Parker Fountain Pen Duofold

The Duofold Pen has hardly changed in the 90 years of its’ existence. It’s Parkers’ most iconic pen, the introduction of which, in 1921, dramatically changed the company from being just another small pen maker to one of the worlds’ largest pen manufacturers. It really has become a Pen Classic.

Similarly to the patenting of the Lucky Curve, it was a major leap forward for Parker. At this time, new sales policies were brought out along with large display cases for the sales floors, and very importantly, the sliding scales discounts that were offered, lead to large increases in sales. The first model was manufactured in hard rubber with a color of bright red and no cap band, this being in sharp contrast to the primarily back pens of the day. In due course it was also offered in black, and in 1923 a broad distinctive cap band, however what stimulated it’s take off in popularity was the introduction of the black clip screw and section on to the red pen, that gave it quite striking appearance.

During this period there was a proliferation of differing models aimed at different markets. After Sheaffer lead the way with the introduction of new plastics offering unbreakable barrels, Parker, in 1925, were forced to follow with their own version known as Permanite and also by this time several variations of cap bands were being marketed. By offering a lifetime guarantee, Parker gave further impetus to their sales. Ladies pens at this time were still ring tops and in 1929, a more streamlined range was brought out, but this wasn’t a success and the stock market crash of 1929 forced its’ demise along with many other ranges of pens…..and makers.

By the mid 1930s, when the Arrow clip began appearing, the Duofold pen was largely being superseded by the Vacumatic with its’ new filling system and much greater ink carrying capacity. Parker Pen Duofold however continued to be manufactured in Europe. In 1939 a re-launch of sorts was tried but it wasn’t until 1940 that the Parker Duofold Fountain Pen name was really re-introduced as the Duofold Vacumatic, an attractive striped pen. The range continued with various upgrades until 1948 when it was phased out. In 1972, the Parker Pen Duofold, were re-launched yet again as the Big Red, but by 1986 the US company was sold to the UK Parker Pen Company and in 1996 the range was restyled.

Parker Pens Duofold is now a beautiful range of top quality pens that owe much to their original design that really has stood the test of time. Parker Duofold Centennial is the top of the range with 23k gold fittings , and the main range with 18k gold fittings. There are several finishes available for the Parker Duofold range including Black Platinum, Check, Pearl & Black and Black. Limited editions and the Demi Duofold range also available. The Duofold Pen sold well in the UK with their own range.