General
A vintage (c1968) Parker 17 Lady Standard Duofold in dark blue medium size fountain pen comes with a 14k (Au585) gold nib and with its gold-plated trim. Totally English made, the pens cosmetic condition is still immaculate and the barrel carries the majority of the original marks. The Model 17 “Lady” was introduced to the market in 1964.
Features
The barrel engraving is clear and crisp to the touch, whilst the Aerometric filling system, also made in Newhaven, England is still original and in very good condition after 55 long years. The pen is called Model 17 “Lady” and is relatively very short at 118 mm, so posting it, is absolutely necessary. It is made in an elegant dark blue GT Resin and it weight is just 11.3 g. Comparing it with the full-size Parker Model 17, its star ratings for the most of its characteristics i.e., 1-5 score three, rather than four stars as was decided by our panel of reviewers. In the slight disagreement with them and here, I must admit that I like this tiny baby fountain pen but, I can also see their point, which is reflected in the somewhat modest market value nowadays.
Comment
Having both sizes of historic Parker Model 17 is good, but at practical level Model 17 Lady is of not much as for everyday use, comfortable to hold, easy to grip etc. Still its quality of workmanship is good, just it is its ergonomic design, which is a bit of fantasy. Its value for money if you seriously collect the post 1964 examples at the currently realised prices is probably good to very good.
Ink used: Parker Quink Blue-Black, France/UK
