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SOLD PENS: PARKER VACUMATIC
Note: All Pens in this listing already have sold.
Most pics are smaller than images in the active-sales pages.
For Pens for SALE: use this link Pens for sale
Please peruse below to see quite the variety of nice and unusual Parker Vacs.





Pen 3881 J:  Parker Vacumatic Imperial  $1085 SOLD
The larger size  Imperial. Golden Pearl Celluloid. Superb Condition

Overall Grade: Exc
Trim: Exc Color:  Exc
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads Perfect
clarity: Fine (bright amber)

Point: Fine-Med Imprint: Exc+
Size: 5 1/2" 13.8cm
PRICE: $1085
COMMENTS:  Near the top of the Vacumatic food chain rests the Imperial family, offered 1940-41 in the USA, blending features of the long running Vacumatic with the soon-to-be-released "51".  these are hard to find clean and this one is great. Excellent color. Clean contour and imprint. Proper two tone "Slender Maxima nib. Clean cap with no dents, no scratches, no engravings. Cap closes straight and true onto barrel.


Pen 3887 :  Parker Vacumatic Standard. Scarce "Ripley Variant. $825 SOLD
Late 1933. An "advanced" Vacumatic

Overall Grade: Fine*
Trim: Extra Fine Color:  Exc
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads So so
clarity: Exc
Plastic: some stress lines/chippage at top of cap
Point: Fine Imprint: Extra Fine
Size: 5 1/8" 13cm
PRICE: $825
COMMENTS:  Too much background to offer here in detail. You likely can find more by doing a "ripley" search at Fountain Pen Board. This is likely a mid-late 1933 product, around time Vacuum-Filler gave way to Vacumatic, and pens are found with both imprints. The plastic is not the usual burgundy.  This is the (in)famous blue/red cap-plastic, with clear/red barrel, with wider-than-typical stripes. Seen in one add citing "Ripley's Believe it or Not", collectors tend to call it the Ripley Vacumatic, not for any ripples in the cap plastic pattern.  Black blind cap is proper. This is an advanced variant that offers signficant condition challenges in general, as the plastic is physically and chemically fragile. Many pens turn up with the tops of the caps wholly gone, crystalized nigh unto powder.

This one is relatively sound, but it has a few issues. The good is that the barrel is very nice, with excellent transparency, strong "Parker Vacumatic" imprint, and clean plastic. Cap rings are clean. Edge brassing can be seen on tassie (bottom ring at butt of pen) and on clip ring. The cap closes only about 1/8 turn on barrel and with a grumble, but it holds and rests completely straight on the barrel.  The clip is a later Vacumatic clip probably from 1937 or so, while the pen of course is earlier. You can see slight chipping where the clip ring meets  cap, but the clip at least is frm and tight on the cap.  There are a couple tiny stress lines radiating a millimeter or so down the cap. I dare not try to swap the clip for the proper earlier one (I have some spares) as I fear the stress of trying to remove the jewel would shatter the cap top. These are that fragile. I've owned this one about 8 years, and the lesions at very top of cap have been stable. This one is not perfect, but it is well better than average... and I've got it priced 60-70% of a gem.  I've owned about 6 of these total, and had two gems die in a restorer's barn fire. Selling this one reduces me to one nice one with each imprint and one spare with a cap-top repair.


Pen 4015a, 4015b, 4015c   A trio of Burgundy Parker Vacumatics  $180- $615

COMMENTS: Clean Burgundy 2nd Generation Double Jewel Vacumatics grow less easy to find. Here's a nice spread

Click for Larger Photo
Left:  4015a (K): Vacumatic Debutante $185 The slender size, high-line, second generation pen, 1938-41. 4.75" 12-ish cm long. This one has late 1838 date code (around time of introduction) and appropriate split-feather clip the only high-line Vac made in the USA to have sported this style. The double jewels both are striped as is the gripping section (section and blind cap jewel stripes would go bye bye a few months later in 1939). This one grades more or less Excellent. Superb color, trim and imprint. Proper metal ("speedline") non-locking filler pump. Excellent barrel transparency. Nice mirror finish to the two tone nib. The only negative is that the cap at this point closes in "short throw" fashion, turning just about a quarter circle before closing. It is straight and closes firmly, but most Vac caps turn a bit more before locking. Typical firm-Fine writing point. Nice smooth writer and well above average condition. Priced down a bit d/t the short throw cap closure.  $185 SOLD
Middle: 4015b (K) Vacumatic Major : $375: The standard size high-line pen from 2nd and 3rd generation, the double jewel 2nd gen pen ran 1937-1941 with hefty evolution of features during that time.  5 3/8" 13.6cm.  This one is all proper. With 1940 barrel and nib date codes it has proper blue diamond clip, striped top jewel, two-tone gold nib, metal non-locking ("speedline") plunger. The black gripping section is found after early-mid 1939. The bottom jewel looks black but isn't. In good light you will see it has concentric circles of red and burgundy. By mid 1939 Parker stopped putting proper jewel in bottom, instead carving blind cap to a point and press fitting a tassie (gold ring). What looks like a jewel is in fact the blind cap end shaped like a jewel. We call this a 'pseudojewel". Again, all proper for year. 

This one is lovely. Excellent+ condition. Great color. Mirror finish to two tone nib, clean trim free of brassing, and razor sharp manufacturer's imprint. Transparency of the barrel is moderate. Collector grade with no apologies and  with nice-writing firm fine point.
$375 SOLD
Right: 4015c (NB) Vacumatic Senior Maxima : $615: This is the big (oversized) 2nd Generation Vacumatic, relatively uncommon in Burgundy Pearl. 5 3/8" 13.6cm and fat.  With late 1939 date code, it has the expected Blue Diamond clip,  black gripping section and metal non-locking ("speedline") filler pump.  A bonus of sorts is presence of a striped bottom jewel, which generally had given way to the black-ish pseudojewel by late 1939. The nib is monotone and likely later issue, but of proper size of course (no date code visible on it to formally date).

Nice condition though not full-blown Excellent. Let's say Extra Fine.  Nice color. Trace high point brassing of gold-filled trim only on the tassie (bottom ring at butt of pen). Complete manufacturer's imprint and date code on barrel though not razor sharp. Minimal barrel transparency. Couple light use marks here and there on plastic.  Well better than average. Writes a nice firm-fine line,  
$615 SOLD


Pen 4039 k:  1946 Parker Vacumatic Junior (standard size pen). Mint. Flex : $315 SOLD

Overall Grade: Mint/Nearmint
Metal: Mint Color:  NA .CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM/M
Threads: Perfect clarity: Water clear

Point: Full Flex, Fine-Med to BB Imprint:  Superb Size: 5 1/8" 12.9 cm
PRICE: $315
COMMENTS:  Standard size Vac Junior (double cap-band, non Blue Diamond Clip). As mint condition with original price stickers. When is the last time you saw a USA_made stickered Flex nib Vacumatic?  Fully restored of course.


Pen 4075z  Parker Vacumatic Major, 3rd generation  $215 SOLD
Mid 1948.  Black Celluloid. As-Mint Condition

Overall Grade: As-mint
Metal: Superb Color:  Perfect
.CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: NA
Point: Medium Imprint:  Superb
Size 5 1/8"  12.9  cm PRICE: $215
COMMENTS: Ah, the third generation Vacumatic Major. It and the standard-size Junior likely are the entry-to-hobby pens for many Vac collectors. They offer good size and affordable price. The Major was the high-line pen with Blue Diamond clip and wide cap-band. This one dates to mid 1948, the end of the run.  It is superb, in as-mint condition with superb barrel clarity and with a big blob of iridium, writing a medium line. If you want one that looks like it just left the factory... (polish)

Pen 4040 Parker Vacumatic Double Jewel Major  $255 SOLD
 
Semi-Flex nib. Canadian

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc .CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Bright orange-yellow

Point: Fine SemiFlex Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8" 12.6 cm
PRICE: $255
COMMENTS: Canadian Vacs maintained 2nd Generation features a bit longer than USA made pens. This one is dated late 1942. Long Major with mirror-quality two-tone semi flex nib with nice line variation. Metal "speedline" filler. Clean pen.


Pen 4038 Parker Vacumatic Streamline Standard, 1939   $275 SOLD
Well known off-catalogue variant. Size/contour of Major but with earlier style triple cap-band
Flex Nib

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Extra Fine
Color:  Exc
.CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Bright Orange

Point: FLEX Fine-to-Broad+ Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 5/6" 13.5 cm
PRICE: $275
COMMENTS:1939 (2nd Generation) Double Jewel Vacumatic from Parker's Canadian plant with some nice features. The Streamline Standard is a well known though off-catalogue model that has the contour and size of the double jewel Major, but which has triple cap-band generally found with 1st generation pens. It is well more scarce than Major. This one has the tight cap-band pattern often seen with Canadian pens. Cleean pen with nice plastic, tirm, transparency and imprint, with a edge brassing on the tassie (trim at very bottom of pen).  Monotone Canadian nib is sweet, with full flex seen more often with Canadian Vacs than with those of USA origin, but which still is uncommon. Writes a smooth line from fine to Broad+


Pen 4069   Parker Vacumatic "Long" Major. Early 1939   $215 SOLD
Double Jewel, Second Generation

Overall Grade: Excellent
Metal: Excellent Color:  Perfect
.CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc**
Threads: Perfect clarity: Ruby

Point: Extra Fine Imprint:  Exc
Size 5 3/8" 13.6 cm PRICE: $215
COMMENTS: 2nd generation Double jewel Vacumatic Major is a step up in both cachet and rarity from the later single jewel version.  This one has the long cap and barrel found late 1938-1942 (DJ pens ran 1937-1941). Clean pen with no brassing, sound early 1939 imprint (the one quarter when three different clips can be properly found) and moderate ruby-red transparency. Nib writes an extra fine line. **Note that the  nib is monotone vs the expected two-tone, and while date code for nib is buried in the gripping section, this likely is a later (mid 1940s) nib.

Pen 4115:  Parker Vacumatic Senior  $700 SOLD
Scarce and desirable model in quite nice condition.

Overall Grade: Ecellent
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc
.CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: amber bright

Point: Fine Imprint:  Exc
Size: 5 3/8" 13.6cm
PRICE: $700 SOLD
COMMENTS: With about a year run in 1936, introduced as essentially a Slender Oversize, It was the only Vac to feature a wide middle cap-ring.  Seniors are hard to find with proper parts and in nice shape. Standard barrels and standard nibs sometimes are found mixed in with Senior parts.  By now you shoul dknow my rant about Silver Pearl Celluloid. It often underprices other colors as it tends to show discoloration more than other colors and its associated chrome plated-trim does not handle wear as well as does the gold-filled trim on other colors. However, gems really pop and do command premium. This is one of the nices Silver Pearl Seniors I've handled. The parts are proper, the trim is clean, etc.


Pen 4111 NB   1950s Parker Vacumatic "Jeweler's Band" 3rd size $330 SOLD
Azure Blue Celluloid. Standard Size. Superb Example.

Overall Grade: Exc+
Metal: Exc Color:  Perfect

Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Moderate Amber-yellow

Point: Responsive Fine Imprint:  Superb
Size 5 1/8" 13cm PRICE: $330
COMMENTS: I can't do the whole "Jeweler's Cap-Band" lecture here. Briefly...  Off-catalogue wide/lined cap-band. 2nd Generation generally 1939-41. Factory original despite the name. Relatively uncommon at least, some frankly rare. Four sizes, bracketed by Oversized and Slender, with two lengths of Standard in the middle.  This one is the standard-length, standard-diameter (the 3rd size from top), the same as the better known third-generation Major and Junior both. 5 1/8", 13cm. Azure Blue Celluloid. The blue Jeweler-band pens do not turn up often and should carry more of a premium, but esoterica only goes so far.  Gem condition for the pen. Particularly rich blue color. Great maker's imprint. Clean plastic and trim. Nice fine point that gives slight shading with pressure due to increased ink flow (no real tine separation as with flex nibs). I'm sure I've seen in this color/size  at least a dozen, perhaps two, the past twenty years, and this is near the top of the pack for condition.

The pencil is a toss-in. Exposed to light and/or overpolishing it has some rippling (texture) bertween black and blue lines. It's offered gratis to keep the set complete (I'd charge same for pen alone)


Pen 4116 K:   Parker Vacumatic Oversize  $650 SOLD
The largest first generation model

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc
.CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Extra Fine

Point: Fine  Imprint:  Exc
Size: 5 3/8" 13.6 cm
PRICE: $650 SOLD
COMMENTS: The large 1st-Gen pens turn up well less often than the later Senior Maxima. Silver Pearl is hard to find clean. This one pops.


Pen 2251R Parker Vacumatic Junior 2nd Generation $225 
 Silver Pearl Shadow Wave 1941 

Overall Grade:  Extra Fine
Metal: Extra Fine Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:modest amber
Point:   Fine Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 13.2cm
PRICE: $225 
COMMENTS:  Shadow-Wave is a pattern, not a model. It appears on various econo-line models from late 1937 probably through 1943. This one is an all-correct Vacumatic Junior from 1941, the longest model pocket pen found in this plastic.  The silver pearl celluloid on this one shows excellent color. The white metal trim, often trashed on these, is well aboe average with a bit of wear to the bands but no brassing. Nice fine point.


Pen 3886 :  Parker Vacumatic Major $275 SOLD
Late Canadian Production. Burgundy Celluloid. 3rd Generation

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Trim: Exc Color:  Exc
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Ex
Threads Perfect
clarity: Exc

Point: Fine Imprint: Extra Fine
Size: 5" 12.8 cm
PRICE: $275
COMMENTS:  Burgundy Celluloid was pretty well gone by the end of 1941, which also was the end of the double jewel era for Vacumatics. USA production of the Vac ceased in 1948. Canada however continued production through 1953 and reintroduced Burgundy in 1950.  Thus, we do find late production Canadian 3rd gen Burgundy Vacs (the ultra rare first quarter 1942 long-Major red Vacs are another story). They often turn up quite worn. This one is in very nice shape, with great color, bright transparency and clean trim. The pen writes a smooth fine line. Imprint is sharp save for the last few characters ("patent" mark and "53" date code). Top 10% for these, easily


Pen 4036-K  Parker Vacumatic Junior Debutante   $300 SOLD
Burgundy Shadow Wave with Star Clip. Superb

Overall Grade: Exc+
Metal: Exc+ Color:  Exc+ .CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Superb

Point: Fine Imprint:  Exc Size: 4 75",  12cm
PRICE: $300
COMMENTS: Where to start?  Perhaps some background/context.  Shadow Wave Junior-line Vacs appeared first in late 1937, with 2nd generation style (long blind cap, metal nonlocking filler, streamlined contour) first appearing in mid 1938. The slender form of the 2nd gen pens was called the Junior Debutante in 1938.  They're not easy to find clean, often with barrel ambering taking out the barrel color, barrel swell present from overaggressive tightening of filler units, and weak imprints, possibly in part native, certainly worsened by aggressive polishing. Burgundy is the most desirable color to collectors and probably the least common color amongst the five that were offered. The Star Clip is a whole 'nother story. Briefly, it is believed to have been Parker's stab at a lifetime guarantee symbol, one that sputtered out before being announced publicly, replaced by the well known and more prominent Blue Diamond, all that happening in early 1939 (late 1938 perhaps for Debutante and without doubt for desk pens).  But, also well known is that Star Clips turn up on Vacs that never were intended to be high line, such as... Shadow Waves. However, when they are found on Junior Line Vacs, they appear late, usually late 1939 or early 1940, long after the Blue Diamond had been established for pricier Vacs. We hypothesize that Parker had leftover stars, and since no public pronouncement had been made regarding their signficance (unlike the Diamond, the Star did not officially convey a warranty), Parker was content to blow out leftovers on pens that would not receive the Diamond.

Star clips are relatively uncomnmon.

This pen rather pops. A Burgundy Junior Debutante Shadow Wave it has superb color, super transparency (if anything underrepresented by the photos), clean  trim and a clean contour, without any barrel swell. Imprint is complete and mostly strong, but not "molten" near mint. It has proper metal "speedline" filler of course. This one scores on multiple levels. It's not cheap for a Junior Deb "Wave", but it is about as good as it gets in its arena.



Pen 3348 NB:   Parker Vacumatic Debutante 2rd Generation 1940 $110
Golden Pearl  Celluloid

Overall Grade: Fine
Metal: Excellent Color:  Fine CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 2-Tone
Threads: Perfect clarity: Superb
Point: Fine Imprint: Light Size: 4 5/8" 12cm
PRICE: $180
COMMENTS: Serviceable double jewel Debutante.  Color  a bit subdued, later plastic filler instead of metal. Clean two tone nib. Light imprint. Clean trim (cap-band will get  a wipe-down to remove tarnish; it is not brassed).

Pen 3507 J:  Parker Vacumatic  Special Cap-band Debutante 1941  $345 SOLD
 
Off-Catalogue extra-wide smooth cap-band.

Overall Grade:  Extra Fine
Metal: Extra Fine Color: Exc
Nib condition:Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Extra Fine

Point: Fine Imprint: Extra Fine
Size: 4 5/8 " 12 cm PRICE: $345
COMMENTS: A special Vac that derives from Debutante/Sub-Debutante from the 2nd generation.  Debutante has a thin-medium decorative cap-band. Sub-deb has a very thin smooth cap-band.  A handful of wide smooth bend pens have turned up over the years. Amongst the four known colors, I've likely owned about 10 total examples and seen another 5-10.  I've also seen just a couple in Major size.  This is the second best Silver Pearl Debutante example I've owned, and only is offered as I recently acquired a marginally nicer pen. You know my screed about Silver Pearl pens, " "Today they are common and often less expensive than other colors. They are all-told in less demand today because the pale color shows celluloid discoloration more than other colors and because unlike gold-filled trim the chrome trim cannot readily be polished once worn or pitted.  My assertion is they are common because back in the day, when clean, they were stunningly lovely pens and thus sold well. They are  uncommon today  in very clean condition "

This one is quite nice, with clean plastic and with far better than average trim with just a bit of wear to cap-band.   This one is a collector's pen, meant for those who-- as I do-- hunt exotic Vacumatics. 


Pen 3333:  Parker Vacumatic  Major "Jeweler's Cap-band"  1941  $250 SOLD
 3nd Generation. Black Celluloid

Overall Grade: Fine
Metal: Fine Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Fine
Threads:  Exc clarity: Minimal AMber
Point: Full Medium Imprint: Fine Size: 5 3/8" 13.2 cm
PRICE: $250
COMMENTSThe so-called Jeweler's cap-band Vacs are relatively uncommon variants produced from 1939-1941. Factory original, the key finding is an extra-wide lined capband. 16 possible blue-diamond variants can be found- 4 sizes in 4 colors. Only in Nov 2006 did i finally complete this mini-collection, having tracked down the black small Debutante pen.  

This one is the 2nd size pen with same contour used for the Major and Slender Maxima of that era, though all pens found with this cap-band have Major nib. This pen and the 1st Size pen (Senior Maxima) share the  larger of the two Jeweler's Band forms found in this variant cluster.

A nice writer with full medium point and with nice eye appeal, the cap-band has a few visible tiny ('pin') dings in the cartouche, the imprint is light and the nib has lost essentially all of the two-tone effect. That said, with so severe flaws, it is priced same as excellent example of far more common typical double jewel Major with usual cap-band.


Pen 1849 Parker Vacumatic Senior Pencil 1936
Golden Pearl Celluloid. Scarce Pencil  $175 SOLD

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NA
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc
Point:  NA Imprint:  Exc Size: 5"
PRICE: $175
COMMENTSEssentially a one year model the Vacumatic Senior- essentially a Slender Oversize- was the predecessor to the Slender Maxima. Pencils are more difficult to find than are the pens, which are... difficult to find.  This one will turn your brown Senior pen into a set. Or it can stand alone as a fairly hefty and unusual writing tool, if you happen to seek a nice pencil.


Pen 3346 NB:  Parker Vacumatic Late Streamlined Standard $235  SOLD
1946 Emerald Pearl Celluloid
Exotic Variant Alert

Overall Grade: ExtraFine
Metal: Fine Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Bright Red
Point: Medium (fine side) Imprint: Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9cm
PRICE: $235
COMMENTS: Vacumatic Standard is catalogued as a lockdown-fill, first generation pen. It is well known that the triple cap-band look survived into the 2nd Generation as the collector-named "Streamlined" Standard, of same shape as the "Long' Major.  Less well known is that while Streamlined Standard seemingly was discontinued late 1941, perhaps early 1942, the triple cap-band crops up again on pens dated (so far) 1945-7 in typical "non-Long" Major (same as Junior) contour.  Most of these scarce variants are found in black, gray and brown. I've handled perhaps four green pens during the last 12 years. One must watch for mixes, with 2nd generation caps on 3rd generation pens. Key is color match (for green and gray; earlier pens had different shade) and cap length.  This one is all there.  Bit of brassing to bottom cap-band. Uncommon variant at modest price bump, as the esoterica thing can be pushed just so far.


Pen 2357M Parker Vacumatic done in Duofold plastic/contour  $235 SOLD
The dread Vacufold. And odd and scarce pen.

Overall Grade:  Fine
Metal: ExtraFine Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:  Extra Fine
Point: Fine Imprint:  Ahhhh.... Size: 5 5/16" 13.2cm
PRICE: $235
COMMENTSA nifty variant, well known to those who know.  In late 1942-early 1943 Parker produced some Vacumatics (including odd size like this one) in the striped celluloid better known from the 1940's Duofold series. These appear about two years after the introduction of the Duofold proper. They feature a Vac nib and Vac-style clip of course, as well as a cap-band unique on plastic of this pattern to these short lived Vacumatics. This "stacked coin" capband is not seen on Duofolds, proper. The pen has a "Vacumatic", not "Duofold", barrel imprint.

This one shows real signs of use, though hardly anything fatal. Color and clarity are sound. Clean nib is a smooth fine point. Plastic is very clean. But... the cap-band cartouche (area meant for engraving) has couple visible nicks. There is some "silvering" (some WWII era pens show silver beneath the gold-fill, instead of brass) and the Vacumatic imprint is weak, showing "parker" well enough but just hint of couple letters of Vacumatic.  Priced about the same as typical striped Duofold Senior, but waaaay more rare. 


Pen 3528  Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation 1944   $140 SOLD
 
Azure Blue Celluloid

Overall Grade:  Extra Fine
Metal: Excellent Color Extra Fine:
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity:  Mild Red

Point:  Fine-Medium Imprint: Extra Fine
Size5 1/8 " 12.9 cm PRICE: $140
COMMENTS: Major and Junior (standard sized pen) from the 3rd generation 1942-1948 make excellent first Vacs for collectors, offering good size at reasonable cost.  This is decent example, not full blown excellent, with barrel color- will rich in areas, a bit subdued.  Clean pen. Nice writer.


Pen 3213 JB:  Parker Vacumatic Major 3rd Generation 1944  $135  SOLD
Black  Celluloid

Overall Grade:  Fine
Metal: No brassing* Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: None Left
Point: XF-F Fine Imprint: Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9cm
PRICE: $135
COMMENTS: 3rd Generation Major and Junior offer nice combination of good size and reasonable price, making for popular "first Vac" status.   Writes a smooth fine line. The pen has nice color but no longer has any transparency to the barrel. No brassing but  a tiny shallow/superficial ding to cap-band. Nice user.


Pen 3503 R: Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima Set  1942  $575 SOLD
  
Silver Pearl Celluloid. 3rd Generation. Scarce Pencil

Overall Grade:  Extra Fine
Metal: Extra Fine Color: Exc
Nib condition:Superb
Threads: Perfect claritySuperb:

Point: Fine Imprint: Excellent Size5 5/16 " 13.6 cm PRICE: $575
COMMENTS:The final  style for Senior Maxima. Full 9/16th cap diameter. Senior Maxima in 1942 with start of the third generation of Vacs, became single jewel and adopted the thinner style cap-band of the Major. These actually are well more scarce than 1937-1941 double jewel Maximas; my hypothesis is that with the appearance of the Parker "51", many customers who had been willing  to spring $10 for the Maxima, were willing to pop an extra $2.50 to get the brand new "51".  Pencils are more scarce still, and in 14 years hunting Vacs, I've seen just 3-4 silver pearl late Maxmia pencils.  Clean plastic, superb transparency, sharp manufacturer's imprint.  The pen has the chromed metal non-locking filler sometimes seen on early single jewel Maximas.    I will have to replace the pencil's top jewel before shipping (has  a chip, but is a replaceable part). Pen has light wear to the fragile chrome trim.  Neat set.


Pen 3879 :  Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxims. Burgundy $475 SOLD

Overall Grade: Fine
Trim: Fine Color:  Exc
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads Perfect
clarity: Exc+

Point: Med Imprint: Extra Fine
Size: 5 3/8" 13.6cm
PRICE: $475
COMMENTS:  A big fat burgundy Vac.  Barrel is very nice. Cap has some brassing to lower edge, some scratches on band and on barrel lip. I had planned to do a (kosher) parts swap putting cap on a weaker barrel, a better cap on this barrel and aiming for a gem and a user. Unfortunately I brought this freshly restored pen with me to the SF Pen Show in August, and someone had to have it.

Pen 3882 R:  Parker Vacumatic Oversize $750 Sold
Burgundy Pearl Celluloid. Superb Condition

Overall Grade: Exc +
Trim: Exc Color:  Exc
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads Perfect
clarity: NA
Point: Med Imprint: Ex
Size: 5 3/8" 13.8cm
PRICE: $750 Sold
COMMENTS:  The big first generation Vacumatic. This one pops. Minimal signs of use. Superb barrel clarity. Razor sharp imprint. The works. Small barrel personalization is shown in window. This one I fear was claimed at the SF Pen Show last month, and thus didn't make it to the website update unsold. Sorry on that.


Pen 3888 :  Parker Vacumatic Standard. 1st Generation $350
Burgundy Pearl Celluoid. Amazing Barrel Transparency

Overall Grade: Nearmint** (see below)
Trim: Perfect Color:  Superb
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM
Threads Perfect
clarity: As mint

Point: F-M Imprint: Superb
Size: 5 1/8" 12.9 cm
PRICE: $350
COMMENTS:  A pen which shows why these sold well in their day. Water clear barrel clarity and little to no sign of use. There is an internal barrel scratch shown in the inset pic, probably from someone scraping out the old sac. In an opaque pen this would not be visible. So it goes. I dropped the price in view of this imperfection. This one sold at the SF Pen Show and didn't make it to the  website update.


Pen 3897 :  Parker Vacumatic Junior. 1940 $300
Double Jewel. Silver Pearl Celluloid. Full Flex nib.

Overall Grade: Exc+
Trim: Exc Color:  Exc
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads Perfect
clarity: Fine

Point: Fine full Flex Imprint: Exc
Size: 5 1/8" 13 cm
PRICE: $300
COMMENTS:  Unusually well preserved Silver Pearl 2nd Gen Vacumatic additionally graced with a rare full-flex nib.  This one I fear sold at the SF pen show before I could list it as available on the website update.


Pen 3883 :  Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima $415 SOLD
Golden Pearl Celluloid. 1940

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Trim: Extra Fine Color:  Exc
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads Perfect
clarity: Gone

Point: Fine-Med Imprint: Excellent
Size: 5 3/8" 13.6cm
PRICE: $415
COMMENTS:  The large 2nd Generation Vacumatic.Lot of good points and couple things that keep it from excellent. Color is great. Trim overall quite clean with high point edge brassing and pin dings on the blind cap ring (tassie) at butt of pen.  Imprint is razor sharp. Has proper jewels (striped top and target bottom 'pseudojewel'). Smooth fine-med point, the nib is monotone, lacking the expected two tone effect. Though barrel color is great, there is no transparency left, likely the result of ink having been left in it 40 years before its recent restoration.  The plastic is clean save for presence of one tiny (one millimeter) flea-bit/toothmark about 1/3 the way back from the gripping section. You will have to look to find it. Nice eye appeal and sound writer with no fatal flaws, but not formally in gem condition.


Pen 3896 :  Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima. 1940 $395 SOLD
 2nd Generation Vacumatic. Double Jewel. Jet Black Celluloid

Overall Grade: Fine
Trim: Extra Fine Color:  Exc
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: VG
Threads Fine
clarity: Fine

Point: Plump Medium+ Imprint: Very Good
Size: 5 3/8" 13.6cm
PRICE: $395
COMMENTS:  The big Vacumatic from the 2nd Generation. This one has moderate wear and certainly is not full excellent, but it lacks any fatal falws that would reduce it to mere user, though it is very usable.  The palstic is clean. Imprint is light not sharp. Nib has some two-tone effect but has some light buffing marks next to right side fo arrow. High point brassing can be seen on tassie (blind cap bottom ring-- you can see in the pic) and more modestly at top of clip ring. The bottom tassie spins if twisted.  Cap closes straight and true, but a bit low on the barrel threads, turning about 1/3 around before locking well.  No cracks. The big gold-filled cap-band is clean. Pen has decent eye appeal.  Writing is gem. The pen has a plump tip and writes a nice wet medium to medium plus bold "signature" line. Fun pen to use.


Pen 3885 :  Parker Vacumatic Major $350 SOLD
Azure Blue Celluloid. Mint, Stickered.

Overall Grade: As Mint
Trim: Perfect Color:  Perfect
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Perfect
Threads Perfect
clarity: Water clear

Point: F Imprint: Mint
Size: 5" 12.9cm
PRICE: $350
COMMENTS:  Freshly restored in as-mint condition (no ink showed on dip testing), with original sticker pair. Glorious color and transparency. 3rd generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are the models I often recommend as starter Vacs. Good size. Reasonable Price. This one is a bit more loftily priced, as 99% or more of pens found are not in this condition. Unfortunately, this one sold from my case at the SF Pen Show this month before it could get to the website.


Pen 3910 :  Parker Vacumatic Major $1285 SOLD
Scarce "Vacumatic Cap-band" early Major. 2nd Generation. 1937

Overall Grade: Excellent
Trim: Superb Color:  Superb
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads Perfect
clarity: Moderate Amber

Point: Med Imprint: Exc
Size: 5 1/8" 13 cm
PRICE: $1285
COMMENTS:  The  "Vacumatic cap-band" early 1937 Vacumatics are among the most desirable Vacumatic clusters found. Shown on the 1937 catalogue cover but not inside, this cap-band was used briefly in 1937, at the start of the 2nd Generation for this series. Note the triple-stack tassie at bottom of blind cap, seen only with these early standard diameter Majors, shared in contour with the 1933-1934 chrome-plated tassies found on the Vacumatic thermometer case. This example pops. Plastic is clean, imprint is sharp, trim is superb. The two tone nib has mirror finish. Transparency is reasonable, a bright amber, but not water clear. The blind cap's contour suggest one side was slightly polished. This one is at least as  nice as the example in my personal collection



Pen 3589 M: Parker Vacumatic Junior Debutante  $195  SOLD
Silver Pearl Shadow Wave Celluloid 1938 

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Fine-XF Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition:  Extra Fine
Threads:  perfect clarity:    NA Plastic: Exc
Point:  Fine Imprint:  Excellent
Size5 5/8" 11.8 cm PRICE$195
COMMENTSIn Parker catalogues, the Junior Debutante (the smaller of  the two Shadow-wave pens from the 2nd generation) was introduced in 1938. The name gave way in 1939 to Sub-Deb and in 1939 Parker introduced a different Sub-Deb in the conventional hooped plastic with thinner smooth cap-ring. The Shadow-Wave pen though would continue (uncatalogued) through 1942.    To put forth an old meme about gray 1930's pens:

"Today they are common and often less expensive than other colors. They are all-told in less demand today because the pale color shows celluloid discoloration more than other colors and because unlike gold-filled trim the chrome trim cannot readily be polished once worn or pitted.  My assertion is they are common because back in the day, when clean, they were stunningly lovely pens and thus sold well. They are  uncommon today  in very clean condition "

This one is a quite decent example in Silver Pearl celluloid. Tassie shows moderate wear (the ring at bottom of pen). The cap ring and clip show light wear. Color is excellent.



Pen 1829 Parker Vacumatic Junior. Larger Size.  1st Generation 1935 Sold
Mottled Silver Pearl Celluloid  $325 

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc+
Point:  Fine-XF Imprint:  Exc Size: 4 7/8"
PRICE: $325  Sold
COMMENTSToday often bedeviled by heavy ambering and wear to that unpolishable white trim, the collector does not have an easy job finding crisp early mottled Vacumatic Juniors.  But, when found, they make a for pleasant acquisitions.   This one has great color and stunning barrel clarity. It has the atypcial "lateral" date code seen often on fourth quarter 1935 pens.  There is a bit of brassing only to bottom tassie. Clip and bands are remarkably clean.


Pen 3584 M: Parker Vacumatic "Long" Major (Double Jewel) 1938*  $150 SOLD
Jet Black Celluloid. Mild Parts Mix. Clean but consider a User.

Overall Grade: Exc.
Metal: exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 
Threads:  perfect clarity:  Excellent/Ambered
Plastic: Exc
Point:  XF-F
Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8" 13.5cm
PRICE$150
COMMENTSDouble Jewel Majors ran 1937-1941,  with longer pens made late 1938-1941, vs 1937-8.  This one has proper long cap and barrel, proper double jewel, proper metal filling unit. The blue diamond clip probably dates to early 1939+, and can be considered a modest parts mix (feather clips can be had but I've had limited time to explore the parts boxes lately). The nib either has lost original two-tone effect or also is a later nib, as it is monotone (date code not visible on nib).  Clean pen smooth point. Nice look. Entry level to a clean appearing "long" double jewel major, if you can live with the issue cited.



Pen 3593  M:  Parker Vacumatic Major  $235 Sold

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc
Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:    NA Plastic: clean
Point:  Flex Med Imprint:  Exc Size5 3/8" 13.6cm PRICE$235 sold
COMMENTS:   Double Jewel Vacumatic Major was manufactured 1937-1941 and offered frantic evolutionary tweaks. One must watch for mixes. This one is a proper pen a bit longer than 1937-1938 and 1943-1948 pens, what we tend thus to call a "long" Major. It is a step up from the typical starter Vac for collectors, that being the single jewel Major and Junior from 1942-8. Parts all are proper and period correct (a great deal of evolution occurred 1937-41).  Two tone nib, Striped top jewel, black (correct) bottom pseudojewel (the blind cap itself, lathed to a point).

Metal plunger has a spot of corrosion that does not affect function and which of course is not visible with blind cap in place.


Pen 3224 J:  Parker Vacumatic SENIOR. 1st Gen 1936 $700 SOLD
Golden Pearl Celluloid


Overall Grade: ExtraFine
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Extra Fine
Threads: Perfect clarity: Strong Red
Point: Fine-MEd Imprint:  Fine Size: 5 3/8" 13.6cm
PRICE: $700
COMMENTS: Senior (not to be confused for Senior Maxima or Vacuum-Filler Senior) is a "one-year" model essentially a Slender Oversize and predecessor no doubt to the following year's Slender Maxima. A standard-girth pen with longer parts than the Standard, with greater streamlining at the ends, the hallmark finding is the wide middle cap-band, the only three-band vacumatic to sport such a finding. An oversized nib and feed are stuffed into a standadr size gripping section. Often these are found with replacement later smaller Major nibs.

 A quite nice example. The pencil is more rare than the pen (as is typical for most vintage writing instruments).

Imprint complete but light in places. Nib writes a smooth fine-medium line. Two-tone nib effect is light and partial.


Pen 3585 R:  Parker Vacumatic Standard 1st generation  $250 SOLD
Burgundy Pearl Celluloid. 1937

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Extra Fine Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Extra Fine
Threads:  Exc
clarity:  Moderate AMber
Plastic: Clean
Point:  Fine Imprint:  Exc Size5 1/8" 12.9 cm PRICE$250
COMMENTS:   I'm fond of first generation pens, as the chunkier-vs-later contour yields a larger look and feel (objectively larger gripping section) than later similar niche pens. Early high line Vacs pack the "luxury" features which add charm to the series:  two tone nib, striped end jewels and gripping section, and triple cap-band. Burgundy is considered a "better" color.

Overall Extra-Fine condition. This one has all proper pieces, striped double end jewels, striped section, two tone nib. The nib writes a quite smooth fine line (noting the chunky iridium suggests "medium", but I must go with what it puts on paper). The nib has lost most of the two tone effect, rendering it nearly monotone. The plastic is quite clean, though barrel  has been personalized (neatly), "SW"

Pen 3591 M:  Parker Vacumatic Major  $165  SOLD
Emerald Pearl. 3rd Generation. 1945  (relatively uncommon seamed-plastic barrel variant)

Overall Grade: Excellent
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 
Threads:  perfect clarity:  moderate amber
Plastic: Exc
Point:  Fine
Imprint: Exc
Size: 5 1/8" 12.9cm PRICE$165 SOLD
COMMENTSVacumatic Major and Junior (standard sized pen) from the 3rd generation 1942-1948 make excellent first Vacs for collectors, offering good size at reasonable cost. Nice color on this one. This 2nd-quarter 1945 pen has a feature found on at least some   1945-early 1946 Vacs, a seamed plastic variant, indicating the barrel was made by wrapping sheet stock rather than boring a rod, an esoteric finding that charms collectors.


Pen 3592  M:  Parker Vacumatic Major  $155  SOLD
Emerald Pearl.


Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Exc Color: Extra Fine
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM
Threads: Perfect clarity :mild amber

Point: Fine Imprint: Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9cm PRICE: $225
COMMENTS Vacumatic Major and Junior (standard sized pen) from the 3rd generation 1942-1948 make excellent first Vacs for collectors, offering good size at reasonable cost. Nice color on this one.  This 2nd-quarter 1945 pen has a feature found on at least some   1945-early 1946 Vacs, a seamed plastic variant, indicating the barrel was made by wrapping sheet stock rather than boring a rod, an esoteric finding that charms collectors.  In fact this one has seamed plastic cap AND barrel, which is found on a further minority of pens.  Clean metal, sharp "Parker" Imprint, scattered light marks noted on barrel plastic.


Pen 3781 Z : Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima   $930 Sold
Azure Blue Pearl Celluloid

Overall Grade: Excellent
Trim: Excellent Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Superb

Point:  Medium
Imprint: Excellent Size: 5 3/8" 13.5cm
PRICE: $930
COMMENTS: The big boy of the last couple generations of Vacumatic, Azure Blue is the  difficult Senior Maxima color, manufactured double jewel just 18 months vs 5 years for other colors.  A quite tough to find Vacumatic.

This is the nicest example I've offered for sale during  >15 years selling pens online.  Great color and transparency (not shown in pic with dark background). No brassing. Two tone nib has the original reflective (not frosty with use) finish. Sweet Medium point (fine side of full medium)



Pen 3212 JB:  Parker Vacumatic Major 3rd Generation, 1945  $165   SOLD
Golden Pearl  Celluloid. Variant "seamed" plastic. Vacsoterica alert.

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Mild  Red
Point: Medium Imprint: Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9cm
PRICE: $365
COMMENTS: 3rd Generation Major and Junior offer nice combination of good size and reasonable price, making for popular "first Vac" status.  Seamed (wrapped, not typical bored) plastic seems to have been tried in late 1945-e arly 1946. Found sometimes just on cap or just on barrel, this one has both, a nice match. Nib is more plump than the typical Vac nib, pushing full Medium.


Pen 3583 R:  Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima $440 SOLD
1940. Golden Pearl Celluloid. A particularly smooth writer

Overall Grade: Fine
Metal:  Extra Fine Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Mint
Threads:  perfect clarity:  Minimal
Plastic: Clean
Point:  Fine-Med (nearly full Med)
Imprint:  Very Sharp
Size: 5 3/8" 13.6cm
PRICE$440
COMMENTSThe big boy of the 2nd Generation of Vacumatics, with two tone nib, double end jewels.  This one has a  a couple light pin dings to cap-band and edge brassing on the tassie (bottom ring at but of pen), which you can see in the photo. It has proper and clean two-tone Maxima nib and has excellent plastic color, though onlly minimal transparency left. It has the proper metal non-locking filler unit. The proper bottom "target" black pseudo-jewel at bottom of pen, but top jewel is a a slightly later black jewel instead of expected striped jewel.  With a nice sharp manufacturer's imprint, with clean bright plastic and with a remarkably smooth point, this one will make an excellent user with decent grade. It just will not make claims to "near mint".


Pen 3495  Parker Vacumatic "Long" Major SIlver Pearl  1939  $315 SOLD
Special Nib. Medium-Broad True Stub. Adjusted for smoothness and flow by Michael Masuyama

Overall Grade:  Extra Fine
Metal: Excellent Color: Exc
Nib condition: Extra Fine
Threads: Perfect clarity: Exc
Point:  Med-Broad Full Stub Imprint: Exc Size5 3/8 " 13.6 cm PRICE: $315
COMMENTSThe Vacumatic Major suffered frequent evolutionary tweaks, and knowing what's what takes some practice.   You probably know my screed on Silver Pearl pens from the 1930's from most makers.  Today they are  more common and often less expensive than other colors. Generally they see  less demand today because the pale color shows celluloid discoloration more than other colors and because-- unlike gold-filled trim--  the chrome trim cannot readily be polished once worn or pitted.  My assertion is they are common because back in the day, when clean, they were stunningly lovely pens.  When you see one clean, it all makes sense.  When gems turn up, then tend to command a premium.

This one has great color and clean trim. Nice bright yellow barrel clarity.  Correct for date it has striped top and bottom jewels, blue diamond clip, black gripping section and two-tone nib. The plunger filler is of slightly later (though less finicky) 1942+ plastic, rather than metal.

The nib has lost most of the two tone effect. The nib is special.   USA-made Vac nibs overwelmingly are fine and medium points.  Full Stub (thin cross stroke, fat down stroke)  points are fewer than one in a hundred. Note that the line showing on the distal left tine was just a bit of thread. There is no scratch there.  A scarce nib grade in a grand example of the pen.  I had the nib adjusted by Michael Masuyama for optimal function. Crisp pen and great writer. If I get around to it, I'll post a writing sample


Pen 3497  Parker Vacumatic Major  $245 SOLD
3rd Generation. 1948. Special Nib, tweaked by nib-meister MIchael Masuyama.

Overall Grade:  Nearmint
Metal: Nearmint Color: Perfect
Nib condition: Nearmint
Threads: Perfect clarity: Perfect
Point:  M-B-- to-- BB+  semi-flex Imprint: Perfect Size5 1/16 " 12.9 cm PRICE: $245
COMMENTSThe standard sized, 3rd generation Vacumatic Major and Junior make excellent "first Vacs", combining size and reasonable price point. This one looks as-mint, but has been inked.  Perfect barrel clarity,etc. It also packs a one-in-a-hundred plump  semi-flex nib (most Vacs have firm fine or medium).  I had the nib adjusted by MIchael Masuyama for optimal function. Writes  a wet bold line. If I get chance, I'll post a writing sample.


Pen 3536  Parker Vacumatic Major. Canadian  $260 SOLD
Azure Pearl Celluloid. Broad Semi-Flex NIb

Overall Grade: XF
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 
Threads:  perfect clarity:     Mild
Plastic: Exc
Point:  Broad+ Flex
Imprint:  XF
Size: 5 1/8" 12.9 cm
PRICE$260 SOLD
COMMENTSMajor and Junior (standard sized pen) from the 3rd generation 1942-1948 make excellent first Vacs for collectors, offering good size at reasonable cost. Canadian Vacs more frequently offered exotic points, instead of the usual XF-F and F-M sort overwhelmingly found with pen from the USA. This one has a bit of a monster nib.


Pen 3582 mf:  Parker Vacumatic Major 1946  $225 SOLD
 
Silver Pearl Celluloid. Essentially Mint Condition. Superb Clarity

Overall Grade: NM-M
Metal: clean Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM-M
Threads: Perfect clarity :Superb
Point: Fine Imprint: Perfect Size: 5 1/8" 12.9cm
PRICE: $240
COMMENTS   Vacumatic Major and Junior (standard sized pen) from the 3rd generation 1942-1948 make excellent first Vacs for collectors, offering good size at reasonable cost.

You know my screed about Silver Pearl pens,  "Today they are common and often less expensive than other colors. They are all-told in less demand today because the pale color shows celluloid discoloration more than other colors and because unlike gold-filled trim the chrome trim cannot readily be polished once worn or pitted.  My assertion is they are common because back in the day, when clean, they were stunningly lovely pens and thus sold well. They are  uncommon today  in very clean condition "

 This one arrived to me still with price sticker residue next to the clip .  The pen looked to have been dipped but not much else.  Remarkable barrel clarity.  Note  there is one speck  of flaking of the chrome trim on the cap-band (the tiny dark round lesion showing near left edge of cap-band in photo, for which I dropped price $30)


Pen 3607 M:  Parker Vacumatic Major  $155 SOLD
 
Azure Pearl. 1945

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 
Threads:  perfect clarity: Moderate Amber
Plastic: Barrel stress cracks
Point:  Fine
Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.8 cm
PRICE$155
COMMENTS  Vacumatic Major and Junior (standard sized pen) from the 3rd generation 1942-1948 make excellent first Vacs for collectors, offering good size at reasonable cost. Nice color on this one.  Nice smooth fine point.


Pen 3590 M:  Parker Vacumatic Major  $150  SOLD
3rd Generation. Emerald Pearl. 1945. (relatively uncommon seamed-plastic barrel variant)

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Fine Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Mild Yellow

Point: Fine Imprint: Exc Size5 1/8" 12.9cm PRICE: $150
COMMENTS Vacumatic Major and Junior (standard sized pen) from the 3rd generation 1942-1948 make excellent first Vacs for collectors, offering good size at reasonable cost. Nice color on this one. Note the nib has clean and proper Parker markings. It caught a bit too much light in the photo, washing out details. Clean plastic. Couple light marks and hint of edge brassing to cap-band. This 4th-quarter 1945 pen has a feature found on at least some   1945-early 1946 Vacs, a seamed plastic variant, indicating the barrel was made by wrapping sheet stock rather than boring a rod, an esoteric finding that charms collectors.



Pen 3583 R:  Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima $440 SOLD
1940. Golden Pearl Celluloid. A particularly smooth writer

Overall Grade: Fine
Metal:  Extra Fine Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Mint
Threads:  perfect clarity:  Minimal
Plastic: Clean
Point:  Fine-Med (nearly full Med)
Imprint:  Very Sharp
Size: 5 3/8" 13.6cm
PRICE$440
COMMENTSThe big boy of the 2nd Generation of Vacumatics, with two tone nib, double end jewels.  This one has a  a couple light pin dings to cap-band and edge brassing on the tassie (bottom ring at but of pen), which you can see in the photo. It has proper and clean two-tone Maxima nib and has excellent plastic color, though onlly minimal transparency left. It has the proper metal non-locking filler unit. The proper bottom "target" black pseudo-jewel at bottom of pen, but top jewel is a a slightly later black jewel instead of expected striped jewel.  With a nice sharp manufacturer's imprint, with clean bright plastic and with a remarkably smooth point, this one will make an excellent user with decent grade. It just will not make claims to "near mint".



Pen 3597  M: Parker Vacumatic (standard size) Junior   $185 SOLD
Azure Blue Celluloid. Pen Pencil pair.


Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Nearmint
Threads: Perfect clarity :NA
Point: Fine Imprint: Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9 cm
PRICE: $185
COMMENTS: Vacumatic Major and Junior (standard sized pen) from the 3rd generation 1942-1948 make excellent first Vacs for collectors, offering good size at reasonable cost.  Azure blue is the high-cachet  color for USA third generation production. This one is quite nice.  The double cap-bands are in great shape, a key thing as this is a common weak point to this model. The is a smidge of brassing on the clip ball of the pen (visible in the photo). The pen dates to 1947, the pencil to 1940, but is a proper model match to the pen so I tossed it in as a set for well less than I'd ask if offered separately.



Pen 3536  Parker Vacumatic Major. Canadian  $260 SOLD
Azure Pearl Celluloid. Broad Semi-Flex NIb

Overall Grade: XF
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 
Threads:  perfect clarity:     Mild
Plastic: Exc
Point:  Broad+ Flex
Imprint:  XF
Size: 5 1/8" 12.9 cm
PRICE$260 SOLD
COMMENTSMajor and Junior (standard sized pen) from the 3rd generation 1942-1948 make excellent first Vacs for collectors, offering good size at reasonable cost. Canadian Vacs more frequently offered exotic points, instead of the usual XF-F and F-M sort overwhelmingly found with pen from the USA. This one has a bit of a monster nib.


Pen 3607 M:  Parker Vacumatic Major  $155 SOLD
 
Azure Pearl. 1945

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 
Threads:  perfect clarity: Moderate Amber
Plastic: Barrel stress cracks
Point:  Fine
Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.8 cm
PRICE$155
COMMENTS  Vacumatic Major and Junior (standard sized pen) from the 3rd generation 1942-1948 make excellent first Vacs for collectors, offering good size at reasonable cost. Nice color on this one.  Nice smooth fine point.


Pen 3590 M:  Parker Vacumatic Major  $150  SOLD
3rd Generation. Emerald Pearl. 1945. (relatively uncommon seamed-plastic barrel variant)

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Fine Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Mild Yellow

Point: Fine Imprint: Exc Size5 1/8" 12.9cm PRICE: $150
COMMENTS Vacumatic Major and Junior (standard sized pen) from the 3rd generation 1942-1948 make excellent first Vacs for collectors, offering good size at reasonable cost. Nice color on this one. Note the nib has clean and proper Parker markings. It caught a bit too much light in the photo, washing out details. Clean plastic. Couple light marks and hint of edge brassing to cap-band. This 4th-quarter 1945 pen has a feature found on at least some   1945-early 1946 Vacs, a seamed plastic variant, indicating the barrel was made by wrapping sheet stock rather than boring a rod, an esoteric finding that charms collectors.


Pen 3497  Parker Vacumatic Major  $245 SOLD
3rd Generation. 1948. Special Nib, tweaked by nib-meister MIchael Masuyama.

Overall Grade:  Nearmint
Metal: Nearmint Color: Perfect
Nib condition: Nearmint
Threads: Perfect clarity: Perfect
Point:  M-B-- to-- BB+  semi-flex Imprint: Perfect Size5 1/16 " 12.9 cm PRICE: $245
COMMENTSThe standard sized, 3rd generation Vacumatic Major and Junior make excellent "first Vacs", combining size and reasonable price point. This one looks as-mint, but has been inked.  Perfect barrel clarity,etc. It also packs a one-in-a-hundred plump  semi-flex nib (most Vacs have firm fine or medium).  I had the nib adjusted by MIchael Masuyama for optimal function. Writes  a wet bold line. If I get chance, I'll post a writing sample.


Pen 3582 mf:  Parker Vacumatic Major 1946  $225 SOLD
 
Silver Pearl Celluloid. Essentially Mint Condition. Superb Clarity

Overall Grade: NM-M
Metal: clean Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM-M
Threads: Perfect clarity :Superb
Point: Fine Imprint: Perfect Size: 5 1/8" 12.9cm
PRICE: $240
COMMENTS   Vacumatic Major and Junior (standard sized pen) from the 3rd generation 1942-1948 make excellent first Vacs for collectors, offering good size at reasonable cost.

You know my screed about Silver Pearl pens,  "Today they are common and often less expensive than other colors. They are all-told in less demand today because the pale color shows celluloid discoloration more than other colors and because unlike gold-filled trim the chrome trim cannot readily be polished once worn or pitted.  My assertion is they are common because back in the day, when clean, they were stunningly lovely pens and thus sold well. They are  uncommon today  in very clean condition "

 This one arrived to me still with price sticker residue next to the clip .  The pen looked to have been dipped but not much else.  Remarkable barrel clarity.  Note  there is one speck  of flaking of the chrome trim on the cap-band (the tiny dark round lesion showing near left edge of cap-band in photo, for which I dropped price $30)



Pen 3495  Parker Vacumatic "Long" Major SIlver Pearl  1939  $315 SOLD
Special Nib. Medium-Broad True Stub. Adjusted for smoothness and flow by Michael Masuyama

Overall Grade:  Extra Fine
Metal: Excellent Color: Exc
Nib condition: Extra Fine
Threads: Perfect clarity: Exc
Point:  Med-Broad Full Stub Imprint: Exc Size5 3/8 " 13.6 cm PRICE: $315
COMMENTSThe Vacumatic Major suffered frequent evolutionary tweaks, and knowing what's what takes some practice.   You probably know my screed on Silver Pearl pens from the 1930's from most makers.  Today they are  more common and often less expensive than other colors. Generally they see  less demand today because the pale color shows celluloid discoloration more than other colors and because-- unlike gold-filled trim--  the chrome trim cannot readily be polished once worn or pitted.  My assertion is they are common because back in the day, when clean, they were stunningly lovely pens.  When you see one clean, it all makes sense.  When gems turn up, then tend to command a premium.

This one has great color and clean trim. Nice bright yellow barrel clarity.  Correct for date it has striped top and bottom jewels, blue diamond clip, black gripping section and two-tone nib. The plunger filler is of slightly later (though less finicky) 1942+ plastic, rather than metal.

The nib has lost most of the two tone effect. The nib is special.   USA-made Vac nibs overwelmingly are fine and medium points.  Full Stub (thin cross stroke, fat down stroke)  points are fewer than one in a hundred. Note that the line showing on the distal left tine was just a bit of thread. There is no scratch there.  A scarce nib grade in a grand example of the pen.  I had the nib adjusted by Michael Masuyama for optimal function. Crisp pen and great writer. If I get around to it, I'll post a writing sample


Pen 3217 JB:  Parker Vacumatic Major 3rd Generation 1946  $120  SOLD
Black  Celluloid

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Mod Red-amber
Point: Fine-Med Imprint: Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9cm
PRICE: $120
COMMENTS: 3rd Generation Major and Junior offer nice combination of good size and reasonable price, making for popular "first Vac" status.   Writes a smooth fine-medium line.

Pen 2844-R  Parker VACUUM-FILLER  "Middle Size" 1932- 1933 $475 SOLD
Pre-Vacumatic in trim/color arrangement not done for Vacumatic, proper. Burgundy Pearl

Overall Grade:  Fine
Metal: Fine Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity: Minimal
Point:    Imprint:  Exc Size: 4 7/8" 12.4cm
PRICE: $475
COMMENTS:  Considered to have been manufactered about 7 months leading into the claimed start for Vacumatic, proper, in July 1933, pens marked "Vacuum-Filler" are high cachet items in the Vacumatic universe (Vacuverse?).  This middle size pen, the first Vacuum-Filler illustrated in ads (March 1933), has what would be high -line features in later Vacumatic pens- striped barrel, striped section and jewels, etc- but is a size which in the Vacumatic would only be found with Junior features (double cap-band, black section and jewels, etc).  Parker seemed to solidify its profile for what would be upper and lower line pens AFTER Vacuum-Filler ended its run.  It off course has the one-piece barrel-section assembly. This pen has nice color and clean clip and cap-bands. Bottom ring (Tassie) at the blind cap has marked brassing.


Pen 3501 R:  Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima   1941  $825 SOLD
Azure Blue Celluloid. 2nd Generation. Double  Jewel

Overall Grade:  Extra Fine
Metal: Excellent Color: Exc
Nib condition: Excellent 2-tone
Threads: Perfect clarity: None left

Point: F-M Imprint: Exc Size5 5/16 " 13.6 cm PRICE: $825
COMMENTS: The big boy of the last couple generations of Vacumatic, Azure Blue is the  difficult Senior Maxima color, manufactured double jewel just 18 months vs 5 years for other colors.  This one is a very nice example: no brassing, rich blue color, sharp manufacturer's imprint, with smoothwriting two tone (typical Vacumatic fine-medium nib) Mama nib.  I note that no barrel clarity remains, probably indicating decades long exposure to in. Lovely pen


Pen 3502 R:  Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima  1942 $595 
 
Emerald Pearl Celluloid. 3rd Generation (yes, it really is a Senior Maxima)

Overall Grade:  Excellent
Metal: Excellent Color: Excellent
Nib condition: Excellent
Threads: Perfect clarity: Excellent

Point
Imprint: Exc Size5 5/16 " 13.6 cm PRICE: $595
COMMENTS: The final  style for Senior Maxima. Full 9/16th cap diameter. Senior Maxima in 1942 with start of the third generation of Vacs, became single jewel and adopted the thinner style cap-band of the Major. These actually are well more scarce than 1937-1941 double jewel Maximas; my hypothesis is that with the appearance of the Parker "51", many customers who had been willing  to spring $10 for the Maxima, were willing to pop an extra $2.50 to get the brand new "51".  This is a superb example with clean trim, clean plastic, and excellent barrel transparency. 


Pen 3012-S  Parker Vacumatic Junior 2nd Gen  1939   $285  SOLD
JET BLACK SHADOW-WAVE. STAR CLIP. STUNNING BARREL CLARITY

Overall Grade:  Nearmint
Metal: NM Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  Perfect clarity: Superb Personalized "W E M"
Point: M Imprint: Superb Size: 5 1/8" 12.8 cm
PRICE: $285 
COMMENTS:Ahhh.... where to start. I won't repeat all the long explanations. Perhaps time to post some pages.  First, Shadow-Wave WAS made in black. Most seem opaque due to loss of shadow-wave clarity and of course the cap and blind cap ARE opaque. Star Clip was issued on high-line pens before being yanked for the blue diamond... in early 1939. It was "blown out" (as it was never advertised) on junior-line pens in late 1939 and early 1940. Thus we get Shadow-Wave with Star Clip (this one is last quarter 1939 issue).

This one is amongst the three most transparent black Wave's I' ve handled in ten years. The yellow clarity showing in the pic underrepresents the degree of clarity found. Trim and imprint are superb.   The pen is personalized "W.E.M." in neat small heat-stamped gold letters. I could have swapped  the barrel or have had  the name heated away, but ultimately I opted not to mess with this one. It is just superb. Smooth medium point.


Pen 3084  Parker Vacumatic Standard Pencil Black 1937 $70  SOLD
Match to First-Generation Pen.

Overall Grade:  Extra Fine
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NA
threads: Mint clarity: NA
Point:  NA Imprint:  Exc Size:  5 " 12.9 cm PRICE: $70
COMMENTS Early pencils are found far less frequently than later generation product.  This 1937 example has the three rings on the cap (not split with barrel) and has the short ferrule, all appropriate for a late first generation pencil. Matches the Vacumatic Standard pen, of which many examples can be found on the website.


Pen 3205 JB:  Parker Vacumatic Major 3rd Generation 1946  $135 SOLD
Black  Celluloid

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Exc Amber
Point: Full Medium Imprint: Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9cm
PRICE: $135 SOLD
COMMENTS: 3rd Generation Major and Junior offer nice combination of good size and reasonable price, making for popular "first Vac" status.     Barrel clarity is much brighter than photo suggests, a nice amber, not deep red. Full medium point. Excellent writer

Pen 2352R Parker Vacumatic 2nd Gen "Long" Major $150 SOLD
Golden Pearl Celluloid 1940

Overall Grade: Fine
MetalEdge brassing Color: Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: extra fine
Threads  perfect clarity:  Nope personalized "M. Weiss"
Point: Fine Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 5/16" 13.6cm
PRICE: $150 
COMMENTS:  There is no such model as a Long Major, but the "long" descriptor is added to differentiate late 1938-1942 pens from earlier and later Majors which feature shorter stock.  This pen often is wrongly labelled "Slender Maxima", which is a subtly different pen. This one has seen some use, and has edge brassing on band, tassie and clip. Nothing overwhelming.  The celluloid has nice color, but the barrel no longer is transparent. Features are all correct for 2nd Gen pen from this year including: Two tone nib, striped top jewel, bottom pseudojewels, black gripping section. Respectable eye-appeal, which will make a nice double jewel user with no fatal flaws. Nice writer.


Pen 3200 JB:  Parker Vacumatic  Major $215  SOLD
 Uncommon (and uncatalogued) "Stacked Coin" cap-band. Golden Pearl Celluloid
Broad Semi-Flex nib

Overall Grade: Excellent
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  Exc clarity: Nearmint
Point: Broad Semi-Flex Imprint: Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.8 cm
PRICE: $215
COMMENTS3rd Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are excellent "first" Vacs for collectors, offering good size at relatively affordable price.  The uncatalogued "stacked coin" band likely was used on pens with typical stripes from 1942-1945, also appearing on pens in Shadow Wave plasitc and on the "dread Vacu-Fold" in 1943-early 1943.  A nice twist on an otherwise basic Vac. This one is quite clean with no brassing, with excellent transparency, and with excellent imprint, which looks never to have had a date-code. Nib has plump broad point (uncommon in Vacs). The nib is buried a bit deeply in section. Superb writer.


Pen 3215 JB:  Parker Vacumatic Junior  3rd Generation 1947 $180 SOLD
Golden Pearl  Celluloid

Overall Grade: Exc-Nearmint
Metal: Ex-NM Color:  NM CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Superb
Point: Fine Imprint: Nearmint Size: 5 1/8" 12.9cm
PRICE: $180
COMMENTS: 3rd Generation Major and Junior offer nice combination of good size and reasonable price, making for popular "first Vac" status. The differ in trim style and slightly in nib contour.  Nearly mint pen, superb in all respects. Terrific transparency, obscured in the photo, above, by the angle of hte stripes. Beautiful pen


Pen 3506 J  Parker Vacumatic Debutante 1938   $425 SOLD
 Silver Pearl Celluloid with 
Quite Rare Reverse Trim.

Overall Grade:  Exc
Metal: Excellent Color: Exc
Nib condition:
Threads: Perfect clarity: Extra Fine

Point: Flexible F-to-B
Imprint: Exc Size: 4 5/8 " 11.9 cm PRICE: $425
COMMENTS: A very special Vac. During 14 years hunting Vacumatics, I've managed to put acquire what might be the world's largest personal collection of reverse-trim Silver Pearl Vacumatics, pens in this color with gold-filled instead of chrome trim.  The most visually impressive are the 2nd generation pens, which have more eye-catching cap-bands than do earlier  triple-thin-band pens. I have a couple duplicates, and this is the first 2nd-gen pen of this sort I've ever offered for sale.  Note that while anomalous pens sometimes have other feature quirks, in fact hte non-blue-diamond clip on this high-line pen is correct. Debutante appeared before the blue diamond clip was released, and never had the long plain feather clip. Thus, early Debutants share with Sub-Deb and Junior Debutante, the  non-BD clip. Superb condition with excellent color, clarity, plastic and trim.  While this is definitely a "collector" pen for those who hunt unusual Vacs, I fear too that it has a pretty neat nib, in this case a flexible Fine  that can hit Broad with gentle pressure. 


Pen 3504 J  Parker Vacumatic Junior (standard size pen)  $190 SOLD
Golden Pearl Celluloid. 2nd Generation. Double Jewel 1941

Overall Grade:  Extra Fine
Metal: Excellent Color: Exc
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity:  Minimal red.
:
Point: Fine. Responsive
Imprint: Extra Fine
Size5 1/8 " 13 cm PRICE: $190
COMMENTS: 2nd generation  Vac Juniors with striped plastic appeared in 1939, couple years after the Major. Double jewel specimens thus are a relatively uncommon, though hardly absolutely uncommon. This will make a great user for someone who seeks Double Jewels at reasonable price. Proper metal filler. Clean metal and plastic. Bright color. Nib is a fine point but is responsive. It is not flexible but its sproinginess does allow some line shading with pressure allowing line to vary from fine to at about medium. 


Pen 3526  Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation $170 SOLD
  
Emerald Pearl Celluloid

Overall Grade:  Excellent-NearMint
Metal: Superb Color: Superb
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Fine
Threads: Perfect clarity: Superb

Point:  Fine Imprint: Superb Size5 1/8 " 12.9 cm PRICE: $170
COMMENTS: Major and Junior (standard sized pen) from the 3rd generation 1942-1948 make excellent first Vacs for collectors, offering good size at reasonable cost. This one pops. Superb condition and clarity.  Nice smooth fine line.  However, the nib has a bit of surface roughness just by the vent hole.  Priced down a bit. If I need to, I can swap nibs, but let's see if anyone will take it just as it is.


Pen 3203 JB:  Parker Vacumatic  Major 1944 $135 SOLD 
 3nd Generation Azure Blue  Celluloid

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Exc Color: Extra Fine CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  Exc clarity: None left
Point: Fine-Med Imprint: Fine Size: 5 1/8" 12.8 cm
PRICE: $135 SOLD
COMMENTS3rd Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are excellent "first" Vacs for collectors, offering good size at relatively affordable price.  Imprint fully legible but not razor sharp. No transparency left. Barrel color a bit subdued. Nicely writing typical Vac fine-med firm point.


Pen 2859-M  Parker Vacumatic 2nd Generation Debutante. $150  SOLD
Double Jewel. Azure Blue Celluloid

Overall Grade:  Exc
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity: Slight Ruby
Point:  Fine-Med Imprint:  Exc Size:4 5/8" 11.7cm
PRICE: $150
COMMENTS:  Blue is the least common 2nd generation Vac color, having been introduced in mid 1940. 2nd Generation ran 1937-1941, with all other color having been produced  nearly five years. Clean pen with smooth point (note, the nib is monotone, not two tone as would be expected), sharp imprint, nice color, proper metal filler, etc.


Pen 2532 Parker Vacumatic 3rd Generation Major 1944 $150 Nib adjusted by Mike Masuyama  (SOLD)
Emerald Pearl Celluloid.  

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Extra Fine Color: Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Exc clarity:  Moderate Ruby
Point: Fine-Med  Imprint:  ExtraFine Size5 1/8" 13 cm PRICE: $150 
COMMENTSThird Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost. Smooth wet writer. Touch of brass to edge of cap-band.


Pen 3525  Parker Vacumatic Major. Canadian 1953  $275 MONSTER NIB SOLD
 
Very Last o' the Vacs, Matey.

Overall Grade:  nearmint
Metal: Superb Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: nearmint
Threads: Perfect clarity: NA
PointDouble Broad Flex
Imprint: Superb Size5 1/8 " 12.9  cm PRICE: $275
COMMENTS: Major and Junior (standard sized pen) from the 3rd generation 1942-1948 make excellent first Vacs for collectors, offering good size at reasonable cost.  This one is a bit special, in a couple respects. First it is a late Canadian Vacumatic, made five years after the USA had ceased production of this series.  Next, it is in stunning condition, with blast white barrel transparency, great color and trim. Finally it has a monster nib, a "one in five hundred" double broad with fair element of flex as well.  This one has collectable charm, superb condition, and monster nib.   And, the nib is dated 1955, after Vac production (we believe) had ceased even in Canada.  Cool pen


Pen 3471  Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima  $575 SOLD
Emerald Pearl Celluloid. 1937

Overall Grade:  Extra Fine
Metal: Excellent Color: Superb CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent
Threads: Perfect clarity: Moderate Amber
Point: Fine-Medium Imprint: ExtraFine Size5 3/8 " 13.5 cm PRICE: $575
COMMENTS: The big-boy from the 2nd Generation of Vacdom. True double Jewel early 2nd-gen variant (vs. later pseudo bottom jewel).  Striped jewels and striped gripping section. Two tone Maxima nib. Wide Cap-band. Appropriate early pure feather clip.  The color just pops. Very vibrant "early" type Emerald. Trim is clean, noting just a speck of brassing at the usual spot, the very tip of clip.  Couple light marks by imprint. Imprint fully visible, a bit light just at "made in USA". No personalization done. Smooth wet writer with fine-medium point.   Classic Maxima.


Pen 3475 NB:  Parker Vacumatic Junior Golden Pearl   $160 SOLD
Full Size non Blue Diamond 3rd Generation Pen. 1947

Overall Grade:  Excellent
Metal: Superb Color: Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent
Threads: Perfect clarity: Moderate Amber
Point:  XF-F Imprint: Extra Fine Size5 1/8 " 13 cm PRICE: $160
COMMENTSVery nice example of one of the two classic "first Vacs" for collectors (3rd Gen Major and Junior). A full size pen, the Junior is differentiated from Major by cap-band, clip style and nib shape. This one has vibrant color and superb plastic finish. Trim is superb, with no brassing even to the thin double cap-bands, an at-risk region.  Great eye appeal for a nice standard size Vacumatic.

Pen 3480 NB:  Parker Vacumatic Junior  $175 SOLD
 Emerald Pearl. 1948

Overall Grade:  Exc+
Metal: Superb Color: Superb CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Superb
Point:  X-Fine Imprint: Exc Size5 1/8 " 12.9 cm PRICE: $175
COMMENTSVery nice example of one of the two classic "first Vacs" for collectors (3rd Gen Major and Junior). A full size pen, the Junior is differentiated from Major by cap-band, clip style and nib shape. This one has vibrant color and superb plastic finish. Trim is superb, with no brassing even to the thin double cap-bands, an at-risk region.  Bright "white" barrel transparency. Great eye appeal for a nice standard size Vacumatic.


Pen 3455:  Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima Pen with Major Pencil $675 SOLD
Cap-bands on this slightly mismatched "set" have matching personalizations.
Relatively Scarce Injector Pencil

Overall Grade: Exc+
Metal: Nearmint Color:  Superb
Nib condition: Nearmint
Threads: Perfect clarity: Superb
Point: ---F-M Imprint: Superb Size: 5 3/18" 13.6 cm
PRICE: $675
COMMENTS: You know my screed on Silver Pearl pens from the 1930's.  Today they are  more common and often less expensive than other colors. Generally they see  less demand today because the pale color shows celluloid discoloration more than other colors and because unlike gold-filled trim the chrome trim cannot readily be polished once worn or pitted.  My assertion is they are common because back in the day, when clean, they were stunningly lovely pens.  When you see one clean, it all makes sense.  When gems turn up, then tend to command a premium.

This one is the exception to the rule. Superb color, chrome trim and transparency.  Bright bold clarity, with slight yellow tint.   It is amongst the best dozen silver-pearl Maxima sets I've seen... and I've seen many.

The set formally is a mismatch, as the pencil is Vacumatic Major. Injector pencils such as this are uncommon, produced probaby just a couple months in early 1939.  But, both cap-bands have matching elegant engraving "W.A.B" suggesting an original pairing at time of sale. Superb set for the condition-oriented collector.


Pen 3456:  Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima  $640 SOLD
Emerald Pearl Celluloid. 1940

Overall Grade: Excellent+
Metal: NM Color:  Exc
Nib condition: Nearmint
Threads: Perfect clarity: Exc. Light amber
Point: Fine. 2-Tone Imprint: Exc Size: 5 3/8" 13.6 cm
PRICE: $640
COMMENTS: The big-boy from the 2nd Generation of Vacdom. Double Jewel. Wide Cap-band. Correct-for-year striped top jewel, two-tone nib, black gripping section and target pattern bottom pseudo-jewel. A superb Senior Max.


Pen 3181 -NB  Parker Vacumatic 3rd Gen Major. 1945  $ 145
Emerald Pearl Celluloid. Fine Point

Overall Grade:  Extra Fine
Metal: ExtraFine Color:  Extra Fine CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Minimal
Point: F Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9 cm
PRICE: $ 145
COMMENTS 3rd Generation Major and identical size/shape Junior make excellent "first Vacs", offering good size at reasonable price. This one packs a firm smooth fine point nib. Excellent point for daily scribble.



 SOLD Pen 3005 -TB  Parker Vacumatic. 3rd Gen Emerald Pearl  $175 SOLD
Overall Grade:  Exc+
Metal: Exc Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Extrafine
Threads: Perfect clarity: Superb
Point: Med Semi-Flex Imprint:  Exc+ Size: 5 1/8" 12.8 cm
PRICE: $175  SOLD
COMMENTSThird Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost. Superb color, imprint and clarity.

Pen 2537 Parker Vacumatic 3rd Generation Major 1944 $160 SOLD
 Emerald  Pearl Celluloid.

Overall Grade:  Exc
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity: Modest
Point:  Fine-Med Imprint:  Exc Size 5 1/8" 13 cm PRICE: $160
COMMENTS:   Third Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost.


Pen 3457:  Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima  $725 SOLD
Burgundy Pearl Celluloid. USA-Manufacture for South America with "Marca Registrada" Marking.
Oh yeah... Uncommon USA-issue FLEX Nib.

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Extra-Fine Color:  Exc
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Exc clarity: Mild
Point: F-M  FLEX to B+ Imprint: Exc Size: 5 3/8" 13.6 cm
PRICE: $725
COMMENTSThe big-boy from the 2nd Generation of Vacdom. Double Jewel. Wide Cap-band. Correct-for-year striped top jewel, two-tone nib, black gripping section. True double jewel pen with striped bottom jewel, a "late" finding for this, as most 1940 pens have the target pattern pseudo-jewel.  Clean pen with good color, sharp imprint. Trace brass to very bottom edge of cap-band (loupe needed to see) and trace to tassie. Modest clarity to barrel.  Unusual feature: "Marca Registrada" imprint, believed to indicate intent for export to South America.  I have a complete "Marca Registrada"  Maxima set in my own collection, save possibly for Silver Pearl.  Great nib- high flex, something scarce to USA-made Vacs. 

Pen 3099 NB Parker Vacumatic  Major 1946 $135 SOLD
 3nd Generation Black Celluloid

Overall Grade: Excellent
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  Exc clarity: Exc
Point: Fine Imprint: Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.8 cm
PRICE: $135
COMMENTS3rd Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are excellent "first" Vacs for collectors, offering good size at relatively affordable price.  This one is quite clean with no brassing, with excellent transparency, and with excellent imprint.

Pen 3052 JB Parker Vacumatic "Long" Major 1938  $185 SOLD
 2nd Generation Double Jewel Golden Pearl Celluloid 

Overall Grade: ExtraFine
Metal: Fine Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: VG
Threads:  Exc clarity: VG
Point: Fine-Med Imprint: Exc Size: 5 1/4" 13.5 cm
PRICE: $185
COMMENTSDouble Jewel 2nd Generation Vacs were manufactured from mid 1937-1941 and saw a remarkable number of evolutionary tweaks during that time. This one is an early pen with feather clip, double striped jewels, striped gripping section and, of course a two-tone "arrow" nib.  Clean pen with excellent color and trim.  Mid-Late 1938 seems to be when the Major's contour was "grown" by Parker to match that of Slender Maxima. This is about the first of the "long" Majors. Clean color. Excellent imprint. Clean plastic. Bit of high point edge brassing at the ridges on tassie (bottom metal ring) and at top of clip ring. Nib is very smooth and responsive, but has lost most of the original two-tone effect and has a shallow ding at "RK" of "PARKER". I could replace the nib, but figured a somewhat "better" variant that is a great writer with nice eye appeal at reasonable price  might work.

Pen 2292 Parker Vacumatic Junior 1st Generation Set $350 SOLD
Marbled Silver Pearl Celluloid. Excellent clarity. Superb condition.

Overall Grade:  Exc+
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:    NA
Point:   Fine-med hint o' flex. Imprint:  Exc Size:4 7/8" 12.4 cm
PRICE: $350
COMMENTS:  Today often bedeviled by heavy ambering and wear to that unpolishable white trim, the collector does not have an easy job finding crisp early mottled Vacumatic Juniors.  But, when found, they make a for pleasant acquisitions.  This one is a gem in all respects. Crisp trim, color and clarity. Responsive fine-med nib with wee bit o' flex. Matching pencil is clean too.

Pen 2867-M Parker Vacumatic 1st Gen Standard.  1939 $285 SOLD
 Burgundy Pearl Celluloid.  Late Production Piece.

Overall Grade:   Fine
Metal: Extra Fine Color: Extra Fine CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:  
Point:  Medium. "Sproingy" Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 13.0cm
PRICE: $285
COMMENTS I'm fond of first generation pens, as the chunkier-vs-later contour yields a larger look and feel (objectively larger gripping section) than later similar niche pens. Early high line Vacs pack the "luxury" features which add charm to the series:  two tone nib, striped end jewels and gripping section, and triple cap-band. Burgundy is considered a "better" color.

This one is bit of an odd duck. Late code for 1st Gen and gripping section with greater hour-glassing than earlier product. Nib wit "9" date code to match the 1939 barrel imprint. Barrel appears wholly opaque. Given the known history of 1937-1939 "blowout" of 1932-33 opaque rodstock, this could be a Vac of truly opaque plastic. Otherwise, figure extreme ambring of the transparent zones.

Overall condition is fine. Sharp imprint. Nice color to cap and blind cap with bit of ambering to barrel color. Partial brassing to bottom cap-ring. Scattered light marks to plastic. A decent example of a somewhat anomalous Burgundy Pearl Vac. 

Pen 3460:  Parker Vacuum Filler Stubby Ring-Top ~1933  $700 SOLD
Rare High-Cachet Variant.

Overall Grade: Fine
Metal: ExtraFine Color:  Fine
Nib condition: Excellent+
Threads: Perfect clarity: NA
Point: Fine Imprint: Light Size: 4 3/8" 11cm
PRICE: $700
COMMENTS: If you already know this pen, then do skip the history lesson.  Sound example of this very challenging model. Barrel ambering is apparent, though not sever. Nib has correct early style feather-together arrow and is in superb shape. Imprint light but legible. Neat skewed laminations on the cap, an appealing feature sometimes found on early pens.

History Lesson:   Isn't this just "a little Vac"?   Nope.  This pre-Vacumatic Parker Vacuum-Filler has full girth and is extra short. Thus, it is  fatter and shorter than typical ladies' models such as the Slender or the Debutante.  Collectors call it the Stubby.  It is known with Golden Arrow and Vacuum Filler imprints. Vacumatic-imprinted pens do turn up, usually with early features, sometimes with obviously early plastic (always opaque with one-piece barrel-section assembly) but  with later "parts blow out" date code.  The Stubby can be found with clip or with ring top (indeed, the parts can be exchanged, if one had spares).  While for most old pens, ring-tops have less cachet than clip pens, this is reversed for Parker Vacumatic, as ring tops in general were phasing out in the early 1930's, and because ring-top Vacs are frankly rare. The ring-top appears in minimal Parker literature.  This pen packs it all, with proper features and-- if not superb shape-- and very nice condition for this sort.  This probably is not an ideal toss-about pen, but is meant for someone seeking recognized high-cachet variants for his collection.  It has be a long time since I've offered a ring-top Stubby for sale. 

Pen 3453:  Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima $600 SOLD
Azure Blue Celluloid  1940-41

Overall Grade: Fine
Metal: Fine Color:  Exc
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Exc clarity: Modest
Point: Med+ Imprint: Fine Size: 5 3/8" 13.6 cm 
PRICE: $600
COMMENTS: The most difficult Maxima color, manufactured double jewel just 18 months vs 5 years for other colors. With full Excellent pens now running $900-$1000, this is offered as a quite decent, but not superb example. NO "fatal flaws". Some brassing to bottom edge of cap-band, visible in photo, nice color, partially present imprint. Great plump medium+ point.



Pen 3343 NB:  Parker Vacumatic Slender.  1st Generation  1938 $250 SOLD
Silver Pearl Mottled Celluloid. Superb Clarity and Condition

Overall Grade: Exc+
Metal: Exc+ Color:  Exc+ CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: superb light yellow
Point: Fine Imprint: Exc Size: 4 5/8" 11.7cm
PRICE: $250
COMMENTS: This pen is amongst the best few of this sort I've seen during the last 12 years. It's not that the pen is outrageously great (though it is pretty grand), but that most of these are pretty horrible. You know my screed on Silver Pearl pens from the 1930's "Today they are common and often less expensive than other colors. They are all told in less demand today because the pale color shows celluloid discoloration more than other colors and because unlike gold-filled trim the chrome trim cannot readily be polished once worn or pitted.  My assertion is they are common becaue back in the day, when clean, they were stunningly lovely pens".    The pen looks nicer in hand than in photo. Lockdown filler of course for  1st Gen pen

This one is the exception to the rule. Superb color, chrome trim and transparency. It has none of the barrel bulge that can be seen in slender pens that have been poorly restored (residual old sac or too much pressure from the filler unit can give swelling at back of barrel).   More scarce  in any shape than Major and other later pens, it is very hard to find one this nice.   Fine point.

Pen 3341 TB:  Parker Vacumatic "Long, 1st year" 3rd Generation Major $220 SOLD
Emerald Pearl Celluloid. 1942

Overall Grade: ExtraFine
Metal: Extra Fine Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Two Tone
Threads: Perfect clarity: moderate amber
Point: Fine Imprint: Exc Size: 5 3/8" 13.6cm
PRICE: $220
COMMENTS: Collecting the most prevalent Vacumatic model- Major- is a... major... challenge, as up to 9 or more sequential style variants can be identified during the 1937-1953 (counting Canadian prodution) run.  The "Long" double jewel Major, often confused by collectors with the true Slender Maxima- did not revert to non-long form at the very start of the third generation. Thus, the first year or so of single jewel pens, in 1942, are still long, longer than later pens. This pen also has the earlier blue-green Emerald Pearl (later pens are more olive).  Has the two-tone nib, also a hold-over from the 2nd generation that went away by late 1942.  Nice color and imprint. Back of clip top has couple pin marks. Would not be big deal to swap clip at nominal price if this tiny flaw bothers.  Pretty pen and well more scarce than typical Majors.

Pen 3216 JB: Parker Vacumatic Standard  1937 $235 SOLD
1st Generation. Silver Pearl Celluloid  

Overall Grade: exc
Metal: Exc Color: Exc. CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NA
Threads: Perfect clarity: Exc
Point: Fine Point Imprint: Nearmint Size  5 1/8 " 13.9cm PRICE: $235 
COMMENTS:  As most of my pendom acquaintances know, I am fond of high-line 1st GenerationVac which feature lockdown filler, triple cap-bands, and all the luxury features (striped section and end jewels, two tone nib).  The gripping section on Standard is heftier than that found on the later niche-equivalent, Major.  You might also recall my screed about silver pearl pens, how they easily  demonstrate  discoloration  of the celluloid and how that chrome trim cannot be well polished after initial wear, rendering most of these unattractive. This one... pops. Great color/ clean trim (hint o' wear only to blind cap ring, the tassie). Excellent clarity. Superb "mirror" preservation of the two tone nib effect. All striped everything, of course, as proper to this year.

Pen 3043 JB Parker Vacumatic Junior Shadow-Wave 1939   $295 SOLD
The big 2nd Generation Wave. Golden-Brown. Superb.

Overall Grade: Exc+
Metal: NM Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM
Threads: Perfect clarity: Moderate Red
Point: F-M Imprint:  NM Size: 5 1/8" 12.8 cm
PRICE: $295
COMMENTS: Shadow-Wave is a pattern, not a model. It appears on various econo-line models from late 1937 probably through 1943. With second generation pens featuring three different clips, this one has the earliest clip style, the "feather" clip. It is  the longest model pocket pen found in this plastic.  Superb pen without brassing to those famously fragile thin cap-bands. Great color.Smooth typical Vac "Fine-Medium" nib.

Pen 2994-S  Parker Vacumatic Major  3rd Gen. Azure 1953  $155 SOLD
The last of the Vacs, matey. Canadian. Very clear barrel.

Overall Grade:  Extra Fine
Metal: Extra Fine Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Exc clarity: SUPERB
Point: M Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.8 cm
PRICE: $155 
COMMENTSThird Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost. Azure Blue is the pen with greatest collector cachet from the regular issue USA 3rd Gen run. Parker USA ceased Vac production in 1948, but Canada continued through 1953, re-introducing a (modified) two-digit date code in 1950.  This one has excellent color and superb barrel clarity. The imprint, notoriously weak on the late Canadian pens, is very sharp.  BIt of brassing to cap-band (can see it in the photo) This one packs a nice medium nib, which is few years earlier issue and from the USA.

Pen 3222 J:  Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima 1941  $780 SOLD
Azure Blue Celluloid. 2nd Generation. Double Jewel.

Overall Grade: ExtraFine
Metal: Extra FIne Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Extra Fine
Threads: Perfect clarity: Exc
Point: Fine to Fine-Med Imprint: Exc Size: 5 3/8" 13.6cm
PRICE: $780
COMMENTS: Blue overshelmingly is the most scarce color all-told amongst the 2nd Generation Senior Maximae, as it had a production run of about 18 months vs 5  years for the other colors.  They turn up time to time but are not easy to find.  This one is a sound, though not "near mint" example. Excellent color, clarity and imprint. Clip and cap-ring trim are clean. Blind cap tassie (bottom ring)  with one small ding and bit of edge brassing.  Nib clean but has lost a goodly amount of the two-tone effect. The clean cap-band does have initials (L.N.G.)  neatly stamped in the cartouche, where they belong.  Nib has only partial two tone effect left.  First Double Jewel Blue Sr. Max I've had on the website in a couple-few years. Nice writer

Pen 3000-S  Parker Vacumatic 3rd Gen Emerald Pearl 1945  $145  SOLD

Overall Grade:  Fine-Xf
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  Perfect clarity: Modest Amber
Point:  M- TWO TONE** Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.8 cm
PRICE: $145
COMMENTSThird Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost.  This one packs a nice medium nib, full two tone effect date code for 1946. Two tone nibs are not "expected" this late, but two tone 1946 nibs are known.

Pen 2892  Parker Vacumatic 1st Gen Standard.  1933-1934 $395
Scarce "First Year" Vacumatic with  (superb) longitudinal transparency.

Overall Grade:  Exc
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity: Superb
Point:   pending Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 13.0cm
PRICE: $395
COMMENTS:  I'm fond of first generation pens, as the chunkier-vs-later contour yields a larger look and feel (objectively larger gripping section) than later similar niche pens. This one is a bit special.  Typical ring transparency was not introduced in black pens until late 1934. Earlier pens either were opaque, had longitudinal clarity pattern, or were all-clear Crystal (that one exquisitely rare in high-line pens). This one, with "longitudinal windows" clarity pattern, is in great hape. Clean trim, clear imprint. Excellent clarity. I will need to finalize this description with the point grade, when home from vacation.

Pen 2115  Parker Vacumatic Junior Debutante Shadow-Wave  $135 SOLD
Silver Pearl Double Jewel 2nd Generation

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Excellent Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM open gold
Threads:  perfect clarity:  Fine
Point:   Fine Imprint:  Exc Size: 4 3/4"  11.8cm
PRICE: $135 
COMMENTS:   A qite solid example of this color/pattern with clean trim, excellent imprint, excellent color and nice clarity. Only flaw is hint of barrel swell down by the filler

Pen 3358 TB:  Parker Vacumatic Junior  3rd Generation 1946 $170  SOLD

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Ex Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Superb
Point: Fine Imprint: Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9cm
PRICE: $170
COMMENTS: 3rd Generation Major and Junior offer nice combination of good size and reasonable price, making for popular "first Vac" status. The differ in trim style and slightly in nib contour. Excellent in all respects. 

Pen 3347 NB:  Parker Vacumatic Major 3rd Generation 1944 $150 SOLD
Silver Pearl Celluloid

Overall Grade: ExtraFine
Metal: Extra Fine Color:  Extra Fine CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: mild Red
Point: Fine Imprint: Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9cm
PRICE: $150
COMMENTS: 3rd Generation Major and Junior offer nice combination of good size and reasonable price, making for popular "first Vac" status.  Minimal trim wear, slightest ambering to barrel, still well better than average.

Pen 3204 JB:  Parker Vacumatic  Major 1946 $140 SOLD
 3nd Generation. Black Celluloid

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  Exc clarity: Exc
Point: Fine-Med Imprint: Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.8 cm
PRICE: $140
COMMENTS3rd Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are excellent "first" Vacs for collectors, offering good size at relatively affordable price.  This one is quite clean with no brassing, with excellent transparency, and with excellent imprint. Nice writing typical Vac nib... fine-med firm.

Pen 3230 J:  Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima Set-in-box $635 SOLD
Vacumatic 2nd Generation. Double Jewel. Golden Pearl. 1939
Scarce Repeater Pencil (likely just couple month production run)

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Mod Amber
Point: Fine to Fine-Med Imprint: Exc Size: 5 3/8" 13.6cm
PRICE: $635
COMMENTS: All correct Senior Maxima, 2nd Generation. Clean trim and color. The box is catalogued for Vac Junior, but is one of the more interesting 1940 boxes, with translucent cover (can be found in three colors) with arrow symbol showing deep in the plastic cover. Injector pencils appear to have been manufactured only very learly 1939 (perhaps very late 1938 as well) for couple months or so. Neat set. Pen grades excellent with clean color/trim/imprint. Exc preservation of two-tone effect on nib. All correct for late 1939 pen: striped jewels, black section, two-tone nib. Smooth writer.

Pen 3244 - NB:  Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima 1941 $495 SOLD
Emerald Pearl Celluloid

Overall Grade: ExtraFine
Metal: Extra Fine Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Mild-Mod Red
Point: Fine-Medium+  Firm Imprint: Exc Size: 5 3/8" 13.6cm
PRICE: $495
COMMENTS: The big-boy from the 2nd Generation of Vacdom. Double Jewel. Wide Cap-band. Correct-for-year striped top jewel, two-tone nib, black gripping section and "target" bottom pseudo-jewel. Clean plastic and imprint. Clean clip. Trace edge brassing bottom edge of part of cap-band. Tassie (bottom trim ring on blind cap) with edge brassing and one tiny ding (the usual "tap" point). Excellent writer. Point looks fine-medium, but writes a plump line due to excellent ink-flow.

Pen 3247 R:  Parker Vacumatic Major 3rd Generation 1947 $340 Sold to Want List
Azure Blue Celluloid

Overall Grade: Mint
Metal: Mint Color:  Mint CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Mint
Threads: Perfect clarity: Mint
Point: Fine Imprint: Mint Size: 5 1/8" 12.9cm
PRICE: $340
COMMENTS: 3rd Generation Major and Junior offer nice combination of good size and reasonable price, making for popular "first Vac" status.  Mint stickered examples are scarce. Uncommon if esoteric variant, as it has the late 1945-early 1946 seamed plastic (note too the thinner stripes on cap).   I pulled this "spare" pen for a "want list" request, and possibly let it go by accident, as now I'm not sure I have another mint "seamed-plastic" pen sitting about. Ah well :)

Pen 3248 R:  Parker Vacumatic Major 3rd Generation 1947 $360 Sold to Want List
Azure Blue Celluloid

Overall Grade: Mint
Metal: Mint Color:  Mint CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Mint
Threads: Perfect clarity: Mint
Point: Fine Imprint: Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9cm
PRICE: $340
COMMENTS: 3rd Generation Major and Junior offer nice combination of good size and reasonable price, making for popular "first Vac" status.  Yeah, but go find 'em mint stickered with "perfect" transparency.

Pen 3225 J:  Parker Vacumatic "long" Major 2nd Gen Double Jewel 1941 $310 SOLD
Azure Blue Celluloid

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: ExtraFine
Threads: Perfect clarity: Moderate Amber
Point: Fine-Medium Imprint: Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.8cm
PRICE: $310
COMMENTS: Double Jewel Blue Majors, as with Senior Maxima and really all blue pens, are more scarce then pens in the other five colors, due to the brief production run (18 months vs 5 years).  Unlike Senior Maxima, amongst Major red still outprices blue by a bit, though blue is well less easy to find. First DJ Major in Blue I've had on the website probably in a year or two. Clean pen all correct.  Sharp imprint.  The 2nd largest catalogued blue Vac. Nib has excellent two tone effect, writes a smooth  fine-med line,  but I note the "iridium" tipping is light. Might need re-tip in another 10-20 years of daily use ;)

Pen 3256 J:  Parker Vacumatic Major 3rd Generation  $180 SOLD
Azure Blue Celluloid. "Bonus" Two-Tone nib. 1946

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Minimal Red
Point: Fine Imprint: Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9cm
PRICE: $180
COMMENTS: 3rd Generation Major and Junior offer nice combination of good size and reasonable price, making for popular "first Vac" status.  While the two-tone nib was discontinued by mid-1942 on high-line Vacs, occasional 1946 pens turn up with just that finding (usually with proper "6" date code, supporting originality). Date code buried under section in this one, but this seems to be that.  Very clean two tone nib with excellent preservation of platinum plating.

Pen 3206 JB: Parker Vacumatic Standard $260 SOLD
1st Generation. Emerald Celluloid. 1935

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color: Exc. CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NA
threads: Perfect clarity: Exc Amber
Point: Fine-Medium Imprint: Exc Size  5 1/8 " 12.9 cm PRICE: $260
COMMENTS:  As most of my pendom acquaintances  know, I am fond of high-line 1st Generation Vac which feature lockdown filler, triple cap-bands, and all the luxury features (striped section and end jewels, two tone nib).  The gripping section on Standard is heftier than that found on the later niche-equivalent, Major. This one has third quarter 1935 date-code on both barrel and nib, a not-alway- seen  "perfect match". Great color, imprint, plastic, trim, etc. Superb preservation of two tone nib effect. Smooth fine-medium point with hint of give (responsiveness) more than usually seen on Vac nib.  

SOLD Pen 2623 Parker Vacumatic Junior Set-in-Box.  $475 SOLD
Burgundy. Canadian. 1950 3rd Generation
 Burgundy Pearl. A Late-Only, Canadian-Only Set.

Overall Grade:  Fine-Xf
Metal: NM Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: NM clarity: NA
Point:   Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9 cm
PRICE: $475  SOLD
COMMENTSAhhh... where to start???  

Burgundy Pearl last appeared in USA Parker catalogues in 1940, though 1941 pens are both well known and prevalent, and even rare (I've seen 4 total in ten years hunting) first quarter 1942 single jewel "long" Major and "long" streamlined Standard single jewel are known.  Most collectors thus figure their single jewel collections will comprise 5 colors not 6. However, Parker continued Vacumatic production in Canada until 1953, not stopping in 1948 as in the USA. Pens after 1948 of course lack the blue diamond, even in models that once had it. By 1950 Parker created a new 2-digit date code (lopping off the "19" from 195x for the year, leaving the final two digits of the actual year to mark that year).  Canada in 1950 reintroduced Burgundy. While these late Vacs thus had some style tweaks relative to most 3rd generation pens, it is thus possible to add red Vacs to one's collection of 3rd Gen Vac Major and Debutante (I know of no Maximas produced this late, in any color), by embracing these late Canadian variants.

But, this set is more interesting still...

