Eyedropper Corks

[alterego]

I bought a vintage Ban-ei in need of a new cork seal. To my surprise, a well-regarded vintage pen shop here in NYC was hesitant to attempt the repair, citing unfamiliarity with the model and fears about the delicacy of ebonite.

 

Some posters have mentioned over the years that Japanese eye-dropper seals aren't too terribly difficult to replace. Has anyone tried it themselves? Or has someone had good experience repairing Japanese vintage pens in the US at a shop to recommend?

 

Thanks as always. Just as soon as I get the Ban-ei up and writing I'll post some pictures.

 

 

[LinnT]

The person I have had recommended when I asked this question is eckiethump from this forum. He is in Scotland, but he accepts pens from the U.S. The rear seal is tricky.

[alterego]

Thanks LinnT, that's very helpful. I'll reach out to Eckiethump!

[hellokloh]

I've always heard they're hard to replace. I got less of a leak (but still not 100% seal) using silicon caulk, but I wonder if there are other squishy sealants that might be worth trying.

[Tinjapan]

Not so surprising that many large pen shops would be hesitant to repair them as they are not a common style of pen, unique to Japan I believe.

 

I have succesfully replaced mine but do not have my notes in fromt of me. Please remind me if you don't here from in the next few days. The tricky parts are drilling out the seal and trickier yet is setting the seal.

[alterego]

Thanks for your helpful replies. I sent the pen off to Eckiethump who replaced the rear seal with a Viton "O" ring—a rubber alternative to cork aimed at durability.

 

He did a beautiful job and I can certainly recommend his work!

Edited March 8, 2017 by alterego