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Hi, I have a Cross Townsend Lazuli Blue Lapis and gold fountain pen that I got as part of my divorce settlement. We purchased the pen new in London in 1998. It was used a couple of times by my ex, a part time calligrapher, but still looks to be in perfect condition. I want to sell this pen, but want to get an idea of how much its worth before putting it on ebay... and also if ebay is the best place to sell a pen like this. I've seen some prices online, but they range from $299 to $999, mostly from posts 5 years ago or more, so uncertain of its worth. thanks Lee

After the local Paradise Pens decided to bite the bullet and go under, I went and bought a Cross Century Classic. Unfortunately, the pen is a medium, and I want to bring a FP to school. I'm currently bringing Sailor High Ace Neo, which is fine, but the plastic body is a bit worrisome. So I am considering getting one of my pens re-ground to XXF. My question is, should I get my Cross re-ground, or a Lamy Safari XF reground?

Hi. My name is Dan and I'm looking for a new pen. My current pen is a Cross Century (circa 1980's). Decent pen but much smaller than the Pilot 823, which is on my radar . It looks like a Pilot 823 would fit the my needs, but I'm nervous about throwing down $300 USD for a new pen. For folks who have used a much smaller pen like the old Cross Century and now have an 823 (or similar): How difficult was it to switch to a larger pen like the 823?What was your experience changing from a cartridge ink system to a vacuum filling system? Any dislikes and drawbacks? Major likes and benefits?Also: How difficult is it to clean your 823 when you want to try a new ink? What ink do you use in your 823? Inks that perform poorly? Perform very well? Recommendations?Thoughts on the Pilot Iroshizuku inks? If so, what color do you prefer?Also, do you have the Amber or Black 823? Would you buy the 823 again? Other fountain pens to consider (under $300 USD)? Thanks in advance for any help. Dan.

I have several Cross rollerball pens. I love the gel rollerball refill, but ergonomically, none of the pens are a good match for me. Do the Cross rollerball refills fit any other pen?

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?

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

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

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

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!

Maybe this is an old deal, but I haven't seen anyone post it yet. Staples has the Cross Bailey fountain pen online for $10.89, in chrome, blue lacquer and black lacquer barrels. All have medium nibs, it seems. Here are links: http://www.staples.com/Cross-Bailey-Fountain-Pen-Medium-Point-0-85mm-Chrome-Barrel-Black-Each/product_1104565 http://www.staples.com/Cross-Stratford-Fountain-Pen-Medium-Point-0-85mm-Blue-Lacquer-Barrel-Black-Each/product_1104553 http://www.staples.com/Cross-Stratford-Fountain-Pen-Medium-Point-0-85mm-Black-Lacquer-Barrel-Black-Each/product_1104554 I've never used a Cross fountain pen (this one or any other) myself. Obviously the price is nice, but anyone have any experience with these pens? Are they any good?

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

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

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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.