While Parker catalogued Burgundy Vacumatic from 1933-1940,  Parker never catalogued during that period burgundy striped pens as either the full sized Junior or as the slender short Sub-Deb. Red Striped plastic was reserved for the high line. Thus, one finds burgundy Senior Maxima, Slender Maxima, Major and Debutante.  This is true for both USA and Canadian production.  However (you knew there'd be a "however", right?), it is clear that Canada, with the reintroduction of Burgundy in 1950, produced the color in both high-line and economy-line models.  I own "late" Canadian Major, Junior, Debutante and Sub-Deb in this color. I see far fewer of the economy-line models than I do high liners. Indeed, I've seen/handled in Burgundy perhaps 4 Junior pens and just 1 Sub-Deb, along with perhaps 3 Junior Pencils and so far no Sub-Deb pencil. I've seen well more Majors, and even those often are quite worn (turning up from South America and India).

This is a rare set, particularly the pencil.   It is for sale only because I do own one other.   And, yeah, the box is probably from 1941, but it looked good with the set.

Pen 3130 -TB   Parker  Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation $160 SOLD
Emerald Pearl Celluloid

Overall Grade:  Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Bright amber.
Point: F Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8th" 12.9  cm
PRICE: $160
COMMENTS: 3rd Generation Major and Junior offer nice combination of good size and reasonable price, making for popular "first Vac" status.  This one has nice color and smooth fine point.

Pen 3044 JB  Parker Vacumatic Major 3rd Genearation  $335 
Golden Pearl Celluloid. Mint Double Stickered. Yeep!

Overall Grade:  Mint
Metal: Mint Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Mint
Threads:  MInt clarity: Mint
Point: Med Imprint:  Mint Size: 5 1/8" 12.8 cm
PRICE: $335
COMMENTSThird Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost.  Mint pens though are one-in-hundreds; they show just why these pens were so popular back in the day. This one is stunning, with great color, clarity, etc. It HAS been fully restored.  It may not be returned if inked or dipped, but it does carry the one year function warranty.

SOLD Pen 3067 E   Parker Vacumatic 3rd Gen. SOLD
Black Celluloid 4th Quarter 1948 $195

Overall Grade: Nearmint
Metal: Nearmint Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Nearmint
Threads:  Perfect clarity: minimal Red
Point: Nearmint Imprint:  Superb Size: 5 1/8" 12.8 cm
PRICE: $195


COMMENTS
Third Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost. Superb color, imprint and clarity, even by the sac. Responsive Fine-Med point. 1948 was the very end of Vacumatic production in the USA.

Pen 3015-S  Parker Vacumatic Major 3rd Gen Emerald Pearl 1943  $165 SOLD

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Exc
Point:  XF-F Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.8 cm
PRICE: $165
COMMENTSThird Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost.  Clean pen with very fine point.

Pen 1772 Parker Vacumatic Imperial Debutante.
Golden Pearl Celluloid with Gold Filled Cap  $585 SOLD

Overall Grade: Fine
Metal: Two tiny pin dings Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc monotone
Threads:  perfect clarity: slight
Point:  fine-XF Imprint:  Exc Size: 4 15/16"
PRICE: $585 
COMMENTSThe Vacumatic Imperial no doubt was influenced both by the already-in-production Sheaffer Crest and by the soon-to-be-released Parker "51". Featuring a "51"-style cap but with cap threads, not clutch set up, and featuring an hour-glass shaped gripping section with threads at the very bottom, the Imperial Family is not your typical Vac. Catalogued in the USA for two years various levels could be found up to an all-14k pen, the Imperial Coronet.

This Debutante sized Imperial, proper, is not at all bad. Very clean barrel. Unworn cap. BUT, two tiny pin-size dings (superficial) are noted near the very top of the cap.


SOLD Pen 1623 Parker Vacumatic Junior (large size) 1st Generation 1935  $335 SOLD
Mottled Silver Pearl Celluloid with Superb Transparency

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: NM Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  perfect clarity: Spectacular
Point:   Medium Imprint:  perfect Size:  4 7/8"
PRICE: $335 
COMMENTSSilver Pearl mottled Vac Juniors do seem a bit more common today than Red, though they were made just as long. Many today show ambering of the silver panels, loss of clarity in the barrel and trashing of the white trim, which shows wear more than the gold fill trim seen on other colors.  But, on occasion one comes along which reminds us why these probably outsold the red pens in their day. Crisp white trim, staggering barrel clarity (Photo above was done before the barrel was flushed) and great color render this a crisp pen indeed. One of the best i've seen


Pen 1765 Parker Vacumatic 1st Generation Junior
SOLD  Mottled Silver Celluloid. Excellent clarity. Larger Size Junior $295 SOLD

Overall Grade: extra fine
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity: Superb
Point:  Medium Imprint:  Exc Size: 4 5/6"
PRICE: $295
COMMENTS:  Today often bedeviled by heavy ambering and wear to that unpolishable white trim, the collector does not have an easy job finding crisp early mottled Vacumatic Juniors.  But, when found, they make a for pleasant acquisitions.  

This one is quite nice. Clean color, clarity and trim, save for one small mark on the blind cap ring (tassie).

Pen 3223 J:  Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima  3rd Generation  $525 SOLD
Silver Pearl Celluloid. Yes, it really is a Senior Maxima

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Minimal Red
Point: Fine Imprint: Exc Size: 5 3/8" 13.6 cm
PRICE: $525 SOLD
COMMENTS: In the USA, when 2nd Generation gave way to 3rd, Vacs lost the bottom jewel and tassie.  Senior Maxima also lost the fat cap-band, gaining instead a cap-band similar to that of Vac Major. SJ Maximas are more scarce overall than double jewel pens, but tend to price in similar range, as demand is a bit lower. This one is quite clean, with excellent color and clean trim (both serious problems for many silver pearl pens). Nice preservation of the two-tone effet on the early 1942 nib. Pen still has striped top jewel, a feature that would give way to generic black jewel later in 1942.  Nice pen.

Pen 2898 -WD  Parker Vacumatic 3rd Generation Major 1946  $125  SOLD
Azure Blue Celluloid

Overall Grade:  Fine
Metal: Extra Fine Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: perfect clarity: Moderate Amber
Point: F-M semiflex Imprint: Fine Size: 5 1/8" 13cm
PRICE: $125
COMMENTS:  Third Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost. Azure Blue is the pen with greatest collector cachet from the regular issue USA 3rd Gen run. Nice writing pen with excellent color and decent clarity. It has bit of brassing to cap-band  and partially weak imprint

Pen 2842-R  Parker Vacumatic 1st Gen Junior. Early 1934 . $325 SOLD
Burgundy (mottled) Celluloid. "First Year" Pen with "First Year" Nib

Overall Grade:  Exc
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity: Extra Fine
Point:  Fine- SemiFlex Imprint:  Exc Size: 4 7/8" 12.4cm
PRICE: $325
COMMENTS:  I'm fond of first generation pens, as the chunkier-vs-later contour yields a larger look and feel (objectively larger gripping section) than later similar-niche pens.  The mottled Junior pens (larger of the two sizes, like this one, of same diameter as the high line Vacumatic Standard), were manufactured 1934-1938. Trick is to find clean trim, as the two thin cap-bands often take quite the hit. This one has very clean trim. The nib is "First Year" in that early Vac Junior nibs, like the Vacuum-Filler Junior nibs before them, lack the arrow design, instead having a bold "Parker Vacumatic" on the plain background.  The "Pat" barrel markings without date code indicates production before third quarter 1934. The nib is a responsive fine point, a long snouted thing, with a bit o' flex to it.

Pen 2543  Parker Vacumatic "Jeweler's Band"  Major 1941
Couple neat features to this 2nd Size Jeweler's Band pen.
Silver Pearl Celluloid. Upside down date imprint.  
$395 SOLD

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: ExtraFine Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  Perfect clarity:  Extra Fine
Point:  F-M twotone Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8" 13.96cm
PRICE: $395 
COMMENTS:    The so-called Jeweler's cap-band Vacs are relatively uncommon variants produced from 1939-1941. Factory original, the key finding is an extra-wide lined capband. 16 possible blue-diamond variants can be found- 4 sizes in 4 colors. Only in Nov 2006 did i finally complete this mini-collection, having tracked down the black small Debutante pen.  

This one is the 2nd size pen derived from rod stock used for the Major and Slender Maxima of that era, though all pens found with this cap-band have Major nib. This pen and the 1st Size pen (Senior Maxima) share the  larger of the two Jeweler's Band forms found in this variant cluster.

This one has resided in my personal collection 8 years, the best i'd handled, until i recently grabbed a near mint pen. Had i not found that one, this one would not have left the collection. The cap-band is very clean. The silver pearl celluloid (often found quite ambered) is superb. The pen packs the infamous "upside down" first quarter 1941 date stamp, one of several date code oddities known from the Vac series.  The bottom tassie (blind cap ring) does show bit of brassing, and the filler pump is the slightly later plastic. A nice example of an uncommon Vac.

Pen 2531 Parker Vacumatic 3rd Generation  Major 1945 $210. Odd variant. SOLD
Vacsoterica alert:  Seamed plastic and stacked coin cap-band

Overall Grade: ExtraFine
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  Exc clarity:  Minimal
Point: F-M Semi-Flex Nib Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 13 cm
PRICE: $210
COMMENTSThird Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost.  This one provides a bit of a twist, though I wish to avoid writing a chapter for the explanation. The Stacked Coin band is known from 1942-3 Shadow-Wave pens and "Vacufolds". It is found later (1946)  on pens with conventional stripes though there had been debate as to whether these represent cap swaps onto later barrels. However, known only from  1945 (and maybe 1946) are 3rd gen striped pens with seamed plastic, with distinct line indicating wrapped celluloid. Perhaps a trial by Parker. Pens are found with seamed cap, with seamed barrel and seamed cap and barrel. This pen has seamed cap and barrel and 1945 barrel imprint. The seamed cap with stacked coin band is proof the stacked coin band persisted on striped pens past the initial use on other 1942/3-only models.  This is a quite decent example combining a couple outlier features. 

Pen 2276 Parker Vacuum-Filler Crystal $425  SOLD

Overall Grade:  Fine
Metal: Extra Fine Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Modest amber
Point:   Fine . Imprint:  Light Size: 5 7/8" 12.6 cm
PRICE: $425
COMMENTS:  OK.  These are tough. The Parker Vacuum-Filler is the predecessor to the Vacumatic , proper, and is a sub-1-year model.  I refer to it- a bit tongue in cheek-  as the 0th generation Vac.  The CRYSTAL was produced in response- per Parker- to customer fondness for dealer Demonstrator models. Indeed, today the Crystal sometimes is confused for the very similar Demo.

This one has clean trim, ambered barrel (deep ruby translucency) and a mostly legible, light imprint.  It has the proper  non-arrow nib marked "Parker Vacuum-Filler". Something of an "advanced" pen for the serious Vac Nut.

Pen 3011-S  Parker Vacumatic Debutante 3rd Gen 1944  $180 SOLD
Silver Pearl Celluloid. Crisp, Uncommon "Stacked Coin" Cap-band

Overall Grade:  Extra Fine
Metal: Exc Color:  Fine CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Moderate
Point: Medium Imprint: Extra Fine Size: 4 5/8" 11.8 cm
PRICE: $180 SOLD
COMMENTS: The high-line small Vacumatic from the 3rd Generation, this one also has the uncatalogued and  relatively uncommon lined "Stacked Coin" cap-band. Extensive observational research shows this cap-band to appear on 1942-3 so-called "Vacu-Fold" pens (striped Duofolds with Vacumatic trim and markings), 1942-3 Shadow-Wave Vacs and 1942-6 typically striped Vacs (yes, there is evidence excluding cap-swaps as source of seemingly later use of this cap-band in the final category).   Most silver-pearl vacs have heavily worn chrome trim, that just does not take polish the way gold-filled does. This pen has very crisp trim, decent color and moderate amber clarity. A nice example. Responsive, full medium nib.

Pen 3040 JB Parker Vacumatic "3rd Size "Jeweler's"  Band"  1941  $295 SOLD
A well recognized, uncatalogued, factory original variant.  Superb.

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM
Threads: Perfect clarity: none left
Point:  F-M responsive Imprint:  NM Size: 5 1/8" 12.9 cm
PRICE: $295 
COMMENTSThe so-called "Jeweler's" cap-band is a well known, uncatalogued, factory original feature found on some  Vacumatic, "Striped" Duofold and "Toothbrush" Duofold pens. It is an extra wide lined cap-band with broad upper and lower edges and with  large cartouche for optional engraving.   The third size, such as this one,  is the odd-duck of the four Vacumatic sizes. The same size as a 3rd Generation Vacumatic Major or 2nd Generation Junior, it appears to be an upscaled Vac Junior, with size, nib and black top jewel from that pen, but with blue diamond clip. I am pleased (it took 8 years) to have a complete collection of 16 blue diamond Vacumatics with this cap-band (four pen sizes and four colors).  Jeweler's Band pens are well more scarce than pens with typical cap-band.

This one has superb color. No brassing is present. There still is some of the clear "lacquer" on the cap-band found on Vacs and Duofolds sometimes found from the 1940-42 period. The pen has the inverted "1" date code seen on some 1941 Parkers.  A "better" Vac and the first blue with this cap-band I've had on the website in years. Great eye appeal.  Despite the superb color and trim, I note that no barrel transparency remains. Smooth fine to fine-medium nib. 

Pen 3174 - NB Parker Vacumatic Junior 1946  $170 SOLD
3rd Generation. The standard-size non Blue Diamond model. Azure Blue Celluloid
Smooth Extra Fine Point

Overall Grade:  Excellent
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Exc
Point: XF to F Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9 cm
PRICE: $170
COMMENTS The 3rd Generation Vacumatic Junior and Major make excellent "first Vacs" for collectors, offering decent size and affordable price, differing from each other only in trim style  and nib contour.  This one pops. Bright blue celluloid. Great clarity. Nib that pushes Extra Fine line (narrower line certainly than most of the fine points).  Very fine points often are scratchy. This one is not. Rather, it is very smooth. 

Pen 3078 R Parker Vacuum-Filler "Senior"  All-Correct
Pre-Vacumatic. Standard Size. Burgundy Pearl 1933 
$615 SOLD

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color: Exc. CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
threads: Perfect clarity: NA
Point:  Medium Imprint: Exc Size  5 1/8 " 12.9 cm PRICE: $615  SOLD
COMMENTS:  In 1932-mid 1933, before introducing the Vacumatic name, Parker called it's vac-family pens, Vacuum-Filler. These pre-vacs are uncommon.  This one is the longest of the three sizes, all of which have the same diameter. The other two sizes have double cap-bands. Parker did call this model "Senior Vacuum-Filler" though I note that the pen is same size as the later "Standard Vacumatic", and I note that no oversized Vacuum-Filler was produced.  This pen is opaque with single-piece barrel-section assembly, as are all Vacuum-Fillers in typical Burgundy Pearl.  The model, too, should not be confused with the 1936 model "Vacumatic Senior".

Regarding Vacuum-Filler,  it is important for collectors to avoid frankenpens, usually a mix of middle-size cap and standard barrel, or vice-versa.   This one is all-there with early style clip
( "short stack, arrow-on-arrow) , early style nib ("feather together") and early style (chromed) pump. Imprint is much more sharp tha average.  A neat pen for the "advancing" collector of the Vacumatic. Oh... yeah.  Really smooth wet medium point- a great writer-  though this pen should be cherished primarily for its collectable significance.

Pen 3080 J Parker Vacumatic Standard  $255 SOLD
1st Generation. Burgundy. Canadian  1938
Monster Nib Alert: Flexible Double-Broad+ nib

Overall Grade: User-Grade*
Metal: Nearmint Color: Nearmint. CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NA
threads: Perfect clarity: NA
PointMONSTER NIB Imprint: Nearmint Size  5 1/8 " 13.9cm PRICE: $255
COMMENTS:  As most of my pendom acqainteaces know, I am fond of high-line 1st GenerationVac which feature lockdown filler, triple cap-bands, and all the luxury features (striped section and end jewels, two tone nib).  The gripping section on Standard is heftier than that found on the later niche-equivalent, Major.  This one has a black gripping section, which is wholly correct for pens of this sort from Canada.

User Grade:  Nice color and clean trim, save for some cap-band wear, this one has nice color and clarity, though with a faint imprint. The key problem is a hairline cap-crack (below the cap-bands at the lip), which has been solvent welded, though is still a bit noticeable.   Cap cracks are a significant condition issue.  Thus, this pen grades Fine*/User-Grade, recognizing the flaw.

MONSTER NIB: Heck, the nib is worth couple hundred. One-in-one-hundred, though exotic nibs admittedly crop up more often amongst Canadian pens.  I probably should toss the nib in a black pen and put a typical nib in this one, and might yet pop a clean cap on this pen to bump the ol' price, but for the moment this is as it returned from the restorer.

Pen 3111 R: Parker Vacumatic "late" 3rd Generation  1952 Canadian
Burgundy Celluloid. FLEX Nib (fine up to broad)  $215 SOLD

Overall Grade: Fine
Metal: Extra Fine Color: Mint CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Good-VG
Threads: Exc clarity: Mint
Point: Fine FLEX Imprint: WEAK Size: 5 1/8" 12.9 cm
PRICE: $215
COMMENTSBurgundy Pearl last appeared in USA Parker catalogues in 1940, though 1941 pens are both well known and prevalent, and even rare (I've seen 4 total in ten years hunting) first quarter 1942 single jewel "long" Major and "long" streamlined Standard are known.  Most collectors thus figure their single jewel collections will comprise 5 colors not 6. However, Parker continued Vacumatic production in Canada until 1953, not stopping in 1948 as in the USA. Pens after 1948 of course lack the blue diamond, even in models that once had it.

By 1950 Parker created a new 2-digit date code (lopping off the "19" from 195x for the year, stamping the final two digits of the actual year to serve as date code).  Canada in 1950 reintroduced Burgundy. While these late Vacs thus had some style tweaks relative to most 3rd generation pens, it is thus possible to add red Vacs to one's collection of 3rd Gen Vac Major and Debutante (I know of know Maximas produced this late, in any color), by embracing this late Canadian finding.

Many late Canadian pens, often returning to the USA from southern continents, are heavily worn and rather sun-fried.  This one is... ok.  It has superb color and  barrel clarity. The trim has bit of edge brassing.   Imprint  below average with about half of it gone. Nib a bit rough here and there, but has smooth highly flexible point that can go from Fine to Broad.

Pen 3159  Parker Vacumatic Major "Injector" Pencil $150 SOLD
Canadian. Burgundy. Likely Manufactured Only Couple Months

Overall Grade:  Exc
Metal: Nearmint Color:  NA CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NA
Clutch:  Exc clarity: NA Plastic: extra fine
Point:  NA Imprint: Exc Size:5 5/16" 13.2  cm PRICE: $150
COMMENTSIn the USA Injector Vac Pencils were made probably only early 1939, maybe late 1938, too. They were done only to match high-line pen models, though in Canada we also find such pencils with trim to match economy-line pens. This one is a clean Major pencil with strong imprint (no date code) and with clean trim. The top jewel is black, though I would expect (at least for USA-made pens) for it to be striped. On the other hand, the pen that came with this pencil also had black jewels, so... go try to figure those rascally Parker-Canada people.

Pen 3161  Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima Pencil  $185 SOLD
Burgundy Celluloid. 1937

Overall Grade:  Excellent
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NA
threads:  Exc clarity: NA
Point: NA Imprint:  Exc Size: 5"  12.9 cm
PRICE: $185 
COMMENTS:  Senior Maxima was one of the first three pens to mark the appearance of the 2nd Generation Vacs, appearing in ads August 1937 and found at the earliest with 2nd-Quarter-1937 date codes.  The first Senior Maxima pencils were derived from the earlier 1st-Generation Standard pencils, different only in cap-band. Early Sr. Max pencils use the wide (1.1mm) lead and feature a lead-eraser cartridge within. This one is quite clean. Nice color. No brassing. Sound imprint.

Pen 3126- S Parker Vacumatic Major 3rd Generation 1947 $140 SOLD
Azure Blue Celluloid

Overall Grade: ExtraFine
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Minimal Red
Point: Fine Imprint: Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9cm
PRICE: $340
COMMENTS: 3rd Generation Major and Junior offer nice combination of good size and reasonable price, making for popular "first Vac" status.  This one has nice color and smooth fine point. Not much barrel clarity left.

Pen 3165 -NB Parker Vacumatic Standard 1936 $260 SOLD
  Golden-Pearl Celluloid

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Modest Amber
Point:  XF-F Imprint: Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9 cm
PRICE: $260
COMMENTSI'm fond of first generation pens, as the chunkier-vs-later contour yields a larger look and feel (objectively larger gripping section) than later similar niche pens. Early high line Vacs pack the "luxury" features which add charm to the series:  two tone nib, striped end jewels and gripping section, and triple cap-band. This one is excellent all around. Sharp color, trim, imprint, two-tone nib effect etc.  Very fine nib (I call it FIne-to-Extra-Fine) that is remarkably smooth for such a narrow point.

Pen 3058  Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Gen. Azure Blue  $ 145 SOLD
Nice Nib!  Has Earlier 1941 Two Tone Nib with Med-Stubbish Point

Overall Grade:  Fine
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Modest Red
Point: Med+ Stubbish Imprint: VG Size: 5 1/8" 12.9cm
PRICE: $ 145
COMMENTS Third Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost. Azure is the most highly sought color amongst the five regularly produced colors during the 1942-1948 era. Imprint about half there. Some wear and couple marks where barrel meets blind cap. Has earlier (and thus "better") two tone Major nib from 1941 with an impressive, responsive, medium point with something of a stub quality.

Pen 2899  Parker Vacumatic 3rd Generation Major 1944  $165  SOLD
 Anomalous "Long Canadian" Variant.

Overall Grade:  Extra Fine
Metal: Exc Color: Extra Fine CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc (USA)
Threads: perfect clarity: Minimal
Point: Fine Imprint: Extra Fine Size: 5 3/8" 13.4 cm
PRICE: $165 
COMMENTS:  Third Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost. Azure Blue is the pen with greatest collector cachet from the regular issue USA 3rd Gen run. It is well known that 1942 Majors carried over the "Long" measurements found for  1939-1941 second generation pens.  What is a bit surprising is that the occasional Canadian pen from 1944-1946-- both Major AND Junior (which never had been done "long")-- turn up in the long size.  A subtle variation for those who care; I find 'em charming. Go figure.   This one is pretty clean. Nice trim and imprint. Bit of red clarity. Firm fine point (nib is USA not Canada). 

Pen 2851-J  Parker Vacumatic 1st Gen Standard 1936  $220 SOLD
1946 Golden Pearl Celluloid. 

Overall Grade:  ExtraFine
Metal: ExtraFine Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: perfect clarity: Moderate Ruby
Point:   Medium Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 13.0cm
PRICE: $220
COMMENTS:  I'm fond of first generation pens, as the chunkier-vs-later contour yields a larger look and feel (objectively larger gripping section) than later similar niche pens. Early high line Vacs pack the "luxury" features which add charm to the series:  two tone nib, striped end jewels and gripping section, and triple cap-band. Bit of brassing to blind cap. Very clean clip. Color well better than average for sensitive Silver Pearl.

Pen 2585 Parker Vacumatic Junior 2nd Gen 1941  $400 SOLD
 A truly rare and uncatalogued variant
Striped Duofold Plastic on a fat Vacumatic

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  Exc clarity: Moderate Amber
Point:  F-M Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 13 cm
PRICE: $400
COMMENTS: Where to start?  I don't want to write a chapter, so do email me if further questions aftere reading this. This pen is an uncatalogued variant Vacumatic Junior. In ten years collecting I've owned or have seen three total. Identical in contour to either the striped or Shadow-Wave 1941 Junior, the pen is done with "vertical stripes" barrel transparency. This is NOT a late use of the butcher-blocked striped "Longitudinal Windows" from 1934-5, which has black wide gaps after 4-5 stripes. This appears to be the black plastic used on striped Duofold in 1941 only. This is NOT a "Vacufold", which is a Duofold with Vacumatic markings- those pens are thinner and of different general appearance. This is a Vac Junior (fatter pen).  This is an advanced pen, and- outside of my own occasional commentary about it-  is not cited  in all pendom literature which I've examined.  And in the big pic, that line on the cap in the left is shadow, not a  crack :)

Pen 2529 Parker Vacumatic 3rd Generation Major 1945  $165 SOLD
Azure Blue Celluloid

Overall Grade:  Extra Fine
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Extra Fine
Threads:  perfect clarity: Minimal
Point Medium Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 13cm
PRICE: $165 
COMMENTS:  Third Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost. Azure Blue is the pen with greatest collector cachet from the regular issue USA 3rd Gen run. This one packs a nice medium nib.
Pen 1375 Parker Vacumatic Junior (larger size) Gray Marbled Celluloid $195  SOLD
Overall Grade: Extra Fine Metal:  excellent  Color:  Excellent  CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent Threads:  Perfect cap threads. Transparency:  bright amber clarity Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine  Imprint:   exc Size:  4 7/8" by 1/2" PRICE: $195
COMMENTS:  From 1934-1939 Parker produced Vacs in patterns other than the typical  lattitudinal stripes. That these catalog-documented patterns appear largely   on Junior line pens adds to the charm of the Junior line vacs which featured fewer "luxury" features, but the same solid Vac construction. The larger 1st generation lockdown-fill pen like this one is the same diameter as a Vac Standard but runs about 1/8"  - 1/4" shorter. The black gripping section is nearly as large as that of a later Senior Maxima and is larger than that of the later Major. This is a squat pen, providing a lot of grip area for the buck.  The typical weak points of this series are not present here. The chrome-tone trim is well more clean than what is seen typically. A slight mark on the cap is noted where the clip moved against plastic.  See if you can find it. Blind cap alignment is about 98%. Couiple light umarks to blind cap plastic.   

Pen 2573R Parker Vacumatic. 1st Gen Oversize $675 SOLD
 Golden Pearl Celluloid 1936

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 2-tone
Threads:  Exc clarity: Extra Fine
Point:F-M Firm Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 5/8" 14.1 cm
PRICE: $675 SOLD
COMMENTSThe Largest pen from the 1st Generation, the Oversize has maximum dimensions similar to the later Senior Maxima, but its chunkier contour renders it of larger look and feel. Gripping section is larger than is found in the Senior Maxima.  This one is very clean. No brassing, nice color and decent clarity (reddish-orange clarity). Nib is "Parker USA" not "USA Parker" so probably year or so later issue than the pen.

Pen 3047 JB Parker Vacumatic 3rd Generation Major  $150 SOLD
Azure Blue Celluloid

Overall Grade: ExtraFine
Metal: Extra Fine Color: Superb CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM
Threads: perfect clarity: Nice red-orange
Point: Fine-Med Imprint: Excellent Size: 5 1/8" 12.9 cm
PRICE: $150
COMMENTS:  Third Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost. This one has great color and nice clarity. Hint of wear to top of clip-washer.

Pen 3059  Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Gen. Black 1943  $115 SOLD

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Exc Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Minimal Red
Point: F-M Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9 cm
PRICE: $115
COMMENTS:Third Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost. Nice basic black pen with fine-med nib 

Pen 3066 E Parker Vacumatic 3rd Gen.
Black Celluloid 4th Quarter 1948 $185 SOLD


Overall Grade: Nearmint
Metal: Nearmint Color:  Superb CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Nearmint
Threads: Perfect clarity: Superb
Point:  Fine-Medium Imprint:  Superb Size: 5 1/8" 12.8 cm
PRICE: $185



COMMENTS
Third Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost.   Superb color, imprint and clarity.  This one packs a responsive fine-medium nib. The angle of the camera relative to the stripes underrepresents the barrel clarity. Mild ambering only by the sac. Responsive fine-medium point.  4th quarter, 1948 was the very end of Vacumatic production in the USA.

Pen 3071 -E  Parker Vacumatic Major 1948  $195 SOLD
Superb Barrel Clarity. Nearmint (Mint/Dipped)

Overall Grade:  Nearmint+
Metal: Mint Color: Mint CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Mint
Threads: Mint clarity: Mint
Point: F-M Responsive Imprint: Mint Size: 5 1/8" 12.9 cm
PRICE: $195
COMMENTSThird Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost. Superb color, imprint and clarity.  Last year of Vac production in USA though not the final quarter. This one is in simply superb shape. No ink traces when I dipped it. Possibly mint. Fully restored with full warranty, but may not be returned for refund if inked/dipped.

Pen 2893-S   Parker Vacuum-Filler (0th Generation Vac)  $550 SOLD
STUBBY Model.  Silver-Pearl Celluloid

Overall Grade:  Fine+
Metal: Extra Fine Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity: Minimal
Point:    pending Imprint:  Exc Size: STUBBY ~ 4.5"
PRICE: $550
COMMENTS:  The "Stubby" Vacumatic-family pens are amongst my favorite. These have standard girth (same as Vacumatic Standard and early Vacumatic Junior lines) but are much shorter than typical standard-girth pens.  The Stubby  is well recognized from the overwhelmingly scarce Parker Golden-Arrow,  from Vacuum-Filler (obviously) and from early ("first year") Vacumatic. Also, pens appear with 1937-9 date codes, part of the hypothesized "parts blow out" period.  On the whole they are well more scarce than longer standard-girth pens and are not to be confused with slender Debutante, etc.  As with all non-black two-band pre-Vacumatics, this one has high-line features (unlike 2-band Vacumatic, proper) with striped celluloid, matching endpieces and gripping section (which is of one piece with the barrel)

This one is quite decent... for a Vacuum-Filler in Silver Pearl.  Legible imprint. OK color with "typical" barrel ambering. OK trim.  Note-  I will complete description and nib grade when home from travels. I did not wish for this pen to miss the update. Buyers may reserve it but may opt out if surprises develop with final review of pen.

Pen 2896- WD  Parker Vacumatic 3rd Generation Junior   $160 SOLD
Emerald Pearl  Celluloid 1947

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity: Exc
PointF-M Imprint:  Extra Fine Size: 5 1/8" 13cm
PRICE: $160
COMMENTS:  Third Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost. They differ only in trim and orginal price point, being of same size.  Clean pen with excellent trim, including those thin cap-bands, often a sore point. Imprint is sharp save for "MADE in USA". Great color and clarity (underrepresented in the photo). Nice smooth writer.

Pen 3022 R Parker Vacumatic Senior 1936  $ SOLD
Burgundy Pearl. Scarce. ALL Correct Parts.

Overall Grade:  Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Exc
Point: F-M Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8" 13.6 cm
PRICE: $ SOLD
COMMENTSA very high cachet Vac model, the Senior is essentially the predecessor to Slender Maxima and is a one year model with OS nib jammed in standard girth first generation pen that has a more streamlined contour than usual for first generation,  a harbinger to the  introduction of 2nd Generation the following year. Many of these turn up with seemingly incorrect parts. This one is all correct, with OS nib and with  proper blind cap. Superb condition. Excellent clarity. Etc. I've owned maybe four of these in ten years, and handled/seen just a couple more. Far more scarce than OS or Senior Maxima.

Pen 2989-S  Parker Vacumatic 1945 Azure Blue  $160  SOLD
Medium+ Point (nearly/arguably full broad)

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: VG
Threads:  Exc clarity: Exc Amber
Point: Medium+ Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.8 cm
PRICE: $160
COMMENTSThird Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost. Azure Blue is the pen with greatest collector cachet from the regular issue USA 3rd Gen run. Quite plump medium+ line (nearly broad) wet writer.

Pen 2998-S  Parker Vacumatic 3rd Gen. Golden Pearl  1945 $170 SOLD

Overall Grade: Exc+
Metal: Exc Color:  Superb CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Superb
Point:  Medium Imprint:  Superb Size: 5 1/8" 12.8 cm
PRICE: $170
COMMENTSThird Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost.  This one packs a nice medium nib. Superb color, imprint and clarity. Nice writer with nib bordering full medium.

Pen 3027-R  Parker Vacumatic Junior 1st Generation $375 SOLD
Burgundy Mottled. Nearmint. Superb Clarity. Original Box

Overall Grade:  Extra Fine
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Perfect clarity: Moderate
Point: Medium Imprint: Extra Fine Size: 4 7/8" 12.4 cm
PRICE: $375 SOLD
COMMENTS: Introduced 1934, the economy line first generation Vacs (Junior and Slender Junior) offered colors/patterns not found in high line pens.  Often considered (wrongly) to be mottled color/black, the barrels in fact are mottled with color and transparent plastic.   It is not easy to find them with superb clarity, though they do turn up.  This burgundy larger Junior  is amongst the best 4-5 I've played with during the last ten years.

Pen 3016-S  Parker Vacumatic  Golden Pearl 1945  $165 SOLD
Uncommon Seamed Cap Plastic found on some late 1945-early 1946 pens

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  Perfect clarity: Moderate Amber
Point: Lush Medium Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8" 13.6 cm
PRICE: $245 
COMMENTSThird Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost.  Seamed plastic seems to crop up mid 1945-early 1946, often just on cap or barrel.  Appears to represent a trial with new process to making the rod stock. This one has the seamed cap. Lush medium point.

Pen 2895- WD  Parker Vacumatic 3rd Generation Major  $175 SOLD
Azure Blue Celluloid 1946

Overall Grade:  Exc
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: perfect clarity: Superb
Point: F-M Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 13cm
PRICE: $175
COMMENTS:  Third Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost. Azure Blue is the pen with greatest collector cachet from the regular issue USA 3rd Gen run. Clean pen with excellent trim and barrel clarity (poorly shown in the photo). Smooth Fine-Med Point

Pen 1884 Parker Vacumatic Debutante. Double Jewel.
2nd Generation Pen. Emerald Pearl Celluloid   $145 SOLD

Overall Grade: Fine
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 2-tone
Threads:  Exc clarity:    Minimal
Point:  Medium Imprint:  ExtraFIne Size: 4 5/8"
PRICE145
COMMENTSA high-line pen introduced in 1938, this 1938-1941 2nd generation pen exists in six color.  In nice shape, this one has good color  and well-preserved two-tone effect on the nib.  Bottom Tassie has some high point brassing and couple small dings. Mild wear to the plastic.  Note that the pump unit is of slightly later plastic.


Pen 2845-R  Parker Vacumatic 2nd Generation Major 1939 $340 SOLD
STAR CLIP with appropriate barrel date code for this "not so common"  variant.
Burgundy Pearl

Overall Grade:  ExtraFine
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity: Mild. barrel has been personalized
Point:   FIne Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8" 13.6cm
PRICE: $340 
COMMENTS:  Major saw greater evolution than any other Vacumatic model. Counting length, clip, jewel, section, etc, I likely can identify 9 key variants done during the 1937-1948 USA run. The 1939 Major is as long as the Slender Maxima model (causing no small confusion to many collectors). The Star Clip is believed to have been Parker's first attempt at a warranty/life-time symbol (a la Sheaffer's white dot), rapidly replaced by the Blue Diamond clip. Star Clip is found on first quarter 1939 high line models, and appears to have been "blown out" later with leftover clips used on economy line pens in later 1939.   This one is a clean burgundy Major. Razor imprint. Nice color.   I note the pen is personalized with a script name (small thin letters. Not intrusive)  on side opposite the barrel imprint. Cap trim quite clean. Some brassing to bottom tassie.  Matching early "9" date code on clean two tone nib.

Pen 2845 Parker Vacumatic Major Injector pencil 1939. Early 1939  $105 SOLD
Burgundy Pearl

Overall Grade:  Fine
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NA
Threads:  perfect clarity: NA
Point:   NA Imprint:  VG Size: 5 1/8" 13.0cm
PRICE: $105
COMMENTS:  Uncommon Vac Pencil likely produced just a couple months. Price discounted for light imprint and couple noticeable marks to the plastic. This variant is a correct match to Star Clip Major pen. So....  take this with the Star Clip pen and figure a $25 discount on the pencil.

Pen 2854 Parker Vacumatic 1st Gen Standard. $345 SOLD
Burgundy Pearl Celluloid. 

Overall Grade:  Exc
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity: Minimal
Point:  Fine Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 13.0cm
PRICE: $345
COMMENTS:   I'm fond of first generation pens, as the chunkier-vs-later contour yields a larger look and feel (objectively larger gripping section) than later similar niche pens. Early high line Vacs pack the "luxury" features which add charm to the series:  two tone nib, striped end jewels and gripping section, and triple cap-band.

Pen 2868  Parker Vacumatic 1st Gen Standard Pencil.  1938 $90 SOLD
1936 Burgundy Pearl Celluloid. 

Overall Grade:  Exc
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NA
Threads:  perfect clarity: Minimal
Point:   NA Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 13.0cm
PRICE: $90
COMMENTS:  I'm fond of first generation pens, as the chunkier-vs-later contour yields a larger look and feel (objectively larger gripping section) than later similar niche pens. Early high line Vacs pack the "luxury" features which add charm to the series:  two tone nib, striped end jewels and gripping section, and triple cap-band. This pencil matches first generation Standard pens to make set.  Date code on barrel indicating late  1938 production. This pencil also likely makes a kosher match for the "Streamlined" Standard 2nd Gen pen.  If ordered along with pen 2867 to make a set, take $25 discount.

Pen 2841-R  Parker Vacumatic 1st Generation Slender . $155 SOLD
 Burgundy  Pearl Celluloid. 

Overall Grade:  Fine
Metal: Exc Color: Extrafine CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: VG
Threads:  Fine clarity: Minimal
Point:   Fine Imprint:  Exc Size: 4 5/8" 11.7 cm
PRICE: $155
COMMENTS:  I'm fond of first generation pens, as the chunkier-vs-later contour yields a larger look and feel (objectively larger gripping section) than later similar niche pens. Burgundy is considered a "better' color. Early high line Vacs pack the "luxury" features which add charm to the series:  two tone nib, striped end jewels and gripping section, and triple cap-band.  Writes a smooth fine line.  Clean metal. Ambering to barrel though color still respectable. Nib has a thin nick across the arrow shaft.

Pen 2849 Parker Vacumatic 1st Gen Standard. $275  SOLD
Emerald Pearl Celluloid. 

Overall Grade:  Exc
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity: Minimal
Point:    Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 13.0cm
PRICE: $275
COMMENTS:  I'm fond of first generation pens, as the chunkier-vs-later contour yields a larger look and feel (objectively larger gripping section) than later similar niche pens.  Early high line Vacs pack the "luxury" features which add charm to the series:  two tone nib, striped end jewels and gripping section, and triple cap-band.

Pen 2852 Parker Vacumatic 1st Generation Standard. $75 Withdrawn for now
Emerald Pearl Pencil

Overall Grade:  Exc
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity: Minimal
Point:    Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 13.0cm
PRICE: $75
COMMENTS:  I'm fond of first generation pens, as the chunkier-vs-later contour yields a larger look and feel (objetively larger gripping section) than later similar niche pens. Early high line Vacs pack the "luxury" features which add charm to the series:  two tone nib, striped end jewels and gripping section, and triple cap-band.   This pencil matches  the Standard first generation pen, takes the more plump (1.1mm) early lead, has a simple feather clip, and packs a striped matching jewel.

Pen 2850-J   Parker Vacumatic 1st Gen Standard. 1936  $275 SOLD
 Golden Pearl Celluloid. 

Overall Grade:  Exc
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity: Exc Amber
Point:   Fine-med Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 13.0cm
PRICE: $275
COMMENTS:  I'm fond of first generation pens, as the chunkier-vs-later contour yields a larger look and feel (objectively larger gripping section) than later similar niche pens. This one is a clean Golden Pearl.  Early high line Vacs pack the "luxury" features which add charm to the series:  two tone nib, striped end jewels and gripping section, and triple cap-band.  Very clean pen with excellent color, trim, imprint. Nib has only light two-tone effect remaining. Particularly smooth fine-medium point.  

Pen 2869-M  Parker Vacumatic 3rd Generation Major   $165 SOLD
Azure Blue Celluloid

Overall Grade:  Exc
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Extra Fine
Threads:  perfect clarity: Minimal
Point: F Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 13cm
PRICE: $165 
COMMENTS:  Third Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost. Azure Blue is the pen with greatest collector cachet from the regular issue USA 3rd Gen run, though the cachet spread is not so great in this late era.

Pen 2870-M  Parker Vacumatic 3rd Generation Major 1944   $165
Emerald Pearl Celluloid

Overall Grade:  Exc
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Extra Fine
Threads:  perfect clarity: SUPERB
Point Fine Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 13cm
PRICE: $165 
COMMENTS:  Third Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost. Emerald Pearl is considered a "better" color , though the cachet spread is not so great in this late era.  This one has superb barrel transparency, poorly shown in the photo.

Pen 2871-M Parker Vacumatic 3rd Generation Major   $165 SOLD
Emerald Pearl  Celluloid

Overall Grade:  Extra Fine
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Extra Fine
Threads:  perfect clarity: Minimal
Point: Fine Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 13cm
PRICE: $165 
COMMENTS:  Third Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost. Emerald Pearl is considered a "better" color , though the cachet spread is not so great in this late era.

Pen 2338 Parker Vacumatic Slender Junior 1st Generation  $150  SOLD
Marbled Emerald Pearl. 1946

Overall Grade:  Extra-Fine
Metal: Extra-Fine Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: perfect clarity:  Ezc
Point: Fine Smooth wet. Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 5/8" 12.2cm
PRICE: $150 
COMMENTS:  A clean example of an early lock-down-filler Vac done in non-striped celluloid. Nice yellow transparency. Smooth wet writing nib. Some brassing only on bottom tassie.

Pen 2635  Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima $525 SOLD
 Golden Pearl Celluloid 1940

Overall Grade:  Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: Exc clarity: Modest
Point: F-M Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8" 13.6 cm
PRICE: $525 SOLD
COMMENTSThe Big Vac from the 2nd Generation of Vacs. 

Pen 2586 Parker Vacumatic 1st Gen Standard. $275 SOLD
1946 Golden Pearl Celluloid. 

Overall Grade:  Exc
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity: Minimal
Point:   Med Flex+ Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 13.0cm
PRICE: $275
COMMENTS:  I'm fond of first generation pens, as the chunkier-vs-later contour yields a larger look and feel (objetively larger gripping section) than later similar niche pens. This one is a clean Golden Pearl. The nib is a much later nib, indeed with  post-send-of-series 1953-date. I left it in the pen rather than swapping it out for one of my spare two tone 1930's nibs, as it packs a high flex medium point. A gem writer.

Pen 2561R Parker Vacumatic Standard 1st Generation 1937  $295  SOLD
Jet Black Celluloid. MONSTER NIB ALERT-  high flex nib

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: NM Color:  NA CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc+
Threads: Exc clarity:  modest red
Point: F-B+ high flex 2-tone Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9 cm
PRICE: $295
COMMENTS: A classic first generation pen, my favorite Vac era, at least this week. The nib is 1 in 100, a USA-made two tone Vac nib with remarkable flexibility. Very clean pen. Trim great save for bottom tassie only with bit of edge brassing. Clean plastic and near mint nib. Gem writer.

Pen 2562R Parker Vacumatic Junior 1st Gen Shadow Wave $275 SOLD
 Golden Pearl Celluoid. Actually, somewhat uncommon variant.

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Extra Fine Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
threads:  Perfect clarity: Moderate Amber
Point: Fine Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 7/8" 12.5cm
PRICE: $275
COMMENTS: Shadow Wave first appeared in the 1938 catalogue, though i've seen couple dated end of 1947. By mid 1938 the Wave switched to 2nd Generation styling, resulting in just a 6 month or so run for the 1st Generation Wave. Often found worn with brassing to the two thin cap-bands. This one is very clean with no brassing, nice color and excellent imprint.

Pen 2539 Parker Vacumatic 2nd Generation Major 1941  $290 SOLD
Emerald Celluloid. Double Jewel. Nearmint Condition.

Overall Grade: nearmint
Metal: Superb Color: Superb CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: nearmint
Threads perfect clarity: Nearmint
Point:   F-M. TwoTone Imprint:  NM Size: 5 3/8" 13.6cm
PRICE: $290 SOLD
COMMENTS:  An all-correct 1941 Double Jewel 2nd Gen pen in superb condition. Striped top jewel, Two tone nib with near perfect platinum mask, clean trip, superb barrel clarity underrepresented in the photo and correct bottom "pseudojewel". An Eye Popper

Pen 2533 Parker Vacumatic 3rd Generation Major 1944 $165 SOLD
 Azure Blue  Celluloid.  

Overall Grade:  Exc
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity: Extra Fine
Point: F-M  Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 13 cm PRICE: $165
COMMENTS:  Third Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost. Smooth wet writer.Azure Blue is the pen with greatest collector cachet from the regular issue USA 3rd Gen run. Nice fine-medium nib with slightest hint of flex lends a responsive feel. Barrel has greater clarity than the image suggests. Rich color

Pen 2534 Parker Vacumatic 3rd Generation Major 1945 $180 SOLD
 Emerald Pearl Celluloid.   Vacsoterica Alert

Overall Grade:  Exc+
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  Perfect clarity: Nearmint
Point: XF-F Imprint:  Exc Size5 1/8" 13 cm PRICE: $180 
COMMENTSThird Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost.  Overall a sweet pen nearly near mint in condition with superb barrel clarity, underrepresented by the photo. Also,  a 1945 pen, it features seamed celluloid in this case cap only, a feature found on some 1945 pens (either cap, barrel, or both).  Very fine point, nice note taker.

Pen 2538 Parker Vacumatic 3rd Generation Major 1946  $195 SOLD
 Emerald  Pearl Celluloid.

Overall Grade: Nearmint
Metal: Exc Color:  Superb CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM
Threads:  Exc clarity: Superb
Point: Fine-Med Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9 cm
PRICE: $195 
COMMENTS Third Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost.  This one is superb, nearmint still with price sticker residue net to the clip. Color and clarity are top notch.

Pen 2541 Parker Vacumatic Major 1952  $175 SOLD
Canadian Production. The last of the Vacs, matey. Vacsoterica alert

Overall Grade:  Exc+
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  Exc clarity:  Superb
Point: F-M SemiFlex Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9 cm
PRICE: $175 SOLD
COMMENTS:  Third Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost.  USA ceased Vac production in 1948. Canada ran through 1953. The non blue diamond clip is correct as the BD phased out 1948. This one has great clarity and color, and has much better imprint than typically found on the late Canadian pens. Nice responsive nib

Pen 2544  Parker Vacumatic 3rd Generation Major 1946  $165  SOLD
 Azure Blue Celluloid.
Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads perfect clarity:    Exc
Point: XF- Fine Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 13cm
PRICE: $165
COMMENTS:   Third Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost. Azure Blue is the pen with greatest collector cachet from the regular issue USA 3rd Gen run. Clean pen with very nice barrel clarity. Quite fine point good for note scribble.

Pen 2578 Parker Vacumatic Major 1945   $190 SOLD
Azure Blue Celluloid. Uncatalogued "Stacked Coin " Cap-band

Overall Grade:  Exc
Metal: ExtraFine Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
threads  Exc clarity: Modest ruby
Point: Medium Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 13 cm
PRICE: $190
COMMENTS:   Third Generation Vacumatic Major and Junior are popular entry-to-series pens, providing good size at reasonable cost. Azure Blue is the pen with greatest collector cachet from the regular issue USA 3rd Gen run. This one packs a nice medium nib. The stacked coin capband is a relatively uncommon variant band.

