Fountain pens considered vintage or antique are usually from the early 1900’s to right around the thirties. Pens with filigree and etching are more valuable than those with hard rubber. Collectors look for characteristics such as size, rarity, workmanship, and the presence of precious stones in the façade of the pen. The most collectible pens are the Waterman Swan NO.20s because of their practicality, quality of workmanship, and timeless aura.
The larger pens command a greater presence and tend to cost more than the smaller ladies pens. The ones before the depression also exemplify true skill in the artwork they contain. The centerpieces of any collection are usually pens with ornately hand carved snakes, Aztec heads, and tree trunk designs. Although these are desirable, they are by no means the rarest. Even rarer are those pens which include both piercing and engraving work and the hand carved techniques. The pens which were rare in their day are even rarer today. These were not available in company catalogues. Such pens include those with precious gems and were ordered mainly for special occasions. This makes these pens even more valuable today. Individually signed pens which include scenes from literature or religious symbols are even more uncommon and precious. Beyond these pens, the most extraordinary pens are those specially commissioned by princes and top country officials from around the world. Such a pen is the Eversharp Coronets in solid gold and a crown fully studded in diamonds. These are more likely to be dreamed about rather than seen or bought by collectors.
Older pens have a completely different feel when written with than newer ones. Most company’s today have lost the ability or discarded the importance of flexible nibs. The flexible nib allows for both a smoother writing experience and a more even flow of strokes in the writing. Interest in older pens is growing because of the beauty they exhibit.
The character and ambiance of these older pens make a style statement and are important for executives of today’s world. They also make wonderful gifts for those embarking on scholastic journeys.