Parker 21
1953-65
About This Model
Parker 21 was first designed as a school pen, a less expensive version of the top selling 51, and it first appeared in 1948. Made of polystyrene plastic, for three years the Mark I, sold pretty well, but had issues with premature ink drying. So, starting in 1952, the Mark IIs appeared, and these became a big seller and model companion to the 51. The Mark IIs had many improvements over the Mark I, gold-filled trim, and a good variety of colors and octanium-tipped nibs. Although the Parker 45 was introduced in 1960, it did not supplant the 21s for five more years. Like 51s, the 21s proved to be very durable, and are easily found today. The Parker 41 was introduced in 1956, and only survived for two years. It was essentially a brighter-colored 21, and many of their parts are interchangeable. One doesn't see many 41s these days, and probably didn't in the late 1950's, either. Models were changing fast then, and the Super 21 followed the 41 in 1958, and both were superceded by the highly successful 45 in 1960.
About This Pen
Put simply, this 21 is perhaps the nicest 21 I’ve ever seen. It is in red, and without flaw, which for this easily-scratched material is rare indeed! With the Lustroloy cap, feathered clip, and 21 filler, one can assume this is a final version of the pen, from 1956 on. But, as always with the 21, parts interchangeability by owners and Parker make this something of a guess. The nib is a typical firm fine, and it is a great writer! This is perhaps the only time I’ll recommend that a 21 be treated to a case, but it’s worth it.
Price: $75 Sold