Montblanc
Masterpiece / Meisterstück (likely 13x or 23x series variant with a metal cap)
Fountain Pen
Filling System
Piston Filler
Condition
Fair to Good (Vintage condition showing significant surface aging, brassing on trim, tarnish on metal cap, and celluoid wear)
Estimated Value
$250 - $500 USD (in unrestored condition; higher if fully restored with intact gold nib)
Era
Vintage 1940s - 1950s
Pen Specifications
Pen Type
Fountain Pen
Filling System
Piston Filler
Body Material
Celluloid barrel with a metal (brushed steel / nickel-plated) cap
Trim Material
Gold-Plated / Brass accents
Color / Pattern
Striated / Striated Pearl or Green-Gold Celluloid barrel with brushed metallic grey cap
Cap Type
Screw Cap
Clip Design
Classic tapered vintage Montblanc drop clip with gold-plated finish (showing brassing/patina)
Barrel Shape
Tapered / Torpedo-style with decorative end knob
Nib Details
Nib Material
Gold (14K or 18K expected, hidden by closed cap)
Nib Size
Unknown (capped)
Nib Type
Standard / Flex (typical for vintage Montblanc pens of this era)
Nib Condition
Cannot be fully evaluated (capped)
Dimensions
Size / Dimensions
Standard vintage size (approx. 125 mm to 135 mm capped)
Weight Estimate
Light to medium weight (approx. 15-22 grams)
Heritage & Origin
Era / Period
Vintage 1940s - 1950s
Country of Origin
Germany
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare (striated celluloid pattern combined with metal cap)
Condition & Value
Overall Condition
Fair to Good (Vintage condition showing significant surface aging, brassing on trim, tarnish on metal cap, and celluoid wear)
Filling System Condition
Requires restoration/overhaul (cork or silicone seal replacement likely needed due to age)
Estimated Value
$250 - $500 USD (in unrestored condition; higher if fully restored with intact gold nib)
Special Features
Striated celluloid barrel pattern, engraved cap band inscribed with 'MONTBLANC Masterpiece' (or Meisterstück export branding), vintage piston-fill mechanism
Ink Recommendations
Gentle vintage-safe fountain pen inks such as Waterman Absolute Brown/Serenity Blue or Parker Quink (avoid highly alkaline or micro-pigment inks)
Care Recommendations
Do not soak celluloid parts in water or alcohol; store away from direct heat and sunlight; professional restoration recommended before ink testing to preserve internal cork seals
Interesting Facts
Export models destined for English-speaking markets were often stamped 'Masterpiece' rather than 'Meisterstück' on the cap band during the mid-20th century.
Overall Assessment
A charming and highly desirable vintage Montblanc piston-filler featuring a stunning striated celluloid barrel and 'Masterpiece' cap band engraving. Although showing substantial surface patina, tarnish, and wear consistent with age, it remains a fantastic candidate for professional restoration.