---
title: "Montblanc Meisterstück and Vintage Models"
description: "Vintage Montblanc models — from the early 20th century to ~2000, including Meisterstück 144/146/149."
language: en
date_modified: 2026-05-19
date_published: 2026-05-19
license: CC BY 4.0
license_url: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
source_url: https://www.fountainpen.de/faq-chunks-en/03_montblanc-meisterstueck-vintage.md
landing_url: https://www.fountainpen.de/faq-llm-en.htm
publisher: fountainpen.de
author: Michael Steiner
keywords: ['vintage', 'Meisterstück 149', 'Meisterstück 146', 'Meisterstück 144', '147 Traveller', 'restoration']
entries: 222
---

# Montblanc Meisterstück and Vintage Models

> Vintage Montblanc models — from the early 20th century to ~2000, including Meisterstück 144/146/149.

Knowledge base from the former fountainpen.de forum (anonymised, AI-curated). **222 entries** in this topic block. Full index: <https://www.fountainpen.de/faq-llm-en.htm>.

## Vintage pens / oldies

### How do you identify an old Montblanc Meisterstück with the imprint 'D.R.P.' and the nib markings 4810/M/250?

The pen described is a Meisterstück 139, clearly recognisable by its size and the two silver cap rings. The missing '139' engraving is not unusual. The combination with a steel nib (instead of one marked 'G' for gold) and a long ink window points with high probability to a production between 1940 and 1943 — during the war steel nibs were used due to a gold shortage. The market value lies, depending on condition, between roughly 700 and 1,700 euros; well-preserved pieces can also be traded above that.

### Which Montblanc Meisterstück model is a 135 mm long pen with a 14k/585 gold nib, the inscription Mont Blanc Meisterstück on the cap ring and W-Germany on the cap?

From the dimensions, several Meisterstück models come into consideration: a 149 would be clearly larger, a LeGrand 146 likewise, so only the Classique 144, the Hommage à Mozart or the Hommage à Chopin remain. In favour of the 144 Classique speak the length of about 135 mm, a single-coloured gold nib type and the single gold ring directly in front of the nib. A missing model number on the cap is not an exclusion criterion, as not all Classique models bear such marking. For safe identification, collectors recommend comparison with the detailed model overviews on fountainpen.de and in the forum articles on classic Meisterstücks, as well as uploading detail photos.

### Which model is a round Montblanc writing instrument hallmarked silver 900, with four sliders and a separate lead reservoir under the cap?

What is described is a four-colour pencil, probably from the 1930s, in which different leads can be advanced alternatively via four sliders and the lead reserve is stored in the rear container under the screw-off cap. Collectors point to illustrations of similar models in the Rössler book on Montblanc, in which, however, no clear model numbers are documented for these early four-colour pencils, since Montblanc did not consistently work with model numbers at the time. An angular variant is shown on fountainpen.de under old-30er-4-colour-pencil; round versions with a circumferential clip ring are rarer but contemporaneously documented. An exact value statement is not possible without photo and condition assessment; collectors recommend posting good detail pictures on the forum and consulting the relevant collector literature (Rössler, Tischler).

### How can the market value of a Montblanc pneumatic-push fountain pen from the 1920s be determined?

A reputable valuation requires precise model identification on the basis of detail photos as well as a condition assessment; general blanket statements are not to be expected from a collector forum, since the forum does not replace a professional valuation. Anyone who has no relation to older writing instruments and wishes to sell the piece reaches the broadest collector circle through eBay and thus a market-near price; the listing should contain a detailed description with clear pictures. A dealer offer of 160 euros lies in the lower range for a 1920s push-filler but, depending on model, condition and nib quality, can be appropriate or clearly below.

### Which ink and which models are suitable for getting started with collecting antique Montblanc fountain pens, and what about repairs and replacement nibs?

For older writing instruments, exclusively water-soluble ink such as Pelikan 4001 royal blue is recommended, since other inks can clog the feed or discolour the material; red inks are particularly aggressive. As entry-level models the Meisterstücks 142, 144 and 146 from the 1950s are suitable, as well as the models 252, 254 and 256, which are uncomplicated and everyday-suitable and mostly cost under 400 euros. Repairs are carried out by specialist restorers like Horst at maxpens.de or Penleo; Montblanc itself can replace some parts but not remake nibs, since for that its own moulds would be required. When buying, attention should be paid to nib width, the existing iridium tip and cracks in caps. Push-fillers leak more quickly, which is why piston pens are more everyday-suitable.

### Is the Astoria fountain pen offered an original, and what price would be appropriate?

Astoria is a brand historically connected with Montblanc; Astoria nibs are original and models from the 1920s and 1930s do exist. A safe assessment is only possible from clear pictures of the section, feed and blind cap. In the concrete case, an atypical section, unusual imprint and atypical blind cap argue against Montblanc/Astoria; the piece could rather originate from Osmia. Often no-name pens with Astoria nibs and subsequent engravings are passed off as valuable pieces. Damage such as hairline cracks, chips and discolouration should also be checked. With uncertainty and a price in the four-figure range, the purchase is advised against.

Related pages on fountainpen.de:
• Astoria — brand overview (fountainpen.de): https://www.fountainpen.de/astoria-en.htm

### Can tarnished gold plating, e.g. on the clip of an MB 14, be cleaned again or re-plated?

Real gold practically does not tarnish, since extreme chemical conditions like aqua regia would be needed for that; hand sweat and everyday environment do not attack gold alloys. What appears as tarnish is mostly worn-off gold plating through which the darker carrier material like brass shines through. Polishing in this case removes still more of the thin gold-plating layer and should be avoided. For freshening up slightly tarnished gold alloys, silver-cleaning wool is suitable; gentler are care cloths for gold or pearls. Re-plating presents itself as a solution and should be done by a specialised firm.

### Which Montblanc model corresponds to a Safety with 16 cm length, 1.5 cm diameter and 14-carat nib with imprint MB 12?

It is presumably the 12 Safety, the largest Montblanc writing instrument ever built. The nominal barrel diameter is, however, 16 mm. Counterfeits of this model are not known, but adventurous repairs and restorations with body parts newly turned from old materials are. In top condition 12 Safeties are traded in the USA for several thousand dollars.

### How do you correctly clean and reactivate a stuck Montblanc 149 from the 1950s with dried ink?

First it should be cautiously tried to turn the cone; if this does not work, professional repair is advisable (e.g. via Maxpens.de or the repair section on fountainpen.de). Important is to turn only at the cone, not push or pull. If the piston can be moved, the pen can be filled with distilled water; on rare 1950s models caution is warranted, since celluloid softens with prolonged water contact (max. two to three days soaking). The cork mostly has to be renewed; occasionally, however, it swells back. For polishing Wenol is suitable; dried ink in the sight window can often be dissolved with patience and ultrasonic.

