Hifra And Topin Pens

November 12, 2011

I have some pens in my collection that I need some more information of. The one is a Topen, Plunger filling mechanism pen with an inking window in green. I have been looking for information on this pen for years to no avail.

The other is a make by the name of "Hifra" of which I have about 4 different models. The name to me indicates that it may be of Israeli, or eastern origin, but I can't find any proof to warrant my deductions. It seems that these pens were sold in South Africa during the 1940-1960's giving me the idea that it may be a cheaper range from a more known brand. The hifra's I have resembles models like the Parker 21, 51 with similar filling mechanisms, as well as The Pocket Pens by Sailor, platinum and Hero. This gives me the idea that these pens may be from Japanese or Chinese origin.

One of my everyday writing pens are one of these Hifra's, proving to be one of the most reliable pens I have.

I s there anyone that might shed some light on these pens for me?

November 12, 2011

There doesn't seem to be any information on the manufacturers of your pens. I have three Japanese fountain pens Fujisan-Hill, Hoover by Katasuwa and a Morison {only one 'R'} all beautifully made, and I have been unable to find any information on the companies. It's apparent that some manufacturers capable of making well made and reliable fountai pens which Iand you have obtained just disappear without leaving any record.

One good thing, a collector of these pens which can be on a par with the more prestigious manufacturers may be purchased at very reasonable prices!

Your photograph is excellent by the way.

Kind regards,

Pickwick

Edited November 12, 2011 by Pickwick

November 12, 2011

Tropen was a well known German pen manufacturer in the 50s-70s. I have one just like yours but in burgundy. Have owned it since 1968. The other brand I have not heard before.

November 13, 2011

"Hifra" Sounds like a Jewish pen company.

If you go to the advanced search section on the top of the page...the little spoked wheel.

I read about that pen company. Some one started in his garage. Lasted until the ball point came in.

Tropen was one of the largest pen manufactures in the world from right after WW2 to 1989 which is as far as my book goes. It just did not sell well in Germany.

About 2 minutes after WW2 ended the Brits ordered, 50,000 pens. Most of the British pen factories got bombed out.

They exported well and covered the middle east and the rest of the world. The company made mostly machines so never really concentrated on pens as it could and should have. I think it went belly up after '89 sometime.

That too is covered in a post I wrote.

So put Tropen and Bo Bo Olson in the advanced search and you should come up with an answer.