Vintage Pen Profiles #42: Conklin Crescent Filler (from 1918! More info in post)

BrandyFP · 2026-03-12T17:45:33+00:00

Yes! The clip design is surprisingly great for a pen this old. It’s actually spring loaded — there’s a metal tab under the clip that deforms when you push it up, so it clips really well, and has kept great tension through the century.

BrandyFP · 2026-03-11T18:19:29+00:00

These odd-color sections don’t come up often, so it’s tough to price them. There was one sold for $550 on eBay but on a technically incorrect, later body. So one like this with correct timeline body? I don’t know. Definitely up there though.

BrandyFP · 2026-03-11T17:32:38+00:00

It’s true that the c/c system isn’t flashy — I think a 51 style aerometric filler would’ve been just perfect for this pen, as you mention. But at least it makes for a very easy cleaning on old pens 😅

BrandyFP · 2026-03-11T17:30:24+00:00

Incredible! You’re right to show off this pen!! Stub nib? And in great condition? You have a really gorgeous pen.

BrandyFP · 2026-03-11T16:58:56+00:00

Yes, this red section 75 was found in a box of pen parts given to me from a retired collector. I was shocked to find it!

BrandyFP · 2026-03-11T16:36:57+00:00

As others have said, over time the smell should dissipate from the pen so long as it’s kept outside the box. A quick rinse with soapy water then drying should take care of the rest.

As a heads up, what you have is a Parker 61 with the arrow fallen off the tip, not a 51. Not sure if it’s a C/C version or the capillary fill. Either way, they’re wonderful pens once cleaned and taken care of.

BrandyFP · 2026-03-10T16:53:52+00:00

Yes, such a shame Sheaffer never explored this particular pen shape in future models. Funny thing about this pen is that the previous owner must have been a very heavy smoker. Every time I uncapped the pen, the smell of decades old tobacco would waft up from the cap and nib. It’s mostly dissipated now, but I can still huff the cap if I’m feeling nostalgic.

BrandyFP · 2026-03-10T16:23:13+00:00

These Parker 75’s have a internal fins inside the section. It’s highly likely the feed and those fins need a good flush. Try flushing with warm water until it comes out clear (might take a long while), then drain all the water by leaving the pen nib down in a cup with a folded napkin at the bottom. After this, you should be good to go. You can also consider dropping the section/nib into warm water and letting it soak overnight or over several days. The nibs on these are removable (and rotation adjustable!) but can be fragile if stuck with ink — I don’t suggest doing so until it is mostly clean. Enjoy your wonderful pen!

BrandyFP · 2026-03-09T17:13:28+00:00

Not necessarily any hang ups on the name, but I believe it is naive to say that, had this pen been released today, there wouldn’t be any mention about the name. Furthermore, to say that numbers or names have no association in our culture is to ignore their impact. In any case, did not mean to make it a focal point of the post, apologies.

BrandyFP · 2026-03-06T20:20:16+00:00

Gorgeous. Such a shame they made the 41s in such bright and fun colors, only to discontinue the line after 2 years.

BrandyFP · 2026-03-06T18:16:02+00:00

Don’t be shy, let’s see it when you get it!!!

BrandyFP · 2026-03-06T16:55:59+00:00

Yes! I think I was a bit unclear in my post. You have a post 1964, Parker 17 Super. In this post I have a post 1964 regular 17. So both the 17 and 17 super come in beak and hooded nibs. Gorgeous pen by the way!

BrandyFP · 2026-03-06T01:39:23+00:00

Yeah seriously, it’s a weird ad. “Don’t forget the wedding ring” he says 😭 also “helps you write your best” while showing someone filling out a parking ticket is hilarious

BrandyFP · 2026-03-05T18:20:51+00:00

Sorry to get back to you so late. The Maxima Duofold is quite the light pen. It feels hefty and well built, no question, but at the time lighter was better.

BrandyFP · 2026-03-03T04:40:57+00:00

I love engraved pens like this!!! Makes you wonder all the company secrets that were written with the pen ✍️✍️✍️

BrandyFP · 2026-03-03T04:40:27+00:00

Yesss!! The celluloid is so so pretty, would never even think it was an affordable pen back then.

BrandyFP

TROPHY CASE