Sheaffer
Balance Vacuum-Fill (Lifetime)
Fountain Pen
Filling System
Vacuum Filler (Multi-Stroke Vacuum-Fil)
Condition
Fair to Good, showing visible ambering and discoloration typical of vintage Pearl celluloid
Estimated Value
$75 - $150 depending on working condition
Era
Vintage 1930s to early 1940s
Pen Specifications
Pen Type
Fountain Pen
Filling System
Vacuum Filler (Multi-Stroke Vacuum-Fil)
Body Material
Celluloid
Trim Material
Gold-Plated
Color / Pattern
Black and Pearl Striped (Ebonized Pearl)
Cap Type
Screw Cap
Clip Design
Sheaffer Ball-End Clip with White Dot insignia
Barrel Shape
Tapered Cigar-Shaped
Nib Details
Nib Material
14K Gold
Nib Size
Fine to Medium
Nib Type
Standard Lifetime Two-Tone
Nib Condition
Appears generally intact, though requires close inspection for tipping and alignment
Dimensions
Size / Dimensions
Approximately 5 inches capped
Weight Estimate
Lightweight, approximately 15-20 grams
Heritage & Origin
Era / Period
Vintage 1930s to early 1940s
Country of Origin
USA
Rarity
Uncommon
Condition & Value
Overall Condition
Fair to Good, showing visible ambering and discoloration typical of vintage Pearl celluloid
Filling System Condition
Likely non-functional due to hardened seals and requires professional restoration
Estimated Value
$75 - $150 depending on working condition
Special Features
Features the iconic Sheaffer White Dot and transparent ink-viewing windows in the striped celluloid barrel
Ink Recommendations
Safe vintage-friendly water-based dye inks like Waterman Serenity Blue
Care Recommendations
Keep away from direct sunlight and heat to prevent further celluloid degradation; restore seals professionally before use
Interesting Facts
The Sheaffer Balance revolutionized pen design in 1929 by introducing the streamlined silhouette, moving away from flat-top styles
Overall Assessment
A classic vintage piece of American fountain pen history that requires restoration to bring back to working order