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I have a Cross Classic Century twist-top ballpoint pen. There's only one problem. The very top of the pen is missing. It looks like a small dome that slides into the twist-top. I need to know the name of the piece, and where to buy it. Help!

In going through my junk drawers the other day looking for my old Parker pen, I discovered one that I didn't remember at all. It's labelled "Coventry" on the center ring (sorry, don't know what that's called). I couldn't find any other marking except on the nib. I searched the forums and found quite a few threads with questions about Coventry pens, several of which identified them as a Cross product. The photos looked different than my pen, but I assumed mine must be a Cross as well. According to other owners, they had bought them at Staples and they appeared to be a Staples exclusive. I've shopped a lot at Staples, so it sounded reasonable. (Never assume....) The pen had no converter and no cartridges (which would likely be dried out anyway), so I headed to Staples and bought a package of Cross "Fountain Pen Ink Cartridges". No pen models are listed on the package, so I assumed that they must fit all Cross models and would therefore fit mine. (Yes, more assumptions.) I inserted the first cartridge and started to write, and...nothing. I took the pen apart and the cartridge fell out. It had been punctured, but try as I might, I was unable to push it in far enough to fit properly. It appears as thought the cartridge might be too "fat" to fit in the section. I'll attach some pictures so you can see what it looks like. I apologize that the quality isn't great, but it might be good enough for you to see. Notice that the nib is labelled "Scmidt iridium point". I'm not sure how significant that is. Can anyone tell me what this pen is? If it's a Cross, why doesn't the cartridge fit?

Between a Parker Duofold Centennial and a Cross Townsend which would you pick and why?

Hello, I have a friend who has been using a Cross Century II for about 9 years. There's a bunch of micro-scratchnig all along the pen from years of use and bouncing around in a pencil case. What is a good material(s) to use for polishing out most of those tiny scratches? I'd use regular metal polish, but I'm concerned about it taking the finish off. It's the all chrome Century II. Thanks

I'm trying to find a value on a cross gold pen with Mickey Mouse on the clip. I appreciate any assistance.

Hello Everyone, I've been looking through this site for many years but only gained the courage to join today I went to a school from ages 9-13 where use of a fountain pen was compulsory. The pen of the day was Parker - but I don't remember owning one at that age. Biros were banned from the school. I quite liked that we had to use a fountain pen. Back then, it was one of the things that set us apart from other local state schools along with having to wear a uniform and learn a musical instrument. I've been fussy about stationery ever since, but only linked my nerdy relationship to pens and paper back to my middle school very recently. I like to have the perfect pens, the perfect inks and the perfect writing pads - perfect for me that is! I don't mind others using different stationery and I don't dictate. I don't need to own an expensive pen to enjoy writing with a fountain pen. Currently, I have some fantastic Chinese pens (Duke Ruby & Jinhao Bookworm Celluloid fountain pens), a lovely Cross Beverley White and a decadent Grifos Cappuccino. I like highly pigmented inks, so my blacks would be Aurora or Lamy. However, I prefer purples/violets though and I'm currently enjoying Diamine Shimmer Purple Pazazz in my Cross & Grifos pens and Private Reserve Tanzanite in my Duke Ruby. When I'm unable to write with a fountain pen (I often have to write on self duplicating paper) I revert to gel ink pens because of the depth of colour of the ink. My writing pads for home and work are A4 Black n Red Wirebound 90gsm notebooks. I don't really have a problem with the ink seeping through to the other side of the page. Now that I've exposed the true extent of my nerdiness, I'll sign off. Many thanks!

My obsession with fountain pens began with a 25 cent Wearever circa 1954, but really took hold in junior high school when I purchased one of the first Parker 45 convertibles in 1961, which I still have. In the intervening years I've owned a lot of Parkers: 45, 51, 61, 75 and lost, replaced and repaired those a couple of times. These were follwed by a couple of Scheaffer's, two Watermann's with 18K nibs (neither of which I like, and never use), a couple of Aurora's, Namiki, Cross, and Pelikans of various models and price points. My two favorites have been that Parker 45 and a Pelikan M200, until about two weeks ago. I saw something online about the Pilot Metropolitan. I hadn't bought a fountain pen in several years but why not I thought. It was under $20. And now I find myself utterly entranced again. I am in love with this pen! I've been glued to Youtube videos and pen sites ever since. I never realized that I could actually fiddle with my pens to adjust them to me. Who knew there are so many cheap pens that are so excellent and there are so many people online who also write exclusively with fountain pens. In the last 72 hours, I've purchased a Jinhao 450, Serwex 1362, and a Noodler's Ahab Flex based upon those videos and sites and the information I've learned. I've also bought extra nibs and ebonite feed, and a pilot converter for the Metropolitan, and spent less money for all of that than I did for one of those Watermann's I hate! I'm looking forward to receiving each and playing with all of them.

