Parker Duofold From The 1980S

[shadesdragon]

I purchased a Parker Duofold from the 1980s and didn't notice that the cap band was scuffed on half of it. I didn't inspect it close enough.... So.. I want to see if polishing it would be an option or if this is just a this layer of brass or other material that if polished would wear off and make it worse. Anyone know what kind of material the cap bands are? I have simichrome polish I can use but trying to decide if I should go that route. Any experienced advice is appreciated. Pic attached.

Edited October 12, 2017 by shadesdragon

[Ron Z]

This is gold plated brass. While the plating is pretty good on these pens, polishing the band to remove the surface defect could take that plating off rather quickly. I would leave well enough alone.

[FarmBoy]

I agree with Ron, polishing enough to get past the problem may remove the gold. You could replace cap band though it can be a lot of work.

Edited October 12, 2017 by FarmBoy

[Ron Z]

Better not to even try. The cap lips on these screw up into the cap, holding the bands and color rings captive, and they are notoriously fragile.

[shadesdragon]

Thank you for the advice. I will enjoy it as is.

[FarmBoy]

Better not to even try. The cap lips on these screw up into the cap, holding the bands and color rings captive, and they are notoriously fragile.

And the adhesive Parker used is amazingly good.

[EMQG]

And the adhesive Parker used is amazingly good.

 

What kind of adhesive did they use? Not a standard shellac or rosin-based sealant like they did for clip screws/cap jewels?

[Ron Z]

Parker used what they called "white adhesive." No idea what it is, but it isn't Elmers, and it can soften a bit with heat.