Osmia Supra
late 1930s
About This Model
Osmia was one of the great early fountain pen manufacturers in Germany, founded by Hermann Böhler, an early principal in Kaweco, in 1919. The name Osmia was finally settled upon, to memorialize their patented use of osmiumalloy, a very high quality iridium alloy for nib tips that enabled them to provide a lifetime warranty for their pens. During the 1920’s, Osmia produced the Parker Duofolds that were marketed in Europe, but were apparently not successful with this venture because the American nibs were too stiff for the German market. Throughout the 1930s, Osmia recovered from losing Parker and produced a variety of successful button- and piston-filled models. Most important, Faber-Castell bought a minority share in the company, and invested steadily until assuming ownership in 1951. Gradually, the Osmia brand evolved to Faber-Castell, until it disappeared completely in the early 1960s.
About This Pen
This is an Osmia Supra, from the late 1930s, a Model 72. Supras were mid-line Osmias during the company’s peak years. It is of fine black celluloid, with a handsome chasing pattern and gold trim. This pen is very clean, and works very well. The model imprint is clean and complete, and the green view window is clean. Like so many German pens of the era, it is a piston filler. The steel nib is presumed to be original because it matches the “F” imprint on the barrel, is marked Osmia, and writes a nice fine line with some flex. From my personal collection.
Price: $85 Sold