Cross 150Th Anniversary Commemorative Le

[whitedot]

Review of Cross 150th Anniversary Commemorative LE in Solid Sterling Silver

 

Introduction

 

The Cross 150^th Anniversary Commemorative LE writing instruments were released in 1996, in memory of the company's 150^th year in business. There are 10000 FPs, ballpoints and pencils combined, of which 2100 are FPs, made in either 18K gold fill or solid sterling silver. Some were released as a set; mine is FP-only.

 

Appearance and design – 8/10

 

I made this purchase because the design caught my eye. It wasn't instantly recognisable. It isn't modern, like most Cross FPs. Instead, it draws on heritage which Cross has somewhat abandoned. The company's founder was an artisan jeweller, who made filigree pencil casings. Hence, the design features etched solid sterling silver and inlaid enamel bands.

 

http://i.imgur.com/J3LOJ.jpg

 

This is one handsome pen. The shape is all Cross, and the monochromatic scheme is striking. The bold, black, glossy bands stand out against intricate engraving. Under light, the surface has a subtle sheen and running pattern. For this reason, it is a difficult subject to photograph. I have tried to show you the effect from a distance as well as details.

 

http://i.imgur.com/PnGOO.jpg

 

 

http://i.imgur.com/eehkz.jpg

 

This is not an oversized pen, not a loud, beefy, bullying thing. But, it does make a statement with some control and a lot of style. This is a pen for slim, tailored suits and tall boys – and yours truly, one gorgeous young lady.

 

The nib is glorious. It is 18K, almost entirely decorated. The lion's head is based on the company's 19th century trademark. Rhodium plate highlights the years 1846 and 1996. At the base, "CROSS", "A. T. C. Sté", the nib size and other markings are engraved. Its size is well-suited to the pen.

 

http://i.imgur.com/5q6eL.jpg

 

One point is deducted for plastic ends. A finish more expensive and less susceptible to scratches and chips would be preferable. Another point is deducted, as etchings on the cap and the barrel do not line up precisely, and etchings on the barrel are deeper by a hair.

 

Construction and quality – 7/10

 

The threads are deep and smooth. Plastic and metal parts are not completely flush, but seams are visible only upon close inspection. The plating and engraving of the nib are flawless under a 10x loupe.

 

One point is deducted for shallow engraving of LE markings. A second point is deducted for the clip. The ball-clip is decorative. I do not dare spring it, much less slot the pen into a leather sleeve. This pen does not post, nor would it look good posted. However, no point has been deducted on this account. The third point is deducted for the plastic's quality. It is a hard, unpleasant, unremarkable material.

 

http://i.imgur.com/7FnEk.jpg

 

Dimensions and weight

 

It is mid-sized, smaller and lighter than the Cross Townsend. It measures 12.5 cm uncapped and 13.5 capped. It is approx. 3.3 cm at its widest and 2.5 cm at the section's narrowest, where a lip prevents your grip from sliding. I have not suffered from any cramps during long periods of writing. I do find thicker sections more comfortable.

 

It is surprisingly light, as the walls are relatively thin. The weight is comparable to another metal-bodied pen with plastic section, my Sheaffer Prelude.

 

This is meant to be informative. No points are awarded.

 

Nib and performance – 9/10

 

The nib is Fine. It runs a little wider than one might expect for an American make. The line is even, very smooth and moderately wet. There is a lot of tipping, so the sweet spot is massive. One point is deducted because I find it too stiff.

 

 

http://i47.tinypic.com/29m9njn.jpg

 

http://i49.tinypic.com/33e1qhk.jpg

Filling system and maintenance – 9/10

 

It is a cartridge/converter filler. One point is taken off because Cross could have revived an early filling system or done something, anything, which would have been more interesting.

 

Cost & value – 2/10

 

The RRP was $1000 – $1000! I purchased mine used at a much lower price, and I think it stands some chance of appreciating some years from now. It came packaged with:

• an American Cherry wood box with a hinged lid
• an American Cherry wood pen rest
• a crystal inkwell
• a bottle of ink
• a plaque to be engraved
• a polishing cloth
• an introductory leaflet and certificate of authenticity.

1 point is awarded for possible appreciation, and 1 more point is awarded for peripherals. The wood is particularly attractive.

 

http://i.imgur.com/oQs52.jpg

 

Conclusion

 

In my opinion, this is the handsomest pen which Cross has ever made – clean lines, understated elegance and great details. This is less opulent than the Lapis Lazuli Townsend, and in my hand, more comfortable.

Edited September 7, 2012 by whitedot

[Russ]

Great review. Thank you! I would love to have one of these, with a juicy bold nib.

[Gerd W]

Very nice pen, enjoy! I've always loved this typical Cross-Shape, though the price...

[ArchiMark]

Great review.....

 

Thanks for sharing about this unique pen...

 

 

 

[breaker]

nice review and pics!

thanks!

[Montblanc owner and lover]

nice pen but for me seem overprized

[da vinci]

Great review and pics, thanks

 

It is interesting to see the proper box - I have seen these for sale, but never the complete package before, and it is impressive.

[whitedot]

Bump! Writing samples have been added.

 

Yes, the RRP is quite astonishing for a Cross FP. I think I will hold on to this for a little while longer.

[watch_art]

This is a GORGEOUS pen. I LOVE the engravings on the nib. Makes me think of engraved Vacheron Constantin skeleton watches. I wish more companies would make nibs this pretty on regular production runs.

[gracespens]

Great review!!

 

I just bought one of these... I agree with you on almost every point - especially the point deductions for the plastic!!

The pen is a great writer!!! flows wet and smooth..... I'm happy to have one in my possession!