Best Way To Store Vintage Pens

[BrandonP]

I believe it is more safe to store pens in the dark.

I do that keeping 10/15 pens in my desk, or pockets, and all the other in the dark.

It's better to say, not just in the dark, but NOT under under the influence of direct ultraviolet rays.

In this case, light from incandescent lamp is ok.

[Ron Z]

You can buy UV filtering glass at a framing shop. I replaced the glass in my Esterbrook display case with it to protect the pens inside, even though they aren't exposed to direct light.

[siamackz]

You can buy UV filtering glass at a framing shop. I replaced the glass in my Esterbrook display case with it to protect the pens inside, even though they aren't exposed to direct light.

Good idea.

And are we saying that even indirect sunlight is an issue - like if the sun isnt falling on the pens but the room is lit by sunlight entering the window and the display is at the other end it is still an issue?

[TheDutchGuy]

And are we saying that even indirect sunlight is an issue - like if the sun isnt falling on the pens but the room is lit by sunlight entering the window and the display is at the other end it is still an issue?

Depends on whether the end justifies the means. Collectors who own lots of museum-grade pens might do wise to create museum-grade circumstances. For mere mortals like me: no way. I use my pens. The acids in the sweat from my hands are a bigger threat than indirect daylight. Dropping the pen is an even bigger threat. The pen was designed to be used. When temporarily decommissioning a pen, sure, I ask for the safest way to store it, mostly to prevent internal damage.

 

Going back to daylight for a minute: there are paintings in my home. Not valuable ones, but still: nice paintings. They catch indirect daylight every day. Decades later, they're doing just fine. Just avoid direct sunlight and also excess moisture and heat and with most pens you should be OK.

[siamackz]

Precisely, Dutch Guy. I keep thinking about this. I dont have Museum collector grade pens also, I use my pens. And I have made a display where I have arranged the pens per time period and have reference books showing each sub collection, etc. this visual display is something I enjoy every day

I guess I wil take my changes. Maybe I can try and get the uv glass that Ron talked about as an added precaution