Can someone please explain what the difference between a Medalist model and the other models are? Is is entirely the type of finish? I've seen Townsend Medalists for much less than "regular" Townsends. I was curious to know if there are any internal differences.

I'm very new to this. Still haven't got my first FP yet. But, that will change very soon I predict.




Thanks!


Greg

Medalists are unique in that they have a silver base color and gold trim appointments. Two-tone. I am surprised they would sell for less. How much have you seen them selling for?

Russ:


I've seen Townsend Medalists for about $72 at several places. Actually, if one looks at the Cross website, there is a $105 difference in retail price between a Townsend Medalist and a black lacquer Townsend. That seems like a lot to pay for a different finish to me.


Greg

Wow. You're right. The lacquer Townsend IS much more expensive. And it has an 18k nib; the Medalist has a 23k nib. Perhaps the differential is due to the Rhodium plated appointments.

Cross generally does a first-rate job with finishes; perhaps some of that $105 was to provide a lacquer finish that won't wear or chip easily. If the finish weren't good, Cross would be getting a lot of warranty claims.

Hmmmmm. I'd love to have a Townsend for $72.00.... Just can't justify it right now.

I would, however, like to hear your review of the pen once you get it.

Russ

Russ:


Still waffling on the purchase. I've considered several non-Cross less expensive options after reading the reviews and traffic on this forum, but I've always been a satisfied Cross customer - just never had a Cross fountain pen. If I make that purchase, you can bet I'll write a review. What I would really like is a Black w/ Gold accents Cross Solo FP. I have all the other black/ gold Solo pens. But seeing how good a pen the Townsend may be, that may be a better choice. Thanks for your help.


Greg

The Medalist Townsends have gold plated nibs whereas the
regular (higher end) Townsends have 18k gold nibs.
(I also have older Townsends with 14k nibs)
The chrome Townsend has a steel nib.

No, the lacquer has a gold nib, whereas the Medalist has a gold plated steel nib.

Btwy, there is no silver in the Medalist, as someone mentioned. In Cross parlance, the medalist is just the plain chrome pen but with gold plated trim and nib. That's it.