Several years ago, I bought 12 Cross pens of the same model, although I don't know the name of the model. I got the pens at a very good price. All nibs are either fine or extra-fine, which was what I needed at the time because I was constantly entering notations on data reports. Since I no longer do that type of work, I would like to replace several of the nibs with larger sizes. I assume the Cross nibs are #5 (?). The photo shows the Cross nib next to a #6 Noodlers nib. Would just about any #5 nib work, or is the Cross feed suited only for the Cross nib? Thanks! PS - Please let me know if this post needs to be in the Nibs and Tines section.

If someone would like to see a new Cross catalogue in Luxury version for 2016 - please see my company website: https://www.facebook.com/INAHON/posts/975256152516310

Hi all! Here are some pictures and specifications on the new Cross items coming soon, the Peerless Collection, the Century 2 and Townsend holiday duos, and the 2016 Year of the Monkey special edition:

Hello all! There will be New Cross writing instruments coming in September and October! The 2016 Year of the Monkey Special Edition Collection! 2016 Year of the Monkey Special Edition CollectionCross is proud to welcome the latest in our Chinese Zodiac Series – The 2016 Year of the Monkey Collection.The year of the monkey is 9th in the order of the Zodiac cycle. Individuals born under this sign are recognized for their active, energetic spirits and magnetic personalities. They have the versatility, creativity, intelligence and strategic prowess that are the mark of this sign.This exquisite pen is etched with an elegant monkey design and is the perfect addition to your Zodiac collection. Main Features Beautiful Monkey design deeply etched into the finish Available in ballpoint pen, Selectip® Rolling Ball Pen and Fountain Pen technologies Beautiful monkey detail etched into the finish Tibetan Teal and Brushed Platinum Plate finishes add elegance and sophistication Zodiac Special Edition presentation gift packaging, acrylic pen stand and romance book Solid 18KT gold fountain pen nib is decorated with a unique Year of the Monkey pattern Lifetime Mechanical Guarantee Century II & Townsend Holiday Duos! In September 2015! Concept / What’s NewIdeal for the holiday gift giving season, our classic Century II and Townsend ballpoint pen and fountain pen gift sets make the perfect gift for that special someone in your life.Main Features Special Limited Time Holiday Offering Available in ballpoint and fountain pen gift sets Featuring Century II and Townsend collections Includes Gift Box Lifetime Mechanical Guarantee In September 2015 It will be the Edge! Edge New FinishesConcept / What’s New:Introducing two new Edge finishes in expressive and vibrant colors based off the color trends in fashion and beauty!The Cross Edge Collection is known for those who want to have a little fun while getting down to business. The Metallic fusion resin amps up the effect with two new vibrant colors.Engineered to accept gel or ballpoint ink, Edge delivers ultimate function, versatility, and style.Main Features Stylish Metallic Fusion Resin Finishes in Real Teal and Electric Purple Capless rollerball pen Versatile writer accepts both gel and jumbo ballpoint refills Innovative slide-open technology for single-handed operation Premium Gift Box Lifetime Mechanical Guarantee In Feburary 2016 Peerless Collection - Special Edition Cross proudly presents our New Peerless Special Edition Collection - a fine writing series designed to celebrate iconic cities and their citizens around the world.Inspired by the elegant sophistication of New York’s Chrysler Building, London’s Elizabeth Tower and Tokyo’s Skytree, each Peerless pen within this global collection embodies with a premium Swarovski® crystal set into the classic Cross Conical top and designed to showcase each building’s architectural beauty.Main Features Special Edition Collection Available in Ballpoint and Fountain Pen technologies Beautiful architectural detail etched into the finish Embellished with a Swarovski® crystal set into the classic conical top Showcases in a beautiful keepsake box Includes pen presentation stand

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Hey everyone. I have a Cross click and recently put a new refill in it. I used to always keep it in my shirt pocket and never had any problems with it leaking. I put a new refill in it aoubt 2 days ago and now when I pull it out, there is ink all around the tip and when I first write, I get a glob of ink on the paper. I pulled it out of my pocket just now and the tip was black because there was so much ink. It made the pen a mess! (sorry no pictures, I cleaned it up before I thought to post on here). Do any of you have any idea what might be causing this and why this refill seems to be so much differently behaved than the refill that came in the pen?

