Interested In Meisterstück Solitaire Guilloche

[Mookli]

I have been looking at an old favorite of mine, with the intent of adding it to my stable.

A used Montblanc Meisterstück Solitaire guilloche, preferably gold, 144

 

After reading around I pieced the following information together,

 

Domestic names for the finish:

Korn

Corn

Barley corn

Barley

 

The 144 came in three finish levels:

Sterling silver,

Gold plate over sterling silver (Vermeil)

Gold plate over base metal. (Probable brass or similar alloy)

 

 

The gold plate over base metal, was only made for a short time, ~ 1985

It can be identified by gold plate, but no hallmarks .

 

So do I have it right so far ????

 

Is the Gold plate over base metal inferior to the gold plate over sterling models and if so, reflected in the value, or price of the pen ???

 

Thanks in advance for any help,

Mark

 

Just for visual reference:

http://www.maryhatay.com/Mark/Fountain-Pens/Mixed-Pens/i-5FB6BpR/0/XL/Mont_Blanc_Solitaire_fountain_pen_open-XL.jpg

[EclecticCollector]

Personally I dislike vermeil finishes, as the base silver can tarnish through the gold plating if stored for too long. If the plating is too thin it can be difficult to clean without damaging the gold.

[Mookli]

Personally I dislike vermeil finishes, as the base silver can tarnish through the gold plating if stored for too long. If the plating is too thin it can be difficult to clean without damaging the gold.

Is the plated base metal unit better in that regard?

[jdpenman1990]

I got one recently in sterling silver. Love that thing to death.

[EclecticCollector]

Is the plated base metal unit better in that regard?

To be honest I'm not sure. I know that brass also tarnishes, but I haven't had any issues with my gold plated brass pens. However they aren't Montblancs and the gold plating is quite thick. Modern Montblanc plating tends to be quite thin and not very durable.

[Chu0009]

Go for sterling !

for the price solitaire that goes for, don't skimp on the quality.

 

 

my 2cents if its worth anything.

[empty]

I have a vermeil pinstripe that has seen better days. If it will be in your daily rotation the Vermeil can certainly wear down over time. I'd prefer the silver just on basis of being able to polish it occasionally without wearing down a coating.

[Chrissy]

I think the silver finish is perfect. Why would I want to cover it up with gold plating?

[Mookli]

well I agree, Silver it is.

Now for the hunt!