### What do the engravings 'S-S' and 'P' on the nib of a Montblanc 136 from wartime mean, and how is the material to be classified?

The 'P' stands for palladium, which during wartime was temporarily used for nibs due to strict gold-trade restrictions. Palladium belongs to the platinum group but is an independent metal; at that time it was more frequent than gold and not subject to coinage. The nibs were partly made solid from palladium, partly only palladium-plated; the source situation on this is inconsistent. The meaning of 'S-S' is not conclusively clarified; one suspicion is the abbreviation for 'Stöffhaas-Spezialgeschäft'. Since shortenings of the barrel were usually marked with 'K', a 136 deviating in length could have been subsequently shortened or the mechanism exchanged. The bicolour nib was developed in the early 1930s by Montblanc and Kaweco jointly to save gold.

### How do you identify and repair an old Montblanc Meisterstück Safety pen (model 20) with a chipped hard-rubber cap?

The piece in question is a Meisterstück Safety pen model 20 of hard rubber, one of the most common early models. The cap is by design the most vulnerable component; turning a new cap lip from old material is laborious and economically hardly worthwhile, since the collector value of a complete model 20 is not exceptionally high. On Safety pens, after filling, the nib is retracted before the cap is screwed on so that no ink emerges. The sealing surface lies at 45 degrees on barrel mouth and cap top; if both are undamaged and the cap is firmly screwed on, the pen is tight. For cleaning an ultrasonic bath is suitable. The cap edge can alternatively be turned in silver if hard rubber is hard to obtain.

### How is a Montblanc Pix-o-mat 935 (4-colour ballpoint) to be dated, which refills fit, and may the writing instrument be disassembled?

The Pix-o-mat 935 dates from the late 1960s and was made by Fendt for Montblanc. It uses standard D1 refills available at any stationery shop (LAMY, Schneider, Schmidt); Montblanc obtains its D1 refills from Schmidt but offers no green or red variants and charges roughly twice the price. The refill change is done exclusively by pulling out and inserting through the front opening; the writing instrument itself must on no account be opened, since reassembly will then no longer succeed. A binding price list for such vintage pieces does not exist; eBay auctions provide rough indications of current market values.

### Is Penboard.de a trustworthy source for an old Montblanc No. 22, and what ink does this piston pen tolerate?

Penboard.de counts among collectors as a reliable platform, since the dealers represented there are recognised in the collector scene and the writing instruments are delivered in flawless condition. With the Montblanc No. 22 no special caution about ink is needed, since the barrel is made of plastic and cannot discolour; conventional black or blue inks are unproblematic. The 22 was produced from 1960 over about a decade and a half in many variants (colours black, red, green, grey; as piston pen and as cartridge version 22P). For a comprehensive model overview the book 'Collectible Stars' by Stefan Wallrafen is recommended. The model's soft, pleasantly writing nib is appreciated.

### How should one react if a historical Montblanc 324 from the 1930s has been lost during a repair by Montblanc, and how can the value be realistically estimated?

In value determination one must distinguish between asking prices and actually achieved sales prices; real sales prices of a 324 with gold nib often lie around 90 euros, for coloured or rare variants higher. The assumption that an 18C gold nib alone is worth 150 euros is unrealistic; the material value lies clearly below. As orientation, the guide on value determination written by the collector Axel ('penparadise') is recommended, which most collectors in the forum follow. The collector should negotiate soberly with Montblanc and not make excessive demands but justify the realistic market value with comparable concluded auctions.

### Which repair work is typical on an inherited Montblanc 744 N Rolled Gold with stuck piston after 20 years' storage, and what does such a thing cost?

A piston stuck after long storage is usually cleaned in an ultrasonic bath, possibly equipped with new seal and piston mechanism; a price of around 73 euros is appropriate for proper cleaning and standard servicing, since the workload is the larger cost share. A 'ultrasonic examination' in the medical sense does not exist on pens; what is meant is always the ultrasonic bath as a cleaning method. A list of trustworthy repair experts can be found on the forum (community-fountainpen.de). In general nibs are the most vulnerable component and on roughly 50-year-old writing instruments practically no longer obtainable as a spare part; bent nib tips should therefore be carefully adjusted by experienced workshops.

### What role did the Pforzheim firm Sarastro play as supplier for Montblanc and other writing-instrument makers?

Sarastro was based in Pforzheim until its bankruptcy in 1986 (with branch works in France) and produced under its own name and as a supplier overlays and silver- or gold-coated pens for several brands, including until the end for Montblanc; corresponding pieces are marked with an 'S'. The firm described itself in the 1920s as a maker of pocket-use articles (everything of metal). A complete listing of overlay variants or systematic documentation of supply relationships does not exist publicly. Pens under their own name Sarastro are today rare.

### What does the symbol of a horizontal, mirror-image '1' behind the nib width (e.g. 'M-') on the nib of a Montblanc 149 Masterpiece from the 1950s mean?

This sign marks a left-hander nib; in combination, designations like 'ML', 'OL' or 'MOL' arise, with MO being understood as the left-hander variant of an OM nib. Such left-hander nibs are rare collector examples, since the tipping grind is often only recognisable under strong magnification; on smaller nib widths (e.g. FL) the difference from a normal nib is barely visible. The grind is slightly bevelled so left-handers can write without tilting. Such nibs occur both in 149 and in 146 models from the 1950s.

### Can nib and feed be removed oneself on a Montblanc 144 Bordeaux from the 1990s, and are longitudinal lamellae on the feed model-correct?

On the 144 Classique from the 1990s longitudinal lamellae on the feed are correct and no indication of a counterfeit or modification. The removal of nib and feed is not possible without special tools and special materials and should only be carried out by Montblanc itself or an experienced specialist. To clean contaminations from the feed, an ultrasonic bath with simultaneous 'blowing through' is suitable, which also reliably removes smaller solid particles without disassembling the pen. With eBay purchase general caution applies; well-rated suppliers and realistic prices, however, reduce the counterfeit risk; original certificates are no reliable authenticity proof, since they can be enclosed independently of the writing instrument.

### How can writing instruments from an attic find — including a Montblanc Meisterstück L139, a suspected Parker 51 and an Omega — be identified and assessed?

The 139 is a variant with long sight window and steel nib, which marks it as a war model; war models are less valuable than regular 139s with gold nib but still count as collectable. The unknown pen No. 2 was identified as a cheap pen of the 1950s without collector interest, No. 3 as a Kaweco Omega 650, No. 4 as a Parker Aerometric of the second generation from 1949 with Lustralloy cap. For detailed questions on the Parker 51 the forum penexchange.de is recommended. Before sale it depends on the target group whether to restore: dealers prefer unrestored, end collectors restored pieces.

### What do the various gold stamps and hallmarks like 333, 585, 750, 10K, 14KT, 18KT or 18K.T. on writing instruments mean?

