Parker

61

Fountain Pen

Parker 61

Filling System

Capillary Filler

Condition

Fair; shows significant oxidation on threads and potential clogging in the capillary unit

Estimated Value

$60 - $100 (due to condition and cleaning requirements)

Era

Vintage 1950s - 1960s

Pen Specifications

Pen Type

Fountain Pen

Filling System

Capillary Filler

Body Material

Resin / Lucite

Trim Material

Gold-Filled

Color / Pattern

Black body with a Gold-filled Insignia/Custom cap

Cap Type

Slip Cap

Clip Design

Art Deco Arrow clip characteristic of Parker

Barrel Shape

Slim Torpedo/Tapered

Nib Details

Nib Material

14K Gold

Nib Size

Medium

Nib Type

Hooded Nib

Nib Condition

Good; the tip appears intact, though requires cleaning of historical ink residue

Dimensions

Size / Dimensions

Approx. 135mm capped, 127mm uncapped

Weight Estimate

Light, approx 18-20g, well-balanced

Heritage & Origin

Era / Period

Vintage 1950s - 1960s

Country of Origin

USA

Rarity

Common (Standard Black 61 model)

Condition & Value

Overall Condition

Fair; shows significant oxidation on threads and potential clogging in the capillary unit

Filling System Condition

Poor/Untested; capillary fillers often clog and are difficult to restore if not maintained

Estimated Value

$60 - $100 (due to condition and cleaning requirements)

Special Features

Unique capillary filling system; Arrow inlay on the hood (though missing or obscured in image); self-wicking technology

Ink Recommendations

Non-staining, dye-based inks like Parker Quink Blue or Waterman Serenity Blue

Care Recommendations

Do not soak the entire section for extended periods; use only distilled water for flushing; avoid pigmented or shimmering inks

Interesting Facts

The Parker 61 was advertised as a pen that 'fills itself' by immersion in ink without moving parts, using capillary action similar to a sponge

Overall Assessment

An iconic mid-century design representing Parker's leap into advanced filling technology, though this specimen requires restoration of the capillary unit and cleaning of the threaded sections.

Identified on June 22, 2026