Pen 2434 Parker Vacumatic Oversized Pencil $195  SOLD
Black Celluloid. 1935

Overall Grade: XF
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NA
Threads perfect clarity:    NA
Point:  NA Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8" 13.5cm
PRICE: $195
COMMENTS:  Early Triple-band OS Vacs are well less common than later Senior Max.   Pencils are less common than pens.   There ya go.  This one is a ncie big pencil, to match any of the three clarity patterns found in the pen.  Date code indicates 1935 production.  Deep imprint, clean trim. Couple scratches on plastic. Has proper removable lead cartridge, no longer with eraser though.

Pen 2468R Parker Vacumatic Major 3rd Gen   $115 SOLD
Black Celluloid. 1944

Overall Grade:  Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  Exc clarity: Fine
Point: F-M Firm Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9 cm
PRICE: $115
COMMENTS:  Excellent example of a third generation Vac Major, a popular entry-to-series model, as it provides decent size pen at reasonable price. This one is clean, with smooth Fine-Medium typical Vac nib. Barrel clarity a bit better than is suggested by the photo.

Pen 2482R Parker Vacumatic. 3rd Gen "Long" Major 1942 $215 SOLD
 A "One-Year"-ish variant carryover from 2nd Generation

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  bit subdued CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 2-tone
Threads:  Exc clarity: Near Mint
Point:F-M Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8" 13.6 cm
PRICE: $215
COMMENTSWhilst the Single Jewel era ran 1942-1948, 1942 Majors are bit different from later pens, as they maintain the long rod-stock from the last few years of the 2nd Generation, with two tone nib found at least through mid year.  Barrel clarity is superb (poorly shown in photo)

Pen 2313 Parker Vacumatic 3r Generation  Major $160 SOLD
Azure Blue Celluloid.

Overall Grade:  User Grade
Metal: Exc Color:  Extra Fine CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Nearmint
Threads:  perfect clarity:  modest ruby
Point:   Fine Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9cm
PRICE: $160 
COMMENTS:  Classic entry-to-the-series pen, providing good size at reasonable cost. Azure Blue is a high cachet color. Nice writer

Pen 2138 Parker Vacumatic Junior  1946  $225 SOLD
Mint* pen. Golden Pearl Celluloid. 3rd Generation

Overall Grade: Mint*
Metal: Perfect Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Mint
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Perfect
Point:   Medium Imprint:  Mint Size 5 1/8" 12.8cm PRICE: $225 
COMMENTS:  The Vacumatic  Junior is the standard sized non-lifetime-guaranteed version of the Major. This one is part of the Mint pre-New-Old-Stock hoard i'd picked up some years ago, all without nibs and feeds. Slowly, i've acquired nearmint (mint in some cases) nibs and clean feeds, and shuffled the pens over to Ron Zorn to make whole. I personally scrubbed, ultrasounded and flushed the feeds removing all traces of ink).   This one DOES have a fresh sac and is fully usable, but may not be returned if inked, as  the pen itself has never met ink.

Pen 2139 Parker Vacumatic Junior  1946  $225 SOLD
Mint* pen. Emerald Pearl Celluloid. 3rd Generation

Overall GradeMint* Metal: Perfect Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM open gold
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Perfect
Point:   Fine Imprint:  Mint Size: 5 1/8" 12.8cm PRICE: $225 
COMMENTS:  The Vacumatic  Junior is the standard sized non-lifetime-guaranteed version of the Major. This one is part of the Mint pre-New-Old-Stock hoard i'd picked up some years ago, all without nibs and feeds. Slowly, i've acquired nearmint (mint in some cases) nibs and clean feeds, and shuffled the pens over to Ron Zorn to make whole. I personally scrubbed, ultrasounded and flushed the feeds removing all traces of ink).   This one DOES have a fresh sac and is fully usable, but may not be returned if inked, as  the pen itself has never met ink.

Pen 2022 Parker Vacumatic Mottled Junior. Larger Size   $345   SOLD
Monster Transparency Alert

Overall Grade: Nearmint
Metal: nearmint Color:  Superb CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Superb Plastic: Perfect
Point:  Fine Imprint:  Perfect Size: 5 7/8"
PRICE: $345 
COMMENTS:  About the most transparent mottled i've had up on the website (yah, i admit i do own a stickered minty one at home that gives this run for money). Clarity if anything is underrepresented in the pic. This one pops. The white trim- often a weak point- glows. Shows why so many silver pearls are out there. They look nice when they are clean :-)

Pen 1763 Parker Vacumatic 1st Generation Junior
Mottled Silver Celluloid. Excellent clarity. Larger Size Junior   $345 SOLD

Overall Grade: NM
Metal: NM Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM
Threads:  perfect clarity:    NM
Point:   Medium Imprint:  NM Size: 4 5/6"
PRICE: $345  SOLD
COMMENTSToday often bedeviled by heavy ambering and wear to that unpolishable white trim, the collector does not have an easy job finding crisp early mottled Vacumatic Juniors.  But, when found, they make a for pleasant acquisitions.  This one is a gem in all respects.

Pen 1787 Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation 
Emerald Pearl Celluloid   $150 SOLD

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 
Threads:  perfect clarity:    minimal
Point: Smooth Fine-Med Imprint:  Exc Size: 5"
PRICE: $150 
COMMENTS:  Third generation Vacumatics are typical "First Vacumatic" for most collectors due to their availabilty and due to their ability to provide a nice sized pen for reasonable cost. The two standard sized 3rd Gen pens are Major and Junior, identical pens save for trim, subtle difference to shape of nib, original price, and status of original Parker warranty.

A nice-writing smooth fine-medium pen, this one has sound color and trim, with limited transparency and excellent imprint

Pen 1734 Parker Vacumatic standard sized Junior. 3rd Generation  $285 SOLD
Absolutely Mint, with Price Sticker.

Overall Grade: Mint
Metal: Perfect Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Mint Threads:  perfect clarity:    Mint
Point:  Fine
Imprint:  perfect Size: 5 1/8"
PRICE: $285
COMMENTSThird generation Vacumatics are typical "First Vacumatic" for most collectors due to their availabilty and due to their ability to provide a nice sized pen for reasonable cost. The two standard sized 3rd Gen pens are Major and Junior, identical pens save for trim, subtle difference to shape of nib, original price, and status of original Parker warranty.  Despite easy access to this sort of pen, it is not at all easy to find true mint examples.

This one pops, showing why silver pearl celluloid seems so prevalent today. While most found today are faded and dingy, when they were fresh they were eye catchers.  This one is... mint. It has original sac and fills with water, but if you plan to use regularly, placement of a new sac is recommended. I can have this done for extra $25. Pen may not be returned if inked or dipped. Water testing is fine.

Pen 2444R Parker Vacumatic Standard. 3rd Generation 1946  $250 SOLD
An uncatalogued and uncommon variant. Vacsoterica Alert

Overall Grade:  Extrafine
Metal: Excellent Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  Exc clarity:  Exc
Point:  Fine-Med Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9 cm
PRICE: $250
COMMENTS:  A Vac Anomaly- uncatalogued but well recognized by those who know, and... not amenable to assembly from mixed parts. This is a late Streamlined Standard, featuring the triple cap-band last catalogued for first generation pens in 1938, but whose cap (shape, threads, length) is that of the third generation. Amongst the thousands of Vacs i've handled, i've seen perhaps 20 total of this type. Most are black or silver pearl, though I have seen one or two Emerald pens along the way.  The barrel and clip are that of typical non-lifetime Vac from this era. An oddity for those who covet Vacs well away from the mainstream.  Metal, imprint, clarity all superb.  Some light marks to the plastic noted. Typical fine-medium Vac nib.

Pen 2426R Parker Vacumatic 3rd Generation Major Set-in-Box 1943
Emerald Pearl Celluloid (early variant color). Pen has Price Sticker  $235 SOLD

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Thread: perfect clarity:  ExtraFine
Point:  Full Medium Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 13cm
PRICE: $235 
COMMENTSThe 3rd Generation Vac Major and Vac Junior are popular first Vacs for collectors, packing classic look, decent size, and reasonable price. This set packs a few charming features.  With a first quarter 1943 date code, it was manufactured just at the switch time for Emerald Pearl from  the earlier bluish green to later olive green. The set has the earlier color. The WW-II era box is quite clean. After shooting the pic, i found buried under the tray the pen's original price sticker, which i can reattach to pen for you or include free floating. A nice medium smooth point and fresh restoration don't hurt. 

Pen 2475R Parker Vacumatic Major 2nd Generation   $235 SOLD
Double Jewel. Jet Black. Very Clean.

Overall Grade:Exc+
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads perfect clarity:   Exc+
Point: Fine-Med Imprint:  Exc Size 5 3/8"  13.6cm
PRICE: $235
COMMENTS: A superb example of the longer (1939-1941) 2nd Generation (1937-1941) Major. Very crisp in all respects. Clarity actually better than the already impressive amount captured in the picture. This one might be cleaner than the one in my personal collection, but that one is pretty clean too, so i didn't sweat letting this one go.

Pen 2461R  Parker Vacumatic  Standard $285 SOLD
 1st Generation. Burgundy Pearl Celluloid. 1935

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity: none left
Point: Medium Semi-Flex Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9cm
PRICE: $285 
COMMENTS:  NiceFirst Generation Vac with lockdown filler, triple cap-bands, all the luxury features (striped section and end jewels, two tone nib). Far less common than the later Major and hard to find clean.  This one has nice color and imprint- including the well recognized "sideways 45" imprint found on 4th quarter 1935 pens. Nib is sweet. Imperfections?  Not transparent. Slight  barrel concavity just where one's index finger presumably pushed against the pen for years and years. 

Pen 2481R Parker Vacumatic standard-size Junior  $195 SOLD
2nd Generation. Double Jewel. Clean Silver Pearl

Overall Grade:  Exc+
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  Exc clarity:  
Point:  Fine Imprint: Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9 cm
PRICE: $195 
COMMENTS:  Clean Silver Pearl Double Jewel Junior.  1939.  has 1942+ plastic plunger. Those who've read my online postings know my "rant" about Silver Pearl... you know... "Silver Pearl tends to underprice other colors because it tends to be more common than other colors, because  the pale plastic tends to show more brassing than other colors and because the white metal trim, once worn, does not polish as well as gold-filled trim.  However, when one finds one in crisp shape with good color and clean trim, it is apparent they are prevalent because they were really quite sharp at time of release and likely sold well back in the day. Really crisp Silver Pearl can outprice other colors today".  
 This one is really crisp.

Pen 2350R Parker Vacumatic 1st Generation Standard Set $265 SOLD
Golden Pearl Celluloid

Overall Grade:  Exc+
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: ExtrFine
Threads perfect clarity:  Exc
Point:  Fine  Imprint: nearmint Size: 5 1/8" 13.cm
PRICE: $265 
COMMENTS:  Nice First Generation Vac with lockdown filler, triple cap-bands, all the luxury features (striped section and end jewels, two tone nib). Far less common than the later Major and hard to find clean. Excellent, mildly ambered barrel transparency. Very clean trim. Pencil also is clean and has sharp imprint. Lead cartridge is misisng eraser. Pen date codes early 1938, pencil late 1936.  Nib is clean but has about 1/2 the two-tone effect still in play.

Pen 2358M Parker Vacumatic Standard. 1st Generation  $245 SOLD
Golden Pearl Celluloid. Double Broad, Stub, Flex Monster Nib

Overall Grade:  Fine-Xf
Metal: Clip Brassing Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  MInt clarity:  Modest amber
PointMONSTER NIB  Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9 cm
PRICE: $245 
COMMENTS:  Nice First Generation Vac with lockdown filler, triple cap-bands, all the luxury features (striped section and end jewels, two tone nib). Far less common than the later Major and hard to find clean. The "Trade off" on this one. The clip has obvious brassing pretty much from the top of the feathers up to the ring. But....  Killer nib. A monotone "one in a hundred"  early Vac Nib with big honkin' Stub point, with some flex t' boot.  The base line is double broad or so with thin cross strokes from the stub effect. A little pressure and the down strokes widen further. 

Pen 2369M Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Gen  $150
Emerald Pearl Celluloid 1946

Overall Grade:  ExtraFine
Metal: ExtraFine Color:  exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: perfect clarity:   none left 
Point: Fine Imprint:  Fine Size: 5 1/8" 12.9cm
PRICE: $150
COMMENTS:  Third generation Vacumatics are typical "First Vacumatic" for most collectors due to their availabilty and due to their ability to provide a nice size pen for reasonable cost. The two standard sized 3rd Gen pens are Major and Junior, identical pens save for trim, subtle difference to shape of nib, original price, and status of original Parker warranty. This one has nice color, no clarity remaining, imprint solid save for gone by "made in USA", light trim wear.

Pen 2375  Parker Vacumatic Standard 1st Generation  $240 SOLD
Golden Pearl Celluloid. "Deluxe" features. Lockdown Filler

Overall Grade:  ExtrFine
Metal: ExtraFine Color:  Extra Fine CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: ExtrFine
Threads:  perfect clarity:  Slight Red
Point: Lush Medium  Imprint:  Exc+ Size:5 1/8" 12.9cm
PRICE: $240 
COMMENTS:  Nice  First Generation Vac with lockdown filler, triple cap-bands, all the luxury features (striped section and end jewels, two tone nib). Far less common than the later Major and hard to find clean. This one has bit of brassing to capbands and edge of bottom tassie. Nib has partial two tone effect remaining.  The  nib is the gift. Very smooth medium line. My sort of writer, whatever that means.

Pen 2399R Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation  $140 SOLD
Emerald Pearl Celluloid 1946

Overall Grade:  Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Mild
Point:   F-M Imprint:  NM Size: 5 1/8" 12.9cm
PRICE: $140 
COMMENTS:  Third generation Vacumatics are typical "First Vacumatic" for most collectors due to their availabilty and due to their ability to provide a nice size pen for reasonable cost. The two standard sized 3rd Gen pens are Major and Junior, identical pens save for trim, subtle difference to shape of nib, original price, and status of original Parker warranty. This one boasts a bonus- a properly dated 1946 two tone nib. Whilst two-tone effect largely ceased to appear in Vacs during 1942, an occasional 1946 crops up.

Pen 2315 Parker Vacumatic 3r Generation  Major $160 SOLD
Azure Blue Celluloid. 1945

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:  none
Point:   Fine . Imprint:  Exc Size5 1/8" 12.9cm PRICE: $160 
COMMENTS:    Classic entry-to-the-series pen, providing good size at reasonable cost. Azure Blue is a high cachet color. 

Pen 2322 Parker Vacumatic 3r Generation  Major $130 SOLD
Azure Blue Celluloid. 1945

Overall Grade: ExtraFine
Metal: Fine Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: exc
Threads:  perfect clarity: Exc Yellow
Point:   Fine Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9cm
PRICE: $130 
COMMENTS:  Classic entry-to-the-series pen, providing good size at reasonable cost. Azure Blue is a high cachet color.   Excellent clarity (more yellow, less red than pic suggests). Couple nicks and specks of brassing to the clip ring. Cap-band is excellent.  The picture shows some tarnish (NOT brassing). I gave pen a light polish since taking pic; now it has nice bright trim like the others

Pen 1920 Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation 1946
Absolutely Mint, with price sticker residue.  $260 SOLD

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Mint Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Mint
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Mint
Point:  Med Imprint:  Perfect Size: 5"
PRICE: $260 
COMMENTSA not uncommon pen in uncommon condition Perfect clarity. Uninked. Still some price sticker residue on cap. May not be returned if inked or dipped. May be water tested Sac appears to function but has not been replaced. Resac can be arranged if desired.

Pen 1747 Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation  1943
Emerald Pearl Celluloid  $150 SOLD

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 2-tone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    VG
Point:  Fine-Med Firm Imprint:  Exc Size: 5"
PRICE: $150 
COMMENTS:  Third generation Vacumatics are typical "First Vacumatic" for most collectors due to their availabilty and due to their ability to provide a nice sized pen for reasonable cost. The two standard sized 3rd Gen pens are Major and Junior, identical pens save for trim, subtle difference to shape of nib, original price, and status of original Parker warranty.

This one is very clean, with "early" style green that leans toward forest green rather than olive green. !943 was about the time the color shifted, so this makes sense.

Pen 1627 Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation
Silver Pearl Set.  $165 SOLD

Overall Grade: Extrafine
Metal: NM Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Mint Threads:  perfect clarity:   

Point:  Fine-Med Imprint:  perfect Size: 5"
PRICE: $165  SOLD
COMMENTSPen grades EF with great color and trim, with decent imprint (slightlly light at top) and with minimal barrel clarity. The pencil grades Near Mint. Pen has a 1945 date code and pencil 1946. Nice set. Typical nice Vac nib writing a fine-med line.

 Pen 1466 Parker Vacumatic Golden Pearl Celluloid
"Jeweler's" style Cap-band. Third size  $265 SOLD
Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Trim: Extra Fine
Color: Excellent
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition:Exc
Threads:  Perfect.  Clarity: Very Good amber clarity
Point: Fine Imprint:   Extra Fine
Size:   0.5" by 5" PRICE: $265
COMMENTS:  Jeweler's Band Vacs are factory original, despite any inferences one might wish to make from the name. Found in four sizes , this is the "third" size, based on the double jewel Vac Junior with same diameter but slightly shorter  rod stock vs the "second" size pen, base on the Vac Major/Slender Max. No name is engraved on the large cartouche.

Pen 1748 Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation 1942
Emerald Pearl Celluloid. "Long" Variant.  $215  SOLD
Medium Flex Nib 

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc
Point:   Medium Flex Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8"
PRICE: $215 
COMMENTSCollecting the well known Vacumatic Major is a non-trivial task.  The model was subject to multiple style tweaks during its 12 year run.  Late 1938-1942 pens are longer than both those which preceded and those which followed. Since 1942 saw the switch to third generation single jewel styling, the first year of the 3rd gen pens (1942) thus show the extra long cap and barrel as a carryover from the second generation.  The color is the earlier sort (forest green vs olive green) as well... no surprise.  A lush medium nib with flex adds a bit of charm, too.

Pen 1898 Parker Vacumatic Major.2nd Generation 1942
Double Jewel "Long" Major  $235  SOLD

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 2-tone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Extra Fine
Point:  Fine-Med Imprint:  Extra Fine Size: 5 3/8"
PRICE: $235 
COMMENTSThe Vacumatic Major was subject to frantic evolution, making it a challenging model to collect. This one dates to around early 1939 (noting slight weakness at right end of imprint and lack of date code on barrel).  All the luxury features: double striped end jewels, striped gripping section and two-tone nib.

Pen 1834 Parker Vacumatic Debutante with "Jeweler's" Style Cap-band
Azure Blue Celluloid. Clean and uncommon  $235 SOLD

Overall Grade: Near Mint
Metal: NM Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM2-tone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Fine amber
Point:  Lush Medium Imprint:  Perfect Size: 4 5/8"
PRICE: $235 
COMMENTS:  I'm fond of the "Jeweler's" cap-band vacs, believed to be factory original and packing extra cap-band for the buck.  Four colors and four sizes for blue diamond models. Blue carries the most cachet. Debs are not so easy to find. I've probably owned or even just been aware of no more than 6 or 7 during the last 9 years of hunting. This one is very clean. A Vac for the collector who wants a pen a bit less common than the usual.

Pen 2305 Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation $165 SOLD
Azure Blue Celluloid 1944

Overall Grade:  User Grade
Metal: Exc Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Nearmint
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc
Point:   Fine. Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.9cm
PRICE: $165 
COMMENTS:  Classic entry-to-the-series pen, providing good size at reasonable cost. Azure Blue is the 3rd Generation color of greatest cachet. 

Pen 2307 Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation $135 SOLD
Azure Blue Celluloid 1944

Overall Grade:  ExtraFine
Metal: ExtraFine Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:  None
Point:   Fine   Imprint:  Exc Size5 1/8" 12.9cm PRICE: $135 
COMMENTS:   Classic entry-to-the-series pen, providing good size at reasonable cost. Azure Blue is the 3rd Generation color of greatest cachet.  Nice wet writer. No brassing  Couple light marks to cap-band and clip ring. Blue Diamond could use a touch up (will do before shipping). 

Pen 2398H Parker Vacumatic 3rd Gen "First Year" "Long" Major   $225  SOLD
 1942. The early style Emerald color, too

Overall Grade: Exrtra Fine
Metal: Extra Fine Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: perfect clarity:    Superb
Point:   Med. Imprint:  NM Size:  5 3/8"  13.6 cm.
PRICE: $225 
COMMENTS:  There is no  model formally named, "Long Major", but the "long" descriptor is added to differentiate late 1938-1942 pens from earlier and later issue which features shorter stock. Only the "First Year" pens from the third generation feature long rod stock.  This 1942 Major also features the "early" green color, that leans more towards blue (sort of a forest green) than the yellow tint (Olive'ish) found for the remainder of the vacumatic run.  The plastic is very clean on this one and the transparency (hidden by the camera tilt in the photo) also is top notch.   I would have pushed for "near mint' on this one save that the cap-band has couple pin marks.  Very pretty pen. Very nice writer. Subtle variant for the dedicated vac-nut. Clean two-tone fine-medium nib.

Pen 2364M  Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation 1944  $145 SOLD
Azure Blue Celluloid.

Overall Grade: ExtraFine
Metal: Exc Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads: perfect clarity: Moderate
Point: XF-Fine Smooth Imprint:  Exc+ Size: 5 1/2" 13.6cm
PRICE$145
COMMENTS:   Third generation Vacumatics are typical "First Vacumatic" for most collectors due to their availabilty and due to their ability to provide a nice size pen for reasonable cost. The two standard sized 3rd Gen pens are Major and Junior, identical pens save for trim, subtle difference to shape of nib, original price, and status of original Parker warranty.  Azure Blue is the color of greatest cachet from this era. This pen has a slightly darker-than-average rich blue hue. Couple light marks here n' there. Moderate barrel clarity. Smooth point, particularly for such a fine poin.

Pen 2356M Parker Vacumatic 2nd Generation "Long" Major"  1940 $165 SOLD
Azure Blue Double Jewel

Overall Grade:  Fine
Metal: NM Color:  Extra Fine CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Fine
Threads perfect clarity: Extra Fine personalized "KHA HALL"
Point:   Fine-Med Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8" 13.6cm
PRICE: $165 
COMMENTS:  There is no  model formally named, "Long Major", but the "long" descriptor is added to differentiate late 1938-1942 pens from earlier and later issue which features shorter stock.  This pen often is wrongly labelled "Slender Maxima", which is a subtly different pen. Azure Blue was intro'd in 1940, making it the least common color amongst the double jewel Majors.   This one has bit of brassing to the trim on cap band edge, clip arrow and tassie edge. One pin mark to tassie edge, and has a name neatly heat stamped in barrel.  A nice smooth writing monotone bac "arrow" nib, which is later issue than the pen.  Priced nearly half off a "full excellent" pen. Will make a nice user, one far less common than the 3rd Generation single jewel pens i offer more often. 

Pen 2416  Parker Vacumatic Slender 1st Gen $225 SOLD
1937 Lockdown Filler. Early Style Pen. Burgundy Celluloid. Superb.

Overall Grade:  NM
Metal: NM Color: Superb CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM
Threads:  perfect clarity:  Superb
Point: F-M Imprint:  SHARP Size: 4 3/4 " 12cm
PRICE: $225
COMMENTS:  Nice First Generation Vac with lockdown filler, triple cap-bands, all the luxury features (striped section and end jewels, two tone nib). Far less common than the later Debutante and hard to find clean. This one... pops. Bright clean color,  great barrel clarity (poorly shown in the pic), lustrous two tone nib.

Pen 2065 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima Emerald Pearl  $635 SOLD

Overall Grade: Excellent
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent
Threads:  perfect clarity: Mild Ruby
Point:  Fine-Med Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8"
PRICE: $635 
COMMENTS:  A solid, all-correct 2nd Generation Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima. With the late 1939 date code, the pen packs striped top jewel, two tone nib, black gripping section and striped bottom jewel. Trim is very clean with just couple specks of brass to the blind-cap ring (tassie).  Nice writer. 

Pen 2250R Parker Vacumatic Junior. 1st Generation $335 SOLD
Burgundy Shadow Wave. 1938

Overall Grade:  Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Excellent
Point:   F-M firm Imprint:  Exc Size: 4  7/8"  12.4cm
PRICE: $335  SOLD
COMMENTS:  Shadow-Wave is a pattern, not a model. It appears on various econo-line models from late 1937 probably through 1943. This one is an all-correct Vacumatic Junior from 1938, produced as a lock-down-fill First Generation pen just six months or so.  Superb color and clarity

Pen 2301 Parker Vacumatic Standard Pen/Slender Pencil  $285 SOLD
Golden Pearl Celluloid. Flexy Nib!  1936

Overall Grade:  Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Nearmint
Threads:  perfect clarity:  moderate ruby
Point:   Fine Flex. Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/4" 13.2cm
PRICE: $285 
COMMENTS:   Clean First Generation Vac with lockdown filler, triple cap-bands, all the luxury features (striped section and end jewels, two tone nib). Far less common than the later Major and hard to find clean. This One has an uncommonly flexy nib. Most Vac nibs are nails. I paired it up with a Slender pencils, which is same girth as Standard but is a smidge shorter.

Pen 2302  Parker Vacumatic Standard 1st Generation. $360 SOLD
Silver Pearl Celluloid. Pen in superb condition.

Overall Grade:  Nearmint
Metal: NM Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Nearmint
Threads:  perfect clarity:  Superb
Point:   Fine semi-flex. Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/4" 13.2cm
PRICE: $360 SOLD 
COMMENTSClean First Generation Vac with lockdown filler, triple cap-bands, all the luxury features (striped section and end jewels, two tone nib). Far less common than the later Major and hard to find clean. Pen nearmint with glorious clarity, perfect color and clean trim.  Pecnil same but for some wear to the cone.

Pen 2306 Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation  $115  SOLD
Silver Pearl Celluloid

Overall Grade:  Fine
Metal: ExtraFine Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Ex
Threads:  perfect clarity: none
Point: Fine. Wet writer Imprint:  Fine Size5 1/8" 12.9cm PRICE: $115 
COMMENTS:  Classic entry-to-the-series pen, providing good size at reasonable cost. Nice writer. Some brassing lower edge of cap-band.

Pen 2309 Parker Vacumatic 3r Generation  Major $175 SOLD
Azure Blue Celluloid. 1945. Two Tone Nib.

Overall Grade: Exc+
Metal: Exc Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc+
Threads:  perfect clarity:  Exc+
Point:   Fine-Med 2-Tone Imprint:  Exc Size5 1/8" 12.9cm PRICE: $175 SOLD
COMMENTS:  Classic entry-to-the-series pen, providing good size at reasonable cost. Azure Blue is the 3rd Generation color of greatest cachet.  Nice wet writer. This one pops. A 1945 pen with 1946 nib, the nib is true two tone (these crop up on 1946 nibs, and continue to cause discussion as to why). Color and clarity are superb. Very clean pen.

Pen 2311  Parker Vacumatic 3r Generation  Major $145 SOLD
Emerald Pearl Celluloid 

Overall Grade:  Extra Fine
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc
Point:   Fine . Imprint:  Exc Size5 1/8" 12.9cms PRICE: $145 
COMMENTS:  Classic entry-to-the-series pen, providing good size at reasonable cost. Clean Emerald  pen. 

Pen 1890 Parker Vacumatic Major. 2nd Generation Double Jewel. 1938
Burgundy Pearl Celluloid  $340

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 2-tone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Fine
Point:  Fine-Med Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8"
PRICE: $340 
COMMENTSIn Major, Burgundy is the color of greatest cachet, though blue is more scarce. This one pops and features a very nice Ron Zorn restoration (as do many pens on this website).  All correct for last quarter of 1939, it packs a striped top jewel, bullseye bottom pseudo-jewel, black gripping section and two tone nib with very well preserved platinum mask.
 
Pen 1745 Parker Vacumatic Junior. A Standard Size Vac  1952
Azure Blue Celluloid. 3d Generation. "Late" Canadian $135 SOLD

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Fine
Point:  Extra Fine Imprint:  Exc Size: 5"
PRICE: $135 SOLD
COMMENTS:  Third generation Vacumatics are typical "First Vacumatic" for most collectors due to their availabilty and due to their ability to provide a nice sized pen for reasonable cost. The two standard sized 3rd Gen pens are Major and Junior, identical pens save for trim, subtle difference to shape of nib, original price, and status of original Parker warranty. Vac production stopped in 1948 in the USA but continued on in Canada through 1953.  This one has nice color and clean trim.


Pen 1647 Parker Vacumatic Debutante 2nd Generation 1940  $180
WIth quite uncommon wide smooth cap-band

Overall Grade: VG
Trim: Marked cap-band wear
Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  perfect clarity: Not really
later plastic filler unit
Point:  Extra Fine
Imprint:  perfect Size: 4 3/4"
PRICE: $180 
COMMENTSThe smooth-band 2nd gen vacs so far i've seen just in Debutante and Major size, with Major size being more scarce- in fact the only Major i own or have handled with the smooth band is silver pearl, too.  The debs at least appear to follow the pattern set by the so-called "Jeweler's Cap-band" pens and by the later 3rd Generation Stacked-Coin cap-band pens, appearing only in black, silver pearl, golden pearl, and azure blue pearl. In the 6 years i've hunted these only recently did i complete my own 4 pen collection of Debutantes.

This one at risk of minimizing flaw- would grade near excellent, but the capband alone has brassing, heavy wear and speckling of plating covering about the whole band one way or the other. I'm tempted (rare for me) to have it plated.  A funky and somewhat scarce pen.

Pen 1468 Parker Vacumatic Major. 2nd Generation
Emerald Pearl Celluloid 1945 $245
Overall Grade: Excellent Trim:  Exc Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent.  Threads:  Perfect  Clarity:  modest amber
Point: Medium Imprint:   Excellent Size:  0.5" by 5" PRICE: $245
COMMENTS

Pen 2161 Parker Vacumatic 3rd Generation Major. "Stacked Coin Cap-Band"  1945  $265 SOLD
Monster NIb alert- Double Broad Stub
Vacsoterica alert- Unusual trim and plastic features. 

Overall Grade: Fine
Metal: Fine Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:    NA
Point:   Double Broad Stub Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 13.0cm
PRICE: $265 SOLD
COMMENTS:  The 3rd Generation Major (and Junior)  are excellent choices for  entry-to-Vacdom,  providing relatively affordable standard-sized pen.  I wish to avoid long article in this advert, but this one has couple funky features.  

First, it has the  "Stacked Coin" cap-band seen on perhaps 1 in 50 pens from this era.  I note that most models to feature this band pack 1942-1943 date codes. It has long been my speculation (having found a bunch) that when found with the usual circumferential stripes, this cap-band was used as late as 1945-6. However, since caps can swap on barrels, just finding said cap on a 1945 barrel was not strong evidence. Which brings us to the second point.
  
Second,  the cap features the uncommon "seamed" plastic which so far i've only seen on pens with 1945-6 barrel codes.  Finding this cap-band ont his sort of plastic makes strong argument that indeed for the Major and Debutante (unlike the Shadow-wave and Vacu-fold pens), this cap-band did make to this late date.  Of note, this is the first pen i've owned to combine the Stacked Coin cap-band and the seamed plastic.

Third. Oh yeah, Double broad stub semi flex killer nib. Maybe i should just keep this one after all.

Pen grades fine having couple ticks on the cap-band and couple fine scratches on plastic.

Pen 2185 Parker Vacuum-Filler  $550 SOLD
Burgundy Pearl Celluloid. Largest Size Vacuum-Filer

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Exc Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Nearmint
Threads:  perfect clarity:    NA
Point:   Fine Flex. Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/4" 13.2cm
PRICE: $550  SOLD
COMMENTS:  : In 1932-mid 1933, before introducing the Vacumatic name, Parker called it's vac-family pens, Vacuum-Filler. These pre-vacs are uncommon.  This one is the longest of the three sizes, all of which have the same diameter. The other two sizes have double cap-bands. This size has tripele.  It is important for collectors to avoid frankenpens, usually a mix of middle-size cap and standard barrel, or vice-versa.   This one is all-there with early style clip, early style nib and early style (chromed) pump. Couple light marks in plastic near back of pen and on cap. Imprint is much more sharp tha average.  A neat pen for the "advancing" collector of the Vacumatic.

Pen 2162 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima  $575
Uncommon so-called  Jeweler's Style Cap-band
An Excellent El Zorno restoration

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: 1 ding bottom tassie Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc
Point:   F-M Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8" 13.6cm
PRICE: $575 
COMMENTS:  A special Vac.  The so-called Jeweler's cap-band Vacs are relatively uncommon variants produced from 1939-1941. Factory original, the key finding is an extra-wide lined capband. 16 possible blue-diamond variants can be found- 4 sizes in 4 colors. Only in Nov 2006 did i finally complete this mini-collection, having tracked down the black small Debutante pen.  In my personal experience,  8 years hunting these and 50+ pen shows worth of pens examined, the Senior Max pens are more common in Golden and Silver Pearl and less common in Black and in Azure Blue. Strangely enough, i've come across perhaps three this year- my best year hunting these.

Overall the pen is exceedlingly clean. Great imprint. Excellent clarity  and nice two tone effect still present on nib. Only real flaw is a ding only on the  tassie (ring at bottom of pen), which you probably can see pretty well in the larger picture link.

Pen 2195 Parker Vacumatic Major (2nd Gen). Double Jewel  $325 SOLD
Azure Blue Celluloid

Overall Grade:  Exc+
Metal: Exc Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc
Point:   Fine-Med Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8" 13.5cm
PRICE: $325 SOLD 
COMMENTS:  Superb example of  the Double Jewel Major's most scarce color

Pen 1990 Parker Vacumatic Shadow Wave Emerald Pearl 2nd Gen $295
STAR CLIP.    

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 
Threads:  perfect clarity:    NA Plastic:
Point:  XF Semi-Flex Imprint:  Extra Fome Size: 5 1/8"
PRICE: $295 
COMMENTS:  Star Clips likely saw production a month or so during early 1939. Believed to be a predecessor to the blue diamond, the star clip was not advertised as carrying guarantee. It appears on high line pens during first quarter 1939 and is believed to have been "blown-out" on economy line models late 1939-early 1940. This Wave fits the pattern perfectly, packing a late 1939 date code.  The pen is gorgeous and only imperfection is are few light letters at the very right of the imprint. Very clean trim.

Pen 2031 Parker Vacumatic Golden-Web. $435
Most chunky model. First Generation.  Late production piece (1940?)

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Perfect Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:   Nope Plastic: perfect
Point:   Fine-Med Imprint:  Exc Size: 4 7/8"
PRICE: $435 
COMMENTS:  The pen collectors today call Golden Web was shown in Parker's 1936-7 catalogs as the Brown Transparent econo-line models, Junior and Slender Junior. Collectors are aware of an uncatalogued third size we call "Long Slender Junior" which carries the same model number as plain ol' Slender Junior when it crops up stickered.  Webs do crop up with anomalous date codes- usually 1940- and this is one such.

This one is the Junior, proper, the fatter of the two catalogued and fattest of the three known pocket models.  Often found with cap lip cracks and with heavy brassing, this one lacks those problems. A  superb pen.

Pen 2012  Parker Vacumatic Major. Jet Black Celluloid. 3rd Gen $190  
Mint Stickered  

Overall Grade: Mint
Metal: Perfect Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: MInt
Threads: perfect clarity:  Perfect Plastic:  Perfect
Point:  F Imprint:  Perfect Size: 5 1/8"
PRICE$190
COMMENTS:  3rd Generation Vac Majors and Juniors are popular entry-to-Vacdom pens, packing decent size, nice look and affordable price all into one package. Mint stickered pens are a bit less common than the typical user pens. This one is mint unused with one of the two original stickeres still in place. Pen does not fill. Original sac can be replaced prior to shipping for $25 extra and slight delay in shipping. May not be returned if inked or dipped.
Pen 1641 Parker Vacumatic 2nd Generation "Jeweler's Style Cap-band  $215


Overall Grade: Fine
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  perfect clarity:    VG
Point:  Fine-Med Imprint:  Exc Size: 5"
PRICE: $215 
COMMENTS:   The so-called Jeweler's cap-band Vacs are relatively uncommon variants produced from 1939-1941. Factory original, the key finding is an extra-wide lined capband. 16 possible blue-diamond variants can be found- 4 sizes in 4 colors. This one is the third size, same diameter as second size, but a bit shorter and with slightly more narrow cap-band.

This pen is pretty clean- very ncie trim. Only flaw is smidge of barrel swell down by the plunger unit. It is engraved in the cap-band's cartouche,  H.J.G

Pen 1624 Parker Vacumatic Junior (large size) 1st Generation 1934  $185 SOLD
Mottled Burgundy celluloid. "First Year"

Overall Grade: Fine
Metal: VG Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:  min red
personal name in barrel
Point:  Medium Imprint:  VG Size: 4 7/8
PRICE: $185 
COMMENTSA clean enough usable large marbled red Vacumatic Junior. Bottom Tassie has brassing but cap really is excellent. Imprint is strong with one small scratch noted. There is some barrel transparency. ML TYNAN is stamped in barrel.

This "First Year" pen has the early style non-arrow "Parker Vacumatic" nib, a better variant.
Pen 2131 Parker Vacumatic Major  1944 $150
Emerald Pearl Celluloid. 3rd Generation 

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Perfect Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity: Very Good
Point:   Fine Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.8cm
PRICE: $150 
COMMENTS:  The pen I view as entry-to-vacdom, a relatively affordable standard-sized pen.  Nice clean specimen of the third generation Vacumatic.

Pen 2132 Parker Vacumatic Major 1945 $165
Azure Blue Celluloid. 3rd Generation. Unusual cap-variant

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:    very good
Point:   Fine Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8" 12.8cm
PRICE: $165 
COMMENTS:  
COMMENTS:  The pen I view as entry-to-vacdom, a relatively affordable standard-sized pen.  Nice clean specimen of the third generation Vacumatic.  Azure Blue is the color with the most cachet amongst collectors, from the catalogued 3rd Generation palette. This one is a bit of an odd duck, featuring "seamed" plastic on the cap. Seamed caps and barrels crop up in late 1945-early 1946, perhaps reprenting an attempt by Parker to switch production technique. Guess it didn't take, as the look did not persist.

Pen 2129 Parker Vacumatic Major. 2nd Generation Double Jewel $245
Early 2nd Generation Features. 1937

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  Exc clarity:   mild
Point:   Fine-Med Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/4"  13cm
PRICE: $245 
COMMENTS:  This is generally viewed as an "early form" of the double-jewel Major, though not the earliest, which would be those pens featuring the "Vacumatic" cap-band.  Striped double end jewels and gripping section, two tone nib and feather clip properly are found. A nice clean example.
Pen 1840 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima Pencil with "Jeweler's" Style Cap-band 1940
Golden Pearl Celluloid  $200 

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NA
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc
Point:  NA Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8"
PRICE: $200 
COMMENTS:   The so-called Jeweler's cap-band Vacs are relatively uncommon variants produced from 1939-1941. Factory original, the key finding is an extra-wide lined capband. 16 possible blue-diamond variants can be found- 4 sizes in 4 colors. Only in Nov 2006 did i finally complete this mini-collection, having tracked down the black small Debutante pen.  The Senior Maxima pen can be matched to conventional pencils or to the more scarce injector pencil (from 1939). This pencil is a standard twist-mechanism and is excellent in all respects.

Pen 1911 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima. 2nd Generation. Double Jewel 1938
Golden Pearl Celluloid  $440

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Extra Fine Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Monotone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc Later gripping section
Point:  Firm Extra Fine Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8" by 9/16"
PRICE: $440 
COMMENTS:  This 2nd Generation Double Jewel Senior Maxima has nice color, clarity and trim.  Edge brassing noted on the blind-cap tassie. The gripping section is a 1939+ Black (pen is late 1938). Nib is monotone.   Cartouche on the cap-band elegantly engraved  "G.N.". 

SOLD Pen 2150  Parker Golden Arrow Set.  $2300  SOLD
Stubby size.  Key pen for the collector of the Parker Vacumatic

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Extrafine Color:  bit barrel amber CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Fine
Threads:  perfect clarity:    NA
Point:   Medium Imprint:  Exc Size: 4.5"
PRICE: $2300 SOLD 
COMMENTS:  Little to say.  This is the  pen- perhaps not meant for regular sale- that preceded both the Parker Vacumatic, proper, and the Vacumatic's short run predecessor, Vacuum-Filler.  Mentioned in the August-Nov 1932 Parkergrams, this is what started it all.  Excellent imprint on pencil and close-to-excellent imprint on the pen. In my 10 years in the hobby, with more than 60 pen shows visited for 3-5 days each, i've seen about 10 total Golden Arrow pens, spread amongst the three colors, two sizes, and clip/ring variants. This set has been in my collection for years and is- remarkably enough- a duplicate. I'm trying to ease back on duplicates.

Pen 1473 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima. 3rd Gen.  1942 $395
No, it is not a Major
Overall Grade: VG- Fine Trim:  Exc Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc  ThreadsBlind cap 98% aligned  Clarity:  Excellent

Point: Fine. Two-Tone
Imprint:  Exc
Size:  5 3/8" by 9/16ths"
PRICE: $395 
COMMENTSVacumania long has been fond of Single Jewel Vac Maximas, the big fellow of the 3rd Generation. All the parts swap with earlier Double Jewel Wide-Band Sr. Maxes. The look represents Parker's consolidation of Vac style in 1942. In the USA that year  all pens became single jewel. The striped top jewel and two tone nib began to disappear from high line pens. Plastic filler pumps were intro'd... but not all at once and not all on Jan 1, per se. Most notable, the Senior Maxima, flagship of the Vac fleet, lost its wide band in favor of a Major-like cap-band.

Single Jewel Maxes are less common than Double Jewel, which surprises since they were made for a longer period of time during a more prosperous era.  One might speculate that by 1942, if one had the $10 to spring for a Max, he was more likely to spend the extra $2.50 and grab a hot new Parker 51.  So, these are less common than the earlier Maximas, but also are a bit less hot with collectors than are the early pens, so prices tend to approach but not transcend that of similar earlier DJ pens.

This one is from early 1942. Thus, it has a two tone nib- a smooth fine point-  and a chrome-fiinish metal filling pump which crops up on 1942 Maximas. A nice restored pen, it is noted that the blind cap alignment is about 98%, not 100%.  This one is for sale only because I recently picked up a complete  color set (in mint condition)  of this style pen. It says adios after spending  years in my own collection


Pen 1757 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima. 3rd Generation
Yes, a Senior Max. Oh yeah... MINT Condition*  $750

Overall Grade: MINT*
Metal: Mint Color:  Mint CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Mint
Threads:  Mint clarity:    Mint
Point:  Mint MintExc Size: 5 3/8" by 9/16"
PRICE: $750
COMMENTS:  Don't let the cap-band fool you.  This is the big boy. The last of the Senior Maximas, 1942-1947 style. Single Jewel Maxes are less common than Double Jewel, which surprises since they were made for a longer period of time during a more prosperous era, than were the double jewel pens.  This VacQuack speculates that by 1942, if one had the $10 to spring for a Max, he was more likely to spend the extra $2.50 and grab a hot Parker 51.  So, these are less common than the earlier Maximas, but also are a bit less in demand with modern collectors than are the early pens, so prices tend to approach but not transcend that of similar earlier DJ pens. All the parts can swap (regarding size) with earlier Double Jewel Wide-Band Sr. Maxes. The look represents Parker's consolidation of Vac style in 1942. In the USA, all pens became single jewel. The striped top jewel and two tone nib began to disappear from high line pens. Plastic filler pumps were intro'd... but not all at once and not all on Jan 1, per se. Most notable, the Senior Maxima, flagship of the Vac fleet, lost its wide band in favor of a Major-like cap-band.

*This one is Mint, with a near-mint feed.  Few years back i grabbed a hoard of 40 mint vacs, all without nibs or feeds, some without sections. Later, i obtained a pile of mint NOS Maxima nibs.  I fitted this pen with a near mint feed that was scrubbed eight ways from sunday to remove all traces of ink. Thus... a mint pen with near mint feed.   Jet Black Celluloid with perfect barrel clarity. Heck of a pen. May not be returned if inked or dipped.

Pen 2113 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima with "Vacumatic" cap-band $1625

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: ExtraFine Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  Perfect clarity:    fine
Point:   Medium Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8"  13.5cm
PRICE: $1625 
COMMENTS:    One of the dream pens for  Vac collectors, the "Vac-Band"  pens were shown on the cover of the 1937 catalog and were produced perhaps just a few weeks to couple months. 25 pens and pencil models/color were produced. Vacumania has 19 of those in the personal collection and during the last couple years has sold most of the  few duplicates. This represents nearly 10 years of hunting. The Senior Maxima of course is the largest model pen to feature this cap-band.   "47" date code shows barrel couple months younger than cap, not uncommon with these, particularly with those that were found overseas- that could be an essay itself 

This one is quite nice with very crisp cap band and some brassing only to the bottom tassie on the blind cap and to the arrow-tip of the clip.

Pen 2114 Parker Vacumatic Major $340
2nd Generation. Double Jewel. Burgundy 1940

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  Exc clarity:    Fine
Point:   Fine Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8" 13.5cm
PRICE: $340 
COMMENTS:  Burgundy Major double-jewel pens were catalogued 1937-1940, though the pen is known to have been manufactured through 1941.  This one has all correct features for its year of issue, with striped top jewel, two tone nib, black gripping section and bullseye bottom pseudojewel

Pen 2118 Parker Vacumatic Major Azure Blue 3rd Generation  $325 ON HOLD
Mint Stickered

Overall Grade: Mint
Metal: MInt Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Mint
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Perfect
Point:   Fine Imprint:  Mint Size: 5 1/8" 12.8cm
PRICE: $325  ON HOLD
COMMENTS:   Mint Vac in Azure Blue. Not much to say beyond that.   Sac fills with water and should hold ink. Fresh sac can be placed for $20 additional. May not be returned if inked or dipped.

Pen 2128 Parker Vacumatic Junior "first year" True Opaque Black $225

Overall Grade: Exc+
Metal: Exc+ Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:    NA
Point:   Fine-Medium Imprint:  Exc Size: 4 7/8" 12.2cm
PRICE: $225 
COMMENTS:  All the key features to the early Vac.  "34" date code for 3rd quarter 1934.  Short length, arrow-on-arrow clip. Pre-Arrow "Vacumatic Junior" nib.   Very crisp example.

Pen 1755 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima with vaunted "Jeweler's" style cap-band 1941
Golden Pearl Celluloid   $675 (or $825 with pencil as a set)

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Fine 2-tone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc
Point:  Fine-Med Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8" by 9/16"
PRICE: $675 
COMMENTS:  A special Vac.  The so-called Jeweler's cap-band Vacs are relatively uncommon variants produced from 1939-1941. Factory original, the key finding is an extra-wide lined capband. 16 possible blue-diamond variants can be found- 4 sizes in 4 colors. Only in Nov 2006 did i finally complete this mini-collection, having tracked down the black small Debutante pen.  For Senior Maxima, this style is seen in fewer than one in fifty pens.

This one is quite nice, with excellent color, imprint, clarity and trim. The two tone nib is in Fine condition as the two tone effect is light.