The number stamps mark gold alloys: 333 = 8 carat, 585 = 14 carat, 750 = 18 carat. They state the fine-gold content. Additional hallmarks provide hints on age and origin. Important: a hallmark (always struck deeper) is to be distinguished from a pure model designation (engraved inscription) — for example a Montblanc pencil model called '10K' existed. As a standard work for determination, Jan Divis: 'Goldstempel aus aller Welt' is recommended. Logos and stars were earlier also stamped into hard rubber and celluloid.

### Which models are involved in an inherited set of Montblanc fountain pen, pencil refill, pen-roller and cases with imprint 'W.-Germany'?

The writing instruments date from the time before reunification (before 1989), recognisable by the marking 'W.-Germany'. They are a Meisterstück 144 Solitaire Silver grain guilloché (fountain pen or 147), a Meisterstück 161 Le Grand ballpoint and the matching Traveller case. The cases are: red = Florence, black with cartridge holder = Traveller, black small = Sienna. On gold-plated parts two variants are distinguished — Vermeil (gilded silver, hallmark '925') or gold-plated brass (without hallmark); if the 925 hallmark is missing and only 'Germany' stands on the pencil, it is brass vermeil. For value determination, consultation of the corresponding product pages on fountainpen.de and comparison of concluded eBay auctions were recommended.

Related pages on fountainpen.de:
• Montblanc Meisterstück 144 (Classique predecessor): https://www.fountainpen.de/c-montblanc-meisterstueck-144-en.htm

### Which model is a green-marbled Montblanc fountain pen with the inscriptions 'III. MONT BLANC III.' and 'SIMPLO ORIGINAL', and how is it correctly cleaned?

It is a button-filler pen (no piston pen) of the third Montblanc price series, produced between 1932 and 1934, presumably in size A; the letter often stands on the blind cap. Originally, a teardrop clip and an 'a' nib belong to it, although the current nib dates from the 1950s and was exchanged. The malachite-green colour, undiscoloured, is rare and value-determining. The star on the cap of the third price series was, by construction, only white at the edge, and the two opposing holes in the cap are ventilation bores. For cleaning use only clear, cold water without solvent additives and do not soak for several hours, since hard rubber otherwise oxidises; light-protected storage is advisable.

### Which models are involved in two Montblanc Meisterstücks of 585 gold acquired in the 1960s/1970s, and how should one handle nib swap and ink?

The first piece is a Meisterstück 744 (production 1951 to 1956); on imprints 585 or 750 on cap, body, clip and end cap it is solid gold, otherwise gold-plated; an initial engraving reduces the collector value. The second piece is a Meisterstück 132 from the 1930s to 1940s, with possibly a subsequently applied overlay; only pieces with imprint 'Montblanc' or 'S' (for Sarastro/Pforzheim) count as official and collector-coveted overlays. Nibs of old gold pens Montblanc itself cannot exchange; corresponding orders go to external specialists like Horst Schrage. For old writing instruments the water-soluble Pelikan 4001 royal blue is recommended as the most uncritical ink, since black and strongly pigmented inks can discolour the ink window.

### Did Montblanc have a model No. 37, or is an old school pen with blue-transparent cartridge holder a 31?

Model number 37 at Montblanc was not a fountain pen but a ballpoint; the school pen described is therefore to be assigned to the cartridge variant of model 31, even if the addition P at the cap ring is missing — it was not engraved because piston and cartridge versions have identical caps. A blue-transparent plastic insert at the barrel end is exactly the recognition feature of the cartridge version. After thorough cleaning with clear water a converter from Pelikan or Waterman fits; today's Montblanc converters by contrast have a modern thread that may not fit. A factory overhaul is not economically worthwhile for this model (service flat fee from around 250 euros), while own repair or a parts donor are significantly cheaper ways.

### How can a small Montblanc safety pen with retractable nib be identified and assessed?

It is a Montblanc Safety from the 1920s in size '0' — the second-smallest build of the time (smaller was only the '00'/Baby model). The model size is engraved on the nib. Such Safeties were at the time often individualised with precious-metal overlays by goldsmiths or jewellers; the overlay therefore typically does not come from Montblanc itself. For value determination, comparison with currently running eBay auctions of similar pieces is recommended, since collector prices depend strongly on preservation state and overlay quality. The regular eBay marketplace (not Kleinanzeigen) offers international reach for achieving market-appropriate prices.

### Is a concrete Montblanc model a Noblesse or a Slimline, and where do the differences lie?

Distinguishing between Noblesse and Slimline is not trivial; even standard literature like 'Collectible Stars' delivers in part contradictory attributions. Slimline is the cheaper variant and ranks below the Noblesse, equipped with gold nib; the piece discussed in the forum was rather assigned by collectors to the Slimline. On the question whether the Noblesse ever existed with steel nib, no final sources exist. Functionally there are hardly differences — both models write excellently, so the correct designation is primarily relevant for collectors.

### What is known about the Montblanc Architect's Pen (patent 1924), and how rare are complete examples?

The Architect Pen is a piston pen patented in 1924 that supplies a ruling pen with drawing ink via a thin tube; the piston mechanism counts as technically more mature than on the first regular piston pens. Complete examples with original packaging, instructions and cleaning needle are very rare and hotly coveted in collector circles. Of the 'Norma' (variant with funnel nibs) only a few examples are also known. Collectors with larger holdings typically own four or more Architect Pens; the patent specifications supplement the documentation.

### How can an old Montblanc Masterpiece 744-N set with 585 gold housing be valued, and can an engraving be removed?

For value determination, an established guide on the forum is referenced that all collectors use. High-quality 744-N sets can, in intact condition, achieve four-digit amounts; a personal engraving, however, reduces the value clearly. Subsequent removal of an engraving is theoretically possible (by filling with gold) but in practice barely feasible, since the surface cannot be restored without visible traces. Before sale a professional overhaul is recommended, since long-unused writing instruments often show sealing and mechanism problems.

### Which inks are suitable for old fountain pens (especially vintage models with cork seal)?

In principle only water-soluble inks should be used in old fountain pens. Royal-blue Montblanc ink is unobjectionable for historical fountain pens with cork seals — reports of 'eaten-up' cork seals can mostly be traced to already pre-damaged material, not the ink preparation itself. Bordeaux-red Montblanc ink has, by contrast, in individual cases caused problems with old seals and is to be used with care. Pelikan royal blue (4001) counts as a tried and very compatible ink for vintage pens. Iron-gall inks and strongly colour-saturated specialty inks are to be avoided in old writing instruments.

### Which fountain-pen model could an old piece with the inscription 'Iridium Tipped' be?

The inscription 'Iridium Tipped' alone does not allow brand attribution, since many makers used this notation. In the forum Ric Lei was first guessed at, a less known historical maker whose safety models occasionally appear at shows and on eBay. Attribution to Kaweco also came into consideration, since the company history produced similar models. For safe determination, inscriptions on barrel and nib, dimensions and the filling system should be checked and matched with image material from specialised sources.

