Conklin
Ringtop Fountain Pen (Checkered Pattern Overlay)
Fountain Pen
Filling System
Lever Filler
Condition
Excellent condition based on visual luster and lack of significant brassing
Estimated Value
$150 - $250
Era
Vintage (c. 1920s)
Pen Specifications
Pen Type
Fountain Pen
Filling System
Lever Filler
Body Material
Gold-Filled over Ebonite (Hard Rubber)
Trim Material
Gold-Filled
Color / Pattern
Checkered / Damascene engraved pattern
Cap Type
Screw Cap
Clip Design
Rocker-style clip with 1918 patent date on the side
Barrel Shape
Flat-Top / Straight
Nib Details
Nib Material
14K Gold
Nib Size
Fine-Medium
Nib Type
Semi-Flex
Nib Condition
Excellent; tipping appears intact with clear Conklin Toledo #3 stamping
Dimensions
Size / Dimensions
Approximately 4.5 inches (114mm) capped; petite vest-pocket size
Weight Estimate
Medium-Heavy (due to metal overlay)
Heritage & Origin
Era / Period
Vintage (c. 1920s)
Country of Origin
USA (Toledo, Ohio)
Rarity
Uncommon set with specific checkered overlay
Condition & Value
Overall Condition
Excellent condition based on visual luster and lack of significant brassing
Filling System Condition
Likely requires a new latex sac for operation
Estimated Value
$150 - $250
Special Features
Heart-shaped breather hole in the nib; rocker-style clip; Engine-turned checkered overlay
Ink Recommendations
Waterman Serenity Blue or Pilot Iroshizuku (avoid shimmer/heavy sheen)
Care Recommendations
Do not soak the pen as it has an ebonite core; use a soft jewelry polishing cloth for gold-filled parts
Interesting Facts
Conklin was the favorite brand of Mark Twain; the 1918 patent date on the clip refers to the spring-loaded rocker mechanism
Overall Assessment
A beautiful and well-preserved example of early 20th-century American craftsmanship, featuring a desirable checkered pattern and a high-quality 14K gold nib.