Parker 51 "hooded nib" pen

[Charles Skinner]

I know that the famous Parker 51 is a classic. I have never used one. The fact that the nib is "hooded" seems like a negative to me. The fact that I can always see the nib, completely, is part of the joy of using a real pen. Can some of you explain to me, a "beginner" why the Parker 51 is such a great pen? Thanks. C. S.

[Beechwood]

Very well made, simple design, high quality materials, reliable, not ostentatious.

 

A design classic.

[Breck]

The hooded nib and its relationship to the giant collector all but guarantee a steady flow of ink and high resistance to drying. The profile and "Anatomy of a Fountain Pen" articles in the reference section at richardspens.com give a very clear explanation as to the engineering particulars of this design.

 

Aesthetically, it has its own Modern austere elegance, but it's the impeccable function that truly makes it a classic.

 

 

 

 

 

*edit for grammar

Edited June 20, 2009 by Murderface

[Glenn-SC]

I know that the famous Parker 51 is a classic.

There is a reason it is a "Classic" and that is because of its performance.

 

I have never used one.

Hence your need to ask the question.

 

The fact that the nib is "hooded" seems like a negative to me. The fact that I can always see the nib, completely, is part of the joy of using a real pen.

The nib is hooded for a very good reason, as Murderface so eloquently discussed.

The "51" is the epitome of function over fashion.

Do you want to look at the nib or write perfectly with the nib?

If you want to do both you will need a different pen design.

The "51" style is aerodynamic and sleek.

And IMHO, the beauty of the gold arrow/blue diamond clips and gold caps is unparalleled.

[grimakis]

"51" is a good looker, as well as a great writer. I left one uncapped for over an hour and it still wrote flawlessly. It is simply a great design, from many standpoints. If you like big open nibs, there are plenty of pens like that. The only difference is that you will be sacrificing everything that the "51" brings to the table.

[framebaer]

"I left one uncapped for over an hour and it still wrote flawlessly.

 

1 Hour? Dude, Try 2 days!

 

[Barry Gabay]

The 51, as so many folks have written in the above posts, is a totally reliable fountain pen. When considering the sleek design, it looks thoroughly modern. Its beauty can be found in its simplicity. If I had to rely on only one fountain for the rest of my days, it would certainly be the 51 vac-fill.