### Where do you, as a beginner, get a functioning old Montblanc fountain pen (models 22/24/32/34) at defensible prices, and what should be paid attention to?

For beginners with small budgets eBay is basically usable, provided the pictures are clear and nibs do not appear bent; prices in very good condition lie mostly in the low three-digit euro range. At specialised dealers prices are higher, in return with checked condition and partly warranty. Nib designations like 'OM' or 'OB' mean oblique (slanted) and enable calligraphic effects, although these arise more from nib-slit work than from pure slanting. The hyphen '-' in model designations indicates older pieces, partly made of celluloid; in everyday life these are easy to care for but should not be subjected to strong pressure or falls.

### How can on an unrestored Montblanc Meisterstück 136 originality and components (cap, star, nib, barrel) be reliably assessed?

Missing model engravings on the closing cap or end piece are no compelling indication of counterfeit — collectors know originals without corresponding lettering, presumably from Monday-production. Steel nibs were not exclusively fitted in the 136 during the war; here too there are legitimate variations. Decisive are overall proportions, ink window, piston mechanism and material; in case of doubt an experienced restorer like the named specialist should give an assessment. A new cork is often due on old 136s and is unproblematically obtainable via specialists.

### Are there original Montblanc 146s with 136 nibs or 149s with 139 nibs, and does this affect the value?

Such transitional combinations actually occur: on model changes, Montblanc occasionally fitted remainders of predecessor nibs in the successor models, so e.g. early 149s with 139 nib or 146s with 136 nib turn up in collections. Feeds were partly later exchanged in service for the round models from the 1950s. Such a combination mostly does not increase value, since it is not model-faithful; some collectors even rate the mix as value-reducing. More frequent are, however, subsequently swapped wrong nibs on the market, which is why on purchase special caution is warranted.

### Is a Montblanc four-colour pen with the inscription 'Walzgold' on the cap an original?

Such a four-colour pen corresponds to a model made by Fendt for Montblanc in the 1960s and counts as genuine. 'Walzgold' (rolled gold) denotes a gold plating common at the time and is no indication of a counterfeit. For a sale, specialised collector forums, auction platforms or collector shows offer themselves. A prior assessment by an expert eases a realistic price estimate.

### Were there genuine Montblanc 146s with the nib of a 344, or is this tinker work?

In the 1980s Meisterstück nibs were monocolour and not bicolour with platinum coating — this information alone, however, allows no authenticity proof. The front section of a 146 never had the shape of a 246, so corresponding photos point to a 'bastard' from parts of various models. In some auctions pictures of various pieces were also mixed, which causes confusion. A 146 with 344 nib is not known as original delivery; caution is warranted when buying such 'marriages'.

### How can a fountain pen with three-tone nib, metal piston mechanism and pressure-equalisation ribs without matching cap be identified as a Montblanc 149?

The combination of three-tone nib, metal piston mechanism and pressure-equalisation ribs points to a 149 not among the oldest. A 139 cap does not fit by shape; the cap should be screwable on completely. Missing model imprint on the turning knob and unusually flat grip-section edge are no compelling exclusion criteria, since Montblanc had different transitional versions. For restoration, experienced collectors are recommended who can swap or sell matching caps from their own holdings.

### How are an inherited Montblanc Safety Baby Email Rose and a Rouge et Noir to be assessed, and what can be done with them?

Both pieces count as very rare and highly interesting for collectors, even with not perfect preservation state. Discolourations and wear reduce collector value but do not make the pieces uninteresting, as long as the housing is intact. Recommended is to keep the pieces, before any sale have them assessed by a specialist and possibly cleaned. Only then can a realistic price be achieved; value and demand are generally constant or rising.

### Can the washed-out white Montblanc logo on the cap of an old 342G be refilled in a boutique?

Collectors confirm that the logo engraving was originally factory-filled in white or gold, so a restoration corresponds to the original state. Outpatient refilling is generally carried out via boutiques or specialised engravers, similar to name engravings. As a DIY solution the white 'Neocolor II Wax Oil' pencil by Caran d'Ache is recommended, also suitable for gold fills. The original originality is not impaired by it; decisive is clean execution.

### How can a Montblanc 252 be dated, safely cleaned, polished, and which materials were used?

All 252s have an ink window (typically blue on the younger variant); if it is not recognisable, this is mostly due to old, dried ink and dissolves after thorough flushing. The material is plastic, not celluloid — unlike the 142, 144, 146 and 149 of the 1950s. Cleaning is done with lukewarm water through repeated filling and emptying of the piston; build-up attempts or vinegar additives should be dispensed with. For polishing, Wenol or alternatively Displex (from mobile-phone shops) is suitable; gold platings on rings and clip must not be treated too strongly. The 252s have no serial number; they were intended as high-quality everyday-use devices.

### Where do you find information on Montblanc Stylographic Pens (drawing and Indian-ink pens, e.g. model 432), and how do you store such vintage models?

Information on Montblanc stylo models is rare, but a contact is collector pages like maxpens.de, although individual model attributions there are to be taken with caution because front parts are sometimes exchanged and designations are wrong. Key source is the Montblanc Diary, helping in identification. If the stylo has a cork-seal filling mechanism, it should always be stored filled with distilled water so the cork does not dry out and become brittle.

### What does a non-closing gap on the turning knob of a Montblanc Meisterstück No. 14 mean, and how can it be remedied?

An open gap on the turning knob is not normal and mostly indicates a torn spindle or an over-turned or pulled-out mechanism. A repair requires special tools for disassembly; without these one rather causes additional damage. Such tools are made by some northern German professional restorers as replicas; with some skill an own tool with matching diameter can also be made. As an expert in southern Germany, Sandro Rudolf (Dr.Ink) near Heidelberg is recommended.

### How are various vintage Montblanc models (including 138, 146, safety pens, No. 2 lever fillers) to be classified, and should they be restored?

The pieces mentioned are partly very rare vintage models; a No. 2 lever filler is regarded as a particular highlight. Hard-rubber pens and old safety pens are basically still usable for writing, but are too precious for daily use. Restorations such as fitting new seals are possible, but not mandatory; many collectors deliberately leave old writing instruments their patina and intervene only minimally. Loose cap rings on a 146 do not necessarily have to be tightened; interventions should be restrained to preserve originality.

### What are the special features of the Montblanc models No. 31, 32 and 34, and are counterfeits known?

The models No. 31, 32 and 34 are similar to the 43 and have so far hardly been covered on the main fountainpen.de pages; collectors are dependent here on contributions from other owners with photos. Counterfeits of these specific models are not known; with other vintage Montblancs (e.g. MonteRosa) fakes can usually be recognised by the nib. Montblanc Blue-Black ink is generally considered unproblematic; regular cleaning with filtered water after emptying the piston is sufficient, since the additive contained in the ink counteracts the more aggressive effects of iron-gall ink.