Pen 1937 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima 1940
Uncommon "Jeweler's" style cap-band  $650

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc
Point:  F-M Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8"
PRICE: $650 
COMMENTS:  A special Vac.  The so-called Jeweler's cap-band Vacs are relatively uncommon variants produced from 1939-1941. Factory original, the key finding is an extra-wide lined capband. 16 possible blue-diamond variants can be found- 4 sizes in 4 colors. Only in Nov 2006 did i finally complete this mini-collection, having tracked down the black small Debutante pen.  In my personal experience,  8 years hunting these and 50+ pen shows worth of pens examined, the Senior Max pens are more common in Golden and Silver Pearl and less common in Black and in Azure Blue. Indeed i've seen but 7 pens in jet black in this size in all that time. Strangely (and happily) enough, this is the second i've had for sale during the last year.

Pen 2130 Parker Vacumatic Standard 1935 $250
Emerald Pearl Celluloid. 1st Generation Pen

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Very good
Point:   Fine-Medium Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8"  12.8cm
PRICE: $250 
COMMENTS:  First Generation Lockdown Vacs remain my favorite style, in general. The chunky pen with large gripping section and the early "luxury" features found in the high line models hit the spot, so to speak

Pen 2133 Parker Vacumatic Major 1945 $165
Azure Blue Celluloid. 3rd Generation.

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  Exc clarity:    fine
Point:   Medium Imprint:  Exc Size:5 1/8"  12.8cm
PRICE: $165 
COMMENTS:  The pen I view as entry-to-vacdom, a relatively affordable standard-sized pen.  Nice clean specimen of the third generation Vacumatic.  Azure Blue is the color with the most cachet amongst collectors, from the catalogued 3rd Generation palette. Responsive fine-medium nib, could be called Semi-Flex.

Pen 2134 Parker Vacumatic Golden Pearl 2nd Gen Major set. Early Style $265

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc*
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc
Point:   Extra Fine Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 5/16" 12.8cm
PRICE: $265 
COMMENTS:  This is generally viewed as an "early form" of the double-jewel Major, though not the earliest, which would be those pens featuring the "Vacumatic" cap-band.  Striped double end jewels and gripping section, two tone nib and feather clip traditionally are found. This one has a extra fine nib, and it is noted that the two-tone effect on the nib essentially is gone. Excellent color and clarity. Date code on pen and nib are third quarter 1937. The pencil barrel is either a donor from earlier pencil or represented the oft-imagined, "parts sitting around the plant" as the barrel code on the pencil is 1936, a bit before the  Major-style top half of the pencil was intro'd (the bottom half of 1936 and 1937 pens are interchangeable between Standard and Major).  Clean Pencil.

Pen 2135 Parker Vacumatic Junior  1946  $225
Mint* pen. Silver Pearl Celluloid. 3rd Generation

Overall Grade: Mint*
Metal: Perfect Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Mint
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Perfect
Point:   Fine Imprint:  Mint Size: 5 1/8" 12.8cm
PRICE: $225 
COMMENTSThe Vacumatic  Junior is the standard sized non-lifetime-guaranteed version of the Major. This one is part of the Mint pre-New-Old-Stock hoard i'd picked up some years ago, all without nibs and feeds. Slowly, i've acquired nearmint (mint in some cases) nibs and clean feeds, and shuffled the pens over to Ron Zorn to make whole. I personally scrubbed, ultrasounded and flushed the feeds removing all traces of ink.  Silver Pearl generally is priced below most of the Vac colors, in my opinion because the  color is a bit more common than most and because the celluloid tends to amber and that white trim once worn cannot be polished up as one might do with gold-filled trim.  But, if one examines a minty pen, it is easy to see why the color is "common"... because lots of them sold back in the day... because crisp Silver Pearl pens are gorgeous... like this one.     This one DOES have a fresh sac and is fully usable, but may not be returned if inked, as  the pen itself has never met ink.

Pen 2136 Parker Vacumatic Major Emerald Pearl $225
3rd Generation. MINT*  1946

Overall Grade: Mint*
Metal: Mint Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Mint
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Perfect
Point:   Fine Imprint:  Mint Size5 1/8" 12.8cm PRICE: $225 
COMMENTS:  The pen I view as entry-to-vacdom, a relatively affordable standard-sized pen.  Nice clean specimen of the third generation Vacumatic. This one is part of the Mint pre-New-Old-Stock hoard i'd picked up some years ago, all without nibs and feeds. Slowly, i've acquired nearmint (mint in some cases) nibs and clean feeds, and shuffled the pens over to Ron Zorn to make whole. I personally scrubbed, ultrasounded and flushed the feeds removing all traces of ink).    This one DOES have a fresh sac and is fully usable, but may not be returned if inked, as  the pen itself has never met ink.

Pen 2137 Parker Vacumatic Major Golden  Pearl $225
3rd Generation. MINT*  1946

Overall Grade: Mint*
Metal: Perfect Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Mint
Threads:  perfect clarity:  Perfect
Point:   Fine Imprint:  Mint Size 5 1/8" 12.8cm PRICE: $225 
COMMENTSThe pen I view as entry-to-vacdom, a relatively affordable standard-sized pen. This one is part of the Mint pre-New-Old-Stock hoard i'd picked up some years ago, all without nibs and feeds. Slowly, i've acquired nearmint (mint in some cases) nibs and clean feeds, and shuffled the pens over to Ron Zorn to make whole. I personally scrubbed, ultrasounded and flushed the feeds removing all traces of ink).   This one DOES have a fresh sac and is fully usable, but may not be returned if inked, as  the pen itself has never met ink..
Pen 1906 Parker Vacumatic scarce smooth-band Debutante 1941
Azure Blue Celluloid. 2nd Generation  $275

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Monotone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Fine
Point:  F-M Imprint:  Exc Size: 4 5/6"
PRICE: $275 
COMMENTS:  Rarely, Debutante Vacs crop up with extra-wide wholly smooth cap-bands. Conventional Wisdom (such as it is) has it that these were low run pens produced for a niche market. Go figure.  I've identified them so far in Blue, Black, Silver, and Brown, in parallel to what is seen for the Jeweler's cap-band pens. Minimal wear to plastic. Couple light pin dings to cap. Scarce Vac

Pen 1759 Parker Vacumatic Major. 2nd Generation Double Jewel 1937
Early Style in Emerald Pearl Celluloid $245

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 2-tone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    VG
Point:  Smooth Fine Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8"
PRICE: $245 
COMMENTSOne of the earliest of the Majors, a 2nd generation pen appearing in this style right after the appearance of the vaunted "Vacumatic Cap Band" pens. Featuring all the upscale features, this one has a two tone nib, striped gripping section, metal pump and striped end jewels.  Nice barrel clarity not shown well in the picture.

Pen 1738 Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation
Azure Blue Celluloid. Monster Broad Flex Stub Nib.  $295

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  perfect clarity:fine

PointMonster nib. hehehehe Imprint:  Exc Size: 5"
PRICE: $295 
COMMENTSThird generation Vacumatics are typical "First Vacumatic" for most collectors due to their availabilty and due to their ability to provide a nice sized pen for reasonable cost. The two standard sized 3rd Gen pens are Major and Junior, identical pens save for trim, subtle difference to shape of nib, original price, and status of original Parker warranty. 

This one has a monster nib, and a Parker story lurks somewhere within... i just don't know the story. Over the last 9 years, i've owned three pens like this- broad stub USA-made vac nibs marked 585 (for 14k). USA-made vac nibs typically are not marked for gold content. Pens meant for Europe typically carry Canadian markings (and "14k" not 585) for gold content.  Very odd. Very special nib.

Pen 1754 Parker Vacumatic Junior  2nd Generation Double Jewel 1938
The Longest Shadow-Wave. Golden Pearl Celluloid   $240

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 
Threads:  perfect clarity:    minimal
Point:  Firm Fine-Med Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8"
PRICE: $240 
COMMENTSShadow-Wave is a pattern, not a model. It appears on various econo-line models from late 1937 probably through 1943. This one is an all-correct Vacumatic Junior from 1938 the year before conventional hooped-line plastic was added to the Junior range.

This one overall is quite clean with excellent eye appeal. It has about 15% total brassing to the cap-rings (mainly just part of the top ring), which is not uncommon as those thin rings are an at-risk site.

Pen 1760 Parker Vacumatic Junior. 3rd Generation 1947
A Standard Size Pen in Azure Blue Celluloid   $155

Overall Grade: Exc+
Metal: NM Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc
Point:  Fine-Medium Imprint:  NM Size: 5"
PRICE155
COMMENTS:  Third generation Vacumatics are typical "First Vacumatic" for most collectors due to their availabilty and due to their ability to provide a nice sized pen for reasonable cost. The two standard sized 3rd Gen pens are Major and Junior, identical pens save for trim, subtle difference to shape of nib, original price, and status of original Parker warranty.  

This one is crisp, superb in all respects.

Pen 1917 Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation 1946  $65

Overall Grade: Fine
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 
Threads:  slight blind cap gap clarity:    Exc
Point:   Medium Imprint:  Exc Size: 5"
PRICE: $65 
COMMENTSA basic  working Vacumatic. Third generation Major offers nice entry to the hobby. Decent size pen for reasonable green.  At its last restoration a paper thing gap remained where blind cap meets barrel.

Pen 1922 Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation 1945
"Stacked Coin Cap-band"  $140

Overall Grade: Fine
Metal: VG Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc
Point:  XF Imprint:  Exc Size: 5"
PRICE: $140 
COMMENTSVac Major with the uncatalogued lined "stacked coin" cap-band. Seems to have filled a similar niche to the 2nd Generation "Jeweler's Band". Clean plastic but wear and some edge brassing to the white trim.

Pen 1569 Parker Vacumatic 1st Gen Standard
First Year "Longitudinal Windows" pattern with excellent clarity  $335

Overall Grade: Fine Trim:  Light wear, specks of brass
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM Threads:  Perfect  Clarity:  Exc
Point: Fine firm Imprint:   A bit light
Size:  5 1/8" PRICE: $335 
COMMENTS:    Four catalogued vacs can be found with the longitudinal lines pattern (which is different from the black duofold pattern found in 1941+).  These include:  the highline Oversized and Standard and the econoline Junior and Slender Junior.  The highline pens were catalogued late 1933-1934. The Juniors appear in 1935. Not at all common, often they are found heavily ambered.  Pen 1569 is a highline Vac Standard.  Transparency on this one is excellent, unlike most. The correct early-style two tone nib with "feathers-together" is present and is very clean. A great example for someone seeking to collect vacsoterica- advanced and unusual Parker Vacs.

Pen 1580 Parker Vacumatic 3rd gen Major-size
Stacked Coin Band. Silver Pearl. 1944  $115

Overall Grade: Fine Trim:  Specks of brassing and usual chrome pitting
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  Perfect  Clarity:  Slight red

Point: Fine SemiFlex Imprint:   Fine Size: 5 1/8" PRICE: $115
COMMENTS:    The stacked-coin cap-band 3rd generation Vacumatics are well known but poorly characterized in Parker Literature. Based on rodstock of  the later "short" Major and on the non Blue Diamond Junior, they tend to show up with the slightly more slender nib and feed of the Junior. They have this length even in 1942, when the Major, proper, was still a longer pen with two tone nib.  The Blue Diamond model- similar to the earlier Jeweler's Band 2nd gen pens, seems to be found only in black, silver, golden and azure celluloid.

This one is not bad but has seen some honest wear. Color is not ambered but is subdued. Transparency is slight. Trim shows some speckling but is not trashed.  Nice writer. 

Pen 1756 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima. 2nd Generation Double Jewel
Emerald Pearl Celluloid   $625 SOLD

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 2-tone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc
Point:  Lush Medium Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8"
PRICE: $625 SOLD 
COMMENTSThe big boy. All around Excellent condition.

Pen 1836 Parker Vacumatic Oversize. 1st Generation. 1935
Emerald Pearl Celluloid. Superb barrel clarity   $685  SOLD

Overall Grade: Exc+
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 2-tone
Threads:  perfect clarity:  Superb NM
Point:  Smooth Fine-Med Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8"
PRICE: $685 
COMMENTSWhere to start?  Largest 1st Generation Vac. Predecessor to the well more prevalent Senior Maxima. Chunkier contour makes it seem larger in the hand that that latter pen. All the luxury features: striped gripping section and jewels and two tone nib (two tone effect a bit light).  First quarter 1935 imprint, noting that 1935 was the first year Emerald Pearl Vacs were manufactured.  Superb condition with near mint, yellow-white barrel clarity that is very poorly demonstrated in this front-lighted picture.  Smooth and wet fine-medium writer. El Zorno just ajusted it for nice writing.  A hot Vac.

Pen 1837 Parker Vacumatic Oversize. 1st Generation
Burgundy Pearl Celluloid. 
  $650 SOLD

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 2-tone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc
Point:  Fine Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8"
PRICE: $650 SOLD 
COMMENTS:  Red Oversize. The first generation equivalent to the more prevalent later Maxima. Chunkier contour. Largest gripping section of any Vac. The big guy.

Pen 1788 Parker Vacuum Filler  "Crystal" Scarce Ringtop 1932-1933  $685 

Overall Grade: Fine
Metal: Fine Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:  Fine
Point: Fine-Med Imprint:  Faint Size 4 5/6"
PRICE: $685 
COMMENTS:  Amongst pretty well all pens in vintage pendome- save one- ringtops are worth less than clip pens. The exception is the Parker Vacumatic family, for which ring units are extremely rare and appear to have been offered during only the  first year or so of pen production. Only one catalog page exists- along with some repair manual info- to support this variant. The ring unit is elegant, as the ring can rest flush to the pen.

The pen itself is a middle-size Parker Vacuum-Filler (pre-Vacumatic, 0th generation Vacumatic) from 1932-33.  The Crystal pattern itself is scarce, featuring whole-barrel transparency based on the Demonstrator pen.  This one has very faint clarity remaining, though, so the "Crystal" conveys little added value; clarity rules for such pens.  The imprint on the barrel is faint, but can be read.  The trim is not at all bad. The nib is a proper no-arrow nib marked "Parker Vacuum-Filler".

Amongst the hundreds of Vacs i've had the pleasure to offer on this website, this is the first ringtop Vac.

Pen 2066 Parker Vacumatic Oversize Burgundy Pearl  $600 SOLD
Glorious barrel clarity and one key imperfection

Overall Grade: Except for...
Metal: Exc Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: ExtraFine
Threads perfect clarity:  Water Clear
Point:   Fine-Med Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8"
PRICE: $600 
COMMENTS:    Largest 1st Generation Vac. Predecessor to the well more prevalent Senior Maxima. Chunkier contour makes it seem larger in the hand that that latter pen. All the luxury features: striped gripping section and jewels and two tone nib, which has about 50% of the white mask intact.

Superb eye appeal- amongst the best Red Barrel OS i've seen regarding clarity. Clean trim with couple specks of brass here and there.

The pen has one key problem/issue. During restoration a hairline tight crack was noted in the barrel threads.  The restorer, amongst the most trusted with whom i work, solvent- welded the flaw.  I did not notice it at all when i examined the pen upon its return to me. Indeed i had not known of it when i handed over the pen (along with dozens that batch).  The restorer- who always tells me about imperfections that crop up- then  told me of the flaw. I still could not find it with my loupe.  He pointed to where the repair was done. I still couldn't really see it.  He does good work.

Anyway, prior to this revelation, plan was to list this one at $800 or so. I've wrestled with what to do with the pen in view of the repair.  Pen bud Paul up in Albany pointed out that i should probably keep the pen for myself  as it turned out to have better barrel clarity than any red OS in my own collection. But, i bought the pen for sales stock.  So, i've opted to list the pen with the flaw described, at $600. Had i not mentioned the issue and offered pen at full price, i would bet you would never have known about the flaw. So it goes.  Sometimes believing in a  full-disclosure approach  to pen sales has its costs.  This pen carries the full Vacumania warranty.  

Pen 1842 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima Set. 2nd Generation  1938
Silver Pearl Celluloid. Pencil (NOT the PEN) is name stamped   $525

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Extra Fine Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: ExFine 2-tone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Fine
Point:  Fine-Med Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8"
PRICE: $525 
COMMENTSSenior Maxima pens from 1938 exhibit the "early" high-line features well appreciated by collectors: striped double jewels, pure feather clip, striped section, and two tone nib.  This set is quite clean, particularly in the context of Silver Pearl celluloid- which often ambers to sickly pale brown- and in the context of the white trim, which once pitted cannot be polished up in the manner of gold-filled trim.  This set grades Extra Fine. Bit of wear to clean trim with good eye-appeal... really. The pencil is name stamped but the pen has NO personalization. It is a nice writer. The nib retains most- not all- of the two tone effect. A nice big Vac set.

Pen 1843 Parker Vacumatic Oversized. BROAD HIGH FLEX NIB 1937
Golden Pearl Celluloid. 1st Generation  $725
Monster Nib Alert

Overall Grade: Excellent
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 2-tone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    ExtraFine
Point:  Ultra Flex Broad Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8"
PRICE: $725 
COMMENTS:  Where to start?  Largest 1st Generation Vac. Predecessor to the well more prevalent Senior Maxima. Chunkier contour makes it seem larger in the hand that that latter pen. All the luxury features: striped gripping section and jewels and two tone nib (two tone effect a bit light on this one). Golden Pearl was the final color introduced to the 1st generation of Vacdom, appearing in 1936.

This pen is quite clean, with excellent trim, plastic and and nib. What sets it apart and commands a premium, is that it packs one of the most unsual USA-manufactured Vac nibs i've had the pleasure to use. The nib is ultra-flex Broad. It starts Broad (can do a fine line with very light touch) and high flexes up to about triple broad. Amazing nib.

Pen 1848 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima 2nd Generation Double Jewel. 1938
Golden Pearl Celluloid  $475

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Extra Fine Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Monotone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Extra Fine Personal Initials neatly in the Cartouche
Point: Nice Fine-Medium Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8"
PRICE: $475 
COMMENTSSenior Maxima was manufactured in in double-jewel second generation form from 1937-1941. This 1938 pen has correct plain-feather clip, striped double jewels and striped gripping section. The nib has either lost its two tone effect or has a later monotone nib in place- it is of course of correct size. Nice smooth writer. Very sharp imprint and excellent color. Smidge only of high point brassing. "J.M.' elegantly engraved in the cap-band's cartouche, which was intended for personalization.

Pen 1850 Parker Vacumatic Thermometer Case  1934
Silver Pearl Celluloid. Personal Name in Barrel   $375

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NA
Clutch  Exc clarity:    NA
Point:  NA Imprint:  Exc Size: 4 3/4"
PRICE: $375 
COMMENTSThis fully marked Parker product appears in 1934 Parker catalogues.  Designed to match the Silver Pearl pen and pencil, it serves as part of a Physician's pen set.  Note the unusual tassie (triple stacked similar to the very first of the Majors from 1937).  This one has no thermometer in it (easy enough to pop one in) and has a striped top jewel without the carved red cross.

Pen 1851 Parker Vacumatic Thermometer Case ~ 1934
Silver Pearl Celluloid. Has Thermometer   $525 SOLD

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NA
Clutch  perfect clarity:    Exc
Point:  NA Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8"
PRICE: $525 SOLD
COMMENTS:  This fully marked Parker product appears in 1934 Parker catalogues.  Designed to match the Silver Pearl pen and pencil, it serves as part of a Physician's pen set.  Note the unusual tassie (triple stacked similar to the very first of the Majors from 1937). Note the early style skewed lines. This one has a thermometer and the top striped jewel is engraved with a red cross.


Pen 1758 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima. 3rd Generation
Azure Blue Celluloid
Yes, a Senior Max. Oh yeah...MINT condition
*  $1050

Overall Grade: MINT* Metal: Mint Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition:MINT
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc
Point:  Fine-Med Imprint:  Mint Size: 5 3/8" by 9/16"
PRICE: $1050 
COMMENTS:  Don't let the cap-band fool you.  This is the big boy. The last of the Senior Maximas, 1942-1947 style. Single Jewel Maxes are less common than Double Jewel, which surprises since they were made for a longer period of time during a more prosperous era, than were the double jewel pens.  This VacQuack speculates that by 1942, if one had the $10 to spring for a Max, he was more likely to spend the extra $2.50 and grab a hot Parker 51.  So, these are less common than the earlier Maximas, but also are a bit less in demand with modern collectors than are the early pens, so prices tend to approach but not transcend that of similar earlier DJ pens. All the parts swap (regarding size) with earlier Double Jewel Wide-Band Sr. Maxes. The look represents Parker's consolidation of Vac style in 1942. In the USA, all pens became single jewel. The striped top jewel and two tone nib began to disappear from high line pens. Plastic filler pumps were intro'd... but not all at once and not all on Jan 1, per se. Most notable, the Senior Maxima, flagship of the Vac fleet, lost its wide band in favor of a Major-like cap-band.

*This one is Mint, with a near-mint feed.  Few years back i grabbed a hoard of 40 mint vacs, all without nibs or feeds, some without sections. Later, i obtained a pile of mint NOS Maxima nibs.  I fitted this pen with a near mint feed that was scrubbed eight ways from sunday to remove all traces of ink. Thus... a mint pen with near mint feed.   Blue is the most highly valued Maxima color. This one is a gem. May not be returned if inked or dipped

Pen 1621 Parker Vacumatic SENIOR MAXIMA. 3rd Generation
  Near Mint barrel clarity 1942  $570  SOLD

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  perfect clarity:    Superb
Point:  Smooth Medium Imprint:  perfect Size: 5 3/8" by 9/16"
PRICE: $570   SOLD
COMMENTS: Vacumania long has been fond of the late Single Jewel Senior Maximas. This one is the big guy. This final form of the Max embraced the late single jewel styling and has a thinner cap-band than a Maxima. But, it is not a Major. It has the maxima proportions and all parts swap with earlier Maximas.  The SJ Maxima is less common than earlier Double Jewel, which surprises since they were produced for a longer period during a more prosperous era. It is speculated that by 1942, if one had $10 to spring for a Max, he was more likely to spend the extra $2.50 and grab an ultra-hot Parker "51".

This one has great color, a two tone nib (by 1943 those went bye-bye) and superb barrel clarity. Clean trim. Great imprint. A smooth wet medium point. Great writer.

Pen 1784 Parker VACUUM-FILLER pre-Vacumatic
Burgundy Pearl Celluloid. Barrel has personalization  $385

Overall Grade: VG
Metal: Fine Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 2-tone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    NA
Point: smooth fine-medium Imprint:  Light Size: 4 5/6"
PRICE: $385 
COMMENTS: In 1932-mid 1933, before introducing the Vacumatic name, Parker called it's vac-family pens, Vacuum-Filler. These pre-vacs are uncommon.  This one is the middle sized amongst three pens all of similar diameter but of varying length. It is important for collectors to avoid frankenpens, usually a mix of middle-size cap and standard barrel, or vice-versa.

Thie one grades VG. The imprint is very light but is fully legible. A script personalization "Mary L. De Ford" is on the barrel. Trim actually is quite clean with some brassing (seen in pic) on clip washer and on tassie. Bands are not affected.  Nice two tone arrow nib. Smooth writer. Clip style (a subtle point) looks to be a bit later issue than the pen. Great color. no cracks.

Pen 1912 Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation 1942
A first year all correct "long" Major  $275 SOLD

Overall Grade: ExtraFine
Metal: smidge o' brsas Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Monotone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    VG
Point:  Semi-Flex F-M Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8"
PRICE: $275 
COMMENTS:   A rather clean double jewel 2nd generation Major from late 1939. Burgundy is the color of greatest value in this model, though blue is more scarce. This one has the luxury features of the early high-line Vacs: Double striped end jewels, and striped section. The nib is an earlier-issue monotone Vac nib, a nice semi-flex fine-medium.

Pen 1910 Parker Vacumatic Major. Double Jewel. 2nd Generation  1939
Burgundy Pearl Celluloid  $325

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Extra Fine Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 2-tone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Extra Fine
Point:  Lush Medium Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8"
PRICE: $325 
COMMENTS: A rather clean double jewel 2nd generation Major from late 1939. Burgundy is the color of greatest value in this model, though blue is more scarce. This one has all the luxury features of the early high-line Vacs: Double striped end jewels, striped section and two-tone nib. A wet smooth Medium nib does not hurt. Slight edge brassing noted on the bottom tassie.

Pen 1833 Parker Vacumatic unommon Streamline Standard.  2nd Gen. 1942
Surprising Date Code. Burgundy Pearl. Neat.   $345

Overall Grade: ExtraFine
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 2-tone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc
Point:  Lush Medium Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8"
PRICE: $345 
COMMENTSThis one is odd on many levels. The Streamline(d) Standard is a pen well known to exist, even if catalogues only imply the model.  It cannot be mixed together from other parts. Basically, The pen has the shape of a long major, but carries the triple cap-bands of the earlier Standard. Trim follows a mixed pattern between high line and low line pens. Two tone nib, striped top jewel, striped section all followed the evolution of the high-line pens, while the clip evolution was that of the econo-line pens. Fascinating model.

Weirder still, while the last catalog appearance of Burgundy was in 1940 and general collector belief is that the color persisted through 1941, most folks believe the color never made it into 1942 and thus never made it into the 3rd generation single-jewel era.  Yet, rarely, single jewel pens with an expected early 1942 date code crop up. The last two i saw sold pulled about double the value of typical Double Jewel 1937-1941 pens or about $600 each).    These should not be confused with the late Canadian red vacs of 1950-52 which are a breed apart.

Well, this pen has a 1942  (first quarter) date code but still has second generation features. Sigh. If only had that smooth blind cap. Must've been manufactured that "critical" first hour of 1942 before the machinery was switched.  Or something....

A neat clean Vac.


Pen 1741 Parker Vacumatic "SENIOR".
A most uncommon model. SIlver Pearl Celluloid  $475 SOLD

Overall Grade: Fine+
Metal: VG Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 2-tone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    VG
Point:  Fine Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8"
PRICE: $475  SOLD
COMMENTSThe Parker Vacumatic  SENIOR  is a scarce model shown only in the 1936 Catalog. Having at root Standard diameter capthreads and barrel diameter, it has a unique-to-model cap and blindcap. The only Vacumatic model to feature the thin-fat-thin triple capband, this pen has the fat section of the early lockdown pens but has the tapered long cap and blindcap. This 1936 model is the predecessor to the follwoing year's 2nd generation Slender Maxima. Slender Maxes are scarce (and often Majors are wrongly labelled as that model) and the Slender Max was manufactured 3-4 times as long as the Senior. The Senior features big honkin OS Nib and feed crammed to the limit into the standard-diameter section.


Pen 1762 Parker Vacumatic 1st Generation Junior "Golden Web"
A superb example of the fattest of the three models  $450

Overall Grade: Exc-to-NM
Metal: Perfect Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 
Threads:  perfect clarity:   none
Point:  Fine-Med Imprint:  Perfect Size: 4 5/6"
PRICE: $450 
COMMENTSThe pen collectors today call Golden Web was shown in Parker's 1936-7 catalogs as the Brown Transparent econo-line models, Junior and Slender Junior. Collectors are aware of an uncatalogued third size we call "Long Slender Junior" which carries the same model number as plain ol' Slender Junior when it crops up stickered.

This one is the Junior, proper, the fatter of the two catalogued and fattest of the three known pocket models.  Often found with cap lip cracks and with heavy brassing, this one lacks those problems. A  superb pen.

.Pen 1465 Parker Vacumatic Golden Web set. Odd "Third" size (longest)    $560
Overall Grade: Exc Trim:  Exc. Couple specks of brass
Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Clarity:  Moderate Amber

Point: XF-F
Imprint:   Excellent Size:  5.125
PRICE: $560
COMMENTSIn 1936-1937 Parker catalogued a couple Junior line Vacs besides the typical mottled colors: Transparent Brown and Transparent Black. Today we call the Brown pen,  "Golden Web". The Golden Web is the only lockdown era (first generation) Junior line pen to be found in three Junior sizes:  1) Standard, 2) Slender, and 3) Long Slender.   The Long Slender pen is offered here.  Note the pencil is available in only one size, which matches all the pen sizes.

Pen 1905 Parker Vacuum-Filler. 1932-1933
Pre-Vacumatic (0th Generation)  $225

Overall Grade: VG
Metal: VG Color:  VG CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 2-tone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    NA
Point:  Lush Medium Imprint:  Fair Size: 4 7/8"
PRICE: $225 
COMMENTS:  OK.  These are tough. The Parker Vacuum-Filler is the predecessor to the Vacumatic, proper, and is a sub-1-year model.  I refer to it- a bit tongue in cheek-  as the 0th generation Vac. This particular model has features to differentiate it from the later Vacs. It is the correct size of a later lockdown Vac Junior (standard diameter, double cap-band) but unlike later Vacs this lockdown pen is a full high-line model sold at deluxe price point ($7.50) and featuring high line trim including striped jewels, striped section and two tone nib.   Unlike this Vacuum-Filler, the Vacumatic was not shown in catalogs in the typical vac-stripes in this junior size lockdown-filler style.  These are quite  scarce relative to  later vac models and have great charm for the collector who seeks a Vac with a bit of extra oomph. Early VF's were described to have "white gold trim". Not the alloy, parker used this jargon for its chrome or nickel finish placed on conventional GF which itself was placed on brass. this pen has lost the the white wash to the capbands, but what shows beneath is the GF, not brass. Neat

Imprint is faint but partially legible. Plastic has a couple flea-bites here n' there. Clearly the pen was polished a bit aggressively.  Still, the early "feather-together" nib is present and writes nicely.

Pen 2039 Parker Vacumatic Mottled Green Junior (larger size) $325 SOLD
Excellent Barrel Clarity.

Overall Grade: Exc+
Metal: Exc Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM 
Threads:  perfect clarity:   Superb
Point:   Extra Fine Imprint:  perfect Size: 4 7/8"
PRICE: $325 
COMMENTS:  Today often bedeviled by heavy ambering and by narrow capbands harmed by even mild brsasing, the collector does not have an easy job finding crisp early mottled Vacumatic Juniors.  But, when found, they make a for pleasant acquisitions.  Green was produces for the shortest period, having been introduced in 1935, about a year after Gray and Red entered the scene.   This one has great color and superb barrel clarity. Trim is very clean, with just smidge of brass at anatomic right top edge of clip.

Pen 1816 Parker Vacuum-Filler (pre-Vacumatic) 1932-1933
Reverse Trim!   $375

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 2-tone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    NA
Point:  Fine Imprint:  Exc Size: 4 5/6"
PRICE: $375 
COMMENTSPens with the pre-Vacumatic (0th generation) Vacuum-Filler imprint are markedly less common than Vacumatics, proper. This one features "reverse" trim- white metal instead of goldfilled on a black pen- adding to the scarcity.  Especially for a vauum-filler, this one is clean. The nib is a later two-tone arrow nib, also in very nice shape.

Pen 1914 Parker Vacuum-Filler Crystal 1933  $500

Overall Grade: ExtraFine
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Extra Fine
Point:  fine Imprint:  Extra Fine Size: 4 7/8"
PRICE: $500 
COMMENTSOK.  These are tough. The Parker Vacuum-Filler is the predecessor to the Vacumatic , proper, and is a sub-1-year model.  I refer to it- a bit tongue in cheek-  as the 0th generation Vac.  The CRYSTAL was produced in response- per Parker- to customer fondness for dealer Demonstrator models. Indeed, today the Crystal sometimes is confused for the very similar Demo.

This one is nice. . Clean imprints are tough to find on these early Vacs. This one is sharp, though not near mint.  Very nice barrel clarity, ambered but bright. It has the proper  non-arrow nib marked "Parker Vacuum-Filler". Something of an "advanced" pen for the serious Vac Nut.

Pen 1919 Parker Vacumatic Debutante in Striped Duofold Plastic 1942
Scarce, uncatalogued en  $225

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Extra Fine Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 2-tone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc
Point:   Medium Imprint: VG Size: 4 5/8"
PRICE: $225 
COMMENTSA quite scarce uncatalogued Vac. I've owned or handled 5-6 in total. This one has great clarity. Clean overall with light imprint (but legible).  An "advanced" Vac.

Pen 1916 Parker Vacumatic Slender Junior. 1st Generation 1935
"Longitudinal Windows"  $235

Overall Grade: Extra-Fine
Metal: Extra Fine Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Extra Fine
Point:   Medium Imprint:  Fine Size: 4 5/8"
PRICE: $235 
COMMENTSCatalogued only in 1935 in the economy line, the vertically striped barrel transparency is not often found, especially with good clarity. This one obviously is ambered, but have very bright transparency.  Clean trim (especially the two fragile cap-bands) with some high point brassing on edge of bottom tassie.  Neat pen.

Pen 1496 Parker Vacumatic. "Jeweler's" style Capband
2nd size   $335

Overall Grade: Extra FIne
Trim:  no brass. one tiny pin ding in cap. color:: Excellent
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM Threads:  Perfect  Clarity:  NA
Point: XF firm. SMOOTH
Imprint:   Exc Size:  5 3/8"
PRICE: $335 
COMMENTS:   Jeweler's Band Vacs are factory original, despite any inferences one might wish to make from the name. Found in four sizes , this is the "seocond" size, based on rodstock for the double jewel Major/Slender Max. No name is engraved on the large cartouche.
CLICK FOR Discussion of Jeweler's Band Vacs
This Example is rather nice. Clean trim (one small mark to capband), nice transparency, clean-as-a-whistle two tone nib. The Major size is well less common than the only slightly shorter 3rd/Junior size which also sports a thinner capband.

Pen 1376 Parker Vacumatic "1st year" Junior CRYSTAL 1933-4  $425
Overall Grade: Fine Trim:  lite scattered brassing Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc  Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  Bright ruby/amber Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine-Med  Imprint:   VG Size: 4 7/8" by 1/2" PRICE: $425 
COMMENTS:  Often confused for a Demonstrator, the Vacumatic Crystal, successor to the Vacuum-Filler Crystal, was Parker's response to customer charm with the true Demonstrator.  The Crystal is identical to the Demo save that it lacks the Demonstrator imprint. This model is catalog described. The pen has nice transparency and an early-style single barrel-section unit. This is a fairly high cachet pen to advanced vac collectors, well more rare than typical "Red Maximas" and the like.

Pen 1929 Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation 1941
A first year all correct "long" Major  $240

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 2-tone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Nearmint
Point:  Lush Medium Imprint:  perfect Size: 5 3/8"
PRICE: $240 
COMMENTS: Sharp 1941 "Long" Vacumatic Major. Great color and clarity. Nice preservation of the two-tone nib effect.

Pen 1761 Parker Vacumatic Major. 2nd Generation Double Jewel 1941
Azure Blue Celluloid  $300 SOLD

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 2-tone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    minimal
Point:  Smooth fine Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8"
PRICE: $300 
COMMENTSThe "long"  Double Jewel Vacumatic  Major  often is  confused with the Slender Maxima which it is not. Tough to find in blue, as this color ran just mid 1940 to 1941 in double jewel form, unlike other colors which were introduced in 1937. This one is very clean and is a nice writer.
Pen 1938 Parker Vacumatic Major. 2nd Generation Double Jewel 1940
Uncommon "Jeweler's" cap-band variant $325 SOLD

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 2-tone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc
Point:  Lush Medium Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 3/8"
PRICE: $325  SOLD
COMMENTSA very clean example of an impressive and relatively uncommon Vacumatic variant. 2nd largest size. Nice medium nib.

Pen 2011 Parker Vacumatic Azure Blue Major 3rd Gen MINT  $325  

Overall Grade: Mint
Metal: Mint Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Mint
Threads:  perfect clarity:  Perfect Plastic:
Point:  Mint Imprint:  Mint Size: 5 1/8"
PRICE: $325 
COMMENTS:  3rd Generation Vac Majors and Juniors are popular entry-to-Vacdom pens, packing decent size, nice look and affordable price all into one package. Mint stickered pens are a bit less common than the typical user pens. This one is mint unused with one of the two original stickeres still in place. Perfect barrel clarity does not show well in pic due to photo angle on the stripes. Pen does fill on water testing.  Original sac can be replaced prior to shipping for $25 extra and slight delay in shipping, if you prefer a fresh sac.  May not be returned if inked or dipped.

Pen 2037 Parker Vacumatic Major. Emerald Pearl Celluloid. 3rd Gen $300
Mint and Stickered... in Box

Overall Grade: Mint
Metal: Perfect Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Mint
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Superb
Point:  Medium Imprint:  Perfect Size: 5 1/8"
PRICE: $300 
COMMENTS: Third Generation Vac Major/Junior offers a great entry to Vacdom, with nice sized pens at reasonable cost.  MInt Stickered examples are not common. This one is all original mint in box. The box has some edge splits as can be seen in pic.  Barrel clarity is water clear save for back 1/3 where bit of ambering developed from exposure to the original ink sac.  The pic above is not backlighted. To backlight it would be to risk blindness. Ok... maybe not blindness.  Pen has original sac. Might fill. May not be returned if inked/dipped. If you would like a fresh sac installed, this can be done for additional $25 and with modest delay in shipping.

Pen 1735 Parker Vacumatic Junior. A Standard Size Vac  1942
Medium-Broad Flex Nib $100

Overall Grade: Fine
Metal: VG Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  perfect clarity:    VG personal name in barrel
Point:  Med+ Flex
Imprint:  VG Size: 5" by
PRICE: $100 
COMMENTS:   Third generation Vacumatics are typical "First Vacumatic" for most collectors due to their availabilty and due to their ability to provide a nice sized pen for reasonable cost. The two standard sized 3rd Gen pens are Major and Junior, identical pens save for trim, subtle difference to shape of nib, original price, and status of original Parker warranty.  

This one grades just fine, but features a one-in-fifty Vac nib, with a medium+ flex to it. The pens top cap-band has brassing. Other band and clip are clean.  The barrel is neatly stamped in small letters, "Dan Glerum" . Imprint is decent not full excellent. A very nice writer, priced down due to  some honest wear. No fatal flaws.

Pen 1736 Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation 1945. $150
Golden Pearl Celluloid. Unusual pattern variant.

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  perfect clarity:    VG
Point:  Fine-Med Firm Imprint:  perfect Size: 5 1/8"
PRICE: $150
COMMENTS:  Third generation Vacumatics are typical "First Vacumatic" for most collectors due to their availabilty and due to their ability to provide a nice sized pen for reasonable cost. The two standard sized 3rd Gen pens are Major and Junior, identical pens save for trim, subtle difference to shape of nib, original price, and status of original Parker warranty.  

This one is quite nice, as per the table ,above.  The pen does feature an interesting  pattern variation, in which the barrel plastic has a "seamed" appearance. This pattern crops up on  barrels, caps and sometimes both, on 1945-ish pens. Of interest to those who hunt vacsoterica, it does not really convey extra value. Well, not yet.

Pen 1737 Parker Vacumatic Junior. A Standard Size Vac  1942
Azure Blue Celluloid. 3d Generation  $155 SOLD

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  Exc clarity:    Exc
Point:  Medium Imprint:  Exc Size: 5"
PRICE: $155 
COMMENTS:   Third generation Vacumatics are typical "First Vacumatic" for most collectors due to their availabilty and due to their ability to provide a nice sized pen for reasonable cost. The two standard sized 3rd Gen pens are Major and Junior, identical pens save for trim, subtle difference to shape of nib, original price, and status of original Parker warranty.  

This Azure Blue pen is excellent in all respects with a smooth wet medium point.



Pen 1739 Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation  $165 SOLD
Emerald Pearl Celluloid 1944

Overall Grade: Exc
Trim: Exc
Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  perfect clarity: Modest
l
Point: Fine-Med
Imprint:  Exc Size: 5"
PRICE: $165  SOLD
COMMENTS:  Third generation Vacumatics are typical "First Vacumatic" for most collectors due to their availabilty and due to their ability to provide a nice sized pen for reasonable cost. The two standard sized 3rd Gen pens are Major and Junior, identical pens save for trim, subtle difference to shape of nib, original price, and status of original Parker warranty.  

This one grades excellent with nice fine-med nib

Pen 1740 Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation  $135 SOLD
Emerald Pearl Celluloid 1944

Overall Grade: EF
Metal: Exc Color:  a bit subdued CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:  moderate
Point:  Fine Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 "
PRICE: $135 
COMMENTS:  Third generation Vacumatics are typical "First Vacumatic" for most collectors due to their availabilty and due to their ability to provide a nice sized pen for reasonable cost. The two standard sized 3rd Gen pens are Major and Junior, identical pens save for trim, subtle difference to shape of nib, original price, and status of original Parker warranty.

This one is quite clean, with color a bit subdued vs some. its seems to be a deeper, richer green than some (rod stock does vary), though i cannot rule out that it color shifted a bit from the typical brighter shade.

Pen 1742 Parker Vacumatic "Streamline Slender". 2nd Generation Pen. 1939
Canadian. Silver Pearl. Uncommon model/variant   $135 SOLD
Smooth Fine Flex Nib

Overall Grade: VG-Fine
Metal:  VG Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:    mild
Point: Fine Flex Imprint:  Fine Size: 4 3/4"
PRICE: $135 
COMMENTSThis is something of a Vacsoteric model, implied but not quite demontrated in Parker literature, and well known nonetheless to those who know.  Just as the sort-of-uncatalogued Streamlined Standard is a model recognized in retrospect, so too do these streamlined Slender pens crop up, usually (always?) of Canadian origin, unlike the Streamlined Standard. A second generation Debutante-style barrel with a triple cap-band evoking the first generation Slender. Unlike the Standard, for which 1st and 2nd generation pens have incompatible threads, the Slender and Deb can swap parts, allowing the possibility of Franken Pen. Still, i am absolutely convinced (for reasons i won't waste a page on now) that the Streamlined Slener is a kosher model/variant. That it prices out about the same as a Deb or Slender, lessens the worry, anyway.

This one shows trim wear with frank brassing of the bottom cap-ring. The nib is a nice fine flex. Affordable Vac Flex on this one :-)

Pen 1744 Parker Vacumatic Junior. Double Jewel.  Standard size pen.
Golden Pearl Celluloid. Standard Size Pen. 2nd Generation $165 SOLD

Overall Grade: Fine
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc Plastic:  Fine
Point:  Fine-XF Imprint:  Exc Size: 5"
PRICE: $165
COMMENTS:  The two standard sized 3rd Gen pens are Major and Junior, identical pens save for trim, subtle difference to shape of nib, original price, and status of original Parker warranty. The 2nd Generation Junior is the same size as those later 3rd gen pens, and a bit shorter (though same diameter) than most of the 2nd generation Major pens, which in turn are longer than most 3rd gen pens.  This one has nice eye appeal. It does have one very light long scratch near the imprint.
Pen 1746 Parker Vacumatic Junior. Emerald Pearl Celluloid 1943
Canadian Standard Size Vac.   $140 SOLD

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 
Threads:  perfect clarity:    VG
Point:  Medium Semi-Flex Imprint:  VG Size: 5"
PRICE: $140 
COMMENTSThird generation Vacumatics are typical "First Vacumatic" for most collectors due to their availabilty and due to their ability to provide a nice sized pen for reasonable cost. The two standard sized 3rd Gen pens are Major and Junior, identical pens save for trim, subtle difference to shape of nib, original price, and status of original Parker warranty.

This one has a great nib- wet smooth writer with semi-flex. Clean trim. Nice color. Bit of weakness ot the end of the imprint.


Pen 1749 Parker Vacumatic Junior. Double Jewel. 1941
Azure Blue Celluloid. Standard Size Pen. 2nd Generation $185 SOLD

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Fine CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Fine
Point:  Lush Medium Imprint:  Exc Size: 5"
PRICE: $185 
COMMENTS:  The two standard sized 3rd Gen pens are Major and Junior, identical pens save for trim, subtle difference to shape of nib, original price, and status of original Parker warranty. The 2nd Generation Junior is the same size as those later 3rd gen pens, and a bit shorter (though same diameter) than most of the 2nd generation Major pens, which in turn are longer than most 3rd gen pens. 2nd Gen pens also properly feature the metal non-locking pump.

This pen is all correct and writes a wet medium line.

Pen 1750 Parker Vacumatic Junior. 3rd Generation  1945
Azure Blue Celluloid. Long Canadian variant.   $165

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc
Point:  Fine Semi-Flex Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/4"
PRICE: $165
COMMENTS:  Third generation Vacumatics are typical "First Vacumatic" for most collectors due to their availabilty and due to their ability to provide a nice sized pen for reasonable cost. The two standard sized 3rd Gen pens are Major and Junior, identical pens save for trim, subtle difference to shape of nib, original price, and status of original Parker warranty.

Canadian Juniors (and Majors) from the mid 1940's do crop up with extra long cap and barrel. This is one such pen. Longer than typical 3rd gen pens, it is not quite as long as the longest of this sort (some Juniors longer than Senior Maxes!).  I'm still  gathering data before asserting that it was during a limited period that this longer rod stock was used, but that is my suspicion.

This one has particularly vibrant color.

Pen 1751 Parker Vacumatic Debutante. 3rd Generation  1946
A MINT pen fitted with a non-mint Medium Flex Nib  $140 SOLD

Overall Grade: Nearmint-mint
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 2-tone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc
Point: Medium Flex Imprint:  Exc Size: 4 5/8"
PRICE: $140 
COMMENTSThis high-line Debutante is of USA manufacture from 1946, found in a cache of nibless absolutely mint vacumatics i acquired a few years ago.  I have had it fitted iwth a Canadian two tone flexible nib, and now it is ready to roll... or should that be ready to write. Perfect transparency. Perfect trim.
Pen 1753 Parker Vacumatic Junior Debutante Set. Double Jewel
The 2nd Generation Short Shadow-Wave in Golden pearl Celluloid
  $225

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:    VG Plastic: few marks here n there
Point:  Fine Imprint:  Extra Fine Size:4 5/8"
PRICE: $225 
COMMENTS:  Shadow-Wave is a pattern, not a model. It appears on various econo-line models from late 1937 probably through 1943. This one is a 2nd Generation Junior Debutante from 1939. All correct. Nice writer. Nice shape. 

Pen 1904 Parker Vacumatic Debutante Pair 1940
2nd Generation  $85 from Vacumania's Basement. SOLD

Overall Grade: VG
Metal: Extra Fine Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc monotone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    mild
Point:   Medium wet writer Imprint:  Fine Size: 4 5/8"
PRICE: $85 
COMMENTS: Running $8.75 upon its introduction in 1938, the Debutante was a high-line model aimed at those who wanted a smaller-than-standard writing tool.  it was produced in 6 colors.  This example is a bit humble, but writes a nice line and has decent eye appeal. The pen (1940) has proper metal pump, striped top jewel and bullseye bottom jewel. The nib is monotone, having lost its platinum mask. There is mild barrel swelling noted near the filler unit... not uncommon on Debs (thinner walled pen).  The pencil is a bit more worn but with clean trim. It functions. No date code on pencil. I tossed it in to make a set of sorts. The pen is- no joke- worth more than the asking price just as parts. If no one wants this one in a month or two it goes in the parts bin.

Pen 1782 Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation 1946
Emerald Pearl Celluloid  $175

Overall Grade: Exc to NM
Metal: NM Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 2-tone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Superb
Point:  Extra Fine Imprint:  Perfect Size: 5 1/8"
PRICE: $175
COMMENTS:  Third generation Vacumatics are typical "First Vacumatic" for most collectors due to their availabilty and due to their ability to provide a nice sized pen for reasonable cost. The two standard sized 3rd Gen pens are Major and Junior, identical pens save for trim, subtle difference to shape of nib, original price, and status of original Parker warranty.

