains crisp where it hasn't been worn. This is a pen that's been used and enjoyed, priced accordingly. Full safety mechanism rebuilt with fresh gaskets. Ebonite rejuvenated and lightly hand-polished.\u003cbr\u003eThe 18ct Bayard nib is the surprise here — soft, smooth, and great for fast writing. Not a calligraphy showpiece, but a nib that rewards speed and a light touch. 2.5x line variation at 360g gives you expressive writing without fighting the pen.\u003cbr\u003eTested on Rhodia 90gsm with Diamine Imperial Purple.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46553571197116,"sku":"HM1225038","price":120.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC02209.jpg?v=1777719125"},{"product_id":"mabie-todd-swan-4-england-14ct-gold-380g-flex-jowo-6","title":"Mabie Todd Swan #4 England, 14ct Gold, 380g Flex (JOWO 6)","description":"\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🥇 Grade: B+\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🏠 Housing: Nikko Red Ebonite, JOWO #6\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🔱 Nib: Mabie Todd Swan #4 England, 14ct Gold (\"Swan 4 14CT Mabie Todd \u0026amp; Co LTD Made in England\")\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🖋️ Line Spec: EF\/F – 6B | 0.20mm \/ 0.25mm – 1.89mm (9.45x)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🌡️ Flexibility Pressure: 380g Flex\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e📐 Dimensions: 47mm total nib length, 23mm overhang past housing\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e⚖️ Weight: 2.056g\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMabie Todd Swan held a continuous English presence from the 1910s, shifting its main gold nib production from New York to Birmingham and Liverpool through the mid-1920s. The English #4 ran as the larger flex size in the standard catalog, fitted to the Swan 44, the smaller Swan 54, and their Eternal siblings. Of the two common Swan flex sizes, the #4 carries the reputation for refined flex behavior; the #2 is the more frequently surviving size. The English imprint and stamp style place this nib in the late 1920s into the early 1930s, with the flex line running in parallel with the Eternal manifolds rather than after them. Seated in a Nikko red ebonite housing with a JOWO #6 ebonite feed, ready to write.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFit note: nib overhang sits at 23mm past the JOWO #6 housing's 24mm length, with a 47mm total nib length. Verify cap clearance on smaller modern hosts before committing the nib to a body for extended carry.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe headline is a 9.45x flex multiplier driven by a stub character at rest — EF horizontal against F vertical (0.20mm \/ 0.25mm) sits in flexible stub territory before any pressure is applied, and 380g of moderate pressure opens the tines cleanly into a solid 6B at 1.89mm. The unflexed line already carries the contrast of a stub: sharper downstrokes, finer cross strokes. Expressive range comes on top of that. Flex behavior is smooth and controlled, with snapback returning to the rest position without overshoot, and the ball tip glides cleanly across the rotation without skipping or roughness on cross strokes.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBest suited to experienced flex writers, calligraphers drawn to flexible stubs with naturally occurring stroke contrast, and collectors of mid-production English Mabie Todd Swans where the flex line ran in parallel with the Eternal manifolds.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTine alignment corrected, tipping smoothed, light burnish at the base to sharpen baseline contact and snapback. Heat-set into the JOWO #6 housing with the matched ebonite feed for clean flow from the first stroke. B+ reflects honest writing wear with crisp imprint legibility and full structural integrity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTested on Rhodia 90gsm ivory with Diamine Imperial Purple.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46736322134204,"sku":"HM2603020","price":635.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC02351.jpg?v=1778559342"},{"product_id":"watermans-5-manifold-14k-gold-f-jowo-6","title":"Waterman's #5 Manifold, 14k Gold, F (JOWO 6)","description":"\u003cpre class=\"block p-xs mt-xs rounded-none\" spellcheck=\"false\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🥇 Grade: A2\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🏠 Housing: Nikko Red Ebonite, JOWO #6\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🔱 Nib: Waterman's Reg. U.S. Pat. Off. #5 Manifold, 14k Gold, Made in U.S.A.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🖋️ Line Spec: F | 0.25mm\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🌡️ Flexibility Pressure: Manifold, no flex\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e📐 Dimensions: 22.17mm overhang past housing\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e⚖️ Weight: 2.428g\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/pre\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eL.E. Waterman \u0026amp; Co., founded in New York in 1884, dropped the explicit \"New York\" imprint from its U.S. nib production in the early-to-mid 1920s, transitioning to the \"Reg. U.S. Pat. Off. \/ Made in U.S.A.\" stamp style that defined the rest of the decade. The \"Manifold\" stamp distinguished Waterman's stiffer, pressure-tolerant nib line — built for clerical work and carbon copies — and ran in parallel with the softer flex line that defined the brand's expressive reputation. The #5 sat as a mid-size in the catalog, larger than the workhorse #4 and smaller than the oversize #6 and #8. Seated in a Nikko red ebonite housing with a JOWO #6 ebonite feed, ready to write.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eManifold by design — built to take pressure on every stroke without spreading. The 0.25mm tipping lays an F line that runs incredibly smooth and consistent, with thick supple tipping that produces a buttery glide across the page and a subtle cushion through both upstrokes and downstrokes. The kind of nib that disappears under the hand once you start writing. A2 condition reflects mint character — possibly dipped, with no signs of writing wear.