### Is a fountain pen with retractable nib and Montblanc stars an original?

The writing instrument offered is definitely not a Montblanc product but a tinkerer's piece on which stars have subsequently been mounted. A retractable nib in this form does not exist in the Montblanc model range. One should not be unsettled by such offers; an expert assessment in the forum helps to reliably identify such counterfeits.

### Where can one obtain spare parts, in particular clip springs, for the old Montblanc PIX 172 propelling pencil?

Replacement clip springs and similar small parts for the PIX 172 are officially not available from Montblanc, since Montblanc generally does not release spare parts. Collectors swap or sell such parts from their stock or scrap damaged pencils as parts donors. Important to know: the narrow longitudinal slot in the metal tip area of old pencils is structurally present and not a defect. A hairline crack in the black plastic body, especially at the transition to the metal tip, is, on the other hand, a real damage and reduces the collector value.

### Which Montblanc Meisterstück model is a black fountain pen with Pix engraving, 14K/585 nib, screw closure and serial number beginning with VU?

Based on the description alone, the model cannot be unambiguously assigned, since the features mentioned apply to all Meisterstücks. With additional photos, collectors identify the pen as a Meisterstück 145, which has been produced for around 15 years and is therefore not considered old. The small additional spring in the piston converter is structurally present in order to overcome adhesion forces in new converters and to ensure continuous ink flow to the feed. Before first filling, a water rinse is possible but not strictly necessary.

Related pages on fountainpen.de:
• Montblanc Meisterstück 145 (Classique): https://www.fountainpen.de/c-montblanc-meisterstueck-145-en.htm

### Which Montblanc model is an older fountain pen offered on eBay, and is the price reasonable?

Collectors identify the piece offered as a Bastard, that is, a pen assembled from parts of various models and eras. The cap probably comes from a 234 of the pre-war period (celluloid with a hard-rubber cap top), the barrel, however, from a post-war 244. Owing to the poor image quality and the meagre description, a more precise determination is not possible. The piece is at most suitable as a parts donor and is to be valued at no more than 50 euros; the asking price is significantly excessive. For serious purchases, established dealers such as Horst-Max Schrage (maxpens.de) are recommended.

### How can a Montblanc Meisterstück L129 be sold and realistically valued, and is restoration sensible?

Quoted asking prices of up to 8000 USD are only asking prices and say nothing about actual sales prices, since the target group for such rare pieces is small and well-funded collectors are predominantly outside Germany. A restoration is not cheap; many collectors prefer the unrestored original condition, others a near-mint appearance — that is a matter of taste. For serious mediation and valuation, renowned experts such as Horst-Max Schrage (maxpens.de) and Lutz Fiebig (interpens) are recommended, who can be reached personally on the Pen*Port in Hamburg, among other places. A first bid of 2500 euros was assessed in the specific case as a good offer.

### How do the Montblanc Safety models No. 12 and No. 12 1/2 differ?

Contrary to appearances, the 12 is significantly larger than the 12 1/2. The early Safeties from 1920 to 1929 bore the designations 00, 0, 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10 and 12, with 00 (Baby) being the smallest and 12 the largest. From 1930 the models were renamed: 1 became 12 1/2, 2 became 15, 4 became 17 1/2 and 6 became 19 3/4, without the form changing; on the nib the M replaced the number. The 12 1/2 thus corresponds to the original size 1 and is a very small Safety. From photos without scale, the sizes cannot be reliably recognised, since the proportions are similar.

### Is the cap of a Montblanc 333 1/2 from 1938 actually made of malachite or of another material?

The green cap is not malachite (a real mineral) but celluloid with the Montblanc-internal designation "PL". This variant was used in the simpler 3-series only very rarely and at the start of the war, since PL had until then been reserved for the Meisterstücks. In Jens Rösler's book, designations such as malachite, lapis or citrine are used throughout for the celluloid colours, not for the materials themselves; real mineral materials were only used in the Solitaire models through modern grinding and binding techniques. A combination of coloured and black celluloid on one writing instrument was unusual at Montblanc; metal/celluloid or metal/plastic combinations only exist after the Second World War.

### What can be said about a Montblanc 246G in marbled brown tigers-eye decor with a Boehler steel engraving?

It is the then top model of Montblanc from the late 1950s, sold in a period when Meisterstücks 142, 144 and 146 were also being produced in striped celluloid. The colour designation is tigers eye; another rare variant is PL (platinum-lined). The model also comes in the smaller sizes 242G and 244G; the size-6 in particular is regarded as very sought-after. The pen mentioned was made between 1950 and 1954. A Boehler steel engraving indicates a special-order piece.

### What does an unusual marking (a zero with a propeller- or gamma-like sign over it) on the turning knob of a Montblanc 144 Meisterstück from the 1950s mean?

An engraving in this arrangement and form on the blind cap of a Meisterstück is unfamiliar to collectors and is not described in the relevant literature (Rösler, newsletter). An unambiguous assignment of the imprint to a specific nib variant (e.g. nozzle or ball nib) does not succeed in the thread. It is recommended to post a photo of the turning knob and of the nib, since the unusual stamp could possibly be assigned to a special nib version.

### Is a restored Montblanc 134 with steel nib suitable as an everyday fountain pen, and what must be considered with cork seal and ink?

A restored 134 is well usable as an everyday fountain pen, provided cap and barrel are undamaged; one should write a little more carefully than with modern models. With writing instruments made of celluloid, only water-soluble blue ink (e.g. Pelikan 4001 royal blue) is recommended, since other inks can attack the material. The cork seal must not dry out: with regular use this is unproblematic; with longer non-use, the fountain pen can be filled with water or ink so that the cork swells; new corks boiled in paraffin are largely insensitive to shrinkage. When carrying it, ink can occasionally leak at the grip section (more strongly with the 124 than with the 134). Compared to gold nibs, there are no special care instructions for the steel nib.

### From what period does a Montblanc safety fountain pen with stamp "Simplo – Original Montblanc", nib engraving "4 / 14 K" and greenish-discoloured barrel date?

These Safety models typically come from the mid- to late 1920s. The barrel is made of hard rubber, which turns greenish over time; originally the writing instrument was black. The cap top is usually made of casein. If a cap part, on the other hand, still appears deep black, this points to a later replacement. Clips were an extra on these models, which is why many Safeties were delivered without a clip. A definitive evaluation only succeeds through an expert like Horst Schrage (maxpens.de), who can restore the device.

### How can one tell whether a Montblanc 144 or 164 is genuine, especially if no serial number is present on the clip ring?

