3 replies to this topic

[KarloT]

Hi all!

I've used pens for less than a year. Early in my sojourn, I joined a pen club and someone graciously allowed me to try his battery of 51s, mostly Fines. I tried the 8 or so pens he had and while the 51 looked sleek, it didn't sing to me at the time.

A couple of days ago, I was present when one friend bought a dove gray Aerometric 51 from a mutual buddy of ours. I tried that pen and thought, "Hey, this could work." Maybe my pen hold and writing pressure have changed over the past 10 months. Whatever it is, I may be ready to give the 51 a proper try.

Having said that, where would be a good place to start? I have no experience with either Vac or Aero filling systems, so I am not fluent in their nuances. I can find Vacs in my area but these will probably need overhauling by an American nibmeister/repair expert before I can write with them, as many need new diaphragms and plungers.

Between the two systems, which would be simpler to maintain? Given that most pens come in Fine, ink capacity is not a big concern. I will probably not switch ink brands or colors in a 51 once I decide on a color.

Is there a particular era to consider in terms of durability or workmanship? 50s, 60s?

I am not after something with high cachet or collector value so user grade pens may be more up my alley.

Thanks!

Karlo

[Hugh]

Hi Karlo,

For a user pen the aerometric is by far the simplest and most still work perfectly and are cheap to re-sac if needed. $50 to $80 should pick up a basic pen on ebay , more if from a dealer with warranty. For sheer value the "51" special ( these have an alloy nib mostly) offer the cheapest way in without any drop in quality.

Regards
Hugh

[david i]

Hi Karlo,

I'm rushing out of town for a funeral so cannot answer in detail until tonight. Not to sell you a pen, but to give you a sense to review the entire series in chronological order, I offer link to my 2009 "Ultimate 51 Offering" with more than 200 "51" pens, with sectional descriptions that offer detail on collectability and what have you.

http://www.vacumania...aleparker51.htm

For many years, Vac-fill pens ruled, as they offer overall greater collectability. Today, as Hugh noted, many people wish to start with an Aerometric, generally easier to maintain, if a bit more bland on style.

More in day or so.

regards

david

[KarloT]

Hi David!

No worries. Yes, I did go through your listing of 51s and the assortment of colors and caps is astounding. (Can you tell I'm even more confused now? )

Is there a difference in barrel diameter between the Vacs and the Aerometrics? Are there weight differences as well between Mks 1 to 3?

Karlo