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May 2010 Fresh Stock of Old Pens:
The last Vacumania.com website update took 4 months to finish, as "real life" had been keeping me particularly busy. I'm very pleased- even while outside concerns continue to keep me quite busy- to have this May 2010 update online just a month after the last presentation of fresh stock. The heart of this update is the Sheaffer Snorkel, and I have I hope a rather impressive array for your consideration. As Snorks are found at Vacumania on the "Best of the 1950's" page, I have included a few fresh pre-Snork Thin Model (TM) Touchdown and Pen For Men (PFM) pens as well. As this update shows only new stock, I note you can find these pens AND MORE on the "1950's" page This update features likely the largest array ever offered online of "high cachet" Snorkel colors, a wide range of models, and a couple show-n-tell special Snork nibs not currently for sale. I fear the two Periwinkle pens have been claimed from prior want lists (and I still have two more to hunt for more current want lists). Most of the pens with conical "Triumph" nib have the "Waverley" point, the upturned end which facilitates smooth writing (kudos to Richard for research on Waverley). All pens are restored and carry my one year function warranty, even mint pens. But, mint pens may not be returned (barring a missed flaw of course) if dipped/inked. I do recommend viewers pick up the current (Spring 2010) issue of STYLUS Magazine (which is the final print issue for the time being), to see Paul Erano's Snorkel article photoillustrated by me. Too, I've been working on what likely is an overly detailed profile of Snorkel. It is easy to bog down when trying to convey nuances that sometimes are best left to the ''apprenticeship" context (discussion with collectors) or to detailed book chapters. Still, if you'd like to peek at a profile with many tweaks yet to go, do look at ----click: SHEAFFER SNORKEL PROFILE AT VACUMANIA---
I
offer a note of thanks to fellow Snorkel collector and pen friend Martin
Ferguson who restored most of the pens for this update in quite timely
fashion. If you need work done on Snorks or need parts, do
contact him. El Zorno (Ron Zorn) graciously restored some of
these as well, during our evening sessions at his pen restoration
lab. As always, pens are shown in to scale (on the flat "catalogue" shots) with sold pens shown with smaller pics. Angled "art" shots are not to scale, generally larger than other images. CONTACT ME will open a link to my email in your own email program, or you can email me by cloning isaacson@frontiernet.net into your browser based email page. I do not maintain an e-cart, as each pen below is a unique offering, and it is best we discuss to confirm availability etc, before proceeding to the sale. Shipping in USA ranges $8-11 or so. NYS residents 8.25% sales tax. International Shipping runs about $29 for USPS Tracked Express (necessary when dealing through Paypal) Enjoy the pens. -David 11 May, 2010 |
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Sheaffer Thin Model (TM) Touchdown: The "Pre-Snorkel": 1951
Plonked between 1948-1950 "Fat" injection-molded plastic pens (Wire-Fillers, Lever Fillers and Touchdowns) and the nearly decade long run of the Snorkel starting in 1952, is the one year-ish model TM (Thin Model) Touchdown. The 1951 TM Touchdown looks like a slightly short Snorkel. The plastic cap looks like that of the Snorkel but has a flush white dot instead of raised white dot. Trim and model name differences exist. The metal white dot caps are identical to Snorkel's. TM Touchdown features partially transparent celluloid gripping sections, something not found with Snorkel. TM Touchdown can be found in colors never used for Snorkel, carrying over the colors of the original chubbier Touchdown pens from 1949-1950. TM Touchdown is well more scarce than Snorkel, but tends to fly a bit under collectors' collective radar. |
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Pen 3306 NB: Sheaffer TM Touchdown $235 SOLD
Point of Sale/Demonstrator Pen (fully functional) "Sheaffer Rule of Four": Four Reasons to buy TM Touchdown Five Images of Single Pen |
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| Overall Grade:
ExtraFine |
Metal: Exc | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition:
Exc |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: | |
| Point: | Imprint: Per Below | Size: 5 1/4" 13.4cm |
PRICE: $235 |
| COMMENTS: Thin Model (TD) Touchdown served as a year-long bridge between 1949-1950 "fat" Touchdown and the 1952-9 Snorkel. It looks like slightly short-barrel Snork with trim/nib/color differences from that later pen. This point-of-sale item (a Demo of sorts, and likely- though I lack proof- not intended for sale) cited four good features of the new pen. I've handled about four or five of these all told and have seen a few others out and about. A high-cachet item no doubt from the brief production run of TM Touchdown. Clean pen with sharp manufacturer's imprint and clean cap. The gold lettering for the "Rule of Four" overall is strong, though not mint. DO NOT POLISH THE BARREL on this pen, or the lettering will vanish. | |||
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Pen 3272 -MF: Sheaffer TM-Touchdown Sentinel Burgundy 1951 $180 SOLD
Sentinel: White Dot, 2-tone Metal Cap, 2-Tone Gold Conical (Triumph) Nib. Nearmint Stickered |
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| Overall Grade: Nearmint+ |
Metal: Perfect | Color: Perfect | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition: NM |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Fine to Fine-Med | Imprint: Nearmint | Size: 5 1/4" 13.4cm |
