Can someone educated me on Soenneckens?

March 30, 2021

This is a brand I've heard mentioned a lot in comparison to MB especially but also Pelikan, and although it wouldn't be an immediate purchase. Rather, now, I'm just taking the time to research and see where I end up.

Here are my basic interests:

1. I'd prefer something the size of a 146. but I'm not dead set on that especially since I know vintage pens of that size can be less common/pricey and $200-300 is probably my realistic limit(if that's possible) for a purchase in this brand.

2. Nib preference would either be an oblique grind or something with nice flex. I'm guessing the latter would be more common

3. A poke around Ebay shows several 1xx, 2xx, and 3xx models. Are these similar to MBs where 1 is "premium", 2 is "standard" and 3 is "school?"(or pick your word to describe the 1st/2nd/3rd line pens). In addition to that, can the other numbers be "decoded"?(i.e. like the last digit on MBs telling you the size, 2-9).

4. What service is one found "in the wild" likely to need? Do these have cork piston seals like MBs? Are there any really common or perhaps not so common but really problematic mechanical issues to be aware of(I've been told MB telescopic pistons are basically done if they slip although I've never tried to find out since mine all work fine-I want to be aware of anything like that).

5. Anything else important I should know just to get a solid writer?

6. Are there any go-to dealers for these pens?

Knowing myself, I know that the first I buy will likely just be a "gateway" but I'd still like to buy smart to start out with.