I'm planning on purchasing a Cross Townsend fountain pen, but I can't seem to make up my mind on the finish. I'm considering the following: Quartz Blue LacquerGarnetRuby Lacquer​Opinions are more than welcome. Any information regarding your experience with a Townsend is appreciated. I would love to see a writing sample for the fine and medium nib (two-tone 18-karat/rhodium-plated). Thanks in advance.

Decided to take the (Peerless pen) plunge and obtained two different versions; Black and Platinum Plate. Thought I'd share some pics of these two substantial, very well crafted, and I think quite handsome oversize pens......and heavenly smooth writers as well....... Pens feel great in the hand, well balanced (note: I don't post pens....), with a substantial to them. Also, as others have noted, there's something nice about the feel of the texture on the Platinum Plate model. Has a soft, warm feel to it that is unexpected with a metal pen. One has a M and the other a B nib.....as others have noted, since the nibs are Sailor, like other Japanese nibs they run a bit narrower than western nibs.... Packaging is very nice too....and appreciate the clear acrylic pen stand that is included too..... As you can probably tell, I'm very pleased with these Cross pens....and has reconnected me to the Cross brand in a very positive way. So for your viewing pleasure, here are the two big boys......last pic is just for fun... Enjoy! Mark http://i473.photobucket.com/albums/rr100/ArchiMark/P1070601_zpscnetuoi7.jpg http://i473.photobucket.com/albums/rr100/ArchiMark/P1070604_zpslfoi8cmf.jpg http://i473.photobucket.com/albums/rr100/ArchiMark/P1070605_zpsi1mdan8x.jpg http://i473.photobucket.com/albums/rr100/ArchiMark/P1070609_zpstpzjv6bt.jpg http://i473.photobucket.com/albums/rr100/ArchiMark/P1070607_zps3xe8w3ad.jpg http://i473.photobucket.com/albums/rr100/ArchiMark/P1070608_zps85uvohjx.jpg http://i473.photobucket.com/albums/rr100/ArchiMark/P1070606_zpsnx2qrjrk.jpg

I'm very much a fountain pen newbie, only owning one fountain pen to date. However, I am looking to purchase a Cross Botanica pen, but am undecided on whether to go fine or medium nib. Normally, I like broader nibs because I like a very smooth flow and hate scratchiness. But I am also leaning towards the fine nib to have some variety, as my current pen is a waterman medium, which I find quite bold. I am struggling to find any comparisons between the nibs, and was wondering if anyone had any first-hand experience with either/both and any samples that they were willing to share to help me make a decision. I believe that the Botanica is a stylised version of the Century II(??) so I'm assuming that those nibs would be relatively similar if nobody has actually used the botanica style. Thanks in advance for any help - it is very much appreciated!

This Cross pen (see photos) is from the '70s or '80s. On the cap: "-1/20 12KT" and below it: "-GOLD FILLED". Also, "Cross" and "Made in USA". the body measures 4 3/4" long and the cap is 2 3/16" long. I'm thinking it is a Classic, but does it have a model number or a more specific name? It has an old felt tip ink cartridge that says "G7" on the side, along with the A. T. Cross name etc. The existing cartridge measures 4 5/16" long and about 1/4" diameter at the widest part. I emailed Cross customer service and the rep said that the "Porous Point (Felt Tip) Refill for Selectip Pens" is the only refill that will fit this pen. Before I get the new refill, I thought I'd check here on the forum. It seems like the end of the new felt tip refill is different from the old felt tip cartridge I have, which has a slight taper to the endcap, and so I'm not sure if the new Cross refill will fit. Also, ideally, I would like a ballpoint or gel refill for this pen. Are there any refills (ballpoint, gel or felt tip) available for this pen that you know will work? If not, what are my options since it has sentimental value and I'd love to be able to use it. Thank you!