PRICE: $180 |
| COMMENTS: Manufactured just a year before being supplanted by Snorkel, Thin Model Touchdown is well more scarce, and has some structural and style differences from Snorkel. Quite clean example. Nice transparency to the celluloid gripping section (not found on Snorkel). Nib fine to fine-medium. Pen has price tag and remnant of nib-grade sticker on gripping section. Great example. | |||
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Pen 3272 -MF: Sheaffer TM-Touchdown Burgundy 1950's $95 SOLD
Sentinel: White Dot, 2-tone Metal Cap, 2-Tone Gold Conical (Triumph) Nib. |
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| Overall Grade: Fine |
Metal: ExtraFine | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition: Exc |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Med+ | Imprint: Exc | Size: 5 1/4" 13.4cm |
PRICE: $95 |
| COMMENTS: Manufactured just a year before being supplanted by Snorkel, Thin Model Touchdown is well more scarce, and has some structural and style differences from Snorkel. A nice usable example, this one has a small (couple mm) shallow cap ding, hard to see at first peek. There is bit of barrel swell at back of barrel, not uncommon to these. Nice writer with a Medium+ point and wet line. | |||
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Pen 3292 MF: Sheaffer TM Touchdown Valiant Green $160 SOLD
Valiant: White-dot, plastic cap, 2-tone gold nib. |
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| Overall Grade: Nearmint |
Metal: Nearmint | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition: NM |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Fine-XF | Imprint: NM | Size: 5 3/8" 13.6cm |
PRICE: $160 |
| COMMENTS: TM (Thin Model) Touchdown preceded Snorkel by a year, and saw a roughly one year production run vs. Snorkel's nine years. Model names and trim/nib arrangements varied a bit from what would be found with Snorkel. Colors, too. This one is... Green. NOT Pastel, Sage or Fern Green. Just... Green. Superb clarity to the clear portion of the celluloid gripipng section (something not found on Snorkel). Nearmint condition. | |||
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Jet Black. Solid 14k Hallmarked Cap-Ring $150 SOLD |
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| Overall Grade:
Exc |
Metal: Exc | Color: Perfect | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition:
Exc |
Threads: perfect | clarity: Exc | |
| Point: MediumSmooth | Imprint: Exc | Size: 5
5/8" 14.3cm |
PRICE: $150 |
| COMMENTS: Thin
Model Touchdown preceded the introduction of the Snorkel. Manufactured
just one year it is well more scarce than Snorkel, which resembles it.
TM Touchdown Signature is more scarce still, which is no surprise,
featuring solid gold cap-ring. This one writes a nice smooth medium line with the expected two tone conical (Triumph) nib.. Pens with solid gold cap-bands are well less common than the average Snork. The cap-ring has been engraved (as are most SIgnature and Autograph pens out there). |
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PFM:
1959-1963 for most models, with stragglers through perhaps 1968. PFM is
the "Fat" (Oversized) snorkel-filler pen, introduced about the time
Snorkel, proper, was phasing out. It introced the inlaid nib to
Sheaffer's line, a feature used even today.
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Pen 3286 MF: Sheaffer PFM II (Pen for Men 2) $115 SOLD
From Vacumania's Basement: Has a Barrel Crack (sealed) |
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| Overall Grade: User |
Metal: Fine | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition:
Exc |
Clutch: Fine | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Med+ | Imprint: NA | Size: 5 3/8" 13.5cm |
PRICE: $115 |
| COMMENTS: The "Fat Snorkel Filler" intro'd 1959 as Snorkel, proper, was phasing out. Popular with collectors, this series premiered Sheaffer's inlaid nib. This one is superb writer with medium wet line, but has a crack in back of barrel that was sealed before I bought it. Cap has light ding at very top. Priced, i suspect, below parts given the excellent nib, ok cap, spring, blind-cap etc. A PFM you won't mind tossing about at work. | |||
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Pen 3287 MF: Sheaffer PFM I (Pen For Men 1) Black 1959-63 $240
PFM I: Pd Ag nib, Plastic Cap, "White" Trim |
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| Overall Grade:
Exc |
Metal: Exc | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition:
Exc |
Clutch: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Med | Imprint: Exc | Size: 5 3/8" 13.5cm |
PRICE: $240 |
| COMMENTS: The "Fat Snorkel Filler" intro'd 1959 as Snorkel, proper, was phasing out. Popular with collectors, this series premiered Sheaffer's inlaid nib. This one is superb writer with medium wet line. | |||
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Pen 3288 MF: Sheaffer PFM I (Pen For Men 1) Blue 1959-63 $280 SOLD
PFM I: Pd Ag nib, Plastic Cap, "White" Trim Nearmint with Chalk Marks |
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| Overall Grade: NM |
Metal: NM | Color: NM | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition: NM |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Med | Imprint: NM | Size: 5 3/8" 13.5cm |
PRICE: $280 |
| COMMENTS: The "Fat Snorkel Filler" intro'd 1959 as Snorkel, proper, was phasing out. Popular with collectors, this series premiered Sheaffer's inlaid nib. Great example in near mint condition still with original chalk-marks visible on barrel. Nice writer. | |||
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SHEAFFER SNORKEL: 1952-1959:
This
update is laden with Snorks. Rather than present willy-nilly, though
