Tuesday 19 August 2008

Parker Pens has one of the most Celebrated Histories in the Manufacture of Pens

Parker Pens are the most well known pen brand in the UK and internationally. As a child I remember using Parker Vector pens (bought by my mother) because they were reliable and lasted a long time. They have a strong reputation for quality pens that range from the affordable market to the luxury high end, as well as a long and celebrated history. Click here to view a large range of Parker Pens. Founded in 1888 in the USA, Parker established themselves through constant innovation, having been responsible for some of the most important pen inventions and iconic pen models. It is this contribution to the pen industry that has established Parker as a very solid and trusted brand. Click here to view the official Parker Pen Company website.

One of the most important contributions to fountain pens was the Lucky Curve ink feed which George Parker invented in 1894. The feed system was designed to drain the ink back into the reservoir by capillary action when the pen was in the pocket of its owner. The Lucky Curve feed was used in various forms until 1928. In 1931 Parker created quick drying ink (Quink) which dispensed with the need for blotting. This lead to the creation of the most widely used fountain pen ever, the Parker 51.

There have been many iconic Parker pen models over the years, which form an integral part of any self respecting pen collection. There is even a fansite dedicated to Parker Pens. One of the most loved and remembered models was the Parker 51, the most successful pen ever produced. Its revolutionary design makes it instantly recognizable and is considered a design icon. The 51 featured a gold tubular nib inside a hood to trap any ink overflow which meant it didn’t leak but kept the nib surrounded by ink.

The Parker Duofold is one of the most long lasting fountain pen designs ever, helping to establish Parker as a forerunner in the manufacture of quality fountain pens. Born in the age of jazz and Art Deco, the Parker Duofold pen reflects the opulence and iconography of its origins. Launched in 1921, the original Duofold was nicknamed the Big Red because it was made from bright red rubber and measured 5.5 inches capped. Duofolds remained popular in Europe up until the 60s and were revived once again in the 1980s as Parker’s flagship model.