A missing serial number is no proof of a counterfeit: only newer writing instruments bear a serial number; pieces from the 1980s and earlier have none, and some more recent special models (early Scenium, Rouge-et-Noir, Noir-et-Noir) too come without a serial number. A practical authenticity feature on Meisterstücks made of precious resin: when shining through the barrel or cap with a halogen spot, a reddish shimmer becomes visible. Detailed identifying features together with picture comparisons can be found on the fakes page of fountainpen.de; in case of doubt, photos should be posted in the forum.

### Did the Montblanc 333 1/2 already exist in the 1930s, and what does the "1/2" designation mean in the model numbers?

The 333 1/2 actually existed in the 1930s (according to Rösler produced 1937–1948, already included in the 1936 catalogue); it was made in black, blue and green and often has a flat cap top with engraved star. The model designation should be stamped on the turning knob. Distinction from the 334 1/2 succeeds primarily via the nib size (3 1/2 or 4 1/2). The "1/2" ending was originally a price indication: with Safety models the model number corresponded to the retail price in Reichsmark (e.g. Safety No. 12 1/2 = 12.50 RM). In the 1930s the designation was then continued in marketing as a hint at a half-step better; models with intermediate steps are particularly rare today and accordingly in demand. Especially coloured 333 1/2 variants achieve high prices and should be assessed before purchase by an experienced collector.

### Which manufacturer is behind writing instruments with the inscription "STANDARD 18. KR." and richly decorated gold overlay?

The brand designation "(Standard)" in brackets was used by a company that produced safety fountain pens; possibly it was a predecessor company of Standard-Matador in Wuppertal-Elberfeld. The construction with the designation "18 KR" alternatively points to an Italian origin — unusual are e.g. two eyelets, one on the cap and one on the rotatable barrel end, which is atypical. The gold overlays could come from an Italian jeweller; the basic body can come from any manufacturer. Without nib engraving and further clues, the brand cannot be unambiguously assigned.

### Where can one find lists with the original retail prices of old Montblanc fountain pens from the period 1945 to 1980?

Comprehensive public lists for this period hardly exist; reliable sources are old original catalogues with price lists, which are occasionally offered on eBay. Online, only a few catalogues can be found, e.g. a Montblanc price list from 1973 on caprafico.com or in discussions on fountainpennetwork.com. A complete collection has so far not existed; the formation of a working group for systematic recording was suggested in the forum but not implemented.

### How does one classify an old Montblanc Safety with imprint "4M", octagonal overlay (585 hallmark) and heart nib?

The engraving "4" on the turning knob identifies the model as Safety No. 4; the trailing "M" denotes the original nib width. A nib with the designation "20" actually originates from the 20 Meisterstück and corresponds to nib size 2, so on model 4 with this nib there can be an inconsistency — possibly it was subsequently exchanged or the nib visually fitted afterwards. For unambiguous identification, dimensions (diameter at the grip section, length without cap with retracted nib) and any hallmarks on the overlay (e.g. "S" for Sarastro) are decisive. For maintenance and restoration, Horst Schrage (maxpens.de) is recommended.

### Are the nibs of the Montblanc models 12, 22 and 32 interchangeable, and how does one repair a damaged nib on a 32 with the appearance of a 12?

The nibs of models 12, 22 and 32 are largely identical in form and largely compatible; they differ, however, in material: the 12 has 18-carat, the 22 14-carat gold nibs, the 32 generally gilded steel nibs. A repair of a damaged nib seldom pays off financially — cheaper is the purchase of another 32 as a parts donor. Fitting a gold nib from a 12 or 22 into a 32 is also possible. The first port of call for used nibs is Maxpens (Horst Schrage).

### How can a Montblanc click ballpoint be identified that is said to come from the early 1950s and was presented together with a 142 fountain pen in a leather case?

Push-button ballpoints were only produced at Montblanc from the late 1960s; a model from the early 1950s is therefore ruled out, even if the accompanying 142 fountain pen actually comes from the 50s. An overview of the numerous later models can be found in the book Collectible Stars. For a concrete determination, a visit to a writing-instrument get-together is recommended, e.g. the monthly meeting in Hamburg, where collectors keep corresponding folders with comparison pieces ready.

### Which early Montblanc safety pens, lever fillers, compressor fillers and eyedroppers are regarded as particularly rare and where can they be obtained?

In the collecting focus are old pieces such as Safeties with overlay (outside Italian production), lever fillers, compressor fillers, eyedroppers as well as coloured Meisterstücks from the years 1924 to 1938. Particularly sought-after and hardly offered are the rare coloured 23x and 33x models from the 1930s, while the 12x Meisterstücks are mostly not for sale. Trading among collectors is common in this segment. Pictures and background can be found in the book Fountain Pens of the World by Andreas Lambrou.

### Is a Montblanc Safety pen No. 25 with a golden snake on the clip an original piece?

The Montblanc No. 25 is a common safety pen from the 1920s and 1930s in two variants: an early one without and a later one with cap bands. Golden snakes on the clip are not entirely unknown, but extremely rare and, in the specific case discussed, very probably a later jeweller's addition; the seller himself accordingly designates the element as an add-on clip. The claim that the No. 25 is the largest Montblanc Safety ever built is incorrect. With safety pens, a personal inspection is essential, since only that allows the tightness to be checked.

### Which leads fit the Montblanc Pix 72 propelling pencil and how can the poorly working press mechanism be made workable again?

The Pix 72 needs pencil leads of 1.18 mm diameter; these are still available today from Yard-o-Lead via the Filofax trade or from Caran d'Ache; an inexpensive offer also exists at memo.de. Coloured leads in this thickness are de facto only obtainable via collector exchanges. With a finicky ejector, the centring claw can be carefully cleaned with a bent-open small paperclip, since abrasion accumulates in the grooves of the claw over time. Spare parts for defective mechanisms are no longer kept by Montblanc.

### How does one restore and repair a Montblanc 146 from the 1950s with a celluloid body, damaged clip and broken screw thread?

The narrow cap ring of the 50s models is correct by design. For gilding the clip and refurbishing old writing instruments, Tom Westerich (penboard.de) and Lutz Fiebig (interpens.de) are tried-and-tested points of contact; local goldsmiths can also gild clips. When polishing the body, restraint is required, since only a thin black layer is applied to the celluloid and excessive polishing causes the yellowish celluloid to show through. With a break of the body at the screw thread, one should not undertake one's own glue attempts but contact specialists like Horst Schrage (maxpens.de), who can also renew defective cork seals. On planes, old pens with lamellar feeds are problematic, since they easily leak.

### Were there genuine demonstrator models of the Montblanc 244, and can celluloid be deliberately lightened or made transparent through sun exposure?

Real demonstrators of the 244 looked different: a piece had been milled out of the body so that one could look directly inside. Examples that have become transparent arise through excessive polishing, which removes the black outer layer. The two-colour appearance of some bodies comes from ink-induced discolouration of the celluloid; originally the material at undiscoloured spots was yellow. Ink windows of the 50s and 60s Meisterstücks were originally striped with internal stripes and a yellowish base tone; the lighter the window, the less the pen was used, which significantly increases the collector value. Wilfully altering old pieces is advised against, since the vintage character is thereby lost.