there is some pleasure in random finds, let's cluster these just a bit. To start, consider some high-end models, those with gold-filled caps, gold-filled caps and barrels, and solid gold trim. The high end comprises Crest, Signature, Autograph, Triumph and Masterpiece. High end models are not always the most expensive pens today, as scarce color often outvalues fancy trim. |
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Pen 3275 MF: Sheaffer Snorkel Crest: Black $180 SOLD
Crest: White Dot; Gold-Filled Cap; 2-Tone Gold Triumph (conical) Nib Early Style with Gold Snorkel Tube. Medium-Broad Point |
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| Overall Grade:
Exc |
Metal: No Dings | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition:
Exc |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Med-Broad | Imprint: ExtraFine | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $180 |
| COMMENTS: Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. Crest was a high-end model. Early style (some say, "first year") with gold snorkel tube. Clean black pen with ding-free cap. To my eye the iridium looks "medium", but due to adjustment of tines and inkflow clearly is writing a nearly full-broad line. | |||
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Pen 3278 MF: Sheaffer Snorkel Signature. Pastel Green $200
Signature: Solid Gold Cap-band, Plastic Cap, 2-tone Gold Nib Non-Black Signature Pens are Relatively Scarce. Very Smooth Extra Fine Point |
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| Overall Grade: Exc |
Metal: Exc | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition:
Exc |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: XF | Imprint: Extrafine | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $200 |
| COMMENTS:
Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's.
Signature has hallmarked 14-k capband (vs Autograph which has wider
gold band and gold clip). This one has- obviously- a signature on
the Signature band ;) Clean pen. Upturned "Waverley"-style point, typical to Sheaffer Triumph nibs. Extra Fine points tend to be scratchy. However, this one is quite smooth. |
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Pen 3279 MF: Sheaffer Snorkel Admiral. Gray $175 (shipping delayed to mid-June)
Crest: White Dot; Gold-Filled Cap; 2-Tone Gold Triumph (conical) Nib |
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| Overall Grade: ExtraFine |
Metal: No Dings | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition:
Exc |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: | |
| Point: Fine-XF | Imprint: Fine | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $175 |
| COMMENTS: Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. Crest is an upscale model, featuring a gold-filled cap. Overall clean pen with bit of wear to imprint. Very fine point, marked as "fine" but to my eye bordering extra fine. I might not be able to ship this until mid-June as I wish to get the quite fine point just a bit more smooth. If that is not a concern, I can ship more quickly. | |||
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Pen 3308 -R: Sheaffer Snorkel Triumph $280 SOLD
Triumph: Gold Filled Cap and Barrel, 2-Tone Gold Triumph (Conical) Nib Nearmint, Stickered. |
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| Overall Grade: Mint/Dipped (nearmint) |
Metal: Perfect | Color: NA | |
| Nib condition: NM |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: FINE | Imprint: NA | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $280 |
| COMMENTS: Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. "Triumph" (not to be confused with the conical Sheaffer nib to bear that name) is a high end Snorkel model, featuring, obviously- all gold-filled cap/barrel. The pattern is different from that found on the Crest gold-filled cap, so correct swaps cannot be done in case of problem pens. The Triumph cost more in the day than even the solid-gold-band Signature and possibly Autograph models. Most suffer dings, particularly at cap-top. This one is nearmint (stickered), in the strictest sense of the word, having no flaws, but having met ink (some call "mint, filled"). I suppose if I swapped the section assembly and guts from a bland pen with mint guts, I could "turn" this into true mint, but I'm pretty well fried from the many hours putting this Snorkel update together, so it goes as it is. One of the best I've seen for Triumph. | |||
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SHEAFFER SNORKEL Continued: 1952-1959:
Flexible Triumph Nibs. A
brief interlude from stratification by original price point and by
color, to peek at couple "Special Nib" pens. Actually neither is
for sale just now. I'm not ready to part with the Flex Stub. I like
Stubs and plan to use it a few months. And the Flex Extra Fine is
on hold for a "want list" order. But, I'd prepped the ads and like the
pens, so this is- I guess- a bit of "show and tell" The significance of
flex points is discussed in the two ads, below. |
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Pen 3309 -R: Sheaffer Snorkel CLIPPER Burgundy $ Not Inexpensive $
Clipper: White Dot, Metal 2-tone Cap, Pd-AgTriumph (Conical) Nib NOT FOR SALE: Just for show (ing off) Rare fully marked FLEXIBLE STUB Triumph Nib (FS-4 Code) |
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| Overall Grade:
Exc |
Metal: Exc | Color: Exc | |
| Nib condition:
Exc |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: | |
| Point: Flexible Stub (Broad) | Imprint: Exc | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $ |
| COMMENTS:
Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. Yeah, this one is not for sale- at least not for awhile.
