Aurora Optima

[jcp1st]

I've just received my first Optima (pre-owned) and notice that about one inch from the top of the cap the diameter of the cap increases almost imperceptibly. If you really examine it closely, it can be distinguished visually, but is more readily apparent to the touch. Wondering if this has something to do with the inner cap and whether it's a common feature of the Optima? Thanks for your help.

 

p.s. I've noticed that the same thing occurs in the barrel

Edited August 4, 2016 by jcp1st

[esteroids]

I wish you had included a picture.

Early Optimas, pre-auroloide, used a celluloide mix called celloroide (or something like that) that proved unstable and prone to shrink. If it shrunk evenly there is nothing wrong with it.

If you have one of these there are probably small gaps at the barrel ends (the liner prevents any leaks), and the cap shrinks in diameter except where it is threaded onto the barrel.

On the other hand, I've found that these early pens have more vibrant and varied colors. As the shrinkage is very individual it adds some unique character. I prefer them.

 

If it writes well, enjoy the pen!

[fabri00]

Early Optimas, pre-auroloide, used a celluloide mix called celloroide (or something like that) that proved unstable and prone to shrink. If it shrunk evenly there is nothing wrong with it.

 

Name was auraloide.

[esteroids]

I just remembered the name of the pre-auroloide material - celluxoide

 

This was used on the reintroduction of the Optima, with the plainer 14k nibs.

Aurora reformulated the material (because of the shrink issues) and called it auroloide.

The story I remember is that they just plain forgot, and had no written record of, how to make good celluloid.