5 replies to this topic

[johnmc2]

I have just received this rather nice little set from our NZ auction site.  I think it's a 44 but that is really just a stab, it has no numbers at all.  It's my first Burnham. Unfortunately the pen is too small for me to use (110mm capped and slender with it), and not the focus of my collection, so I may sell it.  There is no sign that it has ever been used, both are absolutely mint and the pencil still has its spare leads.  The presentation box is crushed but repairable.  

 

 

Lifting the lever has that familiar crunching sound so I know the sac needs replacing but I cannot seem to open the pen, something I have never encountered before.  There seems to be a trace of something at the join, does anyone know if these pens had a sealant or adhesive applied to the section joint?  Also, is the join friction-fit or threaded? 

And from a collector's point of view, how important is it that the sac is replaced anyway?

[Deb]

They weren't glued shut by the factory but who knows what a subsequent repairer may have done.  I tend to avoid Burnhams so I can't remember whether they're screw or friction fit.  Use heat to loosen things up and treat as screw fit.  You can't go wrong that way.  If you're not going to use it why bother replacing the sac?  The old sacs don't seem to trouble these casein pens.

[Widget]

I've repaired a few Burnhams (they have very good nibs) and I'm pretty sure they are friction fit.  If you intend selling leave it alone.  An untouched pen will probably be worth more than a functioning pen.  I know I prefer a pen that has had no attempt at repair.

[johnmc2]

Thank you both for your advice.  I've been hoping to own and use a Burnham for a while, but it seems with this one I would be wise to leave it alone and just sell it as is.  

[Paul M]

there is no consistency with Burnhams as to whether they are friction or screw fit, as both seem to turn up in what are otherwise identical looking pens. If you are having problems then I would work on the basis that the section is a screw in.

 

the factory did not apply any adhesive as far as I know, so a blast of heat should suffice.

[Paul M]

Thank you both for your advice.  I've been hoping to own and use a Burnham for a while, but it seems with this one I would be wise to leave it alone and just sell it as is.  

 

If you want a larger Burnham as a user pen, then go for the B48, which is a good handfull. As a bonus (possibly?) these models often carry screw in nibs, so can take the Esterbrook range.