I wish to use it for a few months and to savor the point both for
writing and for rarity/cachet. Triumph nibs were very rarely made with
true flex, more rarely still found with appropriate nib code, never
mind finding both in a broad stub. While i dislike (sort of dislike,
anyway) extravagant guessing games, I would venture the guess that
marked Flex Triumph Snork nibs (never mind in Stub) are seen on order
of 1 in 500 to 1 in 1000 nibs. Maybe more rare. But, maybe not... go
prove all this, right? Collectors hunt scarce and desirable pen models, and user-oriented hobbbyists hunt neat points. On vintage writing instruments during recent years the two types of hobbyist have found overlap in rare variant nibs, making exotic points on old pens highly sought items, indeed. I recently picked up two properly code-marked Flex Triumph nibs. Had pen friend and restorer El Zorno fit them to two basic color pens in decent condition. I could put the nibs into better color pens, but don't want drive value to a rediculous point. As it is these two nibs in regular Snorks will price at or above the "high cachet" colors with normal nibs. I just figured, since this is a Snork update, you might like seeing an amazingly scarce Snorkel nib. |
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SHEAFFER SNORKEL Continued: 1952-1959:
Colors of High Cachet Today,
with some exceptions, Snorkel color dominates value, usually
overwhelming difference in model/trim. 6 colors are considered
relatively rare and desirable: Fern, Periwinkle, Peacock,
Mandarin, Fiesta and Vermilion. It is believed they were
introduced just before the series discontinued. One can go to ten pen
shows in a year and be lucky to find a couple-few amongst the hundreds
or thousands of Snorks spotted. They command a price premium, though
not in proportion to rarity vs the "common" colors. I'm happy to offer
a quite nice array of pens. |
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Pen 3299 MF: Sheaffer Snorkel Sentinel. $275 SOLD
Valiant: White Dot, Plastic Cap, 2-Tone Gold Triumph (Conical) Nib PEACOCK: One of the High-Cachet Colors |
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| Overall Grade: Nearmint+ |
Metal: NM | Color: NM | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition: NM |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: | |
| Point: Med | Imprint: NM | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $275 |
| COMMENTS: Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. Peacock is one of the six "high cachet" colors. Nib properly coded M-5 for medium point in a Sentinel. Upturned classic "Waverley"-style point. Essentially mint save for wisp of ink when water tested Has "medium" nib-grade sticker on gripping section. Superb pen in color considered more challenging to find than Mandarin, Fiesta and Vermillion. | |||
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Pen 3304 -NB: Sheaffer Snorkel Valiant $270 SOLD
Valiant: White Dot, Plastic Cap, 2-Tone Gold Triumph (Conical) Nib PEACOCK: One of the High-Cachet Colors. Nearmint. |
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| Overall Grade: NM |
Metal: NM | Color: Perfect | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition:
Exc |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Med | Imprint: NM | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $270 |
| COMMENTS: Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. Peacock is one of the six "high cachet" colors. Nib properly coded M-5 for medium point in a Sentinel. Upturned classic "Waverley"-style point. Essentially mint save for wisp of ink when water tested Has quite faint "medium" nib-grade sticker on gripping section. Valiant is the most highly sought model in Peacock, as for the "tough" colors, collectors tend to favor the plastic caps (more of a good color, I guess) and Valiant is the highest level pen produced in all-plastic. There are no Autographs, Signatures etc. Superb pen in color considered more challenging to find than Mandarin, Fiesta and Vermillion. Nice writer too. | |||
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Pen 3301 a-R: Sheaffer Snorkel Periwinkle $SOLD
Valiant: White-dot, Plastic cap, 2-Tone Gold Nib. |
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| Overall Grade:
Exc |
Metal: Exc | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition:
Exc |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Med | Imprint: Exc | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $SOLD |
| COMMENTS: Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. Periwinkle is one of the six high-cachet colors, produced -we believe- for far shorter duration than the other colors. Periwinkle and Fern are the two least frequently seen among these. During the past year I acquired two all-Periwinkle pens, which have gone to the first two of four want-lists. Just need to find two more now. | |||
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Pen 3301 b-R: Sheaffer Snorkel Periwinkle $SOLD
Valiant: White-dot, Plastic cap, 2-Tone Gold Nib. |
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| Overall Grade:
Exc |
Metal: Exc | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition:
Exc |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Med | Imprint: Exc | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $SOLD |
| COMMENTS: Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. Periwinkle is one of the six high-cachet colors, produced -we believe- for far shorter duration than the other colors. Periwinkle and Fern are the two least frequently seen among these. During the past year I acquired two all-Periwinkle pens, which have gone to the first two of four want-lists. Just need to find two more now. | |||
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Pen 3305 -NB: Sheaffer Snorkel Admiral. Mandarin Orange $275 SOLD
Sentinel: White Dot, Metal 2-tone Cap, 2-Tone Gold Triumph (Conical) Nib MANDARIN is a "High Cachet" Color. Mint Stickered. |
