Leaky Parker Sonnet

October 15, 2020

Just looking for some guidance!

I have had this pen for 24 years and whilst it still writes beautifully and never dries out (if in regular use) it has developed a leak when capped.

At first I thought it just didn't travel well so i left it on my desk, but even then when i come to use it the next day, it has ink at the bottom of the front section.

I then need to clean the cap out etc.

I have obviously tried to check the nib and feed is in correctly, not that i know what I'm looking at.

Is it worth replacing the bottom section and feed, it a gold nib so would want to keep that?

Any help would be appreciated.

Regards

Nick

October 15, 2020

Hello Nick

I had a problem with my Sonnet, a similar problem to yours.

You know how here a good click when you put the cap in place, that click was the source of my issue.

As I removed the cap it would pull the gold ring off the section allowing ink to escape, the ink then went into the cap and then on to my fingers.

The pen went back to Parker 4 times, it was never fixed by them at all.

I suspect it was just down to the way that the cap retaining ring was designed. In the end I simply glued the ring in place, it was never perfect however.

eta. You ask what to do next, the million dollar question,

Personally I would buy something else.

Edited October 15, 2020 by Parkette

October 15, 2020

Maybe the converter seal has worn out, if you are using a converter. You could try a cartridge, if you have one, to see if the leak goes away. If it does go away, the converter seal is worn and the converter is losing its vacuum, and you need a new converter.

October 16, 2020

I have checked everything and decided to spend £23 on Ebay for a replacement feed and section, I can swap out the converter for good look.

Its funny I have tried a lot of pens and still use a number of Pilots, a Sheaffer, a Sailor and a Pelikan M600, but still like to regularly write with the old Parker that my mum bought for my graduation.

Thanks both!

Edited October 16, 2020 by gylo

October 16, 2020

I have checked everything and decided to spend £23 on Ebay for a replacement feed and section, I can swap out the converter for good look.

Its funny I have tried a lot of pens and still use a number of Pilots, a Sheaffer, a Sailor and a Pelikan M600, but still like to regularly write with the old Parker that my mum bought for my graduation.

Thanks both!

Sometimes one develops a sentimental attachment to a pen, especially one received as a gift. I still use a Parker 51 I bought in 1970, because it is just like the one my father used. It made me feel more connected to him.

I still use some of the earlier Sonnets I bought years ago. They are fine pens.