This one is in superb condition, with near perfect transparency (not well captured in this pic).

Pen 1783 Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation 
Emerald Pearl Celluloid
  $175

Overall Grade: Exc to NM
Metal: NM Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Nearmint
Point:  Fine Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8"
PRICE: $175
COMMENTS:  Third generation Vacumatics are typical "First Vacumatic" for most collectors due to their availabilty and due to their ability to provide a nice sized pen for reasonable cost. The two standard sized 3rd Gen pens are Major and Junior, identical pens save for trim, subtle difference to shape of nib, original price, and status of original Parker warranty.

This one is in superb condition, with blast-white barrel clarity (not well captured in the pic).

Pen 1785 Parker Vacumatic Junior. Jet Black Celluoid. 3rd Generation
A Standard Size Pen   $95

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Mild red
Point:  Lush Medium Semi-Flex Imprint:  Exc Size: 5 1/8"
PRICE: $95 
COMMENTS:   Third generation Vacumatics are typical "First Vacumatic" for most collectors due to their availabilty and due to their ability to provide a nice sized pen for reasonable cost. The two standard sized 3rd Gen pens are Major and Junior, identical pens save for trim, subtle difference to shape of nib, original price, and status of original Parker warranty.

This one really is the "entry level" pen if one seeks standard sized Vacs.  Black in Junior trim. Nothing more humble. But, this one is a great writer and is very clean. Gold Fill trim looks nice on jet black celluloid.

Pen 1786 Parker Vacumatic Junior. 3rd Generation 1943
Emerald Pearl Celluloid. A Standard Size pen  $105

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Slight edge brassing Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 
Threads:  perfect clarity:    VG
Point:  Fine. Imprint:  VG Size: 5 "
PRICE: $105
COMMENTS:  Third generation Vacumatics are typical "First Vacumatic" for most collectors due to their availabilty and due to their ability to provide a nice sized pen for reasonable cost. The two standard sized 3rd Gen pens are Major and Junior, identical pens save for trim, subtle difference to shape of nib, original price, and status of original Parker warranty.

With a smooth wet fine point, this one is fairly clean, with a smidge of edge brassing on the cap-bands and a complete but slightly light imprint. Nice 

Pen 1921 Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation 1946
A first year all correct "long" Major  $80

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Extra Fine Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc 2-tone
Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc
Point: F-M Imprint:  Extra Fine Size: 5"
PRICE: $80 
COMMENTS:  A basic  working Vacumatic. Third generation Major offers nice entry to the hobby. Decent size pen for reasonable green.  Nice clarity
 
Pen 1637 Parker Vacumatic Debutante 1940 2nd Gen Double Jewel  $95

Overall Grade: Fine
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc SLIGHT barrel bulge
Point:  F-M Imprint:  Exc Size: 4 5/8"
PRICE: $95 
COMMENTS:  Overall clean double jewel deb with striped  top jewel, correct "bullseye" bottom pseudo jewel and two tone nib. The slightest barrel bulge is present by the filler unit, not uncommon on Debs. Priced accordingly. A nice usable pen for someone favoring a smaller vintage vac.

Pen 1640 Parker Vacumatic standard sized "Junior". $215
Nearmint.  Original Price Sticker Intact on Cap

Overall Grade: Nearmint
Metal: NM Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc
Point:  Medium Imprint:  perfect Size: 5"
PRICE: $215 
COMMENTSThe third generation Parker Vacumatic is the popular entry-to-series pen, blending decent size with reasonable price. . This one has met ink, but is true near miint in condition. Great eye appeal. It has had a fresh sac placed, despite its mintiness, so is ready to roll.

.Pen 1465 Parker Vacumatic Golden Web set. Odd "Third" size (longest)    $440
Note, Pencil has been withdrawn. Price is for Pen Alone
Overall Grade: Exc Trim:  Exc. Couple specks of brass
Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Clarity:  Moderate Amber

Point: XF-F
Imprint:   Excellent Size:  5.125
PRICE: $440
COMMENTSIn 1936-1937 Parker catalogued a couple Junior line Vacs besides the typical mottled colors: Transparent Brown and Transparent Black. Today we call the Brown pen,  "Golden Web". The Golden Web is the only lockdown era (first generation) Junior line pen to be found in three Junior sizes:  1) Standard, 2) Slender, and 3) Long Slender.   The Long Slender pen is offered here.  Note the pencil is available in only one size, which matches all the pen sizes.

Pen 1637 Parker Vacumatic Debutante 1940 2nd Gen Double Jewel  $95

Overall Grade: Fine
Metal: Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  perfect clarity:    Exc SLIGHT barrel bulge
Point:  F-M Imprint:  Exc Size: 4 5/8"
PRICE: $95 
COMMENTS:  Overall clean double jewel deb with striped  top jewel, correct "bullseye" bottom pseudo jewel and two tone nib. The slightest barrel bulge is present by the filler unit, not uncommon on Debs. Priced accordingly. A nice usable pen for someone favoring a smaller vintage vac.


Pen 1163 Parker VACUUM-FILLER (pre-vacumatic) Silver-pearl with chrome trim. 1933 $275 SOLD
Overall Grade: VG-Fine Trim:  spotty brassing and "golding" of the bottom chrome band. Color:  Not bad. some of the typical barrel ambering. CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: XF Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  NA Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: fine point. two tone "usa/parker" Vac/Vac-filler nib Imprint:   Lite but legible Size:  ~ 1/2" by ~ 4 5/6. PRICE: $275 SOLD
COMMENTS:  OK.  These are tough. The Parker Vacuum-Filler is the predecessor to the Vacumatic , proper, and is a sub-1-year model.  I refer to it- a bit tongue in cheek-  as the 0th generation Vac. This particular model has features to differentiate it from the later Vacs. It is the correct size of a later lockdown Vac Junior (standard diameter, double cap-band) but unlike later Vacs this lockdown pen is a full high-line model sold at deluxe price point ($7.50) and featuring high line trim including striped jewels, striped section and two tone nib.   Unlike this Vacuum-Filler, the Vacumatic was not shown in catalogs in the typical vac-stripes in this junior size lockdown-filler style.  These are quite  scarce relative to  later vac models and have great charm for the collector who seeks a Vac with a bit of extra oomph. Early VF's were described to have "white gold trim". Not the alloy, parker used this jargon for its chrome or nickel finish placed on conventional GF which itself was placed on brass. this pen has lost bit of the white wash to the capbands, but what shows beneath is the GF, not brass. Neat.

Please Note:  The clip is from a bit later as the clip ball lacks the arrow-on-arrow motif and slightly shorter length seen on the earliest clips.  $275


Pen 1547 Parker Vacumatic 1st generation Standard.
Burgundy Pearl Celluloid  $225 SOLD

Overall Grade: VG-F Trim:  BottomTassie brassed
Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib shape: clean twotone
Threads:  Perfect  Clarity: Modest amber
personal name on barrel
Point: Fine. smth wet line
Imprint:   Weak/ghosted Size:  5 1/8"
PRICE: $225
COMMENTSThe Vacumatic Standard is a 1st Generation of Vac. the chunky gripping section has more in common with the later Senior Maximas than it does with its later niche-equivelent, the Major. Featuring a metal lockdown pump and the  feather clip, this early vac feature all the "luxury" features of vacdom, including a striped gripping section, striped end jewels and a two-tone nib. Gives a big grip whilst avoiding "oversized" prices.  This is "first year" 1934 pen, with first year clip and early style top jewel. No fatal flaws, but it does have wear. The bottom tassie is brassed, the imprint is nearly gone, the two tone effect on the nib is light. The barrel is script-engraved  "Harry S. Brundige".  Writes well, has clean plastic and cap trim, and has sound overall eye appeal.  Priced down due to wear. A nice user. No cracks!
 
Pen 1427 Parker Vacumatic Major Azure Blue Celluloid 1945    $160

Overall Grade: Exc Trim:  Exc Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Clarity:  Exc Ember-Yellow Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Med-Broad Semi-Flex Imprint:   Excellent Size:  0.5" by 5" PRICE: $160
COMMENTS:  The classic- a 3rd Generation single jewel Major.  A balance of affordable price and decent size. Not uncommonly, this sort finds itself into collections as a collector's first vac. Sharp celluloid color rings in a better color. Nice nib.

Pen 1478 Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation
Golden Pearl Celluloid. MINT stickered. Pristine. 1946  $335

Overall Grade: Mint Pristine
Metal: NM Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Mint Threads:  perfect clarity:    Perfect
Point:  Smooth Medium Imprint:  perfect Size: 5" by
PRICE: $335 
COMMENTSThe third generation Parker Vacumatic is the popular entry-to-series pen, blending decent size with reasonable price. True Mint pens are scarce in a field in which many just-ok items are hyperbbed as "best i've ever seen, museum quality". This one is just... MINT. No evidence of prior ink encounter. Perfect barrel clarity. Perfect color. A lovely vac.

Pen 1642 Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation
Golden Pearl Celluloid. "Stacked Coin" Capband  $185

Overall Grade: Exc
Metal: Exc Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  perfect clarity: mild red

Point:  Smooth Medium Imprint:  Exc Size: 5"
PRICE: $185 
COMMENTS: The Stacked Coin cap-band (concentric lines with a cartouche, thinner overall than the Jeweler's Capband) appeared in 1942 and in many respects is a legacy cap-band to the 2nd Generation's Jeweler's Cap-band. It can be found on blue diamond standard sized pens in four colors and in two sizes. It also appears on some late Shadow Wave pens and on the Vacs we sometimes call "Vacu-Fold", Vacumatics done in striped Duofold celluloid. This one is very clean. A somewhat underappreciated Vac found maybe one for every 30-50 vacs with typical cap-band

Pen 1539 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima
 "Jeweler's" style cap-band. A special pen  $650

Overall Grade:Exc Trim:  Exc Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  Exc cartouche is engraved "F.L"
Point: Medium Imprint:   Exc
Size:  5 3/8" by 9/16th"
PRICE: $650
COMMENTS:  A special Vac.  The so-called Jeweler's cap-band Vacs are relatively uncommon variants produced from 1939-1941. Factory original, the key finding is an extra-wide lined capband. 16 possible blue-diamond variants can be found- 4 sizes in 4 colors. Only in Nov 2006 did i finally complete this mini-collection, having tracked down the black small Debutante pen.  In my personal experience,  8 years hunting these and 50+ pen shows worth of pens examined, the Senior Max pens are more common in Golden and Silver Pearl and less common in Black and in Azure Blue. Indeed i've seen but 6 pens in jet black in this size in all that time. This one has resided in my collection for 3 years, only now made available for sale. The pen grades excellent, the only flaw being a pin mark in the bottom tassie. NOTE, the cartouche on the cap-band is nicely engraved "F. L.".  I offer Jeweler's Band pens on the website, but note that Senior Maximas are most uncommon.  A neat pen.

Pen 1189 Parker Vacuum-Filler  "Crystal" 1933 
Crystal  pattern with "reverse" trim. Scarce model. Medium Semi-Flex $475
A Triple  Vac Bonus

Overall Grade: Fine Trim:  XF Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: EXC medium semi-flex
proper no-arrow "Vacuum Filler" nib.
Threads:  Perfect cap threads. Blind cap shifted a hair as per pic. Transparency:  Modest deeply ambered clarity. Shows well against backlight. Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: medium semi flex Imprint:   Light but legible
not uncommon amongst Vacuum-Fillers
Size:  1/2" by 4  6/7"  or so. Standard diameter. PRICE: $475
COMMENTS:  Where to Start?  OK. The beginning. The Parker Vacuum-Filler is the predecessor to the Vacumatic, proper. Produced <1 year, any VF is tough to find. This Crystal model- the clear-barrel variant often mistaken of intentionally mislabelled as a demonstrator-  is a recognized model identified in Parker literature. One might infer from a Parker advert (though it's a bit of  stretch) that  it was released in response to customer fascination with the True Demonstrator.

Reverse Trim, you ask? Most Vacs feature goldfill trim on all colors save gray-pearl pens, which feature white trim. However, early black Vacs do crop up... occasionally... with white trim instead of the goldfill.  Many of us refer to this as "reverse trim".

This Vacuum-Filler, already well more interesting than a simple Vacumatic,  combines the uncommon Crystal barrel with reverse trim.

Condition. A decent pen. The bottom trim ring has a bit of "golding" (not brassing- another long story). The imprint is light but legible. Nib is sweet- medium semi-flex.

This, basically, is a weird-ass early Vac, destined for a collector who appreciates Vacsoterica more than just Big Pens with Big Red Stripes :-)
 


Pen 1344 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima Pencil. Golden Pearl Celluloid. 1938  $130

Overall Grade: Fine Trim:  minimal edge brass Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  VG Click if link is hot, for more info
Point Imprint:   exc Size PRICE: $130
COMMENTS:  Three core styles of Vac Maxima pencil were produced. This is the early style produced through the end of 1938. A nice pencil in working shape with which to add to a pen to make a set.

Pen 1398 Rare Parker Vacumatic Crystal Standard, not Junior. $550
Please read this one.  SOLD

Overall Grade: Good-VG Trim:  some brass to bottom tassie Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent Two tone Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  Modest ruby clarity Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine Imprint:   Very light. Nearly Gone. Size:  5" by  1/2" PRICE: $550
COMMENTS: This one we will call RARE.  As the reader knows (and has seen for sale at Vacumania.com), The early all-clear-barrel Crystal pattern is found in pre-Vacumatic Vacuum-Filler pens and in first year-ish Vacumatics as part of their Junior line. Often, Crystal pens wrongly are labelled  Demonstrator, which they are not, though they do demonstrate very nicely and indeed look just like the Demonstrator, save for lack of the Demonstrator imprint. The Crystal is a catalogued model.

What was the subject of some dispute until recently was the presence of a high-line Standard model in Crystal, which did not appear in the well known 1934 Vacumatic and earlier Vacuum-Filler catalog pages.  Vacumania bought this pen six years ago at the Chicago Pen Show. In discussion of this find, fellow vacnuts tended to respond that the pen perhaps  was a mix as twin-cap-band Junior caps fit Standard barrels quite well.  No. The pen had a two tone nib as a Standard should. Fellow collectors responded that nibs can be swapped. This is true. However, the pen barrel itself was as long as most Standards and longer than the Junior. The pen appeared to be a Crystal Standard. Fellow collectors tossed up hands in disbelief and ambled away :-) 

However, two years ago a newly found Parkergram- previously unseen by the naysayers- came to light. Vacumania bought the orignal. It showed the high line Standard in Crystal celluloid!  The pen was validated. Since then Vacumania has seen or heard of three total pens of this sort, amongst the thousands of Vacs we've examined.  Two reside in our collection- the one for sale today being one of those. The other was much more clean, was wrongly advertised on ebay as a Demonstrator, and sold for $1200 there.

The pen for sale today is humble. The barrel is  ambered. The imprint is nearly gone> But it is all correct and  was restored by Joel Hamilton. This one will  fit a collection which seeks  esoteric vacs. Vacsoterica is our favorite part of the vacdom.  A copy of the Parker catalog page  showing this model can be provided with the pen, if desired.


 Pen 1428 Parker Vacumatic Major. Azure Blue 1946 $155 

Overall Grade: Exc Trim: Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition:Exc Two Tone Threads:  Perfect.  Clarity: Very Good amber clarity Click if link is hot, for more info.
Point: Medium Imprint:   Excellent Size:   0.5" by 5" PRICE: $155
COMMENTS:  The classic- a 3rd Generation single jewel Major.  A balance of affordable price and decent size. Not uncommonly, this sort finds itself into collections as a collector's first vac. 

Pen 1432 Parker Vacumatic Major. Azure Blue. 1945    NIB  $165
Overall Grade: Exc Trim:  Excellent Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Two tone!. Threads:  Perfect Clarity:  Moderate Amber Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Medium. Wet writer. Imprint:   Excellent Size:  5 1/8" by 1/2" PRICE: $165
COMMENTS:  The classic- a 3rd Generation single jewel Major.  A balance of affordable price and decent size. Not uncommonly, this sort finds itself into collections as a collector's first vac. 

Pen 1442 Parker Vacumatic Major 1948. Jet Black  $175 

Overall Grade: Near Mint Metal: NM CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM  Threads:  perfect clarity:    Perfect Click if link is hot, for more info
Point:  Smooth Medium Imprint:  perfect Size: 55" by 1/2" PRICE: $175 
COMMENTS:  TA mint barrel fitted with Parker-issue 1953-dated nib. Accidently inked at a pen show once thus not full mint. Stunning barrel clarity.

Pen 1478 Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation
Golden Pearl Celluloid. MINT stickered. Pristine. 1946  $335

Overall Grade: Mint Pristine
Metal: NM Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Mint Threads:  perfect clarity:    Perfect
Point:  Smooth Medium Imprint:  perfect Size: 5" by
PRICE: $335 
COMMENTSThe third generation Parker Vacumatic is the popular entry-to-series pen, blending decent size with reasonable price. True Mint pens are scarce in a field in which many just-ok items are hyperbbed as "best i've ever seen, museum quality". This one is just... MINT. No evidence of prior ink encounter. Perfect barrel clarity. Perfect color. A lovely vac.

Pen 1581 Parker Vacumatic Major 3rd Generation Set
Azure Blue Celluloid Set. Special cap plastic $225

Overall Grade: Exc++ Trim:  Exc
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM Threads:  Perfect  Transparency:  Superb
Point: Fine firm Imprint:   Perfect Size:  5 1/8" PRICE: $225 
COMMENTS:    A truly lovely set, the 1946 dated pen also sports a cap showing the "seamed" Plastic that seems to crop in 1945 and 1946, though not- i believe- on all pens from that era.  Both pen and pencil are superb.  My kind of vac set.

SOLD Pen 1575 Parker Vacumatic 1st Gen Shadow-Wave
Golden Pearl. 1938  $175 SOLD

Overall Grade: Fine Trim:  Both cap-bands completely brassed
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM Threads:  Perfect  Transparency:  NA
Point: Fine firm Imprint:   Perfect Size:  4 7/8" PRICE: $175 SOLD
COMMENTS:    An overall decent Shadow Wave with the often-seen wear to those two thin capbands. Rest of pen ok.

Pen 1570 Parker Vacumatic Junior (larger model)
1st Generation. "1st Year". True Opaque  $215 SOLD

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Trim:  Couple tiny specks of brass.
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM Clutch:  Perfect  Transparency:  NA
Point: Medium+
Imprint:   Decent
Size:  4 7/8" PRICE: $215  SOLD
COMMENTS:    Truely opaque Vacs were catalogued only during the pre-Vacumatic Vacuum-Filler era and during first year production of the Vacumatic, proper.  This pen has all correct features. First year clip (short, arrow-on-arrow), first year NON-arrow "Parker Vacumatic" nib, etc. Very very clean for this sort, the only notable is that the fully legible imprint- better than many- indeed is a bit light. No date code is shown as this pen was issued before 3rd quarter 1934.

SOLD Pen 1541 Parker Vacumatic Junior (larger pen)
Burgundy Mottled. Superb Transparency  $325 SOLD

Overall Grade: Exc Trim:  Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc  Threads:  Exc Clarity: Superb Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine Firm Imprint:   Exc Size: 4 7/8"
PRICE: $325 SOLD
COMMENTS:  A gem pen with lovely clarity.

SOLD Pen 1542 Parker Vacumatic Major 3rd Generation  $120 SOLD

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Trim: Clean No name engraved.
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM Threads:  Perfect  Transparency:  vg
Point: Fine Semi-Flex Imprint:   Perfect Size:  5 1/8" PRICE: $120 SOLD
COMMENTS:   A Canadian vac with nicely responsive nib.
  
Pen 1544 Parker Vacumatic Major (3rd Generation)
Azure Blue  $160

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Trim:  <1% brass
Color: Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib: Exc Threads:  Perfect  Clarity:  Modest Amber
Plastic:  Very Clean
Point:  Medium
Imprint:   Couple letters weak.
Size:  5" PRICE: $160 
COMMENTS:  Azure blue is the most desirable color for the USA-made standard length single jewel Major and remains one of our best sellers. This is a solid example. A nice writer in very clean condition.
 
Pen 1555 Parker... the dread "VacuFOLD"  in Dusty Red Celluloid. Few Month Production.
A Fully Marked  Parker Vacumatic done in "Duofold Plastic".  $265

Overall Grade: ExtraFine
Trim:  Exc
color::  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  Perfect  Clarity:  Amber
Plastic: Exc
Point: Fine. Smooth wet.
Imprint:   G-VG
Size:  5 1/4" PRICE: $265 
COMMENTS:   A nifty variant, well known to those who know.  In late 1942-early 1943 Parker produced some Vacumatics (including odd size like this one) in the striped celluloid better known from the 1940's Duofold series. These appear about two years after the introduction of the Duofold proper. They feature a Vac nib and Vac-style clip of course, as well as a cap-band unique on plastic of this pattern to these short lived Vacumatics. This "stacked coin" capband is not seen on Duofolds, proper. The pen has a "Vacumatic", not "Duofold", barrel imprint.

This one has nice eye appeal and is quite clean. The imprint is a bit weak just for "Vacumatic".  Priced down a bit due to this.

SOLD Pen 1535 Parker Vacumatic TRUE Slender Maxima 1937
Burgundy Celluloid  $545 SOLD 

Overall Grade: Exc+  Trim:  Exc Transparency:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc+ Threads: Perfect
color:  Fine
Point: Fine.  Smooth Imprint:   Perfect Size: 5  3/8" PRICE: $545 Sold
COMMENTSIt is tragic how many non Slender Maxima Vacs are called Slender Max. This one is the real deal top to bottom. It packs the wide cap-band of the Maxima on a standard-diameter pen and features the correct 9-feather-per-side arrow nib. Slender Maximas crop up probably 1 for every 50 or more of the fatter Senior Maxima. This one- in Burgundy- pops.

Pen 1568 Parker Vacumatic SENIOR. 1936  $415

Overall Grade: VG Trim:  Fine
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  Perfect  Transparency:  NA Plastic: One Long Scratch by imprint
Point: Med firm Imprint:   Fine Size:  5 3/8" PRICE: $415 
COMMENTS:    The Parker Vacumatic  SENIOR  is a scarce model shown only in the 1936 Catalog. Having at root Standard diameter capthreads and barrel diameter, it has a unique-to-model cap and blindcap. The only Vacumatic model to feature the thin-fat-thin triple capband, this pen has the fat section of the early lockdown pens but has the tapered long cap and blindcap. This 1936 model is the predecessor to the follwoing year's 2nd generation Slender Maxima. Slender Maxes are scarce (and often Majors are wrongly labelled as that model) and the Slender Max was manufactured 3-4 times as long as the Senior. The Senior features big honkin OS Nib and feed crammed to the limit into the standard-diameter section. Scare model of high cachet.

This one has a very clean cap and nib. All parts are correct with longer-than-standard barrel, extra long streamlined blind cap, and OS nib.  The pen has a 1" long scratch on the barrel. Overall sound eye appeal. Nice color.

 Pen 1546 Parker Vacumatic Emerald Pearl Celluloid (earlier forest-green variant)
Less common "extra long First Year" variant.  3rd Gen. 1942  $225

Overall Grade: Exc Trim:  clean Color:  Excellent  CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc. Two Tone
Threads:  Perfect  Clarity:  mild amber

Point: Med smooth
Imprint:   excellent Size: 5 3/8"
PRICE: $225
COMMENTS:  Often erroneously considered a "single jewel Slender Maxima". It is NOT that. That pen does not exist. As you know, Parker's Major was produced with longer rod-stock from late 1938- either late 1942/early 1943 than was used before or after. This 1942 Major carries the longer rod stock in the "earlier" forest green (vs olive-ish green) shade.  It has a plump clean two tone nib. Within a few months, the Major would shrink and all vestiges of the earlier luxury features would go bye bye.  The 1942 Major crops up well less than 10% as often as the later shorter Major. This one is in very clean condition and is a superb writer.

Sold Pen 1545 Parker Vacumatic 1st Gen. Junior.
Mottled Burgundy Celluloid. Superb Clarity.  $325 Sold

Overall Grade Exc+
Metal: Clean Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent Threads:  Perfect
Clarity:  Superb
Point: Fine
Imprint:   Excellent
Size:  4 15/16" closed
PRICE: $325 Sold
commentsA gem pen with lovely clarity.

Pen 1390 Parker Vacumatic Major Double Jewel Silver Pearl $400 MINT Perfect
Overall Grade: MINT  Trim:  perfect. Capband does move in its track Color:  Mint CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: MINT Two-Tone Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  Mint Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine-Med Imprint:   Perfect Size: 5 3/8" by 1/2" PRICE: $400
COMMENTS:  A stunning example of Parker's 1939-1941 "long" Double Jewel Major- a pen often wrongly labelled "Slender Maxima". Silver Pearl pens often are devalued by trashed trim and ambered plastic. This one shows why the color is "common"-  it no doubt sold well due to its great beauty when perfect. Pen still has price sticker residue next to the clip.  Pen probably fills, but sac has not been replaced and pen may not be returned if inked or dipped (water testing is fine). If you would like a fresh sac placed in pen, this can be done fofr $20 and at slight delay in shipping.

Pen 1398 Rare Parker Vacumatic Crystal Standard, not Junior. $550
Please read this one.  SOLD

Overall Grade: Good-VG Trim:  some brass to bottom tassie Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent Two tone Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  Modest ruby clarity Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine Imprint:   Very light. Nearly Gone. Size:  5" by  1/2" PRICE: $550
COMMENTS: This one we will call RARE.  As the reader knows (and has seen for sale at Vacumania.com), The early all-clear-barrel Crystal pattern is found in pre-Vacumatic Vacuum-Filler pens and in first year-ish Vacumatics as part of their Junior line. Often, Crystal pens wrongly are labelled  Demonstrator, which they are not, though they do demonstrate very nicely and indeed look just like the Demonstrator, save for lack of the Demonstrator imprint. The Crystal is a catalogued model.

What was the subject of some dispute until recently was the presence of a high-line Standard model in Crystal, which did not appear in the well known 1934 Vacumatic and earlier Vacuum-Filler catalog pages.  Vacumania bought this pen six years ago at the Chicago Pen Show. In discussion of this find, fellow vacnuts tended to respond that the pen perhaps  was a mix as twin-cap-band Junior caps fit Standard barrels quite well.  No. The pen had a two tone nib as a Standard should. Fellow collectors responded that nibs can be swapped. This is true. However, the pen barrel itself was as long as most Standards and longer than the Junior. The pen appeared to be a Crystal Standard. Fellow collectors tossed up hands in disbelief and ambled away :-) 

However, two years ago a newly found Parkergram- previously unseen by the naysayers- came to light. Vacumania bought the orignal. It showed the high line Standard in Crystal celluloid!  The pen was validated. Since then Vacumania has seen or heard of three total pens of this sort, amongst the thousands of Vacs we've examined.  Two reside in our collection- the one for sale today being one of those. The other was much more clean, was wrongly advertised on ebay as a Demonstrator, and sold for $1200 there.

The pen for sale today is humble. The barrel is  ambered. The imprint is nearly gone> But it is all correct and  was restored by Joel Hamilton. This one will  fit a collection which seeks  esoteric vacs. Vacsoterica is our favorite part of the vacdom.  A copy of the Parker catalog page  showing this model can be provided with the pen, if desired.



Pen 1492 Parker Vacumatic Burgundy Pearl
The so-called "OverMax", a quite scarce anomaly.  $1075

Overall Grade: ExtraFine
Trim:  brass on bottom tassie
Color:  Exc
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: extrafine
Threads:  Perfect  Clarity:  Exc
Point: Fine firm. Two tone.
Imprint:   Perfect Size:  5 3/8" PRICE: $1075 
COMMENTS:   Where to start with this one?  Figure... a 1934-1938 first generation Vacumatic Oversize, with a late barrel imprint (1940) and a second generation style Senior Maxima cap-band instead of triple bands.  In 8 years i've seen about 6 of these, always red, always with 1940 date code. One cannot- in case the reader wonders- mix together a pen like this by putting a Maxima cap on an OS Barrel. Even ignoring the late barrel imprint, it is noted that Senior Max caps have different shape from OS cap- the Max is more streamlined- and does not fit the threads of the bulkier OS. Sometimes termed "Over-Max", the pen essentially is a very late OS produced with Maxima trim.  A very neat Vac for the serious collector.


.Pen 1430 Parker Vacumatic Major Golden Pearl 1953. Last of the Canadians! $125

Overall Grade: Excellent Trim:  Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent. Threads:  Perfect c  Clarity:  Near MInt Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: ExtraFine/Accountant Imprint:   sharp* Size:  0.5" by 5" PRICE: $125
COMMENTS:  The classic- a 3rd Generation single jewel Major.  A balance of affordable price and decent size. Not uncommonly, this sort finds itself into collections as a collector's first vac. Sharp celluloid color rings in a better color. Canada produced Vacs to 1953, five years after the USA stopped production. 


Pen 1434 Parker Vacumatic "Long" Junior. Silver Pearl. Canadian  Mid 1940's $155

Overall Grade: ExtraFine Trim:  Exc Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: VG*  Threads:  Exc Clarity: Exc+ Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine Firm Imprint:   VG Size: 5 5/16" by 1/2" PRICE: $155 
COMMENTS:  A third generation Junior, this one is a bit of a rule-breaker, but one seen with some regularity. About as long as a Senior Maxima, it nonetheless is a Junior. Sometimes wrongly called a Slender Maxima because of its length, it is not that model. I have seen no USA-made pens of this sort, but mid-1940's Canadian pens of this sort do appear. A funky variant of nominal added value.

An otherwise sharp imprint is a bit light across the top. The nib writes nicely and has  nice iridium, but shows signs of having been straightened.



Pen 1491 Parker Vacumatic Oversized. Canadian
Burgundy Pearl Celluloid. 1938  $635

Overall Grade: Fine-XF Trim:  Couple spots of brass
Color: Exc
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Fine Threads:  Perfect  Clarity  VG amber

Point: Medium Semi-Flex
Imprint:   Perfect Size:  5 7/16" by 9/16ths
PRICE: $635 
COMMENTS:   The Vacumatic Oversize is the largest pen from the 1st generation of Vacumatic and indeed its chunkier contour renders it larger in the hand than the later Maxima. This one is quite decent with no severe flaws.  There is couple millimeters of brass near top of clip washer, bit to edges of clip and a thin line on the bottom tassie. Correct two tone nib, striped end jewels and black gripping section (black sections are correct to Canadian pens from this era). A smooth semi-flex nib.
CLICK HERE FOR MANY MORE PICTURES


Pen 1475 Parker Vacumatic 3rd Generation Major. MINT Stickered $225. 
Silver Pearl Celluloid. Bit of shop wear to cap-band. 1946
Overall Grade: Mint uninked
Trim:  Some "shopwear"
Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Mint Threads:  perfect Plastic:  Perfect
Point: Fine*. Imprint:   Perfect Size:  5" by 1/2" PRICE: $225 
COMMENTSThe third generation Parker Vacumatic is the popular entry-to-series pen, blending decent size with reasonable price. True Mint pens are not so common. This one is double stickered and has perfect barrel clarity. Pen is uninked. Sticker cites "XF" nib, though to my eye the nib appears to be fine. Of note,  as happens with silver pearl pens, the non-gold-filled trim does show some speckling and "shop wear". Still with very nice eye appeal, price has been dropped $100+ to reflect this. Please see extra pics.

 
Pen 1476 Parker Vacumatic Junior (Major-size pen)
Azure Blue. Original Price Sticker. 1945 $190 

Overall Grade: NearMint
Trim:  Perfect
Color:  Superb  CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM Threads:  Perfect.  Transparency:  bright amber clarity
Point: Fine-Medium
Imprint:   Perfect
Size:  5" by 1/2" PRICE: $190
COMMENTS: The third generation Parker Vacumatic is the popular entry-to-series pen, blending decent size with reasonable price. This pen still has price sticker. Trim and imprint are perfect. Barrel ambering is present. One of the nicest Azure Blue 3rd Generation standard sized Juniors i've seen.


Pen 1497 Parker Vacumatic Major 3rd Generation
Golden Pearl. MINT. Not stickered. 1948   $245 FLEX

Overall Grade: Mint Trim:  Perfect Color: Perfect
CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Mint Threads:  Perfect  Transparency:  Perfect
Point: Fine FLEX Imprint:   Perfect Size:  5" PRICE: $245 
COMMENTSThe third generation Parker Vacumatic is the popular entry-to-series pen, blending decent size with reasonable price. This one is mint and has not met ink. Color and clarity are superb. Imprint pops. Nib has 1953 date code (5 years post discontinuation of series!), something i've seen in a fair bunch of mint end-or-run 1948 Vacs, perhaps representing mix of final shells mixed with late nibs as mint parts were assembled into pens.  This one is sweet. Nib is moderately flexible. Note, pen may not be returned if inked or dipped (Water is fine).


Pen 1523 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima
Scarce "PARKER VACUMATIC" cap-band. 1937 $ 1510 SOLD

Overall Grade: ExtraFine Trim: Edge Brass to tassie. Color: Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  Perfect  Transparency:  NA
Point: Fine firm Imprint:   Perfect Size:  5.375" PRICE: $1510 SOLD 
COMMENTSOne of the dream pens for  Vac collectors, the "Vac-Band"  pens were shown on the cover of the 1937 catalog and were produced perhaps just a few weeks to couple months. 25 pens and pencil models/color were produced. Vacumania has 18 of those in the personal collection and during the last couple years has sold most of the  few duplicates. This represents 8 years of hunting. The Senior Maxima of course is the largest model pen to feature this cap-band. A Gem with "27" date code, clean nib and plastic, and just bit of brass to bottom tassie.  A keystone cacheity (neologisms-R-us) in vintage Vacdom.


Pen 1464 Parker Vacumatic Junior (larger size). Reticulated Lines 1936  $275 

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Trim:  Extra Fine
Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent Threads:  Perfect   Clarity: moderate amber

Point: Fine-Meidum Firm
Imprint:   Perfect Size:   0.5" by 4.875" PRICE: $275 
COMMENTS:  In 1936-1937 Parker catalogued a couple Junior line Vacs besides the typical mottled colors: Transparent Brown and Transparent Black. Today we call the Brown pen "Golden Web" and given the presence of different Black Transparent pens over the years, this one is termed "Reticulated Lines" (netlike clarity) or Black Mesh.  This is the larger of the two junior sizes available in this pattern of transparency. A quite clean pen, a speckling of brass is noted on capbands and on bottom tassie. Moderate amber clarity is present when pen is held to light. See the extra pics, please.


.Pen 1467 Parker Vacumatic Shadow-Wave. 2nd Generation
Silver Pearl Celluloid. A stunner. 1938  $335

Overall Grade: Exc-NM Trim:  Superb Color:  Superb CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent. Threads:  Perfect   Clarity:  Modest Amber-red

Point: Fine Imprint:   Superb
Size:  0.5" by 5" PRICE: $335
COMMENTS:  Shadow Wave celluloid patterns can be found in Vacs dating from late 1937 through 1942, thought they crop up in catalogs for  just a year or two.  This one  is an early 2nd Generation pen featuring feather clip, double jewels and metal pump. Silver Pearl often is found in worse shape than other colors as the white-metal trim does not tolerate wear as well as the gold-filled trim of other colors, and the celluloid tends to amber more than other colors. It is difficult to find striking specimens in this color. This one is striking. One of the nicest I've seen.
CLICK HERE FOR MANY MORE PICTURES


Pen 1527 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima Set
Golden Pearl Celluloid. Canadian  1939-40 $650 ExtraFine Point

Overall Grade: Extra fine
Trim:  trvial edge brass
Color: Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  Perfect  Clarity:  Modest red

Point: Smooth XF
Imprint:  Fine
Size:  5.325" PRICE: $650 
COMMENTS:   A lovely example of the Vacumatic Senior Maxima set. Pen packs a 1939 date code, and is all correct with Blue Diamond clip, two tone nib, black gripping section, and striped end jewels. The matching pencil has a 1940 date code.  Only "flaw" is trace edge brass here and there. A great set.


Pen 1523 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima. Emerald Green
Scarce "PARKER VACUMATIC" cap-band. 1937 $1325

Overall Grade: Fine
Trim:  trvial edge brass
Color: Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM Threads:  Perfect  Transparency:  VG
Point: Oblique Broad
Imprint:   Perfect Size:  5.375" PRICE: $1325 
COMMENTS:   Key finds for  Vac collectors, the "Vac-Band"  pens were shown on the cover of the 1937 catalog and were produced perhaps just a few weeks to couple months. 25 pens and pencil models/colors were produced. Vacumania has 18 of those in the personal collection, and has sold a very few duplicates. This represents 8 years of hunting. The Senior Maxima of course is the largest model pen to feature this cap-band. This one grades Fine. Mild brassing at edges, a couple scratches including one in the cap-lip. No cracks or serious flaws.


Pen 1525 Parker Vacumatic 1st Generation Standard.
Emerald Green. Canadian  1938 $350 Oblique Double-Broad Nib

Overall Grade: Extrafine Trim:  trvial edge brass
Color: Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM Threads:  Perfect  Transparency:  VG
Point: Oblique Broad
Imprint:   Fine
Size:  5.125" PRICE: $350 
COMMENTS:   A special Vac, combining the charm and cachet of the first generation lockdown vac with a monster nib. All correct with lockdown filler, striped end jewels, two tone nib and black gripping section (Canadian)
CLICK HERE FOR MANY MORE PICTURES


Pen 1469 Parker Vacumatic Major. 2nd Generation
Azure Blue Celluloid 1941 $265

Overall Grade: Extra Fine
Trim:  Excellent Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc. monotone*
Threads:  Perfect Clarity:  None
Point: Fine. Smooth writer. Imprint:   Excellent Size:  5 3/8" by 1/2" PRICE: $265
COMMENTSContrary to the belief of many, the blue  is the most uncommon color amongst double jewel Majors, produced just 1/3 as long as all other colors including red. This one pops, with nice transparency, etc etc. Often wrongly labelled Slender Maxima, it is the second largest blue Vac manufactured, mathcing size but not all features fond in the true Slender Max.  Note, this one has a later monotone (instead of two tone) nib and features a similarly later plastic- instead of metal- pump. Nicely restored and working well.


Pen 1479 Parker Vacumatic Major. 3rd Generation
Emerald Pearl Celluloid. MINT. not stickered. 1948  $265 Flex nib


Overall Grade: Excellent Metal:  Perfect Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Mint
Threads:  Perfect  clarity:  Perfect
Point: Fine Flex.
Imprint:   Perfect Size:  5"
PRICE: $265 
COMMENTSThe third generation Parker Vacumatic is the popular entry-to-series pen, blending decent size with reasonable price. This one is mint and has not met ink. Color and clarity are superb. Imprint pops. Nib has 1953 date code (5 years post discontinuation of series!), something i've seen in a fair bunch of mint end-or-run 1948 Vacs, perhaps representing  final shells mixed with late nibs as mint parts were assembled into pens.  This one is sweet. Nib is moderately flexible. Note, pen may not be returned if inked or dipped (Water is fine).


Pen 1425 Parker Vacumatic Major Emerald Pearl 1946  $115
Overall Grade: Extra Fine TrimOne pin-size capband ding. Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent. Two Tone! Threads:  Perfect  Clarity: Exc yellow-amber Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Full Medium Imprint:   Exc Size:  0.5" by 5" PRICE: $115 
COMMENTS:  The classic- a 3rd Generation single jewel Major.  A balance of affordable price and decent size. Not uncommonly, this sort finds itself into collections as a collector's first vac. Sharp celluloid color rings in a better color. Late two-tone nibs sometimes crop up- a nice bonus.


Pen 1426 Parker Vacumatic Major. Azure Blue. 3rd Generation  $165 
Overall Grade: Exc+ Trim:  Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent Threads:  Perfect   Clarity:  Near MInt Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Medium Imprint:   Exc Size:   0.5" by 5" PRICE: $165 
COMMENTS:  The classic- a 3rd Generation single jewel Major.  A balance of affordable price and decent size. Not uncommonly, this sort finds itself into collections as a collector's first vac. A nice blue Vac.


.Pen 1431 Parker Vacumatic Major. Azure Blue. 1945 $150

Overall Grade: Excellent Trim:  Exc Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent.  Threads:  Perfect  Clarity:  modest amber Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Medium Imprint:   Excellent Size:  0.5" by 5" PRICE: $150
COMMENTS:  The classic- a 3rd Generation single jewel Major.  A balance of affordable price and decent size. Not uncommonly, this sort finds itself into collections as a collector's first vac. Sharp celluloid color rings in a better color.


Pen 1443 Parker Vacumatic Major Pencil 1937  Silver Pearl Celluloid  $375 
Vacumatic Cap-band
Overall Grade: Excellent Metal:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NA Threads:  Perfect 
Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: NA Imprint:   exc Size:  5 1/2" by 1/2" PRICE: $375 
COMMENTS:  The introduction of the 2nd Generation Vacs in 1937 saw the brief release of pens and pencils featuring a cap-band marked "PARKER VACUMATIC" instead of the usual ///\\\///\\\\ pattern. Amongst the most desirable of the catalog-described  Vacs, they are not easy to find. Silver Pearl Vacs also are more difficult to find in clean shape than are other colors,  because the white trim featured with silver pearl shows wear more severely than does the goldfilled trim of other colors. This pencil is quite clean. Do see the larger pic. I will try to add close-up shots of the capband during  the coming week.


.Pen 1420 Parker Vacumatic Single Jewel Senior Maxima 1942
No, it's not a Major    $545
Overall Grade: Excellent Trim:  Superb Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent. two tone Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  Excellent Amber Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine-med. Wet/smooth Imprint:   Fine (see below) Size:  5 3/8" by 9/16" PRICE: $545
COMMENTS:  Vacumania always has been fond of Single Jewel Vac Maximas- ever since purchasing his first from Steve and Maryann of Penstop some 7 years ago. The pen is the big guy. All the parts swap with earlier Double Jewel Wide-Band Sr. Maxes. The look represents Parker's consolidation of Vac style in 1942. In the USA, all pens became single jewel. The striped top jewel and two tone nib began to disappear from high line pens. Plastic filler pumps were intro'd... but not all at once and not all on Jan 1, per se. Most notable, the Senior Maxima, flagship of the Vac fleet, lost its wide band in favor of a Major-like cap-band.

Single Jewel Maxes are less common than Double Jewel, which surprises since they were made for a longer period of time during a more prosperous era.  This VacQuack speculates that by 1942, if one had the $10 to spring for a Max, he was more likely to spend the extra $2.50 and grab a hot Parker 51.  So, these are less common than the earlier Maximas, but also are a bit less hot with collectors than are the early pens, so prices tend to approach but not transcend that of similar earlier DJ pens.

This one has been in the personal collection for 5+ years. It is... crisp. It features a two-tone nib, spectacular trim (often trashed on chrome-trim vacs), superb color (often ambered on silver-pearl Vacs), that 1942-only chromed metal pump, and a striped top jewel.  It also is a very nice writer. We hope it finds a good home.



Pen 1372 Parker Vacumatic Standard in Emerald Pearl 1936  $240
Nice early first generation vac.
Overall Grade: Excellent Trim:  Trace tassie brassing Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Two Tone Threads:  Perfect  Transparency:  nice ruby clarity Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine Imprint:   Fine Size:  1/2" at cap lip by 5 1/8" PRICE: $240 
COMMENTS:  The Vacumatic Standard is a 1st Generation of Vac. the chunky gripping section has more in common with the later Senior Maximas than it does with its later niche-equivelent, the Major. Featuring a metal lockdown pump and the  feather clip, this early vac feature all the "luxury" features of vacdom, including a striped gripping section, striped end jewels and a two-tone nib. Features a fresh Joel Hamilton restoration.


.Pen 1419 Parker Vacumatic "Jeweler's Band" . 1939 $225
Long Major/Slender Max size pen. Fattest cap-band 
Overall Grade: Fine Trim:  One ding in cap-band Blind cap:  98% alignment CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent. correct two-tone Major nib Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  Fine Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Smooth wet medium Imprint:   Excellent Size:  5 3/8" by 1/2" PRICE: $225
COMMENTS:  Jeweler's Band is what collectors call the factory-issue wide capband with concentric lines and large cartouche. Four sizes of Blue Diamond Vac can be found. This is the second largest and shares the widest band with the pen of Senior Maxima size. All from this size feature a Major nib and lacking company data, perhaps best are labelled "Vacumatic Major with Jeweler's Band". This should be differentiated from the "third size" pen (several for sale/sold by Vacumania) which is derived from the same diameter and similar seeming Vacumatic Junior (5" pen with slightly thinner band). The second (Major) size is well more scarce.

This one is a decent example. Capbnad has a couple millimeter ding- very superficial. THere is a hint of barrel swell by the filler unit.  A neat vac if one seeks the less common stuff. And, a nice writer.



Pen 1350 Parker Vacumatic Major. $255 Double Broad Oblique Semi-Flex Nib 
Overall Grade: Extra Fine Trim:  minimal edge brass Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  VG Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Double Broad Oblique semi-flex Imprint:   exc Size:  5 1/8 by 1/2" PRICE: $255 
COMMENTS:  A common pen with unheard-of nib. Marked Parker USA but also 585 (for 14k) this thing had to be some sort of custom request.


Pen 1284 Parker Vacumatic Jet Black celluloid. Jeweler's Capband. "3rd size" 1940 $255
Overall Grade: Exc+ Trim:  Exc. Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: EXC Threads:  Perfect  Transparency:  Excellent amber clarity Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine firm Imprint:   Exc Size:  1/2" at caplip by 5 1/8" PRICE: $255
COMMENTS:  An unusual Parker Vacumatic Pen, the "Jeweler's" cap-band,  is a factory-issue Vac style (despite the name given  to it in retrospect by collectors), manufactured from 1939-1941. The  Jeweler's cap-band  features an extra wide, lined band with a cartouche for engraving. Four sizes can be found, with pens deriving from the more typical Senior Maxima, Major, Junior (a 5" standard-size pen) and Debutante. 

This pen is the third size. It correctly features a blue diamond clip, monotone arrow nib (the other three sizes typically have a two-tone nib) and black top jewel. The bottom jewel also is the correct bullseye-pattern "pseduojewel".  A nice clean example of an uncommon. That fat capband looks regal on jet black :-)



Pen 1435 Parker Vacumatic Oversize. "1st year" Longitudinal Windows. 1933-1934  $925
Overall Grade: Nearmint Trim:  Exc Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent Two tone Threads:  Perfect  Transparency:  Superb Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine Imprint:   Exc Size:  5 3/8" by  9/16th" PRICE: $925
COMMENTS: A stunning and scarc Vac. During the `1st year of Vacumatic production, proper, transparent vacs had vertical (longitudinal) ink view windows. These are hard to find. They are very hard to find with glorious tranparency. They are very very hard to find with all of that in the Oversize model. This one is for an advanced collection.

The pen is in superb condition. The nib grades Excellent, because the two tone effectg is somewhat worn, but the nib is clean.  The pen has proper "shorter" early clip.  Transparency is near mint (additional pics to be added shortly). One can but say yeep!



