(I had posted this in the Sheaffer forum, and then realized that it was a repair question instead of a Sheaffer question, even though it does concern a Sheaffer...here goes.)

OK, here's a new one, at least to me...I have a nice Snorkel Clipper that was my grandfather's, that my dad gave to me several years ago. A couple of years ago, I sent it off to Richard Binder for restoration, and I've been using it ever since, with just an occasional nib tweak when it got out of alignment (always professionally done).

I refilled it just a few minutes ago, and when i was done, I noticed that there were two tiny cracks in the left side of the nib, much like stress or fatigue fractures. I haven't dropped the pen or banged it against the side of an ink bottle...is this something that just happens to Triumph nibs over time? (I'm tempted to blame this on the recent earthquake, although it was in my briefcase, safe and sound.) More importantly, is this something that can be repaired (I assume by replacing the nib altogether)?

This far, it's writing well, but I'm concerned that this may not last--and in any case, it's not pretty to look at (even if I have to squint, i know the cracks are there).

I don't have tons of experience with Triumph nibs but I have a few dozen examples and I've not seen the type of cracking you describe. I suppose anything is possible, but Triumph nibs are known for being very high quality. I would also guess that a top nibmeister can repair the nib. If you look at their web sites, there are pictures of astounding repairs.

Good luck with your pen.