Vintage Fountain Pen Review: Parker 45

I found this pen in a second hand shop in southern BC. The barrel was very dirty, and the nib was encrusted with dried globs of ink. I noticed that it had the classic Parker clip so I decided that I would spend the $5 and see where it got me. When I got home and started cleaning it I realized it had a 14k medium gold nib. Not a bad deal!

The Parker 45 is one of the best selling fountain pens of all time. I've read reports that Parker had sold over 80 million units between 1960-1988. The pen I have is one of the earlier ones. You can tell by the indented end on the cap. Throughout the long life span of this pen, there have been hundreds of different finishes. I love the classic look of this pen. Although the pen isn't as big as others like the Parker 51, it still feels good in the hand. It fits classic Parker cartridges, as well as any of the Parker converters. 

The semi hooded nib is a nice feature that really completes the sleek look of this pen. One feature I didn't expect with this pen was that the nib had some flex to it. Not a lot, but enough to give your writing a bit of distinction. 

I've been using this pen at work, and it’s been a workhorse! I love to use vintage pens as they were intended to be used. This pen is smaller than it’s relatives, and meant to be used on the go (I work in retail). I find it seems to work for me on almost any paper I write on. That is a huge plus as most of my pens have trouble with some of the paper that is used in the office. 

All in all I am very happy with this pen. I'm looking forward to finding new colours to add to my collection! How do you use your vintage pens?

Writing sample (Please excuse the inconsistent cursive!)

InCoWriMo

It's almost InCoWriMo time again! What is this you ask? And why am I so excited? InCoWriMo stands for International Correspondence Writing Month. The process is simple. Write one letter a day, every day in the month of February. It can be to anyone you choose. Your Aunt Mae, The President, or Justin Beiber. It doesn't matter who you write to as long as you pull out your pen and paper and do it! I have started making my calendar already on who I'm going to write to on which days. If you think you are going to be busy on certain days it is totally ok to write your letter ahead of time, or do 2 in a day if you like. Whatever works for you, works for InCoWriMo. The Website incowrimo.org has tons of suggestions on who to write to, styles of writing, and even a great video on how to write a letter. There is also a map to track where in the world people are participating from. If you want to recreate the amazing feeling you got when you got a letter in the mail, join me on my journey. If for no other reason it gives you a great excuse to break out your vintage fountain pens and use them like they were meant to be used. Happy Writing!