Pen 1390 Parker Vacumatic Major Double Jewel Silver Pearl $400 MINT Perfect
Overall Grade: MINT  Trim:  perfect. Capband does move in its track Color:  Mint CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: MINT Two-Tone Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  Mint Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine-Med Imprint:   Perfect Size: 5 3/8" by 1/2" PRICE: $400
COMMENTS:  A stunning example of Parker's 1939-1941 "long" Double Jewel Major- a pen often wrongly labelled "Slender Maxima". Silver Pearl pens often are devalued by trashed trim and ambered plastic. This one shows why the color is "common"-  it no doubt sold well due to its great beauty when perfect. Pen still has price sticker residue next to the clip.  Pen probably fills, but sac has not been replaced and pen may not be returned if inked or dipped (water testing is fine). If you would like a fresh sac placed in pen, this can be done fofr $20 and at slight delay in shipping.

 
Pen 1437 Parker Vacumatic (not Duofold!) Gray/blue celluloid. 1942 $300
The scarce "VACUFOLD"
Overall Grade: Extra Fine Trim:  Exc Color:  Very Good CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc  Threads:  Perfect  Transparency:  Modest ruby clarity Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Med. hint o' flex Imprint:   Some central lightness Size:  Smidge under 1/2" at cap lip by 5 1/8" PRICE: $300 
COMMENTS:  A nifty variant, well known to those who know.  In late 1942-early 1943 Parker produced some Vacumatics (including odd size like this one) in the striped celluloid better known from the 1940's Duofold series. These appear about two years after the introduction of the Duofold proper. They feature a Vac nib and Vac-style clip of course, as well as a cap-band unique on plastic of this pattern to these short lived Vacumatics. This "stacked coin" capband is not seen on Duofolds, proper. The pen has a "Vacumatic", not "Duofold", barrel imprint.

This one is in nice shape with details of grading as noted above. It features a recent Joel Hamilton restoration. A pen dramatically more uncommon than similar-look Duofolds from this period.


 
Pen 1031: Parker Vacumatic Major: Double Jewel "long" variant (no, it's not a Slender Max) 1939  $225
Overall Grade: EX  Trim: EXC Color: excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
NIB Condition. Excellent Threads: PERFECT Transparency: moderate Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: FINE Firm Two tone Imprint: excellent Size: 5 1/3" by 1/2" PRICE: $225 
COMMENTS:  The "Major" sibling to the silver pearl Streamlined Standard seen elsewhere in this sale list. In true excellent condition with a nice firm fine-medium typical vac nib, with preserved two-tone effect, this one sports correct top Striped jewel, correct black section, correct speedline metal filler and correct "bullseye" bottom jewel. 

Silver Pearl vacs tend to price on the lower end of the color-spectrum, in large part due to unattractive worn specimens (chrome trim does not wear as well as goldfill trim) with heavy ambering. Crisp Silver-Pearl Vacs, on the other hand, are quite beautiful. This one qualifies. Color and Trim are superb. 


 
Pen 1443 Parker Vacumatic Major Pencil 1937  Silver Pearl Celluloid  $375 
Vacumatic Cap-band
Overall Grade: Excellent Metal:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NA Threads:  Perfect 
Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: NA Imprint:   exc Size:  5 1/2" by 1/2" PRICE: $375 
COMMENTS:  The introduction of the 2nd Generation Vacs in 1937 saw the brief release of pens and pencils featuring a cap-band marked "PARKER VACUMATIC" instead of the usual ///\\\///\\\\ pattern. Amongst the most desirable of the catalog-described  Vacs, they are not easy to find. Silver Pearl Vacs also are more difficult to find in clean shape than are other colors,  because the white trim featured with silver pearl shows wear more severely than does the goldfilled trim of other colors. This pencil is quite clean. Do see the larger pic. I will try to add close-up shots of the capband during  the coming week.

 
.Pen 1427 Parker Vacumatic Major Azure Blue Celluloid 1945    $160
Overall Grade: Exc Trim:  Exc Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Clarity:  Exc Ember-Yellow Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Med-Broad Semi-Flex Imprint:   Excellent Size:  0.5" by 5" PRICE: $160
COMMENTS:  The classic- a 3rd Generation single jewel Major.  A balance of affordable price and decent size. Not uncommonly, this sort finds itself into collections as a collector's first vac. Sharp celluloid color rings in a better color. Nice nib.

 
Pen 1425 Parker Vacumatic Major Emerald Pearl 1946  $115
Overall Grade: Extra Fine TrimOne pin-size capband ding. Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent. Two Tone! Threads:  Perfect  Clarity: Exc yellow-amber Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Full Medium Imprint:   Exc Size:  0.5" by 5" PRICE: $115 
COMMENTS:  The classic- a 3rd Generation single jewel Major.  A balance of affordable price and decent size. Not uncommonly, this sort finds itself into collections as a collector's first vac. Sharp celluloid color rings in a better color. Late two-tone nibs sometimes crop up- a nice bonus.

 
.Pen 1420 Parker Vacumatic Single Jewel Senior Maxima 1942
No, it's not a Major    $545
Overall Grade: Excellent Trim:  Superb Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent. two tone Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  Excellent Amber Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine-med. Wet/smooth Imprint:   Fine (see below) Size:  5 3/8" by 9/16" PRICE: $545
COMMENTS:  Vacumania always has been fond of Single Jewel Vac Maximas- ever since purchasing his first from Steve and Maryann of Penstop some 7 years ago. The pen is the big guy. All the parts swap with earlier Double Jewel Wide-Band Sr. Maxes. The look represents Parker's consolidation of Vac style in 1942. In the USA, all pens became single jewel. The striped top jewel and two tone nib began to disappear from high line pens. Plastic filler pumps were intro'd... but not all at once and not all on Jan 1, per se. Most notable, the Senior Maxima, flagship of the Vac fleet, lost its wide band in favor of a Major-like cap-band.

Single Jewel Maxes are less common than Double Jewel, which surprises since they were made for a longer period of time during a more prosperous era.  This VacQuack speculates that by 1942, if one had the $10 to spring for a Max, he was more likely to spend the extra $2.50 and grab a hot Parker 51.  So, these are less common than the earlier Maximas, but also are a bit less hot with collectors than are the early pens, so prices tend to approach but not transcend that of similar earlier DJ pens.

This one has been in the personal collection for 5+ years. It is... crisp. It features a two-tone nib, spectacular trim (often trashed on chrome-trim vacs), superb color (often ambered on silver-pearl Vacs), that 1942-only chromed metal pump, and a striped top jewel.  It also is a very nice writer. We hope it finds a good home.


 
.Pen 1419 Parker Vacumatic "Jeweler's Band" . 1939 $225
Long Major/Slender Max size pen. Fattest cap-band 
Overall Grade: Fine Trim:  One ding in cap-band Blind cap:  98% alignment CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent. correct two-tone Major nib Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  Fine Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Smooth wet medium Imprint:   Excellent Size:  5 3/8" by 1/2" PRICE: $225
COMMENTS:  Jeweler's Band is what collectors call the factory-issue wide capband with concentric lines and large cartouche. Four sizes of Blue Diamond Vac can be found. This is the second largest and shares the widest band with the pen of Senior Maxima size. All from this size feature a Major nib and lacking company data, perhaps best are labelled "Vacumatic Major with Jeweler's Band". This should be differentiated from the "third size" pen (several for sale/sold by Vacumania) which is derived from the same diameter and similar seeming Vacumatic Junior (5" pen with slightly thinner band). The second (Major) size is well more scarce.

This one is a decent example. Capbnad has a couple millimeter ding- very superficial. THere is a hint of barrel swell by the filler unit.  A neat vac if one seeks the less common stuff. And, a nice writer.


 
Pen 1350 Parker Vacumatic Major. $255 Double Broad Oblique Semi-Flex Nib 
Overall Grade: Extra Fine Trim:  minimal edge brass Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  VG Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Double Broad Oblique semi-flex Imprint:   exc Size:  5 1/8 by 1/2" PRICE: $255 
COMMENTS:  A common pen with unheard-of nib. Marked Parker USA but also 585 (for 14k) this thing had to be some sort of custom request.

 
.Pen 1377 Parker Vacumatic Oversize. Silver Pearl 1935  HIGH FLEX NIB  $425
Overall Grade: Fine Trim:  NA Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent. Later Monotone nib Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  Modest Amber Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine. Highly Flexible Imprint:   Excellent Size:  5 3/8" by 9/16" PRICE: $425
COMMENTS:  The big boy. The largest production vac, with nominal dimensions similar to the later Senior Maxima but with a more chunky contour and a well larger gripping section. Featuring a nice imprint and clean color, the pen has a later large Vac nib (monotone) that is about as flexible as a Waterman "pink" nib.. A stunning writer. Flex is scarce in Vacdom. Kept from higher grade by some brassing to clip ring and some wear to capbands. Still better than many.

 
High Flex Pen 1370 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima golden Pearl $525 On Hold
Uncommon imprint and high flex nib
Overall Grade: Excellent Trim: Trace brassing CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition:Excellent Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency: Very Good amber clarity Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine High Flex Imprint:   Excellent Size:   5 3/8" by 9/16th" PRICE: $525 On Hold 
COMMENTS:  A Gem. Sweet wet flexible writer- something not all that common in USA-made Vacs. "Marca Registrada" believed to indicate South American distribution of USA-made pen. Neat imprint seen- in my experience- on 1937-1940 pens... at least on some of them.

 
"Pen 1371 Parker Vacumatic Major Emerald Pearl Celluloid  1936 $200
Stickered 
Overall Grade: NM Trim:  NM Color:  great  CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM Two Tone Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency: Excellent+ Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Medium Imprint:   NM Size: 1/2th" at cap lip by 5 1/8" PRICE: $200 
COMMENTS:  The third generation Parker Vacumatic is the popular entry-to-series pen, blending decent size with reasonable price. Proving that not all stickered pens are mint- this one is stickered but not quite mint. A nice Emerald vac. An  unexpected bonus , this one packs a clean-as-a-whistle TWO TONE vac arrow nib, instead of the expected monotone nib usually seen in this era. Features a fresh Ron Zorn restoration. The sticker seems suggests the pen is destined for Britain, noting that the  pen is of USA manufacture

 
 Pen 1384 Parker Vacumatic Standard $280
Overall Grade:  XF Trim:  XF Color:  Excellent
Nib condition: Excellent Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Plastic:  decent transparency Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine-medium  . Imprint:   XF Size:  5 1/16" by 1/2" PRICE: $280
COMMENTS:  The Vacumatic Standard is a 1st Generation of Vac. the chunky gripping section has more in common with the later Senior Maximas than it does with its later niche-equivelent, the Major. Featuring a metal lockdown pump and the  feather clip, this early vac feature all the "luxury" features of vacdom, including a striped gripping section, striped end jewels and a two-tone nib.  Mild light wear.

 
Pen 1393 Parker Vacumatic Major. Azure Blue Celluloid 1940 $340 
Overall Grade:  Excellent Trim:  minimal edge brass only on tassie Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  Excellent Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Medium Imprint:   Excellent Size:  5 3/8" by 1/2"  PRICE: $340 
COMMENTS:  Contrary to the belief of many, the blue double jewel Major is the most uncommon color, produced just 1/3 as long as all other colors including red. This one pops, with nice transparency, etc etc. Often wrongly labelled Slender Maxima, it is the second largest blue Vac manufactured.

 
Pen 1395 Parker Vacumatic Brown Transparent Slender Junior 1936 $380
The Golden Web
Overall Grade:  Exc Trim:  Exc Color:  perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  Exc Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine-medium Semi-Flex Imprint:   Exc Size:   4 5.8" PRICE: $380
COMMENTS:  A lovely golden web Slender Junior Vacumatic. 1st generation. Lockdown filler.

 
 
Pen 1396 Parker Vacumatic Major "Stacked C oin Band" $205
Overall Grade:Exc Trim:  Exc Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  VG Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine-medium Imprint:   Exc Size:  5 1/8" by 1/2" PRICE: $205 
COMMENTS:  The third generation Parker Vacumatic is the popular entry-to-series pen, blending decent size with reasonable price. This one features the less common "stacked coin" cap-band, featuring rasied concentric ring.s

 
.Pen 1399 Parker Vacumatic Slender. Burgundy Pearl    $165
Unusual 1940 late production piece.
Overall Grade: Extra Fine Trim:  Excellent Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent* Threads:  Perfect  Transparency:  Excellent Plastic: couple small toothmarks in blind cap
Point: wet smooth F-M Imprint:   Excellent Size:  4 5/8 PRICE: $165
COMMENTS:  The thinnest lockdown 1st generation model, the Vacumatic Slender is a highline pen and packed a price of $7.50 in its day. This one is in n ice ship. A couple superficial blind cap marks have been largely removed after the pic was taken (pen looks better than pic). Last shown in 1937 catalogs, this one has a 1940 date code, not unheard of in vacdom. Golden Web pens, mutant "Over-Maxes" and the like do crop up with this date code.  The nib is clean and writes a nice smooth wet line, but has lost most of its white two-tone effect. Correct striped end jewels and section are present. A

 
.Pen 1409 Parker Vacumatic Debutante. 2nd generation
Burgundy Pearl Celluloid $135
Overall Grade: Fine Trim:  Exc Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent.  Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  Modest Amber Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine.  Imprint:   Excellent Size:  4 5/8 PRICE: $135
COMMENTS: Nice pen. A few toothmarks in blind cap.

 
.Pen 1410 Parker Vacumatic Senior. Silver Pearl 1936    $490
Overall Grade: Extra fine Trim:  Light wear here n' there Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent.  Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  Very Good Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine.  Imprint:   Excellent Size:  5 3/8" by 1/2" PRICE: $490
COMMENTS:  The Parker Vacumatic  SENIOR  is a scarce model shown only in the 1936 Catalog. Having at root Standard diameter capthreads and barrel diameter, it has a unique-to-model cap and blindcap. The only Vacumatic model to feature the thin-fat-thin triple capband, this pen has the fat section of the early lockdown pens but has the tapered long cap and blindcap. This 1936 model is the predecessor to the follwoing year's 2nd generation Slender Maxima. Slender Maxes are scarce (and often Majors are wrongly labelled as that model) and the Slender Max was manufactured 3-4 times as long as the Senior. The Senior features big honkin OS Nib and feed crammed to the limit into the standard-diameter section. Scare model of high cachet.

 
.Pen 1411 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima pencil. Golden Pearl 1935    $145
Overall Grade: Fine Trim:  Excellent Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NA Threads:  NA  Transparency:  NA Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine. NA Imprint:   Excellent Size:  5 3/8" PRICE: $145
COMMENTS:  The big boy. The largest production vac, with nominal dimensions similar to the later Senior Maxima but with a more chunky contour and a well larger gripping section. Featuring a nice imprint and clean color, the pen has a later large Vac nib (monotone) that is about as flexible as a Waterman "pink" nib.. A stunning writer. Flex is scarce in Vacdom. Kept from higher grade by some brassing to clip ring and some wear to capbands. Still better than many.

 
.Pen 1414 Parker Vacumatic Junior. Larger Size
Burgundy Pearl 1937  Sweet wet medium nib  $255
Overall Grade: Fine Trim:  Excellent Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent.  Threads:  Perfect  Transparency: Very Good  Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Wet medium writer Imprint:   Excellent Size:  4 7/8" by 1/2" PRICE: $255
COMMENTS: From 1934-1939 Parker produced Vacs in patterns other than the typical  lattitudinal stripes. That these catalog-documented patterns appear largely   on Junior line pens adds to the charm of the Junior line vacs which featured fewer "luxury" features, but the same solid Vac construction. The larger 1st generation lockdown-fill pen like this one is the same diameter as a Vac Standard but runs about 1/8"  - 1/4" shorter. The black gripping section is nearly as large as that of a later Senior Maxima and is larger than that of the later Major. This is a squat pen, providing a lot of grip area for the buck.  The typical weak points of this series are not present here.  Barrel transparency is decent. Color is great.  Trim is clean.

 
.Pen 1415 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima. Emerald Pearl 1939   $445
Overall Grade: Fine Trim:  see comments, below Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent.  Monotone nib Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  Fine Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Manifold fine-medium Imprint:   Excellent Size:  5 3/8" by 9/16" PRICE: $445
COMMENTS:   Green Senior Max. One small cap-band ding and bit of brassing to tassie. Nice color, imprint and transparency. Nib is monotone not two tone. Restored recently. Will make a nice pen for regular use. 

 
Pen 1346 Parker Vacumatic Major. Azure Blue Celluloid. Doube Jewel 1940 . $265
Overall Grade: Excellent+ Trim:  Excellent Color:  Excellent,  CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  Exc yellow Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Medium Imprint:   exc Size:  5 3/8" by 1/2" PRICE: $265
COMMENTS:  The long (1939-1942) Major, along with the Slender Max , is the second largest Vac from the 2nd Generation. Blue was not produced as Slender Max and is the least common color from that era.  Note the pen has three initials neatly engraved in the barrel- R.A.E.  Nice writer, nice pen. A classic vac.

 
Pen 1341 Parker Vacumatic Major. Mint. $195
Overall Grade:Mint Trim:  Mint Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Mint Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  VG Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine-medium  Imprint:   Mint Size:  5 1/8" by 1/2" PRICE: $195 
COMMENTS:  The third generation Parker Vacumatic is the popular entry-to-series pen, blending decent size with reasonable price. True Mint pens are scarce in a field in which many just-ok items are hyperbbed as "best i've ever seen, museum quality". This one is just... MINT. No prior ink encounter. Perfect barrel clarity in which you can see the breather tub in the pic at left. No flaws.

 
Pen 1342 Parker Vacumatic Major. Near Mint. Stickered.  1946 $235
Overall Grade: Near Mint (mint but inked) Trim:  perfect Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM Threads:  Perfect  Transparency:  VG Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine-medium firm Imprint:   Perfect Size:  5 1/8" by 1/2" PRICE: $235 
COMMENTS:  The third generation Parker Vacumatic is the popular entry-to-series pen, blending decent size with reasonable price. This pen looks Mint and has blast-clear transparency. Water test shows a wisp of green ink indicating pen at least was dipped once. This is true near mint, not "near mint because it isn't horribly worn".

 
Pen 1353 Parker Vacumatic Major.  Mint. Stickered. $335
Overall Grade: Mint Trim:  perfect Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Mint Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  Perfect Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Medium Imprint:   exc Size:   5 1/8" by 1/2" PRICE: $335 
COMMENTS:  This one is mint, perfect with no signs of having met ink. A superb vac with lush color, perfect clarity and no flaws.

 
"Vacumatic" cap-band Pen 1340 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima $1250 "Vacumatic" cap-band
Overall Grade: Extra Fine Trim:  no brass. One scratch* Color:  Excellent  CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  Excelelnt Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine-medium Firm Imprint:   exc Size:  9/16th" at cap lip by 5 3/8" PRICE: $1250 
COMMENTS:  One of the dream pens for  Vac collectors, the "Vac-Band"  pens were shown on the cover of the 1937 catalog and were produced perhaps just a few weeks to couple months. 25 pens and pencil models/color were produced. Vacumania has 17 of those in the personal collection and during the last couple years have sold a very few duplicates. This represents 8 years of hunting. The Senior Maxima of course is the largest model pen to feature this cap-band. This one would be a $1500+ pen but one obvious scratch in the cap-band cuts along the "V" of "VACUMATIC", knocking down the price a bit.  The blind cap has couple of the most superficial tooth marks, which i expect to further remove with some gentle polishing. The transparency of the barrel is quite nice. No brassing is present.  A keystone cacheity (neologisms-R-us) in vintage Vacdom.

 
Pen 1352 Parker Vacumatic Major. Near Mint. Stickered. 1946 $250
Overall Grade: True Near MInt Trim:  perfect Color:  perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM Threads:  perfect  Transparency:  perfect Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Medium Imprint:   perfect Size:  5 1/8" by 1/2" PRICE: $250 
COMMENTS:  A true near mint (mint but inked) double-stickered Azure Blue 3rd Generation Vacumatic Major. A stunning pen. This is what "Near Mint" should mean. Purchased in a nice group of  NM/Mint pens this one revealed a wisp of ink when i ran towels into the cap and flushed the nib.

 
Pen 1331 Parker Vacumatic Shadow-Wave Junior Debutante. Burgundy Pearl. 1938 $155
Overall Grade: Excellent Trim:  Clean Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: VG Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  superb. Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine-medium  Imprint:   exc Size:  9/16th" at cap lip by 5 3/8" PRICE: $155 
COMMENTS:  Shadow-Wave plastic was produced in junior-line pens during the 1st-3rd Vac Generations. This one is the smaller 2nd generation pen. Transparency is Near Mint bright yellow- unusual to see in the Waves. Burgundy color is bright and lush. Nib has couple tool marks near end. Speedline filler. A nifty Wave.

 
Star Clip Pen 1332 Parker Vacumatifc Shadow-Wave Junior Debutante $195 Star Clip
Overall Grade: Extra Fine Trim:  minimal edge brass Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  VG Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine Imprint:   exc Size:  4 11/16" PRICE: $195
COMMENTS:  Shadow-Wave plastic was produced in junior-line pens during the 1st-3rd Vac Generations. This one is the smaller 2nd generation pen.  This one has the vaunted Star Clip, believed produced for a month or two on high-line pens in early 1939 before being replaced by the Blue Diamond lifteime symbol. When Stars crop up on junior-line pens they do so in late 1939-1940, presumably representing blow-out of remaining clips, since the Star was not adverstised obligating Parker to the lifetime guarantee. Star Clip Waves represent nice variants. 

 
Pen 1336 Parker Vacumatic Debutante Double Jewel Burgundy Pearl 1940 $125
Overall Grade:  Fine Trim:  minimal edge brass Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  VG Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine-medium Semi-Flex Imprint:   light Size:  4 11/16" PRICE: $125 SOLD
COMMENTS:  A nice-writing burgundy Debutante.

 
Pen 1343 Parker Vacuum-Filler (pre-Vacumatic) 1932-3. Ratherrrrrrr nice. $285
Overall Grade: Extra Fine Trim:  some brass to clip Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  NA Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Medium Imprint:   Great. Size:  4 7/*" by  1/2" PRICE: $285
COMMENTS:  in 1932-mid 1933, before introducing the Vacumatic name, Pakrer called it's vac-family pens, Vacuum-Filler. These pre-vacs are uncommon. Most are heavily worn with trashed imprints. This one is quite clean. Brassing is seen on the head of the first-year type arrow clip and on the back of the clip ring. The nib is pre-arrow and is marked "Parker Vacuum-Filler". A worthy item for the growing Vac collection.

 
Pen 1349 Parker Vacumatic Standard. Burgundy Pearl Celluloid  1934-ish $255
Overall Grade: Fine Trim:  minimal edge brass Color:  Fine CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent Threads:  cap closes hair off center Transparency:  Exc Amber color Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine-medium smooth nib. Imprint:   exc but no date code Size:  1/2" by 5 1/8" PRICE: $255 
COMMENTS:  The Vacumatic Standard is a chunky model from the 1st Generation of Vacs. the chunky gripping section has more in common with the later Senior Maxima's than it does with it's later niche-equivelent, the Major.  Mild even wear. A cap that closes firmly but a hair off center. A nice clean user discounted a bit for nominal imperfections.

 
Pen 1351 Parker Vacumatic Major. Near Mint. . $210
Overall Grade: True Near MInt Trim:  perfect Color:  perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Near Mint Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  perfect Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine-medium Semi-Flex Imprint:   perfect Size:  1/2" by 5 1.8" PRICE: $210
COMMENTS:  A Tragic Tale.  This pen was part of a pile of mint pens i'd obtained at a pen show. I had the pens in a tray whilst customers were- as they tend to do- writing with pens they were considering for purchase. A nice fellow picked this up, filled it a bit and started writing before i'd noticed. The pen had been de-minted. So, now it is for sale as a near-mint pen. About as NEAR-mint as possible, having been filled (really!) once.  A stunning Vac Major.

 
SOLD Pen 1288 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima. Burgundy Pearl  Celluloid. 1937 $550  SOLD
Overall Grade: Extra Fine Trim:  minimal edge brass Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Fine condition Threads:  Perfect cap threads.  Transparency:  VG Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine-medium  two tone Imprint:   exc Size:  9/16th" at cap lip by 5 3/8" PRICE: $550 SOLD
COMMENTS:  Red Senior Maxes are on the wish list for most Vac collectors. This is a quite decent specimen.  Striped gripping section and end jewels. two-tone nib. $550

 
Pen 1287 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima. Golden-Pearl Celluloid. early 1938  $425 SOLD
Overall Grade: Fine-Extra Fine Trim:  Lite brass to bottom edge of capband and at high points (only) on clip. Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: EXC Threads:  Perfect  Transparency:  Ambered but still with clarity Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine-Med Firm Imprint: "made in USA" is week. Size:  9/16th" at cap lip by 5 3/8" PRICE: $425
COMMENTS:   A nice, correct Senior Maxima. Correct two tone nib, striped section and striped end jewels. Early correct "feather" clip.   $425

 
Pen 1286 Parker Vacumatic Azure Blue celluloid. Jeweler's Capband. "3rd" size. 1941 $290
Overall Grade: excellent-NM Trim:  exc Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: EXC Threads:  Perfect  Transparency:  Ambered but still with clarity Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine-medium. great writer. Imprint:   perfect Size:  5" by 1/2" at caplip PRICE: $290 
COMMENTS:  An unusual Parker Vacumatic Pen, the "Jeweler's" cap-band,  is a factory-issue Vac style (despite the name given  to it in retrospect by collectors), manufactured from 1939-1941. The  Jeweler's cap-band  features an extra wide, lined band with a cartouche for engraving. Four sizes can be found, with pens deriving from the more typical Senior Maxima, Major, Junior (a 5" standard-size pen) and Debutante. 

This pen is the third size. It correctly features a blue diamond clip, monotone arrow nib (the other three sizes typically have a two-tone nib) and black top jewel. The bottom jewel also is the correct bullseye-pattern "pseduojewel".  A nice clean example of an uncommon pen in a better color. 


 
Pen 1216 Parker Vacumatic Junior 1936-7 GOLDEN WEB  $435
Overall Grade: NEAR MINT Trim:  Perfect Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  Excellent
Point: Fine Imprint:   NA Size:  1/2" by 4 6/7" or so. The fattest of the three Golden Webs. PRICE: $435
COMMENTS:  The Parker Vacumatic Junior in Transparent Brown, which has come to be known as Golden Web by entranced collectors, can be found in 1936-7 Parker Catalogs, though the occasional late-issue pen does pop up. This celluloid pattern is quite popular with collectors, although finding  clean pens is difficult. Those thin cap-bands take brassing readily. The cap lip is a bit sensitive to stress lines and cracks.  Unlike other 1st generation lockdown Junior Vacumatic models, the Web can be found in three sizes, the Junior, the Slender Junior, and the odd Long Slender Junior, which has been seen with price stickers showing the same model number as  the Slender Junior. What was Parker thinking?  We just don't know.

Vacumania rarely employs Near Mint- a much abused term (see our grading standards  or our discussion of Pen Grading in General) .  Still, this one gets the label. color is perfect, Trim is perfect, imprint is perfect, cap-lip is perfect.  Transparency is excellent with light ambering.  A hot Golden Web. Special offer- Provide me with  PARKER literature  from the 1930's which describes this pen as a "Golden Web", and take $20 discount. My reading has convinced me that the term is a descriptor from the  mid-1980's, but i'm willing to be... unconvinced.


 
Pen 1285 Parker Vacumatic Shadow Wave in Burgundy Pearl Celluloid 1938, 3rd quarter $290
Overall Grade: Excellent+ Trim:  excellent Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: EXC Threads:  Perfect  Transparency:  Nearmint. Superb, especially for a Shadow Wave Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine firm Imprint:   exc Size:  1/2" at caplip by 4 7/8" PRICE: $290
COMMENTS:  The Shadow Wave pattern of Vacs was manufactured from late 1937-1942. First shown in the 1938 catalog, it is the only non lattitudinally striped pattern produced beyond the 1st generation. The 1st generation Shadow-Wave is markedly less common than the 2nd generation pens as it was manufactured perhaps just 6 months vs the  3+ years seen for 2nd Gen pens. Whilst a smidge shorter than the later pen, in fact this chunky early style pen feels fat in the hand. . Burgundy is the color with highest cachet, and this one has very vivid color, indeed.  $400

 
Pen 1283 Parker Vacumatic Major. Azure Blue Celluloid 1944 Near Mint $SOLD
Overall Grade: Near Mint Trim:  Perfect  Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: NM Threads:  Perfect  Transparency:  Bright white clarity. Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Smooth fine firm. Imprint:   Perfect Size:  5 1/8" by 1/2" PRICE: $sold
COMMENTS:  A superb basic vac in a better color. Both nib and barrel have 1944 date code.    $185

 
Pen 1281 Parker Vacumatic Standard. 1st generation. Burgundy Pearl Celluloid
 4th quarter 1937 $320
Overall Grade: Exc Trim:  Exc Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: EXC Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  Ambered but still with very good  clarity Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine -edium two tone Imprint:   Perfect Size:  5" by 1/2" at caplip PRICE: $320
COMMENTS:  A quite nice example of the first generation Vacumatic, with locking metal filler, with short blind cap and  with chunky contour that leaves the pen with a gripping section larger than that of the later Major and approaching that of a Senior Maxima.  Featuring Striped gripping section, striped end jewels and two-tone arrow-motif nib. This one is very clean. The Vac Standard is one of our most popular sellers. Burgundy is the most desired color.   $320

 
Pen 1274 Parker Vacumatic Major. 2nd generation
3rd quarter 1937. Emerald Green Celluloid $225
Overall Grade: Extra Trim:  Brassing to bottom tassie and to high points (only) of clip Color:  Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Excellent, but 1/3 of two-tone wash is gone. Threads:  Perfect  Transparency:  Modest reddish clarity Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine Firm  Imprint:   Perfect Size:  1/2" at caplip by 5 1/4" PRICE: $225
COMMENTS:  An "early" Major, this one features correct striped double jewels, striped gripping section and   $225

 
Pen 1203 Parker Vacumatic "Streamlined" Standard. Burgundy. 1940. UNUSUAL 2nd gen model  $290
Overall Grade: XF Trim:  Clean with slight edge brass Color:  Excellent- better than pic shows CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: EXC Threads:  Perfect  Transparency:  Ambered but still with clarity Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: XF-Fine  Imprint:   Sharp! Size:  1/2" by 5 3/8" PRICE: $290
COMMENTS:  This is a recognized but uncatalogued (at least regarding image) 2nd generation Vac produced from late 1938 until 1941. Counting colors and clip styles one can collect 15 different pens of this sort. If one further  differentiates  pens with the true bottom jewel from pens with the bullseye bottom  pseudojewel and/or hunts Canadian pens iwth the tighter cab banding pattern, that number can grow. 

This model often is confused with the Major or the Slender Maxima because the cap and barrel dimensions are identical. But, the pen features capbands which evoke the  earlier first generation Standard and has that size nib, too. Note that this pen cannot be "built" by putting an earlier Standard cap on a later Major barrel. The threads and cap-shape are grossly different between those two models.  The only flaw on this pen, keeping it from full excellent is a tiny bit of barrel swelling down past the imprint and a bit of trim brass. A relatively scarce pen for the cost  of (or less than) a Major. $290


 
Pen 1044: Parker Vacumatic "Streamline Standard" 1940: 2nd generation. Somewhat unusual variant.  $135 SOLD
Overall Grade: VG-Fine Trim: wear  and some brassto top two capbands, Color: excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib Condition: NM monotone arrow nib- correct for this pen. Threads: PERFECT Transparency: minimal Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: FINE Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size: 5.25" by .5" PRICE: $135  SOLD
COMMENTS:  A tolerable example of an underappreciated model.  Called "Streamline(d) Standard" by many collectors, this model is well recognized, but not pictured in catalogs.  Featuring the contour of a Major or Slender Max from 1940 or so, the pen has triple cap-bands and a non-blue diamond clip. In case you are wondering... no, a Standard cap from the 1st generation lockdown filler era, will NOT fit on this barrel AND has a different outer contour. This is not a frankenvac :-)  Likely representing an extension of the Standard line after the end of the  1st generation pens with lockdown filler, this pen is seen less often than similar-era Majors. 

The pen grades fine, largely due to some wear to the chrome trim which is all too common on white vacs.  Still, the color is clean, the imprint sharp, the tassie and clip in nice shape and the metal  speedline filler restored and working.  Top jewel Striped, bottom jewel correct "bullseye" A nice entry  level pen for the streamlined Standard series and likely the least costly example i will offer for years.


 
Pen 1034: Parker Vacumatic (high line) Standard Set- 1st generation vac. 1936/1938   $235 SOLD
Overall Grade: Pen- EXC. pcl- Fine Trim: Pen- excellent . Pencil has mild brassing Color: excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib Condition: exc Threads: perfect Transparency:  exc (bright amber throughout) Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: XF/ nice two-tone effect. Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size: 5+ inch by 0.5 inch. PRICE: $235
COMMENTS:  The pen is utterly beautiful, with clean unbrassed trim, sharp imprint and nice transparency. The nib has the most minimal wear to the two tone effect and writes an XF line. The pencil dates two years later and has mild brassing and few nicks to plastic. A quite nice example of the first generation Vacumatic, with locking metal filler, short blind cap and chunky contour that leaves the pen with a gripping section larger than that of the later Major and approaching that of a Senior Maxima. 

 
Pen 1248 Parker Vacuum-Filler   1933
Dare we say rare BLUE/RED "Ripley's" Model $550
Note picture is of similar model pen, not actual one sold
Overall Grade : VG Trim:  Capbands show heavy brassing. Other trim light brassing. Color:  Excellent
Nib condition : EXC early feather-together twotone vac nib Threads:  perfect Transparency:  Modest deeply ambered clarity. Shows well against backlight. Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: fine Imprint:   Decent Imprint Size:  1/2" by 5 1/8"  or so. Standard diameter.  PRICE: $575
COMMENTS :  Where to Start?  OK. The beginning. The Parker Vacuum-Filler is the predecessor to the Vacumatic, proper. Produced <1 year, any VF is tough to find. 

But this one indeed is specail.  Featuring a plastic different from the usual burgundy, this was the very first Vac to have a striped transparent barrel. Featuring unusually wide stripes, the burgundy hue is different from that which is typically seen. The cap instead of having alternating red/black stripes has red alternating with blue-black. When backlit the capbands glow a rich bright blue.  This plastic was used during the watershed when Vacuum-Filler gave way to Vacumatic. Pens can be found with either imprint. Some call it the Ripley's Vac because a "Ripley's Believe it or Not" ad seems to show this particular pen in late 1933.  There is more, but this will have to suffice, for today's history lesson.

Technically, a Vacuum-Filler Senior, in fact it is best seen as a STANDARD, given that later Vacs would be labelled as such in this size.

These are fragile. often the cap is crazed or brassed. The section is correct (black) and interestingly is still integrated with the striped barrel. The blind cap is black. These are correct features.

These are rare, at least in the context of Vacumatic collecting, and recognizing that "rare" is an oft-abused term whose meaning is debatable. I've seen perhaps ten total Ripley's pens during the past 7 years and having examined thousands of Vacs. This is for the collector who hunts vacsoterica


 
 
Pen 1243: Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima Pencil. 
Emerald Pearl 1937
VACUMATIC CAPBAND $425
Overall Grade : Excellent Trim: Excellent Color: excellent
Nib Condition: NA mechanism works Transparency: NA Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: 1.1mm "lead" Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size: bit over 5" PRICE: $425
COMMENTS :  One of the most desireable Vacumatic variants. The big one.  Emerald Green. Excellent shape.

 
Pen 1249 Parker Vacuum-Filler   1933
Dare we say rare BLUE/RED "Ripley's" Model $575
Yes, a second example..
Note picture is of similar model pen, not actual one sold
Overall Grade : Fine Trim:  Moderate capband brassing. Color:  Excellent including blue/red cap
Nib condition : EXC
proper feather-together arrow nib
Threads:  Perfect  Transparency:  Minimal barrel clarity Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: medium Imprint:   Decent Size:  1/2" by 4  6/7"  or so. Standard diameter.  PRICE: $575
COMMENTS :  Where to Start?  OK. The beginning. The Parker Vacuum-Filler is the predecessor to the Vacumatic, proper. Produced <1 year, any VF is tough to find. 

But this one indeed is specail.  Featuring a plastic different from the usual burgundy, this was the very first Vac to have a striped transparent barrel. Featuring unusually wide stripes, the burgundy hue is different from that which is typically seen. The cap instead of having alternating red/black stripes has red alternating with blue-black. When backlit the capbands glow a rich bright blue.  This plastic was used during the watershed when Vacuum-Filler gave way to Vacumatic. Pens can be found with either imprint. Some call it the Ripley's Vac because a "Ripley's Believe it or Not" ad seems to show this particular pen in late 1933.  There is more, but this will have to suffice, for today's history lesson.

Technically, a Vacuum-Filler Senior, in fact it is best seen as a STANDARD, given that later Vacs would be labelled as such in this size.

These are fragile. often the cap is crazed or brassed. The section is correct (black) and interestingly is still integrated with the striped barrel. The blind cap is black. These are correct features.

These are rare, at least in the context of Vacumatic collecting, and recognizing that "rare" is an oft-abused term whose meaning is debatable. I've seen perhaps ten total Ripley's pens during the past 7 years and having examined thousands of Vacs.  This is for the collector who hunts Vacsoterica.


 
Pen 1241 Parker Vacumatic Shadow Wave Golden Pearl correct 1942 Single Jewel $255
Overall Grade : XF Trim:  XF Color:  Excellent
Nib condition : EXC Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  OK Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine Imprint:   exc Size:  1/2" by 5" or so. Standard Size PRICE: $255
COMMENTS :  Single Jewel Shadow Wave Vacs are the last of the 5-year (or so) run of this neat vac plastic. This one packs the proper date code as well as the "stacked coin" cap-band which, on shadow-waves, is limited to the single jewel models. Watch out for frankenpens. An unusual vac.  This is the second such pen recently listed by Vacumania.  It is a tad less crisp than the prior example. And, it  sold in person before it could be shot, so the pic is a retread of the one used last month. Sorry :-)

 
Pen 1250 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima 1942. Golden Pearl
Excellent Condition  $425 
Overall Grade : Exc Trim:  Exc Color:  Excellent
Nib condition : Excellent Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  Nice Amber Clarity note correct 1942 "chromed" metal filler
Point: Medium Imprint:   SHARP and COMPLETE Size:  5 3/8" by 9/16ths. PRICE: $425
COMMENTS :  Correct Single Jewel post-1941 USA-made Senior Maxima (called just "Maxima" by this time). Despite first appearance this is not a Major and even with that less plump cap-band, all components are Max size and will not fit Majors. This is the final iteration of the Maxima. Whilst produced at least 5 years, these are fairly uncommon, perhaps because by 1942 folks who could afford $10 spent the extra couple bucks to get the ultra-hot Parker "51", instead. This one is in nice shape and writes a smooth Medium line.

 
Pen 1251 Parker Vacumatic Shadow Wave. Emerald Pearl. 2nd Generation.
Star Clip late 1939 $225
NOTE-Pen was sold before i could shoot it  so picture is of "similar" pen.
Overall Grade: VG Trim:  light brassing Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: EXC Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  decent Plastic- Tooth marks in blind cap
Point: nice fine-med Imprint:   correct 1939 (after first quarter) Size:  1/2" by 5" or so. Standard Size PRICE: $225
COMMENTS:  The Shadow Wave pattern of Vacs was manufactured from late 1937-1942. First shown in the 1938 catalog, it is the only non lattitudinally striped pattern produced beyond the 1st generation.  Star Clip non-high-line Vacs appear with late 1939 and even with early 1940 imprints

 
Pen 1246 Parker Vacuum-Filler   Pre Vacumatic
Burgundy.Late 1932-early1933 
The "middle size" , not seen in Later Parker Vacumatic high-line pens $425
Overall Grade : VG-F Trim:  XF Color:  Excellent
Nib condition : Fine condition 
proper no-arrow "Vacuum Filler" nib.
Threads:  Perfect cap threads. Blind cap shifted a hair as per pic. Transparency:  NA. these were OPAQUE Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine Imprint:   Light but legible
not uncommon amongst Vacuum-Fillers
Size:  1/2" by 4  6/7"  or so. Standard diameter.  PRICE: $425
COMMENTS :  Where to Start?  OK. The beginning. The Parker Vacuum-Filler is the predecessor to the Vacumatic, proper. Produced <1 year, any VF is tough to find.  This one is a high-line ($7.50) pen, but appears in a size and trim configuration never seen in catalogs for the later Vacumatic, proper. Esesntially the length of the later lockdown Vac Junior (same diameter, same threads as a later Standard), this middle size pen has high-line features (stripes, striped section, striped jewels, two tone nib) but only two capbands, that final feature more like the later Junior. This is the first model of Vacuum-Filler to appear in adverts, 

Condition. A decent pen. Light Trim Brassing.  The imprint is light but legible. Nib is ok.  This is  decent "for a Vacuum Filler" as these tend to show more wear, but on the absolute grading scale it is VG-Fine.


 
Pen 1247 Parker Vacuum-Filler "Senior"- a standard size pen
 Pre-Vacumatic. Early 1933 
Silver Pearl $375
Overall Grade : Fine Trim:  XF. Bit of "golding" and of "Brassing" Color:  modest barrel ambering
Nib condition : EF. Correct 'feather-together' nib rendered mostly monotone Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  NA. These were OPAQUE. Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine-Med Imprint:   Decent.  Size:  1/2" by 5 1/8" PRICE: $375
COMMENTS :  Where to Start?  OK. The beginning. The Parker Vacuum-Filler is the predecessor to the Vacumatic, proper. Produced <1 year, any VF is tough to find.  This one was labelled in Parker Literature as "Parker Vacuum-Filler Senior", but is best referred to collectors as the Standard Vacuum-Filler, as despite the name, the size is identical to the later, much more common and better recognized Parker Vacumatic STANDARD.  All these were opaque (at least in silver pearl) and had the one-piece barrel-section assembly. 

This one is a decent example. It features the "usual" (ain't that an evil word??!!) trim wear seen on these and has a decent legible imprint, but not one i'd call sharp
 


 
Pen 1244: Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima Pencil. 
Emerald Pearl 1937-early 1939 Style (fat lead) : $150
Overall Grade : Exc Trim: Exc Color: excellent
Nib Condition: NA mechanism works Transparency: NA Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: 1.1mm "lead" Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size: bit over 5" PRICE: $150
COMMENTS :  This pencil in fact matches the Parker Senior Maxima AND Slender Maxima from the 1937-early 1939 era, as only one size pencil was made with the "Max" capband, during that era. Catalogs show the same model number for pencils to match either pen. The pencils for the early 2nd generation pens use a 1st generation mechanism and core contour. Thus, the Maxima pencil uses early thick "lead", has the cartridge-eraser with lead storage, and has a contour similar to the earlier 1st Generation Standard Pencil. 

This one is quite crisp, in working condition, with excellent color trim. A beautiful pencil.  Will complement a matching pen, nicely.

Pen 1239: Parker Vacumatic Imperial Set.  Jet Black
A high cachet model shown in 1940-41 catalogs in the USA
 Box provided is in better shape than sample shown. $900
Overall Grade: Excellent+ Trim:No brass. No dings. No initials. Sparkles. Color: Excellent, but then black tends to be that way.   
Nib Condition: Two Tone. Excellent+ Threads/Caps: perfect Transparency: Excelllent Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: fine Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size:  5 3/8"  long. The larger Imp. PRICE: $900
COMMENTS:  In 1940 Parker introduced two high-line (premium line?) Vacumatic series, the Imperial and the Imperial Signet. We shall defer discussion of the Signet line. The Imps, proper, featured metal caps (or more) and are catalog-detailed in two sizes save for the Imperial Coronet.  Featuring hour-glass-shaped gripping sections and threads at end of section, the pen perhaps was inspired by Sheaffer's Crest.  With Parker 51-esque caps (though on the Vacs these are screw caps), the Imps are nifty Vacumatics.  They are found  with goldfill caps, solid gold cap and with all-gold cap/barrel.  This set pops. All is correct and crisp. NO cap dings. NO barrel swell, Great Imprint etc etc. This is *NOT* one of those "Pen is excellent except for..." thingies you see on ebay time to time.

 
Pen 1242: Parker Vacumatic SENIOR. A scarce  1 year model. 1936 
 Effectively a "Slender Oversize" $625
Overall Grade: Excellent. Trim: Exc. No brass. Color: Excellent  
Nib Condition: Excellent Two-Tone correct OS-size nib Threads: PERFECT Transparency: Moderate light amber Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: fine-medium. smooth.  Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size:  5 3/8" by 1/2". PRICE: $625
COMMENTS:  The Parker Vacumatic  SENIOR  is a scarce model shown only in the 1936 Catalog. Having at root Standard diameter capthreads and barrel diameter, it has a unique-to-model cap and blindcap. The only Vacumatic model to feature the thin-fat-thin triple capband, this pen has the fat section of the early lockdown pens but has the tapered long cap and blindcap. This 1936 model is the predecessor to the follwoing year's 2nd generation Slender Maxima. Slender Maxes are scarce (and often Majors are wrongly labelled as that model) and the Slender Max was manufactured 3-4 times as long as the Senior. The Senior features big honkin OS Nib and feed crammed to the limit into the standard-diameter section. Scare model of high cachet.

A special sale. The sale of this pen marks the sale of a complete color-set  this summer of this high cachet Parker Vac. Strangely enough, all went to one collector with a fondness for this model. This might be the first time (not that it really matters) that a complete color set of this pen has been sold in a short period.


 
Pen 1210 Parker Vacumatic 1st Generation Oversize SET
Extra Fine Condition. $600 
Restored by the Great Ronzorni of www.mainstreetpens.com July 2005
Overall Grade: Extra Fine Trim:  Slight wear to bottom tassie and bottom band. Smidge o' Brass. Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Extra Fine- rendered Monotone Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  Nice Amber Clarity My Complete Collection (tiny pic)
Point: Fine Imprint:   SHARP and COMPLETE Size:  5 3/8" by 9/16ths. PRICE: $600
COMMENTS:  Sharp OS Set.  Whilst not quite full Excellent on pencil, this one is quite clean. Color is excellent. Trim is Extra Fine. Monotone (should be two tone) correct date-code nib writes a nice line. Fully restored recently by Ron Zorn of www.mainstreetpens.com.  Silver Pearl OS's are- in this Vac Quack's opinion- the toughest color to find clean. Usually featuring heavy pitting to trim and sever barrel ambering, this one does not so suffer. It is "excellent" relative to baseline, but pen grading should  not take into account the "average"  example. Thus, this pen does not get the full Excellent Grade.  I will note it is nicer than any i could find available at the Washington Super Show, but as has been pointed out (probably by me), personal anecdote should not count for much, either, when it comes to absolute grading.

 
Pen 1191  Parker Vacumatic Major. Jet Black Celluloid. Mint Uninked Perfect  $185
Overall Grade: Mint Trim:  Mint Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Mint Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  Outta sight Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine Imprint:   Perfect Size:  1/2" by 5" or so. Standard Size PRICE: $185
COMMENTS:  Another Perfect Vac. I'm getting low on that hoard of 10 picked up a few years back. These have been popular sellers.

