Unknown Vintage Japanese Maker
Customized/Personalized Maki-e Fountain Pen
Fountain Pen
Filling System
Eyedropper or Lever Filler
Condition
Fair to Good, showing significant wear, personalization engraving, and surface patina consistent with age and use.
Estimated Value
150 USD - 350 USD
Era
Vintage Shōwa Period (circa 1930s-1950s)
Pen Specifications
Pen Type
Fountain Pen
Filling System
Eyedropper or Lever Filler
Body Material
Ebonite with Urushi and Maki-e
Trim Material
Gold-Plated
Color / Pattern
Red Urushi with Gold Powders and Personal Inscription
Cap Type
Screw Cap
Clip Design
Ball-end vintage clip
Barrel Shape
Cigar-Shaped
Nib Details
Nib Material
14K Gold
Nib Size
Medium
Nib Type
Standard
Nib Condition
Not fully visible, likely functional with potential need for minor tuning
Dimensions
Size / Dimensions
Approximately 135 mm capped, 120 mm uncapped, 12 mm diameter
Weight Estimate
20 grams, well-balanced
Heritage & Origin
Era / Period
Vintage Shōwa Period (circa 1930s-1950s)
Country of Origin
Japan
Rarity
Rare
Condition & Value
Overall Condition
Fair to Good, showing significant wear, personalization engraving, and surface patina consistent with age and use.
Filling System Condition
Untested, requires restoration or new sac if lever filler
Estimated Value
150 USD - 350 USD
Special Features
Hand-painted maki-e elements with a personalized engraved signature reading 'J. Okamoto'
Ink Recommendations
Standard dye-based fountain pen inks such as Iroshizuku
Care Recommendations
Keep away from direct sunlight and UV rays to protect the urushi lacquer. Clean only with cool water.
Interesting Facts
Pens featuring personalized names or signatures like 'J. Okamoto' often point to custom orders or corporate gifts in mid-century Japan.
Overall Assessment
A charming vintage Japanese fountain pen featuring classic red urushi and maki-e techniques with a personalized touch, appealing primarily to collectors of vintage Asian writing instruments.