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| Overall Grade: MINT |
Metal: Exc | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition:
Exc |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: | |
| Point: Med | Imprint: Exc | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $275 |
| COMMENTS: Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. Mandarin is amongst the six high-cachet colors, more difficult to find than Fiesta, though probably a bit easier than Periwinkle and Fern. Sentinel originally was the most expensive model found in Mandarin. This one grades strict mint, with no signs of having met ink. It is restored and working and thus carries my one year function warranty, but may not be "returned within 7 days for any reason" if inked or dipped. Upturned classic "Waverley"-style point. with medium point. It has the model/price tag under clip and "Medium" nib-grade sticker on gripping section. Lovely pen. | |||
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Pen 3298 MF: Sheaffer Snorkel Sentinel. Mandarin Orange $265 SOLD
Sentinel: White Dot, Metal 2-tone Cap, 2-Tone Gold Triumph (Conical) Nib |
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| Overall Grade: NM+ |
Metal: Exc | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition:
Exc |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: Minimal Red | |
| Point: Med | Imprint: Exc | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $265 |
| COMMENTS: Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. Mandarin is one of the six "high cachet" colors. Nib properly coded M-5 for medium point in a Sentinel. Upturned classic "Waverley"-style point. No ink on water testing but seems to be a spec (or is it just grease) to the Snorkel tube, so I called it "near" mint. Has price tag and "medium" sticker on gripping section. Superb pen. | |||
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Pen 3303 R: Sheaffer Snorkel Mandarin Orange $220 SOLD
Pen-and-a-Half: Clipper/Statesman. Two Caps |
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| Overall Grade: VG-XF** |
Metal: | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition:
Exc |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: | |
| Point: | Imprint: Exc | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $220 |
| COMMENTS: Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. Mandarin is one of the six "high cachet" colors. I picked up this pen finding it have some scratches, resulting in streaky brassing, to the cap-band. Barrel pretty clean, with one nick to the knurled plastic on the blind cap. I fitted the pen with a steel cap, "converting" it to a Clipper from Statesman. As a Clipper it grades Fine. Keeping the original cap, the pen can serve as a VG Statesman. With spare cap, get "two" pens for price of one. | |||
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Fiesta Red: A "High-Cachet" Color Clipper: White Dot, 2-tone Metal Cap, Pd-Ag Conical (Triumph) Nib. |
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| Overall Grade: Mint |
Metal: Perfect | Color: Perfect | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition: Mint |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Fine | Imprint: Perfect | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $375 |
| COMMENTS: The Thin Model (TM) Snorkel introduced in 1952, gave
the Parker "51" quite the run for the money. These two competitors
dominated the American quality pen scene throughout the 1950's. Fiesta Red looks like a mildly desaturated Vermilion and is one of the six "tough" colors. Superb in all respects. Fully restored, it may not be returned if inked or dipped. Water testing is fine. Pen and pencil have price tags. Pen still has "Fine" nib-grade sticker on gripping section. Nib seems smooth on dry testing, and features the classic Sheaffer "Waverley" upturned point. |
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Fiesta Red: A "High-Cachet" Color Clipper: White Dot, 2-tone Metal Cap, Pd-Ag Conical (Triumph) Nib. |
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| Overall Grade: Nearmint |
Metal: Perfect | Color: Perfect | |
| Nib condition: Nearmint |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Fine | Imprint: Perfect | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm | PRICE: $340 |
| COMMENTS: The Thin Model (TM) Snorkel introduced in 1952, gave
the Parker "51" quite the run for the money. These two competitors
dominated the American quality pen scene throughout the 1950's. CLIPPER features conical (Triumph) PdAg nib. Superb set. Pencil is mint. Pen essentially mint-dipped (strict nearmint). Pencil has price tag. Pen still with "Fine" nib-grade sticker on gripping section. Nib marked "F-4" correct code for fine point on a Clipper. Smooth fine nib with classic Sheaffer "Waverley" upturned point. |
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Pen 3297 MF: Sheaffer Snorkel Clipper. Fiesta Red $265
Clipper: White Dot, Metal 2-tone Cap, PdAg Triumph (Conical) Nib "High Cachet" Color: Nearmint Stickered. |
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| Overall Grade: NM+ |
Metal: No Dings | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition:
Exc |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: Minimal Red | |
| Point: Med | Imprint: Exc | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $265 |
| COMMENTS: Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. Fiesta Red is one of the six "high cachet" colors, though likely the most common amongst htem. Nib properly coded M-4 for medium point in a Clipper. Upturned classic "Waverley"-style point. No ink on water testing but seems to be a tint to the "Medium" sticker on gripping section, so I called it "near" mint. | |||
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Pen 3302 R: Sheaffer Snorkel Clipper Fiesta Red $275 SOLD
Clipper: White-dot, 2-Tone Metal Cap, PdAg Conical (Triumph) Nib. |
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| Overall Grade: Mint |
