Hi,
In the last several months I began collecting Cross Century Classics, especially those in lacquer finish and with gold appointments. While I have multiple colors and patterns in this discontinued line, some have a single gold ring between cap and barrel, others have a double gold ring. Also, some have an enscribed black rink around the gold cap top, others do not. Anyone know the logic or reason behind this variation? Doesn't seem to correlate with how nice the pen is or what color/pattern it is. Very curious.

I'm having a good time starting my very varied collection of FP's roller balls and ball points. I have about a dozen Classics, several Parker classic BPs, a new Verve Merlot, a couple of Shaeffers, and over a dozen Jinhao pens- hey don't laugh, they're really nice pens.

I tend to favor very slim pens as I like the feel and weight better, one of my favorite pens is, actually, a Papermate Slim Profile. Did you know these cheapo Papermates were going for 30 bucks on eBay now? Go figure. Love to write with an FP and would carry one everyday if I wasn't worried about leaking. Just starting to learn what's good and bad in an FP.
Don't think I would ever have a Mont Blanc as I don't want to mortgage my house for one. Okay, enough doodling, or noodling. Comments, suggestions? Feel free to email.
jpgarzone@mchsi.com

V/R
John

I don't know why but I have a Cross catalogue from the eighties and they all have single rings except for the green and black and red lacquer finishes which have two. I'd never noticed until you pointed it out. I'd be interested to know why. Maybe it's just a designer thing or to distinguish the lacquer finish from the matte.

Well, if they were doing it in the 80's at least now I know it's not a difference in when the pen was produced.