I was recently brought this pen for repair. It needed the filling system replaced and I thought that I would run it through the same gears as I do other pens when I review them to ensure everything was in working order. The pen is a Parker Duofold that is referred to as either striped or English. It’s unique looking and that makes for a good entry level vintage pen.
Model:Duofold 'Striped'
Year: 1940's
Nib:14k gold fine, semi-flex
Colour:Blue/Grey w/ gold trim
Appearance & Design
The design proportions and elements are influenced by the classic Duofold flat-top. The trim work has been reduced to a single band, the cap features a stream lined clip and with a jewel finishing on the end cap. The ink window in the section is a feature I had not seen in a Parker pen prior to this one, which to me is a great addition. The striping runs parallel to the body and is really quite stunning. The blind cap is beveled to match the jewel end.
Construction & Quality
The parts are well made and look as though they’re thick where they need to be. The pen looks as though it could easily handle a drop off the desk. All component parts fit well together and show signs of quality craftsmanship.
The Duofold can be used posted or not, my preference is posting and it feels more balanced when setup this way. The pen feels heavier than it looks. The diameter is slimmer than any other Duofold I have held and I find it uncomfortable to hold for long writing sessions. Slim pens tend to dig into my finger, this pen may not be suited for larger hands.
Nib & Performance
The 14K nib lays down a fine wet line with some flex. The nib floats nicely across the page with little resistance. The feed keeps up fine to flexible writing if not pushed too hard. The amount of flex was surprising to find in a Duofold and this is by far the most flexible nib I have experienced from the Parker Pen Co., The nib is friction fit into the section and because of that I would not recommend removing for cleaning.
The filling system is a button filler similar to the earlier Duofold pens but a redesign of the pressure bar within the barrel. This evolution now hangs from the button end in lieu of having the pressure bar spanning from section to button end. The size of the pen is directly related to the capacity of ink, it holds 0.5mL. The pen doesn’t come apart easily for cleaning.
Cost & Value
Of the Duofold pens this striped or English model is the most affordable. If you can find one with a nib as flexible as this is, you will not be disappointed. I have seen them in a variety of sizes.
The Striped Duofold is a gorgeous pen with a great nib and when you consider that is has an ink window it becomes a pen worth looking at.
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