Sheaffer Balance

late 1930s
About This Model

Sheaffer's Balances, both Lifetime and non-Lifetime, appeared in 1929 and were Sheaffer’s top production lines from the early 1930’s until after WWII. They were available in numerous lengths, girths, colors and patterns, filled by lever or plunger, and were well enough made that now, with a cleaning and filling system restoration, they make excellent and durable pens. There were two distinct levels, Lifetime and non-Lifetime, and numerous models at different times. The Lifetime designation was carried over from before the Balance's appearance, and was kept to designate higher level pens. They carried Lifetime nibs and a white dot to signify the pen as a Lifetime; in addition, they came with the Lifetime guarantee, which continued for many years until the courts struck it down. After WWII the White Dot was used to denote higher level pens, and then became Sheaffer's brand identifier. Non-Lifetime pens had lower trim levels but were made of the same components; their nibs were very good and were often much softer and easier to write with than Lifetimes. Balances were also designated with numerous sub-model names after the mid-1930s, and the use of Balance was ended altogether after WWII, with the obsolescence of lever-filled pens.

About This Pen

This Sheaffer Balance is the later 1930s non-Lifetime model, in full length slender girth (price code 350), in jet black celluloid. It is in very nice user condition, with a few assorted nicks beneath the shiny exterior. It’s a lever-filler, and fills well. The amber view window is clean and clear. Its probably original 3 nib has the trace of a prior bend, but it writes a smooth fine line, firm but not roofing nail rigid. A very good pen to use all the time!

Price: $65