Hi, This is my first review. So please be gentle. Being aware of my love of, and craze for fountain pens my friends and family have started gifting me pens on several occasions. One such is the Cross Year of the Snake 2013 SE. I have not found many reviews of this particular pen on the forums and thought this might be helpful to others. This is also my first Cross Pen. Vital Statistics: Body: Metal with etched motifs of the snake Colour: Metallic Blue (It is also available in black) with rhodium plated trims. Nib: 18K-785, rhodium plated-also etched with a nice snake motif Presentation The pen comes in a classy presentation kit. The outer black cardboard box gives way to a faux-leather box with a snake-skin effect. It is very nice to the touch. The box opens to give you a peek at the pen itself lying on a felt like material with some more snake motifs. The top of the box contains a small transparent window with some literature on CROSS and the Chinese Zodiac Special Edition pens. Using a small ribbon latch, you can lift the pen to see the bottom chamber of the box with a nice little acrylic pen holder. The pen-holder is black with the same snake design as the box. Now, I wouldn't use the pen holder very much but I find this a nice touch from Cross for a special edition pen. Only qualm I have about the box and its contents is that the pen doesn't come with a C/C-you have to buy one separately. Some manufacturers will provide this, at least for a special edition pen, and also a vial of ink. 9/10 Appearance The pen is quite striking in its appearance. It is a classic cigar-shaped pen with tapered ends. The lustrous metallic blue with (what I suppose to be) laser-engraved snake etchings is complemented well by the silver trims. The central band is a solid ring with CROSS and YEAR OF THE SNAKE engraved on it. The crown of the cap is engraved with some Chinese calligraphy-I would suppose it will mean the Year of the Snake. It is a looker? Oh yes! Is it a keeper? That's where we are going now. 10/10 Design and Build Quality The pen is solidly built. To be honest, my expectation of this pen was clouded by my recent experiences with modern day Sheaffers. However, the built quality on this pen is much more robust. It is all metal with metal trims, of reasonable weight and girth. The length is a bit bigger than my MB 146 and M400, but smaller than the HS Midi. The clip is spring-loaded, which is a very nice addition. I wish more pens came with spring-loaded clips. The grip section is quite long, which is good for people like me with long fingers. There are no etchings on the grip section, which is a sensible design choice. The nib is solid 18-K gold with rhodium plating that is consistent with the overall colour scheme of the pen. It is etched with some (supposed) snake motifs and CROSS 18K-750 imprinted on it. This is a reasonably large nib, of the same size as the M400 and Sailor 1911M. It is aesthetically pleasing but will not wow you like some of the Mont Blanc WE nibs, or even a normal Pelikan M800 nib. 10/10 Performance This is the part where the pen really lets me down. The balance of the pen is quite good for a metallic barrel. However, the nib is not quite smooth, and the feedback doesn't seem as pleasing as that on some Aurora pens. It has a sweet spot, though but you have to make an effort to hit that. There is little or no flex in the nib, and one can even find this nib quite stiff. I will probably send it to a nibmeister soon enough. 5/10 Value for Money I haven't actually bought the pen, but a quick look on eBay suggests a price point between GBP 150-200. Now, if you are looking for a Special Edition pen, that is not a bad price to pay. However, my suspicion is it will nib additional spend on grinding the nib, atlas mine will. 6/10 Bottom Line I want to love this pen-it is a solidly built pen, that you can carry with you anywhere. Even for a SE pen, it is not too gaudy but is sure to get to get you attention. The nib performance may leave you wanting for more. Thanks for reading.

I'm new to fountain pens and I have a Cross Century ballpoint. Being the penny pincher I am, I sought out a matching fountain pen on eBay. I found one for $25 with free shipping. Sure sounded better than the $80 Cross wanted for a brand new one! After waiting a month (it was shipping from India), I finally received the pen. I waited a couple more weeks to purchase the converter as there were mixed answers as to whether the green converter would fit or if I would have to use the slim cartridges. After all of this waiting I FINALLY had it inked up and ready to go. This is my short and 1st review ever of this pen. (Please disregard any scribbling or unreadable words in my handwriting) I inked it up with Noodler's Red Black, which has become one of my favorite inks out of the 5 that I have tried. I put the nib to the paper and signed my name, it was the smoothest experience I have had with fountain pens. But that isn't hard to beat when the pens you've used are Pilot Metropolitan (M), Platinum Preppy (F), and a Lamy AL-Star (EF). The medium nib on this pen just glided across the paper and left a nice wet line and offered some shading that my other pens didn't. Since I'm new to fountain pens, I was conscious of the pressure I was putting down for fear that I might break it! The pen has a great classic look to it and I'm very pleased with this purchase and it was well worth all of the waiting. The only thing I would like different is the nib. I write small and the medium nib forces me to write a little larger, if I could replace it with a fine nib, I would. To others that may be looking around to see if the green converter fits these pens here's your answer: YES! Thanks for checking this out and providing feedback!