Sheaffer Balance
About This Model
Sheaffer Balances 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 Balance is a Lifetime model from the late 1930s, in Golden Brown. Sheaffer called it a “Visualated” model, with a view window so the ink could be seen. It is a full length, full size pen, 5.5″ long capped and .4″ thick below the cap edge. The pen restored very well, looks great, but has wear — some scratching on the cap, perhaps some nibbles, and posting marks near the bottom of the barrel. The imprint is fully legible and complete. The gold trim, including the smooth gold clip, are clean and unmarked. The pen’s nib is the appropriate Lifetime, and it writes a typically smooth and firm fine/medium line. This pen will be great for a shirt pocket or bag; it’s very sturdy and will work forever!
Price: $75 Sold