(Photo from ScSales)
Here's a "vintage" Waterman C/F Directeur General. I don't know the year, but if you do, please chime in! I think the translation of Directeur General must mean something like "CEO," but I'm not sure.
This is a slender elegant pen, gold plated with black enamel or lacquer inset in a linear pattern that runs the length of the section, barrel, and then over the end of the barrel to about 3/8" down the other side.
Recently I reviewed the Waterman Exception and you may notice, as I do, the design evolution from this much earlier c/f (gold with black linear element) to the modern Exception (black w/gold linear element). I very much enjoy seeing the essential design elements evolve across the years!
The design element also appears on the clip of the friction-fit cap. The clip has an unusual design: it continues over and across the end of the cap as a flat angular form that actually slices through the cap. The clip is spring-hinged, so that it tilts back mechanically through the cap -- very cool! The engineering is as elegant as the styling.
Posted: just over 6"; 5.5" capped. The widest part is 3/8" where the barrel meets the section. I initially thought it would be too narrow for comfortable writing but in fact the more I use it, the more I like it!
In part, that has to do with the pen's flawless performance. The 18k fine nib offers up generous ink flow and glides effortlessly across smooth paper. Absolutely no pressure is needed. It functions perfectly on start-up, even after days of non-use. The excellent performance is typical of every C/F in my collection. I believe this model was made in France and they really must have known what they were doing, based on my experience!
Collectors don't seem to be very interested in C/F's (for which I'm grateful
. Maybe it's because the original cartridges for this pen are no longer made. Waterman short international carts (avail. in Florida blue & black only) fit very well. At first I reretted the limited color choices. But this is one pen that SCREAMS for BLACK ink. Colors would just seem excessive, so it's fine. HOWEVER - ONLY the Waterman carts fit, and not Rotring, PR, or other short international carts. They're just a hair too wide at the base 
.In the meantime I've discovered that a squeeze type converter from another Waterman mini-purse pen fits perfectly -- and wow, the Directer turns into a super-juicy writer with the converter!
Despite its slender dimensions, the pen has a nice weight due to the metal construction. This pen has quickly become one of my all-time favs because of its reliability & elegance. I've never seen another one like it, and I can't seem to find any info either. So if you know more, I'd appreciate your comments!
I don't know what this pen is worth. I paid $95 & am happy. I'd love to collect all the C/F models, they came in a lot of colors and finishes. This is one model I could really get obsessive about!
Petra/:)