Metal: Mint | Color: Mint | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition: Mint |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Medium | Imprint: Mint | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $275 |
| COMMENTS: Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. Fiesta Red is one of the six "high cachet" colors, though likely the most common amongst them. Nib properly coded M-4 for medium point in a Clipper. Upturned classic "Waverley"-style point. Mint pen no sign of having met ink. Price/model tag on clip. "Medium" sticker on gripping section. Fully restored of course and carries one year function warranty, but may not be "returned within 7 days" if inked or dipped. | |||
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Fiesta Red: A "High-Cachet" Color Clipper: White Dot, 2-tone Metal Cap, Pd-Ag Conical (Triumph) Nib. NOTE: Metal Cap is personalized (perhaps part of the "Award") Spare can be provided at nominal cost |
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| Overall Grade: Nearmint |
Metal: Perfect | Color: Perfect | |
| Nib condition: Nearmint |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Fine | Imprint: Nearmint | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm | PRICE: $225 |
| COMMENTS: The Thin Model (TM) Snorkel introduced in 1952, gave
the Parker "51" quite the run for the money. These two competitors
dominated the American quality pen scene throughout the 1950's. A color of high-cachet, Fiesta Red looks like a mildly
desaturated
Vermilion. This is a neat pen, in terms of historical context, and noting that the cap is name stamped ( see very few cap-personalized pens with the steel caps). Cap is lightly and neatly engraved "Mickey Johnson". The box citing a town (S.C. ?) in Iowa (Sheaffer of course based in Iowa) mentions a big band prize and has a 1959-1960 date that correlates to "conventional wisdom" in pendom that the "rare" color Snorks are late issue. While I could have swapped steel caps for this better color Snork, I felt it best to leave this original package as is, as I found it in the (relative) wild. I can provide a spare unpersonalized cap at nominal fee if that is sought. The pen grades nearmint, in superb shape still with nib-grade sticker "FINE" on the gripping section. Smooth fine nib with classic Sheaffer "Waverley" upturned point |
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SHEAFFER SNORKEL Continued: 1952-1959:
Colors of Intermediate Cachet The
intermediate level colors comprise Buckskin Tan (pink) and Sage Green.
I do offer my observation, having hunted Snorks for the website in
aggressive fashion for three years, that Buckskin seems markedly more
scarce than Sage. |
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Buckskin Tan (pink)- An "Intermediate" Color Valiant: White Dot, Plastic Cap, 2-tone Conical "Triumph" Nib |
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| Overall Grade: Nearmint |
Metal: Perfect | Color: Perfect | |
| Nib condition: NM |
Threads: perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: FIne | Imprint: Nearmint | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm | PRICE: $255 |
| COMMENTS: The Thin Model (TM) Snorkel introduced in 1952, gave
the Parker "51" quite the run for the money. These two competitors
dominated the American quality pen scene throughout the 1950's.
Buckskin is considered one of the intermediate colors, along with Sage.
My few years hunting Snorks suggests it gives "High Cachet" Fiesta a
run in the rarity race and that it is well less common than Sage.
Matching gripping section adds a bit of "oomph" to the look, though I
am uncertain that Buckskin was offered any other way. Superb set. Essentially mint-but-filled. Great color. Razor imprints. No damage. Pencil appears to be mint with perfect eraser. Smooth fine point with Sheaffer's classic "Waverley" upturned point. |
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Pen 3294 -MF: Sheaffer Snorkel Statesman $215
Buckskin Tan (pink)- An "Intermediate" Color Statesman: White Dot, Plastic Cap, PdAg Conical "Triumph" Nib |
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| Overall Grade:
Exc |
Metal: Exc | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition:
Exc |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Med | Imprint: ExtraFine | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $215 |
| COMMENTS: The Thin Model (TM) Snorkel introduced in 1952, gave
the Parker "51" quite the run for the money. These two competitors
dominated the American quality pen scene throughout the 1950's.
Buckskin is considered one of the intermediate colors, along with Sage.
My few years hunting Snorks suggests it gives "High Cachet" Fiesta a
run in the rarity race and that it is well less common than Sage.
Matching gripping section adds a bit of "oomph" to the look, though I
am uncertain that Buckskin was offered any other way. Clean pen with excellent metal and clean plastic. Imprint fully legible but not nearmint sharp. Extremely smooth medium point, with the Triumph nib featuring that "Waverley"-type upturned point, and correctly marked M-4 (for medium point in a Statesman). |
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Pen 3295MF: Sheaffer Snorkel Admiral $130 (can ship June15 )
Buckskin Tan (pink)- An "Intermediate" Color Admiral: non-white-dot, plastic cap, monotone gold nib. |
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| Overall Grade: Fine |
Metal: Exc | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition:
Exc |
Threads: Perfect | clarity :NA | |
| Point: Med | Imprint: Exc | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $130 |
| COMMENTS: The Thin Model (TM) Snorkel introduced in 1952, gave
the Parker "51" quite the run for the money. These two competitors
dominated the American quality pen scene throughout the 1950's.
Buckskin is considered one of the intermediate colors, along with Sage.
My few years hunting Snorks suggests it gives "High Cachet" Fiesta a
run in the rarity race and that it is well less common than Sage.
