Parker 17
1960s
About This Model
Parker Duofolds had been made in the UK since the early 1930s, then generally following the contemporaneous American designs and often using American parts. These are rarely seen today.
During WWII, a second series of Duofolds appeared in England, identical to the Parker Victory except for the imprint.
The far better known UK Duofolds were introduced after WWII, starting with the Duofold NS, New Style. These had arrow clips and were button fillers, and were made in England and in Denmark for English distribution. The AF Duofold, initials to mean Aluminium Filler, appeared in 1948, and were very popular pens. Their aluminium mechanics were very sturdy and these were wonderful writers, with soft English nibs.
Finally, 1953 brought the final significant version, the New Duofold, aerometric fillers. These were shorter, lighter models, made of extruded plastic. While the components were cheaper, these were usually excellent writers, carrying Parker's 585 nib. These later pens also spun off other similar versions, including the Slimfold, Junior, and the 17/17 Super. These last pens generally had friction caps, aerometric fillers, differing only in trim. They all appeared in the final Duofold colors of Green, Blue, Red, and Black.
About This Pen
This “17” is in never used condition, although it was filled and emptied to be tested. There are virtually no use marks on the Blue body, but there is a little micro-scratching from being moved around for 50-60 years. There is a very shallow “17” (the “” are part of its name) imprint that is complete. This is the last generation of English pens made with a 51 hooded nib, and it writes a soft wet fine. An enjoyable pen, give it a case!
This pen is not for sale.