Hi there. I`ve been collecting and restoring pens for some 40 years but have become more and more disheartened by spare parts being increasingly difficult to find. It was easy in the earlier years. Nowadays, when I ask for something as simple as a Parker 45 shell, all I hear is, "Send us your pen". People who would once sell spares, now want to repair the pen for you; understandable in some ways, as for many of such people, it is their livelihood. Bad news for DIY collectors though. More recently made pens are by far the worst for spares availability; Waterman France being the biggest culprit, I think. For example I need a part for a Waterman pen made here about 15 years ago. No chance to find one either here or in Britain! I think that spare parts are made just to cover faults which develop during warranty periods. After that it`s move on to make new models. It would be interesting to hear what your experiences are on this matter - also your views. Best regards to all. NEV