Aurora Optima Demonstrator Problem

[karmakoda]

Today I received a new Aurora Optima Demonstrator in clear and red resin. The first surprise was the small size of the pen and then, on closer examination, the quite obvious, but tiny "stress cracks" in the clear resin at the piston housing threads. Disappointing. Considering the high retail cost of the pen and the fact it is a Limited Edition from an admired manufacturer, the cracks and some of the assembly workmanship was a let down, especially compared to my Omas Ogiva Vision and Delta Windows Summer. Even my Lamy Vista ($29.00) has no visible fractures or untidy sealant application.

However, I have seen cracks like this on Montblanc 149 Demonstrators.

I like the pen, will probably have it replaced, but is there a problem with Aurora quality control?

Thanks.

http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz218/Valaccar/P1030250.jpg

http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz218/Valaccar/P1030252.jpg

http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz218/Valaccar/P1030253.jpg

http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz218/Valaccar/P1030254.jpg

http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz218/Valaccar/P1030255.jpg

[hari317]

Hi KK, surprising to see the cracks in the filler threads area, it is of concern. On the Mb the cracks are found on the ink view window area, in the transition between the opaque and transparent regions of the view window bars, same place in the demos too, maybe something to do with the process to create the ink view window bars...

Edited June 1, 2011 by hari317

[karmakoda]

Thanks Hari

I just had a look at Sean's 149 Demos and noted the location of the logitudinal mircro-checks. As he said, it takes a leap of faith to go with a pen like that. I could probably live with the cracks if I was not concerned about the integrity of the piston housing assembly, not to mention the high cost of purchase.

The Seller has offered to replace the pen, as I knew he would, so the Optima goes back in the mail system.

Regards

Greg

Edited June 1, 2011 by karmakoda

[gentlewarrior6]

I bought one a year or so ago, and had the same problem. It was a silver one, and I had to return it too..... Nice pen though.

[karmakoda]

I bought one a year or so ago, and had the same problem. It was a silver one, and I had to return it too..... Nice pen though.

'Tis a beautiful pen and I very much look forward to the replacement.

Generally, the craftsmanship is excellent by Aurora which makes the cracks all the more puzzling.

Italian pens are casting their spell on me.