Just Bought A Vintage Set.

[lionheartlee]

First "vintage" fp. Bought a Sheaffer pen and pencil set on the bay of E's. I'm not sure if it was a good deal or not but the auction was ending fast so I pulled the trigger.

[FredRydr]

Photos, or it never happened.

 

Fred

[lionheartlee]

Any info on them would help.

[Happy Harry]

Tuckaway. Given the packaging if original a touchdown version.

[Intellidepth]

Nice congrats!

[lionheartlee]

Thanks . Are there anything I should look for when it actually gets here? Common problems or signs that it isn't original?

[jar]

Thanks . Are there anything I should look for when it actually gets here? Common problems or signs that it isn't original?

 

The only likely issue is that the fountain pen will likely need seals and possibly sac replaced.

[lionheartlee]

So should I inspect it...then hope nothing leaks when I fill it?

[jar]

So should I inspect it...then hope nothing leaks when I fill it?

 

I suggest assuming it needs restoration. Even if it works right now the seals and sac are over a half century old unless recently rebuilt. The touchdown system is a fairly user friendly restoration project requiring no specialized tools and with kits readily available.

[JonSzanto]

Also, if you decide to test the filling system, do it with plain water instead of ink. If the sac leaks or there are any other similar problems, it will make things a lot less messy.

[lionheartlee]

Could you point me in the direction of one of these kits?

 

I've never tinkered before but I'm sure I can rely on the fpn community in a pinch

[redbike]

This is a link to Richard Binder's instructions on how to restore the Touchdown filling system. My suggestion is to use these instructions to determine whether it's something you want to attempt vs. sending it to a professional. Good luck.

Could you point me in the direction of one of these kits?

I've never tinkered before but I'm sure I can rely on the fpn community in a pinch

[bsenn]

Kit from http://www.fountainpensacs.com/sheaffer_repairs.html

or

http://www.vintagepens.com/catill_nibs_parts.shtml

 

 

Helpful instructions here:

http://dirck.delint.ca/beta/?page_id=694

 

Touchdowns are relatively easy. In addition to the kit you need Sac Shellac and Silicone grease (also sold on the two web sites above).

 

Brian

[lionheartlee]

After reading that walk through it sounds a little out of my comfort zone. I don't want to damage my first new old pen. What are the prices on a restoration?

[FredRydr]

Lionheartlee,

 

You are in Ohio, the location of IMHO the best pen show for vintage pens: Columbus. If you can wait, bring it along in November and you will be pleased at the range of choices you'll have. You can show your pen to a parts guy and get what you need, or discuss your options with a pro.

 

If you can't wait because it's your first, I wouldn't blame you. Make it your first restoration.

 

Fred