Matching gripping section adds a bit of "oomph" to the look, though I
am uncertain that Buckskin was offered any other way. Overall clean pen, there are (eep!) couple light toothies in the blind cap only. I downgraded pen from Exc+ (otherwise). So it goes. Nice responsive medium point, verging on a bit of tine separation with pressure, not enough though to bump label to "semi-flex" |
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Pen 3296 MF: Sheaffer Snorkel Statesman. SAGE Green 1950's $190
Statesman: White Dot, Plastic Cap, PdAg Conical "Triumph" Nib |
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| Overall Grade: Nearmint |
Metal: NM | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition: NM |
Threads: Perfect | clarity:NA | |
| Point: Fine | Imprint: Nearmint | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $190 |
| COMMENTS: Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. Sage green is a color of "intermediate cachet", far more scarce than Pastel Green. Nib properly coded F-4 for fine point in a Statesman. Matching gripping section. Nice writer. Upturned classic "Waverley"-style point. | |||
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Pen 3307 NB: Sheaffer Snorkel. Statesman Sage Green 1950's $180 (can ship June 15)
Statesman: White Dot, Plastic Cap, Pd-Ag (Conical) Nib Sage is an "Intermediate" Color |
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| Overall Grade:
Exc-NM |
Metal: Exc | Color: Nearmint | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition:
Exc |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Fine | Imprint: Nearmint | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $180 |
| COMMENTS: Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. Sage green is a color of "intermediate cachet", far more scarce than Pastel Green. Classic Sheaffer Triumph nib with "Waverley" style upturned point. Matching color to gripping section. Fine Point with proper nib code "F-4" on nib. Great condition. Plan to ship mid June as wish to smoothen nib just a bit more. Earlier shipping if toothy nib does not bother you. | |||
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SHEAFFER SNORKEL Continued: 1952-1959:
Colors of Baseline Cachet Common
colors include Black, Gray, Burgundy, Pastel Green and Pastel Blue.
These are found in most models, both White Dot line and non White Dot
line. Signature with solid gold band is found in Black, less
often in Green and in Burgundy. Autograph is Black (?only?- I've
heard of but not seen Burgundy). Amongst the steel cap pens the least
common model overall is the non-white-dot Sovereign. Pens are
found with black and less commonly with matching gripipng sections.
Matching sections and very early style solid-gold Snorkel tubes add a
bit of "oomph" when found. |
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Pen 3274 MF: Sheaffer Snorkel Sovereign. Pastel Blue $135 SOLD
Sovereign: non-white-dot, metal cap, 2-tone gold nib. |
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| Overall Grade: Nearmint |
Metal: No Dings | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition: NM |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Med+ | Imprint: Nearmint | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $135 |
| COMMENTS: Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. Sovereign, though a less costly non-White-Dot model, in fact is relatively uncommon now. Seems those who would spring for this top of the line non-White-Dot version made the jump frequently to the more pricey White Dot models. The cap on Sovereign is different from the more common two tone caps found on Sentinel and Clipper. This one pops, near mint with "Medium" sticker still on gripping section. Smooth writer with line a bit more plump than most mediums I see. | |||
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Sentinel: White Dot, 2-tone Metal Cap, 2-tone Gold Conical (Triumph) Nib. NOTE that PENCIL Is not in working order, and is just a space filler (for the moment) |
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| Overall Grade: Fine |
Metal: Exc | Color: Perfect | |
| Nib condition: Excellent |
Threads: perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Medium | Imprint: Extra Fine | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm | PRICE: $85 |
| COMMENTS: The Thin Model (TM) Snorkel introduced in 1952, gave the Parker "51" quite the run for the money. These two competitors dominated the American quality pen scene throughout the 1950's. A usable pen with (at the moment) a jammed pencil (I will try to fix next week, no promises). Cap ding free. Slight wiggle to clip. Light scratch across barrel imprint. Excellent Medium point with classic Sheaffer "Waverley" upturned point. VERY nice writer. A spare eraser included, apparently period correct. | |||
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Pen 3276 MF: Sheaffer Snorkel Valiant. Pastel Blue 1950's $85 SOLD
Valiant: White Dot, Pastic Cap, 2-Tone Gold Nib. Early Variant with gold Snorkel Tube |
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| Overall Grade: Fine-XF |
Metal: Exc | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition:
Exc |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Med | Imprint: Exc | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $85 |
| COMMENTS: Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. The early style gold Snorkel tube (some claim "first year only") adds charm to this one. Overall clean pen save for couple marks to the gripping section (? once met pliars), that are not deep. Clean plastic otherwise. VERY smooth medium point, with the classic upturned Sheaffer "Waverley" point. | |||
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Pen 3289 MF: Sheaffer Snorkel Statesman Pastel Blue $110 (can ship June 15) SOLD
Statesman: White Dot, Plastic Cap. Pd-Ag Conical (Triumph) Nib Early Variant with GOLD Snorkel Tube |
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| Overall Grade:
Exc-NM |
Metal: NM | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition:
Exc |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Fine | Imprint: NM | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $110 |