### In which original packaging was the Montblanc 149 with silver rings from the 1950s delivered?

The 149 with silver rings, produced from 1952 onwards, was delivered in various cardboard boxes (presentation boxes), typically in the largest variant used at the time. In the 30s and 40s Bakelite boxes were still common; in the late 50s, boxes of celluloid and covered hinged boxes followed. In the early 50s, that is, fitting the early 149 with flat feed, simple cardboard boxes were used, which were primarily intended as gift packaging and one-time transport. Anyone who valued a more exclusive case could acquire separately available leather etuis; proper presentation cases by Montblanc only came up later, when the 149 already had lamellar feeds.

### Where can one find a Montblanc ballpoint from the "Eleventh Finger" series as a replacement for a stolen heirloom?

The "Eleventh Finger" series was an advertising claim by Montblanc for ballpoints whose centre of gravity was clearly at the tip and which therefore lay particularly well in the hand. They existed exclusively as ballpoints in gilded version in price ranges from about 4.95 to 30 DM; solid-gold variants did not exist. Since ballpoints are usually used as utility objects until end of life, the search is difficult; the best chances are offered by collectors' meet-ups and fairs, where ballpoints are often offered along at low prices.

### How old is a Montblanc ballpoint whose refill is extended via a side lever in the clip?

It is presumably the Montblanc 215, which was produced between 1957 and 1959. The model number is usually stamped on the barrel band and should be checked for confirmation. As a refill, a Ballograf refill is also suitable. For value determination, reference is made to Axel's forum article on the value determination of Montblanc writing instruments; as a market price around 30 euros is mentioned, comparable to the Pix 276.

### How is a Montblanc 134 with a foreign stainless-steel nib and imprint "DRP 652405" to be classified in time?

It is not a fountain pen from wartime production; the short cap top of celluloid as well as the refurbishment by Lutz Fiebig speak for a dating around 1950 to 1952. The stainless-steel nib found is definitely not a Montblanc original, since Montblanc always fitted its own nibs; it was subsequently exchanged. The rear engraving "OBB" actually points to a broad oblique gold nib, which confirms the later nib alteration. With very good condition one should be critical: a yellowish, striped ink window is a more reliable sign of low use than a polish-shiny body. Repairs including new cork seal are reliably carried out by Lutz Fiebig.

### Until when were Montblanc 144s with a flat feed produced?

By "flat" are meant the hard-rubber feeds with small longitudinal lamellas, which were fitted in the pre-war series as well as in the 14X celluloid fountain pens until about 1955. In the mid-1950s they were replaced by the more rounded feeds with transverse lamellas, which are used to this day in slightly modified variants. The Wedding Pens of the early 1990s, contrary to a widespread view, also already have the rounded transverse-lamella feeds, not the flat ones.

### What do the additional characters instead of a hyphen between "Montblanc" and the model number on the cap ring of a Montblanc 344 mean?

Such additional characters are not engraving errors but were factory-present and are also found on further models of the 3 series from the same production period. The reference to the "white star" in collector literature does not relate to the cap ring but to the fact that the 3 series, in contrast to its predecessors, bears a white star instead of an engraved star in the cap top. There were also variants entirely without a star, which were produced for the Islamic market because Montblanc at that time feared confusion with the Star of David. These models are otherwise identical in construction and bear the regular model numbers in the usual places.

### How does one identify a Montblanc lever filler without clear type designation, with a striped green ink window and nib reading "4810 14 CT"?

The features described point, depending on size, to a Meisterstück 132 or 134, not to a 234 1/2. The window colour is originally yellow; green, orange or red discolouration arises through ink and use of the cellulose window. The imprint inscription "Montblanc Meisterstück" is typical of post-war models, while pre-war and wartime models partly bore no imprint at all. Ventilation holes in the cap are found on all pens up to the 50s and are not a distinguishing feature. A reliable identification requires photos and dimensions.

### Which model and production period is an old Montblanc with lever-fill mechanism, imprint "Simplo Original Montblanc 4FF" and heart shape on the nib?

It is not a Safety, but a Montblanc Lever Filler model No. 4, produced between 1922 and 1929. With the Safety, the nib is extended and retracted via a turning knob at the barrel end; with the lever filler, the lateral lever presses via a small plate on a rubber sac. It is not a Meisterstück, since this series carries 18-carat nibs and the cap engraving "Meisterstück" or "Masterpiece" as well as model numbers from the 20/25-45 range. A detailed description can be found in the book "Fountain Pens of the World" on page VII of the appendix.

### From which period does the Montblanc ballpoint 315 date, and what value is realistic in heavily used condition?

The Montblanc 315 was made in 1958-1959. Value statements are basically relative and strongly dependent on the condition of preservation; with clear abrasion marks, the achievable price is only around 15-20 EUR, since unused pieces from the 1950s are also frequently available. Information on matching replacement refills can be found in the corresponding forum posts.

### Is a cap without ring engraving a Montblanc 252, and what approximate value is to be set?

Collectors report that the model designation on the Montblanc 252 (small variant of the 25x series from the 1950s) is on the turning knob, while the cap ring then remains blank and only the Montblanc inscription stands on the cap. The models can be classified in time on the basis of engraving position (cap ring or turning knob) and ink-view window (blue or white); for this, the Montblanc Diary by Wallrafen/Rösler is a recommended reference. The value depends strongly on supply, demand and above all condition and cannot be flat-rate quantified. Serious research in the specialist literature obviates many direct value questions.

### Which fountain-pen model with rotary mechanism is a light, faded piece with imprint "4M", and how is such a fountain pen filled?

It is a so-called Safety fountain pen made of hard rubber, on which the nib is extended from the body via a rotary mechanism; the imprint "4M" means model size 4 with medium nib (M). The production period typically lies between 1920 and 1935. For filling, the fountain pen is held vertically, the nib turned out so far that it is about half visible, and the ink is filled in directly above the nib area; afterwards the nib is fully extended for writing or retracted again for closing. With old examples, the internal seals are often porous, so that the pen leaks; writing with such pieces is therefore often refrained from. Further details can be found at richardspens.com.

### Which variants of the Montblanc 149 existed in the course of production (materials, nibs, lettering), and over which periods?

The first 149s were equipped with silver rings; in the course of the decades, the body material was changed: first celluloid, later simple plastic and finally "Montblanc precious resin" on an acrylic basis. The nibs were initially made in 18 carat, in between reduced to 14 carat and later changed back to 18 carat; correspondingly, the inscription also changed from "18 c" to "18 k". A concrete overview with all data is difficult to compile; a helpful article can be found at pentrace.com (penbase, article id 405). For final clarification, a direct enquiry to Montblanc can also be useful.

