Parker 21, 45 and 51 Special

[JohnnyGringo]

While talking to my Mother yesterday morning, I mentioned that the FL had renewed my interest in fountain pens, and that I was truly enjoying using the several I've recently acquired. She called me last night to tell me she had several pens she thought I may like to have. When I picked them up, she handed me a Parker 21 that had been hers in High School, a Parker 45 that had belonged to her Father, and a Parker 51 Special that belonged to my Father's Father. I think I need to seek restoration, as none of these have been used in 30 plus years. Any suggestions? And by the way, yes, I did thank Mom and Dad.

 

[Randy]

There are some great resources over on the FountainPenNetwork forum for either doing the work yourself, or having it done. If they were not damaged, most likely all you will need to do is clean the nibs well and replace the sac.

- R

 

[PhilS]

Easy

Those Parker models are pretty indestructible and not difficult to service, and barring an unusual problem you should be able to do them yourself. The leading self-help book is Frank Dubiel's Fountain Pens: the Complete Guide to Repair and Restoration, but you probably don't even need that. If you need names of good low cost repair guys, let me know. You should note that "special" models are actually the budget model for the line, and that you can buy vintage 21s, 45s, and 51s (the most popular pen ever made) for very reasonable prices.

 

[PhilS]

Good Research Source for Vintage Pen Models

Richard Binder is the leading nib guy on the east coast. His website has engaging and very well illustrated profiles on many vintage american pens. Here is the link for the Parker 51.

http://www.richardspens.com/?page=ref_info/51_profile.htm

 

[JohnnyGringo]

Thanks, PhilS, I just jumped on that website and found some great info. I've been on the Fountain Pen Network as well, what a tremendous source of information is offered there. Thanks for the ideas.

 

[Valhson]

I am going to have to start digging on those sites also My "new" 51 isn't flowing properly... That is what I get for "needing" one once the other was stolen. Crap