 
Pen 1231  Parker Vacumatic 1st generation Junior.  $300
NeCanadian. Reticulated Lines patter (black Mesh Clarity). 
Double Broad High-Flex Nib!
Overall Grade: XF Trim:  Slight high point brass Color:  Excellent
Nib condition: EXC Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  Moderate clarity Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Double Broad High Flex
killer nib.
Imprint:   exc Size:  1/2" by 4 6/7" or so. Standard Diameter and the larger Junior PRICE: $300
COMMENTS:  The smaller model 2nd generation Shadow-wave.  Great color. Unfortunately has some barrel swelling by filler unit.  Cool writer. priced down due to imperfections.

 
Pen 1228  Parker Vacumatic Standard set $ 275
HIGH FLEX NIB
Overall Grade: Extra Fine Trim:  EXC Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: EXC Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  Excellent Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: High Flex fine point. Imprint:   Excellet Size:  1/2" by 5" or so. Standard Size PRICE: $100
COMMENTS:  A quite nice example of the first generation Vacumatic, with locking metal filler, with short blind cap and  with chunky contour that leaves the pen with a gripping section larger than that of the later Major and approaching that of a Senior Maxima.  Featuring Striped gripping section, striped end jewels and two-tone arrow-motif nib. This one is very clean. The Vac Standard is one of our most popular sellers. High Flex USA-made nibs are not common. This one is *VERY* flexible.

 
Pen 1230  Parker Vacumatic 2nd Generation "Streamlined" Standard.  $325
Full Flex Fine Point NIb.
An interesting variant pen.
Overall Grade: XF Trim:  Slight high point brass Color:  Excellent
Nib condition: EXC Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  Moderate clarity Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine Point full flex.
Nice nib.
Imprint:   exc Size:  1/2" by 5 3/8" PRICE: $325
COMMENTS:   This is a recognized but uncatalogued (at least regarding image) 2nd generation Vac produced from late 1938 until 1941. Counting colors and clip styles one can collect 15 different pens of this sort. If one further  differentiates  pens with the true bottom jewel from pens with the bullseye bottom  pseudojewel and/or hunts Canadian pens iwth the tighter cab banding pattern, that number can grow. 

This model often is confused with the Major or the Slender Maxima because the cap and barrel dimensions are identical. But, the pen features capbands which evoke the  earlier first generation Standard and has that size nib, too. Note that this pen cannot be "built" by putting an earlier Standard cap on a later Major barrel. The threads and cap-shape are grossly different between those two models.  The only flaw on this pen, keeping it from full excellent is a tiny bit of barrel swelling down past the imprint and a bit of trim brass. A relatively scarce pen for the cost  of (or less than) a Major. Priced up a bit due to Full-Flex Nib.


 
Pen 1229 Parker Vacumatic 2nd Generation Major.  Black 1937.  $250
Oriiginal Broad Stub nib (not semi-broad. The real thing)
Overall Grade: Excellent Trim:  No Brass. No dings,. Etc Color:  Excellent
Nib condition: EXC Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  Excellent Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: True Broad Stub
Nice nib. Later Monotone.
Imprint:   exc Size:  1/2" by 5 3/16" PRICE: $250
COMMENTS:   An early Vac Major from 1937, after the Vac-Band, but before the pen lengthened to Slender Max proportions. A special-writer as it is fitted with a (later and monotone) true broad stub nib. This was taken from my pen drawer to a pen show and lasted about ten minutes after a request from a collector for, "a Vac that writes a special line".  Bye-bye vac :-)

 
Pen 1218: Parker Vacumatic SENIOR. A scarce  1 year model. 1936 
 Effectively a "Slender Oversize" $675
Pen Grades Excellent. Nib VG (later, correct size Vac nib)
Overall Grade: XF. Trim: Minimal high point brass. NOTE- the worn bottom ring (tassie) has been replaced by a correct nearmint ring Color: Excellent Note. The strong barrel clarity blew out the excellent barrel color in the pic. Yeep!   -- click -- for larger pic
Nib Condition: VG*- Monotone correct-size later nib. Nice iridium and good writer,  but a tool mark  is noted just proximal to the iridium. Threads: PERFECT Transparency: Bright amber transparency. Note that barrel color is great, too. The strong barrel clarity blew out the barrel stripes in the pic. Yeep! Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: fine-medium. smooth. note big
honkin Oversize Nib in standard pen,as it should be :-)
Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size:  5 3/8" by 1/2". PRICE: $675
COMMENTS:  The Parker Vacumatic  SENIOR  is a scarce model shown only in the 1936 Catalog. Having at root Standard diameter capthreads and barrel diameter, it has a unique-to-model cap and blindcap. The only Vacumatic model to feature the thin-fat-thin triple capband, this pen has the fat section of the early lockdown pens but has the tapered long cap and blindcap. This 1936 model is the predecessor to the follwoing year's 2nd generation Slender Maxima. Slender Maxes are scarce (and often Majors are wrongly labelled as that model) and the Slender Max was manufactured 3-4 times as long as the Senior. The Senior features big honkin OS Nib and feed crammed to the limit into the standard-diameter section. Scare model of high cachet.

The Senior is seen far less often than the Oversize. During 7 years and amongst more than 30 pen show s visited with thousands of vacs seen and handled, i've had the pleasure to see 6 red Seniors. Whilst this pen is quite clean and has great barrel clarity, the nib- which is a monotone later Vac nib (correct size, of course)- has a tool mark to the tines and grades VG

Note: The Tassie shows some wear/brassing in this pic. I have subsequently replaced the tassie with a near mint perfect example from a donor pen. No worries. :-)


 
Pen 1219: Parker Vacumatic SENIOR. Jet Black
A scarce  1 year model. 1936 
 Effectively a "Slender Oversize" $435
Overall Grade: XF Trim: Minimal high point brass.  Color: Excellent, but then black tends to be that way.   -- click -- for larger pic
Nib Condition: Excellent* Later Monotone Correct size/shape Vac nib. Threads/Caps: Cap threads perfectly. Blind cap shows a bit of shift, as per picture. Transparency: Not so much clarity.  Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: fine-medium. smooth. note big
honkin Oversize Nib in standard pen,as it should be :-)
Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size:  5 3/8" by 1/2". PRICE: $435
COMMENTS:  The Parker Vacumatic  SENIOR  is a scarce model shown only in the 1936 Catalog. Having at root Standard diameter capthreads and barrel diameter, it has a unique-to-model cap and blindcap. The only Vacumatic model to feature the thin-fat-thin triple capband, this pen has the fat section of the early lockdown pens but has the tapered long cap and blindcap. This 1936 model is the predecessor to the follwoing year's 2nd generation Slender Maxima. Slender Maxes are scarce enough (and often Majors are wrongly labelled as that model), but the Slender Max was manufactured 3-4 times as long as the Senior. The Senior features big honkin OS Nib and feed crammed to the limit into the standard-diameter section. Scare model of high cachet.

The Senior is a scarce model seen far less often than the Oversize.  Vacumania recently sold Golden Pearl and Silver Pearl examples. Currently we list Burgundy and Black.  We expect a superb Emerald pen to return from the restorer during the next two weeks. This might represent the first time all five colors of this model have been offered in a short period from one source.


 
Pen 1051 in : Parker Vacumatic. Uncommon "Jeweler's Band" model, "third size" in Silver Pearl. Excellent condition.  $250
Overall Grade: EX + Trim: excellent. Unusually clean chrome trim Color: excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib Condition: NM Threads: PERFECT Transparency: Ex+ Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: FINE-Med FIRM Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size: 5" pen.  PRICE: $250
COMMENTS:  An unusual Parker Vacumatic Pen  The "Jeweler's" cap-band,  is a factory-issue Vac style (despite the name given  to it in retrospect by collectors), manufactured from 1939-1941. The  Jeweler's cap-band  features an extra wide, lined band with a cartouche for engraving. Four sizes can be found, with pens deriving from the more typical Senior Maxima, Major, Junior (a 5" standard-size pen) and Debutante. 

This pen is the third size. It correctly features a blue diamond clip, monotone arrow nib (the other three sizes typically have a two-tone nib) and black top jewel. The bottom jewel also is the correct bullseye-pattern "pseduojewel".  Generally the third size (standard length) pen is found with monotone nib and black top jewel. This one came with a striped top jewel. I opted not to swap it out, and it is something of a bonus. 

Chrome-trim pens usually are found wtih worn pitted trim. Not so, here. Silver-Pearl celluloid vacs suffer disproportionate ambering of the celluloid. No so, here. This one is a gem, a beautiful example of a pen quite uncommon relative to the typical majors and juniors. A collector grade pen, but of course in good working order if you wish to do more than stare at it. 


 
Pen 1050 Parker Vacumatic "Standard" Burgundy Pearl Celluloid. True opaque model 1933-4:  Uncommon early Vac $250
Overall Grade: Fine Trim: excellent Color: excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib Condition: Excellent-  note later nib Threads: PERFECT Transparency: NA Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: FINE FIRM Imprint: imprint is light. Size:5" or so. standard threads PRICE: $250
COMMENTS: An uncommon Vac. Not just burgundy, but true opaque burgundy with single piece barrel-section assembly.  During the first year or so of production, Parker offered the Vacumatic either with transparent or opaque barrels. This is catalog proven, and should be differentiated by the collector from the more commonly seen ambered-unto-nontransparent later pens which abound. 

This pen has the proper pre-to-mid 1934 imprint without a date code but with a "pat" mark. 

Nib is correct size, but  later issue,  Parker Vacumatic "arrow nib" monotone.

The pen grades fine, suffering only from a weak imprint (partially visible at angles) and light trim brassing.


 
Pen 1035: Parker Vacumatic kosher Single Jewel larger-size 1942  Shadow Wave in Silver-Pearl Celluloid 1942  $ 175
Overall Grade: Fine Trim: Fine Color: XF. slight barrel ambering CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib Condition: Exc Threads: PERFECT Transparency: Decent, esp for a shadow-wave Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: XF-Fine Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size: 5" by 1/2" larger wave PRICE: $175
COMMENTS:  Unusual Wave. A correct single jewel late shadow-wave with capband which when found on Shadow Wave Vacs, is seen only on 1942 Single Jewel Models. Watch out for single jewel shadow-waves with pre-1942 date codes or with double capband. Those are suspect. 

A fine condition (not full excellent) pen with typical wear and micro-scratching (though only minimal high point brassing) to the chrome trim.


 
Pen 1178  Parker Vacumatic Junior Debutante 1939. 2nd Generation $100
Neat Nib
Overall Grade: VG. Note Barrel Swelling Trim:  EXC Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: EXC Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  NA Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Broad Stub Semi-Flex Imprint:   light Size:  1/2" by 5" or so. Standard Size PRICE: $100
COMMENTS:  The smaller model 2nd generation Shadow-wave.  Great color. Unfortunately has some barrel swelling by filler unit.  Cool writer. priced down due to imperfections.

 
Pen 1049: Parker Vacumatic Imperial. Larger size. Goldfill cap. 1940-41 $675
Overall Grade: Excellent Trim: excellent. no dings.no engravings Color: excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib Condition: Exc * (monotone) Threads: PERFECT Transparency: excellent Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: FINE Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size:  the larger Imperal- ~ 5 1/4" PRICE: $675
COMMENTS: Nib is a monotone Vac Major nib instead of a Slender Max two-tone nib. Pump is a later plastic pump.

A rare Vacumatic, the Imperial foreshadowed the  arrival of the Parker 51 and seemingly derived much of its look from the 1937-9 Sheaffer Crest. Parker produced two series of models  bearing the word "Imperial" in 1940-1.  The Imperial and the Imperial Signet.  The Imperial series, proper, comprises  pens such as the one for sale today, with atypical contour, hourglass section with threads at end, and metal cap. Pens were produced in two sizes (save, perhaps, for the all-gold model catalogued only in the larger size), in 1-2 colors, with goldfill caps,  with solid-gold caps, and as an all-gold pen. The Imperial Signet series featured typical Major and Debutante size pens with hallmarked 14k trim at clip, cap-band, tassie. 

Oh yeah, if anyone has a spare of the all-gold model (Imperial Coronet). Do give me a yell. I'd be interested to photograph it, at the very least :-)


 
Pen 1066:  1937 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima Golden Pearl with "Vacumatic" Cap-band

$1495

Overall Grade: Excellent Trim: excellent Color: excellent
Nib Condition: Excellent Threads: PERFECT Transparency: NA Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Firm Fine-Med Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size:  ~ 5 3/8" by 9/16ths" PRICE: $1495
COMMENTS:  A high-cachet Vac.  Barrel code 37 for third quarter 1937.  The Vac-Band was featured on the cover (not inside) of the 1937 Parker Catalog. Advertised Aug-Sept 1937 in featured ads for the "NEW" Vac models - Speedline Major, Speedline Maxima and Senior Maxima, this cap-band was used but briefly by Parker before being replaced by the typical deco-band.  These vacs not only are exceedlingly scarce, but also are sought eagerly by advanced collectors.  I remember well finding my first Vac-band and selling a few other pens to pay for it :-)  The Senior Max is the most valuable size found with this cap-band. This one is superb. A special vac.

 
Pen 1190  Parker Vacumatic Shadow-Wave 2nd Generation Double Jewel Jet Black STAR CLIP $280
Overall Grade: Exc Trim:  EXC Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: EXC Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  Darned Decent Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Nice fine-med Imprint:   Exc SH:  1/2" by 5" or so. Standard Size PRICE: $280
COMMENTS:  Black Shadow-Waves are not easy to find with decent barrel clarity.  Has the expected  later-than-first-quarter-1939 date code for a non-lifetime Star Clip pen. A crispy wee varmint. This is the largest size (overall) Shadow Wave pocket pen produced by Parker. Star clip adds to the charm and scarcity of this one.

 
Pen 1177 Parker Vacumatic Shadow Wave Golden Pearl correct 1942 Single Jewel $285
Overall Grade: XF Trim:  EXC Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: EXC Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  NA Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine Imprint:   exc Size:  1/2" by 5" or so. Standard Size PRICE: $285
COMMENTS:  Single Jewel Shadow Wave Vacs are the last of the 5-year (or so) run of this neat vac plastic. This one packs the proper date code as well as the "stacked coin" cap-band which, on shadow-waves, is limited to the single jewel models. Watch out for frankenpens. An unusual vac.

 
Pen 1210 Parker Vacumatic 1st Generation Standard. Emerald Pearl Celluloid.  $240
Overall Grade: XF Trim:  EXC Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: EXC Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  minimal yellow clarity Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Nice fine-med point (closer to med) Imprint:   Perfect Size: about 5 1/8" by 1/2" PRICE: $240
COMMENTS:  A quite nice example of the first generation Vacumatic, with locking metal filler, with short blind cap and  with chunky contour that leaves the pen with a gripping section larger than that of the later Major and approaching that of a Senior Maxima.  Featuring Striped gripping section, striped end jewels and two-tone arrow-motif nib. This one is very clean. The Vac Standard is one of our most popular sellers. 

 
Pen 1172 Parker Vacumatic 1940  Junior Golden Pearl Shadow-Wave. STAR CLIP. $315
Overall Grade: XF Trim:  EXC Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: EXC Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  NA Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: fine semi-flex Imprint:   NA Size:  1/2" by 5" or so. Standard Size PRICE: $315
COMMENTS:  Black Shadow-Waves are not easy to find with decent barrel clarity.  Has the expected  later-than-first-quarter date code for a non-lifetime Star Clip pen. A crispy wee varmint. This is the largest size (overall) Shadow Wave pocket pen produced by Parker.

 
Pen 1202 Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima. Golden-Pearl Celluloid. 1938  FULL FLEX NIB $400
Overall Grade: Section threads repaired- otherwise Fine-XF Trim:  Couple minimarks and specks of brass Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: EXC Threads:  Perfect cap threads. Repaired section-barrel threads (invisible to the user) Transparency:  Ambered but still with clarity Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine Full Flex Imprint:   VG Size:  9/16th" at cap lip PRICE: $400
COMMENTS:  This is the big one and it features a special nib. USA_made flex nibs are uncommon.  This pen features the feather clip,  striped section, striped  end jewels as well as a two-tone nib, all correct features for this model.   The pen suffered a misfortune and had the gripping section snap from its threads during disassembly.  Lynn Sorgatz did an expert repair opening up the section a bit, then fitting a jet black sleeve with proper threads, so that the section can thread correctionly into the barrel again. NOTE this is not a cap-thread issue, but is an invisible repair leaving the pen stronger at that joint than would be native striped celluloid. $100 deducted from cost reflecting the repaired state.   $400

 
Pen 1162 Parker Vacumatic Major, Double Jewel "Long" variant 1940  $250
Overall Grade: XF Trim:  EXC Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: EXC Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  modest Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: correct two-tone arrow nib fine point. Imprint:   perfect Size:  1/2" by 5 3/8" or so. Standard Size PRICE: $250
COMMENTS:  A nice "long" Major. This pen is often mislabelled "Slender Maxima". It is not a Slender Maxima. It is the same size. It packs a nice two-tone correct Major nib and has the Major-style Capband.

 
 
Pen 1150: Mint Stickered Parker Vacumatic Major. Golden Pearl  $300
Overall Grade: MINT Stickered. . Trim: Mint Color: perfect.   -- click -- for larger pic
Nib Condition: Mint Threads: Perfect Transparency: Mint Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine Imprint: Mint Size:  5- 5.125" by 0.5" PRICE: $300
COMMENTS:  What can one say?  Well, usually i find something to say :-)  This is about as perfect as they get. Used but clean Majors range $75-150. But, pens are far more difficult to find in this condition.

 
Pen 1149: Parker Vacumatic SENIOR. A rare 1 year model. 1936 
 Effectively a "Slender Oversize" $325
Overall Grade: FINE. Trim: bit of high point brass. Some brsss to bottom capring. Color: exc. Note. Small patch of discolored haziness in barrel near blindcap.   -- click -- for larger pic
Nib Condition: Excellent at root but note most of the two-tone wash has gone bye-bye Threads: PERFECT Transparency: Bright amber transparency. Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: fine-medium. smooth. note big
hokin Oversize Nib in standard pen
Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size:  5 3/8" by 1/2". PRICE: $325
COMMENTS:  The Parker Vacumatic  SENIOR  is a scarce model shown only in the 1936 Catalog. Having at root Standard diameter capthreads and barrel diameter, it has a unique-to-model cap and blindcap. The only Vacumatic model to feature the thin-fat-thin triple capband, this pen has the fat section of the early lockdown pens but has the tapered long cap and blindcap. This 1936 model is the predecessor to the follwoing year's 2nd generation Slender Maxima. Slender Maxes are scarce (and often Majors are wrongly labelled as that model) and the Slender Max was manufactured 3-4 times as long as the Senior. Also features a big honkin OS Nib and feed crammed to the limit into the standard-diameter section. Scare model of high cachet.

 
Pen 1148: Parker Vacumatic SENIOR. Scarce 1-year model. Silver Pearl. $435
Overall Grade: XF+ Trim: excellent. bit of brass to bottom tassie Color: exc. NOTE- personal name engraved in small clean letters.   -- click -- for larger pic
Nib Condition: Excellent at root but note most of the two-tone wash has gone bye-bye, so nib is mostly monotone. BIG honkin' OS nib! Threads: Perfect Transparency: Bright yellow barrel clarity not well demonstrated in photo. Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: fine-medium. smooth Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size:  5.25" by .5" PRICE: $435
COMMENTS:  The Parker Vacumatic  SENIOR  is a scarce model shown only in the 1936 Catalog. Having at root Standard diameter capthreads and barrel diameter, it has a unique-to-model cap and blindcap. The only Vacumatic model to feature the thin-fat-thin triple capband, this pen has the fat section of the early lockdown pens but has the tapered long cap and blindcap. This 1936 model is the predecessor to the follwoing year's 2nd generation Slender Maxima. Slender Maxes are scarce (and often Majors are wrongly labelled as that model) and the Slender Max was manufactured 3-4 times as long as the Senior. Also features a big honkin OS Nib and feed crammed to the limit into the standard-diameter section.

 
Pen 1187  Parker Vacumatic Shadow-Wave Burgundy. 1st Generation $280
Overall Grade: XF Trim:  XF- tiny bit brassing to bottom cap-band  Color:  Great CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: EXC Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  Fine-Exc Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Nice Fine point Imprint:   exc Size:  1/2" by  4 6/7" or so. Standard Diameter PRICE: $280
COMMENTS:  he Shadow Wave pattern of Vacs was manufactured from late 1937-1942. First shown in the 1938 catalog, it is the only non lattitudinally striped pattern produced beyond the 1st generation. The 1st generation Shadow-Wave is markedly less common than the 2nd generation pens as it was manufactured perhaps just 6 months vs the  3+ years seen for 2nd Gen pens. Whilst a smidge shorter than the later pen, in fact this chunky early style pen has a larger gripping section, approaching size of the later Senior Maxima's. Burgundy is the color with highest cachet, and this one has very vivid color, indeed.

 
Pen 1188  Parker Vacumatic Shadow Wave. Emerald Pearl. 2nd Generation. Superb  $295
Overall Grade: Exc-NM Trim:  EXC Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: EXC Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  Excellent- better than pic Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: nice fine-med Imprint:   Superb (and interesting) Size:  1/2" by 5" or so. Standard Size PRICE: $295
COMMENTS:  The Shadow Wave pattern of Vacs was manufactured from late 1937-1942. First shown in the 1938 catalog, it is the only non lattitudinally striped pattern produced beyond the 1st generation.  This one is in truly superb shape. The imprint is interesting. The last Parker catalog to show the Wave was from 1939, but pens are seen coded as late as 1942. this on has a sharp 1941 imprint.

 
Pen 1164 Parker Vacumatic. *RARE*  1938 late Opaque extra-Stubby model. Burgundy Celluloid. A special Vac  $450
Overall Grade: XF Trim:  XF. bit of brass to bottom capband Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: EXC* (monotone nib dates to 1944) Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  NA Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Nice smooth fine point. Imprint:   NA Size:  1/2" by 4 1/2" or so. Fat extra-short pen. PRICE: $450
COMMENTS:  The myth and lore of the  "stubby vac" are popular discussion points amongst vac-nuts. Never shown in catalogs they crop up with *relatively* high frequency amongst the *very*-rare Pre-Vac, Pre-Vacuum-Filler Parker Golden-Arrows, with much lower frequency amongst subsequent Parker Vacuum-Fillers (~1933) and quite rarely as Vacumatics, proper, usually with 1938-9 date codes, as well as nibs and trim to suggest 1938-9 production.  Left-over rod stock being "blown out"?  Barrel repairs of earlier pens sent to Parker, imprinted with date of insertion of new barrel?  We just don't know. I have one pen at home with the proper Vacumatic imprint (like this pen) but ALSO with a ghost of an earlier Vacuum-Filler imprint on opposite side of barrel!  Amazing. This pen is pretty clean, with good color, minimal trim brassing, a solid imprint. Later nib is noted (a nominal point).   Don't confuse this with a common Debutante, Slender etc.  This one will thread into a Standard Vac's cap. This vac is for a serious vac collector.

 
Pen 1165 Parker Vacumatic "Junior" Burgundy Marbled Celluloid.  $255
Overall Grade: Excellent Trim:  EXC Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: EXC Threads: Perfect Transparency:  Excellent! Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Nice smooth Fine Point. Imprint:   excellent Size:  1/2" by 4 6/7" or so. Standard diameter PRICE: $255
COMMENTS:  From 1934-1939 Parker produced Vacs in patterns other than the typical  lattitudinal stripes. That these catalog-documented patterns appear largely (one exception exists) on Junior line pens adds to the charm of the Junior line vacs which featured fewer "luxury" features, but the same solid Vac construction. The larger 1st generation lockdown-fill pen like this one is the same diameter as a Vac Standard but runs about 1/6" shorter. The black gripping section is nearly as large as that of a later Senior Maxima and is larger than that of the Major. This is a squat pen, providing a lot of grip area for the buck.  The typical weak points of this series are not present here. The capbands avoid the heavy brassing often seen (small raised surface areas just ask for it) and the barrel has terrific transparency (whilst most of these are ambered nigh unto blackness. 

 
Pen 1175 Parker Vacumatic I mperial Jet Black Celluloid. 1940.  $675
NOTE: FITTED with Two-Tone FULL FLEX nib after picture was shot.
Overall Grade: Exc+ Superb. Trim:  EXC (Note that the cartouche on back of cap is expertly engraved with personal initials) No Dings! Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: EXC Threads:  Perfect Transparency: Superb Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine Flex. Imprint:   NA Size: 5 1/3" long. The larger Imperial. PRICE: $675
COMMENTS:  A rare Vacumatic, the Imperial foreshadowed the  arrival of the Parker 51 and seemingly derived much of its look from the 1937-9 Sheaffer Crest. Parker produced two series of models  bearing the word "Imperial" in 1940-1.  The Imperial and the Imperial Signet.  The Imperial series, proper, comprises  pens such as the one for sale today, with atypical contour, hourglass section with threads at end, and metal cap. Pens were produced in two sizes (save, perhaps, for the all-gold model catalogued only in the larger size), in 1-2 colors, with goldfill caps,  with solid-gold caps, and as an all-gold pen. The Imperial Signet series featured typical Major and Debutante size pens with hallmarked 14k trim at clip, cap-band, tassie, and has typical section shape.

Oh yeah, if anyone has a spare of the all-gold model (Imperial Coronet). Do give me a yell. I'd be interested to photograph it, at the very least :-)


 
Pen 1097: Parker Vacumatic Junior (a standard size pen in non-lifetime trim). Single Jewel. Superb. $145 
Overall Grade: NM Trim: NM Color: eNMB CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib Condition: NM Threads: PERFECT Transparency: water-clear. Superb Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: FINE Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size: 5" by 1/2" PRICE: $145
COMMENTS:  This one is an gem. Collector grade in all respects, also freshly restored and working beautifully. Silver pearl vacs tend to have ambered celluloid and worn trim. Not this one. No flaws. 

 
Pen 1200: Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima. Azure Blue. Excellent. Full Flex Nib  $810
Overall Grade: EXC . Trim: excellent. Initials in Indicia. Color: exc.  
Nib Condition: Fine Threads: Perfect Transparency: Bright amber barrel clarity n Click if link is hot, for more info
Point:  smooth fine-med Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size:  5 3/8" by 9/16th" PRICE: $825
COMMENTS:  Azure Blue is the most scarce Senior Maxima color. It was produced about 1.5 years rather than the 4.5 years other colors were manufactured in this model. I collected Vacs nearly 2 years before tracking down  my first Blue Max. This one grades excellent. Unlike last month's Blue Max, this one does have initials engraved in indicia, but also is fitted with a relativiely uncommon full flex USA-production two-tone Vac nib. Note this pen sold via direct "wish list" so photo is re-used from prior Blue Max image. Those two look effectively identical.  Sold at $810

 
Pen 1057: Parker Vacumatic  "Jeweler's" capband 2nd-size (Long Major size) Doube Jewel Golden Pearl . Bit of a scarce model. $275
Overall Grade: EX  Trim: excellent (slight high point brass to tassie only) Color: excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib Condition: NM Threads: PERFECT Transparency: excellent. bright amber throughout Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: FINE Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size:5 3/8" by 1/2" PRICE: $275
COMMENTS:  Uncommon Vacumatic.  Jeweler's Band Series ran 1939-42. This Major size pen has a capband wider than that of the typical Senior Maxima and features concentric rings with a cartouche. A sweet pen! This is the big brother to a couple other Jeweler's-Band pens in this sale. This one is based on the rodstock of a Vac Major (long variant) or Vac Slender Max. The nib is a correct two-tone Vac Major nib. Pen is very crisp. It is  longer, and has a fatter Jeweler's Band than does the "third size"  pens from this family  pictured in this sale.

 
Pen 1139 Parker Vacumatic Standard 1936 Emerald Green  $240
Overall Grade:  XF Trim:  EXC unbrassed Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: EXC Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  EXCELLENT Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: FINE Imprint:  Complete with slight weekness on "made" from "Made in USA" Size:  5-5.125". Standard Vac PRICE: $240
COMMENTS: A quite nice example of the first generation Vacumatic, with locking metal filler, short blind cap and chunky contour that leaves the pen with a gripping section larger than that of the later Major and approaching that of a Senior Maxima.  Featuring Striped gripping section, striped end jewels and two-tone arrow-motif nib. This one is very clean.

 
Pen 1153: Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima. Azure Blue. Excellent.  $825
Overall Grade: EXC . Trim: excellent.  Color: exc.  -- click -- for larger pic
Nib Condition: Fine Threads: Perfect Transparency: Bright amber barrel clarity n Click if link is hot, for more info
Point:  smooth fine-med Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size:  5 3/8" by 9/16th" PRICE: $825
COMMENTS:  Azure Blue is the most scarce Senior Maxima color. It was produced about 1.5 years rather than the 4.5 years other colors were manufactured in this model. I collected Vacs nearly 2 years before tracking down  my first Blue Max. This one is beautfiul in every respect. Don't miss out!

 
Pen 1161 Parker Vacumatic 1st Generation Shadow-Wave . Green. Canadian Paintbrush high flex double broad nib  $350
Overall Grade: XF Trim:  EXC. Tad of brass at bottom of tassie. Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: EXC Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  Decent Click if link is hot, for more info
Point wet smooth broad Flex. A GREAT writer. One of the funkiest Vac nibs i've seen Imprint:   Exc Size:  1/2" by  4 6/7" or so. Standard diameter. The larger of the lockdown Waves PRICE: $350
COMMENTS:  The Shadow Wave pattern of Vacs was manufactured from late 1937-1942. First shown in the 1938 catalog, it is the only non lattitudinally striped pattern produced beyond the 1st generation. The 1st generation Shadow-Wave is markedly less common than the 2nd generation pens as it was manufactured perhaps just 6 months vs the  3+ years seen for 2nd Gen pens. Whilst a smidge shorter than the later pen, in fact this chunky early style pen has a larger gripping section, approaching size of the later Senior Maxima's. Outrageous nib on this one, one of the fattest and most flex Vac nibs i've seen. Note the classic finding seen on Canadian pens, a "tight" pattern to the two capbands.  Great pen!

 
Pen 1152: Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima in Burgundy. "Binder-ized"  fine-point nib $525
Overall Grade:  XF+ Trim:  Trace high point brass. Color:  Excellent  -- click -- for larger pic
Nib condition: Fine Point. Underwent special smoothening courtesy of Richard Binder Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  modest Click if link is hot, for more info
Point:Fine two tone. A very smooth nib. Superb writer. Imprint:  Sharp! Size:  5 3/8" by 9/16ths" PRICE: $525
COMMENTS:  The Burgundy Vacumatic Senior Max. One of Vacdom's most coveted mainstream models. This one is in great shape and has  a silk-smooth fine point nib, after having been tweaked by nib-meister Richard Binder.

 
Pen 1094: Parker Vacumatic (Senior) Maxima (post-1941 Single Jewel). Azue Blue Celluloid. Canadian Parker High-flex nib $495
Overall Grade: fine Trim:fine- high point brass on clip/washer ring Color: Fine CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib Condition: exc Threads: PERFECT Transparency: exc Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: FINE Smooth Full Flex- note Canadian Parker nib. Imprint: about 2/3 present. light. Size: OS ~ 5 3/8" by 9/16ths" PRICE: $495
COMMENTS:   Don't be fooled. Yes, the cap-band is thin, but the pen *IS* a Senior Maxima- the big one. When Parker USA switched to  the single-jewel style for the Vacumatic in 1942, the capband on the Senior Max was reduced in size.  Single Jewel Senior Maxes are more uncommon than the earlier Double Jewel Variant. This pen is longer than some of my double jewel Senior Max pens. I am happy to have a complete color collection of this not-often-seen model. 

This pen is of USA-manufacture, but has a Canadian nib that demonstrates sweet flexible writing. Were the pen in full excellent condition, the price would be some $200 more. As it is, this one has nice eye appeal, hefty size, rare color, and a great nib.


 
Pen 1022: Parker Vacumatic Major. Double Jewel. "Long" variety. 1940 2nd quarter  Emerald Pearl Celluloid  $255
Overall Grade: EX+ Trim: excellent Color: excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib Condition: fine Threads: PERFECT Transparency: Ex-NM. bright yellow Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: XF- bit o' toothiness Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size: OS  5 1/3" by 1//2" PRICE: $255
COMMENTS:  The "Long" Major of 1939-42, so often wrongly labelled Slender Maxima. Cosmetically superb, this one is all correct: striped top jewel, bullseye bottom "jewel", two tone nib and black section. Excellent transparency.

 
Pen 1026: Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima in  Golden-Pearl Celluloid. 4th quarter 1937.  $390
Overall Grade: XF Trim: excellent except bottom tassie has brassing. Color: excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib Condition: EX. (monotone) Threads: Perfect Transparency: mildly transparent Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: FINE-med, monotone 1938 Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size:  5 3/8" by 9/16ths" PRICE: $390
COMMENTS

A nice Senior Max with great eye appeal and couple imperfections. Pre-1939 Sr Max pens should have striped gripping section and twotone nib. This one has a replacement black gripping section, and the nib (quite clean) has lost the two-tone effect.   The tassie (ring at bottom of pen)has brassing, but  the clip and capband are superb. It is a nice writer Priced to accomodate nominal imperfections.


 
Pen 1140 : Parker Vacumatic Major Azure Blue Double Jewel 1941: $300
Overall Grade:  Exc+ Trim:  Exc. unbrassed Color:  lush bright blue. Exc  CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: EXC Threads:  Perfect Transparency: nice light amber- quite clear. Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: XF-Account. ultra fine point. Imprint:  Razor Sharp Size: ~ 5.375" PRICE: $300
COMMENTS:  The 1939-42 variants of the Vacumatic Major often are mixed up for the Slender Maxima. Keep in mind, if it has a Major band, it must be a Major. Azure blue Double Jewel Majors were sold for less than 18 months, compared to 4+ years for the other colors. A less common mainstream vac in superb shape.

 
Pen 1141: Canadian 1945 extra-long Vac Major. A Rule-Breaker pen. FLEX NIB. $220
Overall Grade:  Exc+ Trim:  Excellent Color:  Excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  NEARMINT- white/yellow Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Flexible Fine with bit of tooth. Two tone! (unusual in late pens- this one is canadian) Imprint:  Razor Sharp Size:  ~ 5.375 PRICE: $220
COMMENTS:  The longer Majors (such as pen 1140) were produced in the USA from 1939-42. By 1943 the Major had shrunk to 5" or so in length.  However, Parker Canada did not always follow "the rules". Mid 1940's Majors and (and two-capband Juniors!) crop up as long or longer than Maximas and earlier Majors.  This is one such pen.  Nib is neat. Condition is great.

 
Pen 1071: Parker Vacumatic "Standard" (predecessor to the Major) in Golden Pearl Celluloid. 1936- 2nd quarter $225
Overall Grade: Excellent Trim: perfect Color: excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib Condition: EXC. note two-tone nib has 75% white plating remaining. Threads: Perfect Transparency: excellent Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: FINE. firm Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size:5 1/8" by 1/2" PRICE: $225
COMMENTS:  A beautiful early Vacumatic, more difficult to find than later Majors. Note that the chunky contour of the early lock-down vacs leads to a much larger gripping section than later equivelent models like the  Major and Slender Max. The gripping section on these is just a bit smaller than a Senior Maxima. A good vac if one seeks a larger grip pen without springing for an OS model. Beautiful condition.

 
 
Pen 1143: Parker Vacumatic Oversize Silver Pearl Celluloid.: $400
Overall Grade:  XF-Exxc Trim:  Exc with just bit of wear to capbands Color:  Mild (mild!) barrel ambering as noted CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  Exc Transparency:  Pen has been resaced and flushed since the photo was taken. Entire barrel has nice amber clarity. Click if link is hot, for more info
Point:fine firm. Note that nib is proper size but of later manufacture than the pen Imprint:  Very sharp Size:  Oversized. 5 3/8" by 9/16th" PRICE: $400
COMMENTS:  This is the big one. The Oversize was the predecessor to the Senior Maxima, but in fact has a chunkier contour and a heftier gripping section making for an overall larger feel. than the Max.  This is a lovely pen. Chrome trim tends not to hold up as well as Goldfill, and this pen is a survivor- the trim is great.

 
 
Pen 1148: Parker Vacumatic Junior (the larger Junior) Emerald Green Marble $200
Overall Grade: EXC . Trim: excellent. bit of brass to bottom tassie Color: exc  
Nib Condition: Exc Threads: PERFECT Transparency: Bright yellow barrel clarity not well demonstrated in photo. Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: fine-medium. smooth Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size:  4 7/8" by 1/2", with large gripping section (larger than later Majors) PRICE: $200
COMMENTS:  Marbled Vac Juniors ("Junior" referencing price point rather than size, per se)) represent one of a handful of non-striped Vac styles produced from 1934-1938, or so.  Green was intro'd midway through 1936, making it the least common of the three marbled colors.  These early pens are less streamlined and thus have chunkier contour, compared to later Juniors, leaving them with a gripping section larger than that of a Vac Major and approaching that of a Vac Senior Maxima. I like writing with this style pen. 

Features a terrific restoration by Ron Zorn at www.mainstreetpens.com


 
 
Pen 1142: Parker Vacumatic  1940 True Major with Jeweler's-style capband. Scarce pen. Great condition. Neat Medium Stub semi-flex nib. $395
Overall Grade:  EXC- NM Trim:  superb- note three clean initials in cartouche of capband. Color:  Excllent- bright unfaded blue CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc Threads:  perfect Transparency:  Excellent-NM SPECIAL CLICK HERE for discussion of the Jeweler's Cap-band plus pic
Point: Medium + Stub Semi Flex Imprint:  sharp and complete Size:  ~ 5.375" PRICE: $395
COMMENTS: This is, to me, a somewhat special pen. The "Jeweler's" Band is a factory original style produced from 1939-41 for a currently ill-defined purpose. Blue Diamond Vacs  can be found in four sizes and four colors. The pen for sale is the second largest size  and isderived from the Vacumatic Major. It has two tone nib. This size is meaningfully more scarce than the next size down (a 5" pen with same threads and thinner cap-band).  After 6 years hunting, i have a nearly complete collection of the pens. I have seen perhaps (not owned, mind you)  five pens total in Azure Blue in this size. Azure blue is more scarce as the color was introduced in late 1940, whilst other Vac Majors with "jeweler's band" were produced since 1939.  This one is in great shape in every respect and has a nice nib.

 
 
Pen 1134 Parker Vacumatic Double Jewel Major. Striped jewels and section. 1937 $145
Overall Grade:  Exc Trim:  Exc Color:  Exc CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib condition: Exc- later monotone Vac Threads:  Perfect Transparency:  Minimal Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Fine-Med Imprint:  Sharp Size:  5 1/4" by 1/2" PRICE: $145
COMMENTS: Note- Clean Pen with slighty later (correct size) monotone Parker Vacumatic Nib. 1942-Style clear plastic pump. Clean cosmetic condition and a nice wet-writing nib characterize this early style vac Major.  Priced down a bit due to later nib and vac pump. The Full Feather Clip, Striped Gripping Section and Striped dual End Jewels contribute to the charm of this early Major.

 
 
Pen 1059: Parker Vacumatic Major. 1948, fourth quarter.  MINT PERFECT.  $170
Overall Grade: MINT Trim: perfect Color: perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib Condition: MINT Threads: PERFECT Transparency:  perfect Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Medium Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size: 5" by 1/2" PRICE: $170
COMMENTS:  A perfect vac from what is believed to be the last quarter of USA production. The nib is a 1953 (!) Vac nib. Likely factory NOS barrel with later mint nib when parker blew out parts.

 
Pen 1056: Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima in Azure Blue Celluloid $625
Overall Grade: fine: couple fine scratches by cap-lip. NO NO NO cracks. Trim: Fine. Tassie (bottom ring, with partial brassing) Color: barrel a bit subdued vs cap CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib Condition: EXC- NICE two-tone effect Threads: PERFECT Transparency: VG (nice amber clarity) Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Med Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size: 5 3/8 by 9/16th" PRICE: $625
COMMENTS:  Azure Blue is the most uncommon color seen in the 2nd generation Senior Maxima Model. Produced for 1.5 years (vs 4+ for Red and all other colors), Blue Maxes do not crop up very often. 

This specimen grades Fine, with issues noted above keeping it from full excellent. Priced much lower than the full excellent pens, this one also will make a very nice user. No fatal flaws, just some honest wear.

Pen 1083: Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima Jet Black Celluloid.  1941 3rd quarter $425
Overall Grade: EX  Trim: excellent- only flaw is slight brass to tassie (bottom ring) Color: excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib Condition: NM Threads: PERFECT Transparency: excellent Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Medium Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size:5  1/3"" by 9/16ths" PRICE: $425
COMMENTS:  What can one say?  A quite pleasant, collector grade Senior Maxima, the largest Vac form the 2nd generation (1937-41). Great writer and great pen.
Pen 1124: Parker Vacumatic Senior Major Silver Pearl Nearmint Stickered  $235
Overall Grade: NM- mint but for having met ink.  Trim: NM Color: excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib Condition: NM Threads: PERFECT Transparency: Water clear for most of barrel- bit ambered by filler Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Medium Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size: 5.125" by 0.5" PRICE: $235
COMMENTS:  Perfect mint save for having met ink (couple specks inside barrel and signs on feed)

 
Pen 1086: Parker Vacumatic "Standard". Canadian. Burgundy Pearl Celluloid. MEDIUM OBLIQUE NIB.  $330
Overall Grade: Extra Fine Trim: XF-Exc (brassing only to bottom tassie) Color: excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib Condition: NM Threads: PERFECT Transparency: exc- bright amber throughout. Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: FINE Imprint: VG- light in places Size: 1/2" by 5" PRICE: $330
COMMENTS:  Beautiful Burgundy Canadian Vac STandard. Large Gripping Section. Interesting Nib 

Note that Canadian Vacs- once two-piece barrel-section assemblies were introduced to vac manufacture (probably late 1933)-  are  found  correctly with Black gripping section, independent of pen color. This is one way to differentiate, from afar, a USA-production 1st generation vac from a Canadian-production piece. This one is, of course, fully currect- with striped jewels and two-tone nib. 

The example today is quite respectable, with great color and clarity,  with brassing only to the tassie (bottom ring, on the blind cap) and with an imprint that is complete but light in places. An nice medium-oblique nib, not often seen on USA pens.


 
Pen 1117: Parker Vacumatic Green "Standard" 1936  $250
Overall Grade: EXC Trim: excellent Color: excellent
Nib Condition: EXC Threads: Perfect Transparency: NICE Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: FINE-med, two tone vac nib Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size:  5 1/8" by 1/2" PRICE: $250
COMMENTS:  Beautiful Emerald Pearl Standard vac- large gripping section for pen this size.

 
Pen 1026: Parker Vacumatic Senior Maxima in  Golden-Pearl Celluloid. 1939 Canadian.  $365
Overall Grade: XF Trim: excellent except bottom tassie has brassing. Color: excellent
Nib Condition: EX. Threads: Perfect Transparency: minimal clarity Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Nice twotone maxima nib Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size:  5 3/8" by 9/16ths" PRICE: $365
COMMENTS:  Quite Decent Senior Maxima, Canadian manufature. few nicks in correct black gripping section.

 
Pen 1096: Parker Vacumatic Junior: 1st generation Marbled Silver Pearl. Lockdown Fill. High-Flex Med-Broad Nib$240
Overall Grade: EXC . Trim: excellent. Clean White trim, especially on thin-band Vacs, is difficult to find. This pen has very nice look to it. and has very clean trim. Color: XF with ambering at edges of couple silver panels which is spillover from the darkened transparent areas. CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib Condition: Exc Threads: PERFECT Transparency: minimal -to-no clarity Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: medium-broad + high flex Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size:  4 7/8" by 1/2", with large gripping section (larger than later Majors) PRICE: $240
COMMENTS:  An evilly nice writer. Marbled Vac Juniors ("Junior" referencing price point rather than size, per se)) represent one of a handful of non-striped Vac styles produced from 1934-1938, or so.  These early pens are less streamlined and thus have chunkier contour, compared to later pens, leaving them with a gripping section larger than that of a Vac Major and approaching that of a Vac Senior Maxima. I like writing with this style pen. 

Vac Nibs usually are fine-med firm. Unlike, say, Pelikans- which often have broad or flex nibs- finding such a nib in a Parker Vac is a nice discovery. This one writes terrifically.


 
 
Pen 1091: Parker Vacumatic "Standard". Burgundy Pearl Set. 1935 pen, 1936 pencil. Box is vintage 1940
Overall Grade: EX  Trim: XF. All there save for high point brass to tassie (bottom ring) on pen Color: excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib Condition: XF Threads: PERFECT Transparency: very good Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: FINE Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size: pen 1/2" by 5" PRICE: $405
COMMENTS:  Beautiful matching 1st generation Vac Standard set in Burgundy Pearl. The Standard was the high-line predescessor to the Major. The Standard has a chunkier contour and a larger gripping section than the later Major. Matching striped endjewels, striped section and two-tone nib adorn the pen. The pencil also has a striped jewel.  Parker pen cases in 1935 were mundane white cardboard items, so i have included a clamshell-style 1940 case to house this nice set.

 
Pen 1032: Parker Vacumatic Oversize:  Burgundy Pearl.  1st Generation Pen1934  $495
Overall Grade: EX (-) Trim: excellent (slightest high point brass) Color: a bit subduedburgundy shade. CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib Condition: Fine (one tine slightly straightened- excellent writer) Threads: PERFECT Transparency: minimal Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: Nice Medium Wet Writer Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size: OS ~ 5 3/8" by 9/16ths" PRICE: $495
COMMENTS:  A very decent Red OS from the first generation of the Vacumatic. The Chunky Contour makes this pen much larger feeling in the hand than the later Senior Maxima, despite maximum dimensions consistent with that later pen.  The couple imperfections noted above knock $150 from the price. The largest grip available in a Parker Vac

 
 
 
Pen 1025: Parker Vacumatic "Jeweler's Band", "Sub Major", 1941. Replacement Blind cap  $55
Vacumania's Basement. Pen works. Not too pretty though
Overall Grade: Fair, at best. Trim:fair Color: excellent CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib Condition: exc Threads: PERFECT Transparency: NA Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: FINE Imprint: sharp,complete,excellent Size: 5" by 1/2" PRICE: $55
COMMENTS:  A problem pen.  significant capband wear at top and bottom 2mm. Replacement smooth blind cap (1941 Jeweler's Band pens should be double jeweled).  Writes decently and has a good sac. I don't wanna own it anymore. This is the same model (or should be) as the crisp silver pen offered elsewhere in this sale

 
 
Pen 1087: Parker Vacumatic Major. Golden Pearl Celluloid. MINT STICKERED NOS $305
Overall Grade: MINT Trim: MINT Color: Perfect CLICK FOR LARGER PIC
Nib Condition: MINT Threads: PERFECT Transparency: water clear Click if link is hot, for more info
Point: MEDIUM Imprint: MINT Size: 5" x 1/2" PRICE: $305
COMMENTS:  Mint Stickered Vacs are uncommon. This pen is perfect in all respects.   Obviously, the pen is s 3rd generation single jewel Vac Major, produced in this style from 1943-1948 in the USA (the 1942 pens are a bit longer).  This one never met ink, has perfect barrel clarity. A lovely pen. may not be returned if inked or dipped, etc. 

 

 

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