| COMMENTS: Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. A clean example in Pastel Blue. Has the gold snorkel tube attributed to "first year" or at least very early pens. Sharp imprint. Shipping date delayed a bit as I wish to smoothen nib just a bit more before shipping. If toothy does not bother, can ship sooner. | |||
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Pen 3291 MF: Sheaffer Snorkel Statesman Pastel Blue $105 (can ship June 15)
Statesman: White Dot, Plastic Cap. Pd-Ag Conical (Triumph) Nib |
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| Overall Grade:
Exc |
Metal: Exc | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition:
Exc |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Ultra-Fine | Imprint: Exc | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $105 |
| COMMENTS: Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. Clean Pastel Green with ultra-fine (accountant?) point. | |||
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Pen 3293 MF: Sheaffer Snorkel Admiral. SAGE Green 1950's $105
Special: Non-White-Dot, Plastic Cap, PdAg Open Nib |
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| Overall Grade: Exc+ |
Metal: Exc | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition:
Exc |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Med | Imprint: Exc | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $105 |
| COMMENTS: Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. Special, whilst the most humble model, was introduced after the series first appeared, and is seen a bit less frequently than several other models. The nib-code (6) reflects this. This nib is M-6, for medium point on a special. It is nice wet, very smooth writer. Grand example of Special. | |||
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Pen 3277 MF: Sheaffer Snorkel Sentinel. Gray $115 (can ship June 15) SOLD
Sentinel: White Dot, 2-Tone Cap, 2-Tone Gold Nib. Early Variant with gold Snorkel Tube |
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| Overall Grade: Mint |
Metal: Exc | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition: Mint |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: Minimal Red | |
| Point: Fine | Imprint: Exc | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $115 |
| COMMENTS: Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. This one pops. Probably full mint, no sign of having met ink. Fine point, with the classic upturned Sheaffer "Waverley" point. The early style gold Snorkel tube (some claim "first year only") adds charm to this one. Fully restored with warranty, but may not be returned for refund if inked/dipped. Slight delay in shipping to further adjust the snorkel tube. | |||
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Pen 3281 MF: Sheaffer Snorkel Clipper. Gray $110
Clipper: White Dot, Metal 2-tone Cap, PdAg Triumph (Conical) Nib |
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| Overall Grade: Extra Fine |
Metal: Exc- No Dings | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition:
Exc |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Med | Imprint: Extra Fine | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $110 |
| COMMENTS: Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. Clean Pen. Nice writer with upturned Sheaffer "Waverley"-type point. | |||
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Pen 3280 -MF: Sheaffer Snorkel Statesman. Black $115
Statesman: White Dot, Plastic Cap, PdAg Conical (Triumph) Nib Uncommon Imprint Variation |
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| Overall Grade: Nearmint |
Metal: NM | Color: Perfect | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition: NM |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Med | Imprint: NM | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $115 |
| COMMENTS: Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. An unusual variant, this has an imprint running circumferentially by the barrel threads (similar to what is seen on Parker "51") instead of longitudinally on mid-barrel. Very clean pen with nice medium line, featuring the upturned "Waverley"-type classic Sheaffer Triumph nib. | |||
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Pen 3282 MF: Sheaffer Snorkel Statesman. Pastel Green $190 (Can Ship Mid June)
Statesman: White Dot, Plastic Cap, PdAg Conical (Triumph) Nib |
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| Overall Grade:
Exc-NM |
Metal: Exc | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition:
Exc |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: UltraFine-ExtraFine | Imprint: Exc | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $190 |
| COMMENTS: Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. The PdAg nib is the (?) later variant with "Palladium-Silver" in banner form engraved on nib. Super-fine point. Will ship mid June as wish to do final smoothening on the nib. | |||
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Pen 3283 MF: Sheaffer Snorkel Clipper. Pastel Green 1950's $120 SOLD
Clipper: White Dot, Metal 2-tone Cap, PdAg Triumph (Conical) Nib |
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| Overall Grade: Nearmint |
Metal: No Dings | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition: NM |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Fine | Imprint: NM | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $120 |
| COMMENTS: Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. Superb condition with typical Sheaffer upturned "Waverley"-style point. | |||
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Pen 3284 MF: Sheaffer Snorkel Admiral. Pastel Green 1950's $65
Sentinel: White Dot, Metal 2-tone Cap, 2-Tone Gold (Conical) Nib From Vacumania's Basement |
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| Overall Grade: VG-Fine |
Metal: One Ding | Color: Exc | CLICK FOR LARGER PIC |
| Nib condition:
Exc |
Threads: Perfect | clarity: NA | |
| Point: Fine (nearly XF) | Imprint: NONE* | Size: 5 5/8" 14.2cm |
PRICE: $65 |
| COMMENTS: Snorks gave Parker 51 a toe-to-toe run for the money during the 1950's. Cap has one small ding to right of clip. Barrel lacks imprint (pretty clean barrel- whether never had imprint or was polished away at some point, I cannot say). Writes well and of course fully restored. Figure with the modest ding and missing imprint, I'll toss this one in the "Basement". | |||
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