I've searched the threads, but am still confused as to nib cleaning. I am new to fountain pens, but already "hooked".

Today, I scrounged through a few antique malls, and managed to purchase 3 pens in fair condition - a Vacuum-Fil, a Majestic, and a Webster Four Star.

I have managed to thoroughly and carefully cleaned the caps and bodies, but I am unsure of how to remove the discoloration and ink stains on the nibs.

I realize that none of these pens warrant paying for service, but the thrill of trying to revive something this old has consumed me. Thanks in advance for any advice given.

Mike

Often I've found that a good overnight soaking in water (provided the pen is not made of a material that water would damage) will help greatly. Also, an old but soft bristled toothbrush might do the trick provided wiping after the soaking doesn't. Keep us posted and HTH, southpaw

Thanks, 'paw....
After searching again (this time in the correct forum, DOH) I came across 3 excellent posts concerning cleaning. My nibs are now shiny and bright - hopefully, I can revive all three pens.

I would offer a strong caution about soaking the pens you are describing overnight.

If you have dis-assembled the pen and are talking about soaking the nib, feed and section, then that should probably be OK.

I would not soak the barrel or cap of most Vintage pens, especially most cheaper vintage pens. Many vintage pens used non-stainless steel for clip springs, j-bars, etc. which are prone to rust. Clean out barrel and caps with cotton swabs and barrel brushes, or whatever else you have on hand, and then let them dry well before re-assembling. Alas, this is one I have learned from experience.

I am curious about the Vacuum-fil pen you describe. Sheaffer made a vacuum-filler pen and I believe the earliest ones said "Vac-Fill" in large letters and then a small Sheaffer imprint - is there anything on yours to indicate it might be Sheaffer?

John

It is probably a WASP (an acronym for W. A. Sheaffer and one of their sub-brands) as they are stamped Vacuum-fil on the clip. These were the early prototype and were released on the sub-brand before the filling system was marketed on Sheaffer name-brand pens. They are very good pens.

It does indeed say VACUUM-FIL on the clip, and also has VACUUM-FIL on the barrel with FT. MADISON, IA., U.S.A. immediately below.

As for the cleanings, I used cotton tipped swabs to clean the units - I only soaked the nibs as necessary.

That could be a special pen you've got there. Can you tell us anything about the length/width of the pen, along with its colors/patterns? Keep us posted on your efforts.

Thanks,
Edward t.

Edward,

This is embarassing, but as I am red-green color blind, I have no idea what color the pen is!

After much searching and comparison, I believe that the link below accurately represents the pen - although mine is not in the same condition.

http://luxbid.com/Auction/XcAPViewItem.asp?ID=261447

What exactly would make this a "special" pen?

Michael