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBest suited to writers who want a smooth, predictable vintage gold nib for daily writing and sketching, journal and longhand writers who appreciate a buttery consistent line at speed, and collectors seeking a clean 1920s American Waterman Manifold example.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTine alignment confirmed, tipping smoothed, light burnish at the base. Heat-set into the JOWO #6 housing with matched ebonite feed for clean flow from the first stroke. Imprints are sharp and legible; structural integrity is full.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"first:mt-0 last:mb-0\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTested on Rhodia 90gsm ivory with Diamine Imperial Purple.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46736376332476,"sku":"HM1225090","price":300.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC02358.jpg?v=1778559380"},{"product_id":"watermans-ideal-5-14k-gold-360g-flex-jowo-6","title":"Jowo 6 Nib Unit | Waterman's Ideal #5, 14k Gold, 360g Flex","description":"\u003cpre class=\"block p-xs mt-xs rounded-none\" spellcheck=\"false\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/pre\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🥇 Grade: B+\u003cbr\u003e🏠 Housing: Nikko Black Ebonite, JOWO #6\u003cbr\u003e🔱 Nib: Waterman's Ideal #5, 14k Gold (\"Waterman's Ideal 14k\")\u003cbr\u003e🖋️ Line Spec: EEF–BB | 0.15mm – 0.86mm (5.73x)\u003cbr\u003e🌡️ Flexibility Pressure: 360g Flex\u003cbr\u003e📐 Dimensions: 21.88mm Nib Length (Past Housing)\u003cbr\u003e⚖️ Weight: 1.757g\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Waterman's Ideal #5 in 14k gold from late American production, the 1930s into the 1940s, stamped \"Waterman's Ideal 14k.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe highlight here is hairline first. At rest the tines lay a 0.15mm EEF cross stroke, finer than most dedicated needlepoints and more even than a modern Platinum UEF. The tipping geometry is tight, with precise tactile feedback under the hand. Under 360g of moderate pressure, a true Flex on the scale, the tines open to a 0.86mm BB for a 5.73x range. The top end reads measured; the fine, even cross stroke is what defines the nib. Very nice strong snap.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe tines are sharp. Past full flex they will cut paper, and the EEF profile wants a light, controlled hand on the upstroke to keep the hairlines clean. Aligned and heat-set before seating, the tipping smoothed and the base given a light burnish. Sits in Nikko black ebonite on a JOWO #6 ebonite feed. B+ for honest writing wear, the imprint crisp and legible, the structure sound.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested on Rhodia 90gsm ivory with Diamine Imperial Purple.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46736414900412,"sku":"HM1225085","price":315.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC02350.jpg?v=1778559426"},{"product_id":"french-chased-aluminum-button-filler-npt-glass-nib","title":"French Chased Aluminum Button-Filler, NPT, Glass Nib","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c!-- obsidian --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAluminum body, glass nib, unbranded French production. Three markers that cluster firmly in the wartime substitution era. France entered the Second World War with a fountain pen industry built on celluloid, gold, brass, and rolled-gold trim. By 1940 those material lines started closing. Gold was redirected to currency reserves, brass to munitions, and several smaller French ateliers shifted to materials outside the regulated chain for both nib and body. Glass nibs appear on this kind of production across Continental Europe through the war: Goldfink, Columbus, Burnham, and a long tail of unbranded German, Italian, and French makers all used them as ersatz tipping when gold became unobtainable. Aluminum followed the same logic for bodies, in the same year (1941) S.T. Dupont turned to aluminum for its first lighter when brass became strategic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe body here is solid aluminum, not an overlay over hard rubber. Chased waves run the length of the barrel and cap, the kind of decorative work that gives an otherwise functional wartime pen some visual life. The aluminum gives the pen real weight in the hand: 26.3g capped, with a girthy 8.78mm grip and 118.83mm capped length. Substantial without crossing into heavy, in the register of a metal-overlay Waterman rather than a celluloid lever-filler. Nickel-plated trim throughout, button-filler mechanism. The maker is unsigned. Unbranded French production was common under the Occupation, with smaller workshops continuing to assemble pens from available materials without registered names on the barrel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe clear glass nib lays a controlled 0.40mm line, single width with no variation under pressure. Glass nibs work by capillary feed along spiral grooves cut into the tipping, with ink running down those grooves to the page rather than between flexed tines. The result is a smooth, rigid writer with manifold character: a precise, dry-leaning line that holds across long writing sessions without skip or hard start.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrade B-. The aluminum carries microscratches from a previous life of carry, intentionally left in place. Polishing the surface flat would remove the patina that gives the pen its honest vintage character and risk losing detail in the chased waves, glass nib inspected for crack-free condition and seated cleanly in the section. Fitted with a latex sac, but can swap to a silicone sac if you want to use more diverse and troublesome inks (remember silicone sacs will creep ink so keep pen upright in storage).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTested on Rhodia 90gsm ivory with Pelikan 4001 Brilliant Black.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heron's Mooncake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46860418056380,"sku":"HM2605008","price":350.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/7435\/7948\/files\/DSC02739.jpg?v=1779484831"}],"url":"https:\/\/heronsmooncake.com\/collections\/archived-restorations.oembed","provider":"Herons Mooncake","version":"1.0","type":"link"}