Moore 94-A
early 1940s
About This Model
Moore was one of the early fountain pen manufacturers, a major player in the early years, then less so as the "Big 4" dominated after the late 1920s. Even as a progressively lesser brand, Moore pens were successful from the early 1900s until the 1940s. They pioneered some designs in safety pens, and their hard rubber pens were very nice. The later Tuscan, 94, and 96 celluloid models were very nice, but too much of Moore's output was pedestrian. It is probably true that poor marketing and stiff competition blocked them from success. Unable to do more than follow industry trends and keep up with the leaders, Moore faded as a brand. Moore's post-WWII Fingertip model was a new use of a hooded nib, but too late. Moore survived until the late 1950s.
About This Pen
The 94-A was a midrange pen for Moore in the early 1940s. Moore had survived the Depression and was still producing decent to excellent fountain pens, although their heyday was long over. This 94-A, at 5” long, is from celluloid rod stock, with a straight-up/down striped pattern in grey and black but with attractive glimpses of brown showing through. Its trim is in ribbed gold plate, with the design showing in the metal crown, clip, cap ring, and lever. The clip has “Moore” clearly engraved; and there is a complete, if small, imprint on the barrel identifying the model. There is no wear to speak of; this is a very clean pen. Moore pens often carry larger sacs, this pen got an 18, so it will hold a generous quantity of ink. The nib is a Moore Life Maniflex, so it is firm, but writes fast and fine with a nice bit of flex. A very nice pen indeed.
Price:
$125 $105 Sold