I have recently acquired a 146 with a totally clear window -- no sign at all of it having worn off the stripes. Did such a pen arise with the manufacturer or is this the result of an over-zealous restorer. The pen has a registration number and also W-Germany on the clip-band. can one date the numbers&c.

Bob

This can be totally correct.

1980's MB 146 are slightly smaller (=shorter) compared to the newer models; also the ink window is not striped and is either colored blue or grey (depending on the model as this also is valid for Solitaire/precious metal models).

I think there were some changes in the nib's plating design as well.

Enjoy your pen

Michael

Produced with clear window up to late 80s and early 90s. On my example I've also noticed: (1) the pen is heavier than the more contemporary production 146 with the brass piston; (2) the shape of these later pens have a more cone shaped cap above the clip and the entire body is somewhat less aesthetically pleasing than the current modern or even earlier 146 models, e.g., the shape does not consist of a relatively smooth line. Instead, it breaks as it encouters the different pen parts such as the twist filler, barrel, then cap, and then the cap top; and (3) the feed is a two piece feed. At first I thought it was to accommodate a flexible nib. Barry Gabay, in his article on 149s thinks its to handle the newbie users who transitioned from ball points, who were used to pressing down hard. I think he's right.