### Which model is a green-striped Montblanc fountain pen with 14C-585 nib, about 13 cm long and a cap band, presumably from Spain?

It is a rather rare piece from a series that the Spanish Montblanc distributor in the 1950s had produced in Spain in their own management with permission from Hamburg. The models existed grey-, brown- and green-striped in sizes 2 and 4, i.e. as 342 and 344. Background were high import duties and delivery difficulties from Germany; in some countries (also Denmark, Italy) complete in-house productions or assemblies from supplied spare parts were partly carried out. The quality of these Spanish Montblancs, however, did not correspond to the German minimum requirements.

### Is a flea-market find with Montblanc inscription a real Montblanc ballpoint or a counterfeit?

It is a counterfeit that apparently leans on the Limited Edition Jules Verne. Indications are a clip reminiscent of metal-processing components, an end piece not true to the original with a star placed on top, as well as a "vapour-deposited" MB inscription on the middle ring including "Meisterstück" — a combination that Montblanc never produced. More than 2-10 euros should not be spent on such a piece.

### Which model is a red Montblanc fountain pen with small dimensions, and what price is to be expected today?

It is a Montblanc SlimLine from the 1980s with gilded steel nib; until the early 1990s, Montblanc also produced cheap everyday and school fountain pens. The original prices were low (rollerball at the time about 19.80 DM, fountain pen somewhat above). The matching white ballpoint (see fountainpen.de) was previously between 4.95 and 30 DM; a black ballpoint with the model number on the cap ring (presumably 380, 1971-1979) moves price-wise in a similar range. Current market prices can best be ascertained via eBay searches but are generally low.

### Is an old Pelikan fountain pen with a golden body, 14C OF nib and Pelikan logo an original Pelikan or a jeweller's/goldsmith's work?

Collectors report that Pelikan in gold existed exclusively in the 100 variant, but not in model 100N; a golden 100N is therefore not pure factory production. If, however, the gold body bears the Pelikan logo, it is a licensed refinement that could not have taken place without permission from Pelikan. In the collector scene, such pieces appear under the designation "Mä(e)nner overlay", named after the goldsmith Mä(e)nner, who among other things made Pelikan overlays; analogously, Sarastro produced overlays for Montblanc. Despite the refinement, it remains a beautiful and usable Pelikan.

### Can model information and replacement caps be found for an Astoria safety pen with the marking "Astoria 4 14 Karat"?

Since Astoria fountain pens were never sold in large numbers, the procurement of spare parts — especially caps — is extremely difficult, significantly more difficult than even at Montblanc. An attempt is worthwhile with specialised dealers and repairers, e.g. Horst Schrage (maxpens.de), Lutz Fiebig (interpens.de) or Tom Westerich (penboard.de).

Related pages on fountainpen.de:
• Astoria — brand overview (fountainpen.de): https://www.fountainpen.de/astoria-en.htm

### How does one repair an old Montblanc Meisterstück 138 (seal, cap, star, nib determination), and how can the originality of the nib be ascertained?

The 138 is a rare and beautiful piece; a professional cleaning as well as a piston exchange are without problems possible via repair specialists (linked under the menu item "Repair" on fountainpen.de) and mostly priced reasonably. Cap and turning knob should originally be black, but the hard rubber oxidises over time and can appear brown-greenish; here too the repairer can restore the surfaces. The hole at the top of the cap prevents condensate formation and is structurally normal; the missing star can if applicable be remade, which is, however, elaborate. The 138 had three nib variants: 18-carat bicolour gold, monochrome steel and bicolour palladium; a two-tone nib with the markings 4810, Montblanc M star, curved P and 245 is most likely an original nib.

### Can a Montblanc Safety No. 1 in gold with unusually combined features (e.g. missing star on the cap and a fitted Astoria gold nib) count as an original mixed model or prototype?

Collectors do not classify such pieces as prototypes. More likely is either a subsequently inserted spare part (nibs frequently broke and were replaced by other contemporary nibs like an Astoria) or an assembled pen with barrel and cap from different models, since Montblanc never delivered writing instruments with mixed brand markings. A combination of round barrel form and octagonal cap also speaks against factory originality. A missing star and unknown model variants are, however, no unambiguous counterfeit indication, since before the Second World War many models existed and Montblanc's own pattern department was destroyed in the war. A reliable assessment is only possible through inspection in person.

Related pages on fountainpen.de:
• Astoria — brand overview (fountainpen.de): https://www.fountainpen.de/astoria-en.htm

### Did Montblanc have a stylus variant of the push-knob model No. 15 without model-number engraving, and are unmarked pieces from this series usual?

This stylus version actually existed and was, according to current sources, made around 1934; in the Rösler Diary it is missing between positions 4 and 5 on page 79. Stylus pens of this early model line mostly bore no numbers on the blind cap, while the pen holders always had a model number; an unnumbered pen holder would accordingly be a converted stylus. Exceptions are, however, documented, e.g. a stylus No. 15 with engraving as well as an unnumbered 17.5 with silver overlay. Since end pieces were often interchangeable, individual mixed forms are not ruled out. A complete model listing of Montblanc does not exist; the Rösler Diary, too, has gaps.

### How can discolouration on a Montblanc Meisterstück K 122 of hard rubber be treated, and how high is the collector value of this model?

On the K 122, the K stands for short; it is the smallest Meisterstück of this series. The steel nib is mostly a wartime replacement nib, since the original gold nib was often given to the so-called war donation. The filling system used a rubber sac behind a pressure spring; this is, after such a long time, hard or disintegrated and should necessarily be replaced; otherwise damage threatens. The brownish discolouration is a natural ageing of the hard rubber through escaped sulphur and can only be polished by significant material removal, e.g. with Wenol; a patina is regarded as appropriate. The 122 is significantly rarer than current models, but as a small Meisterstück not as valuable as the larger sister models; market guidelines are provided by observation of online auctions.

### Did Montblanc produce writing instruments under the sub-brand name Cyclop for the Berlin firm Ferd. Ashelm?

Ferd. Ashelm was a Berlin business-book factory that no longer appears in supplier directories after 1945. The writing instruments offered under the name Cyclop were presumably not made in-house but bought in; whether stemming from Montblanc production cannot be established from a catalogue alone, since many manufacturers at that time made extremely similar products. A reliable assignment requires the piece in hand and the inspection of the mechanism. Montblanc did not make comprehensive office articles like glue or stamps; the additional articles in the Ashelm catalogue stem from in-house production. A complete reliable list of Montblanc sub-brands does not exist; the listings circulating on the internet are to be used with reservation.

### Can a vintage Montblanc 222 hard-rubber piston filler with a cap without inscription be original, or is the cap exchanged or counterfeit?

An early Chinese copy is unlikely. More likely is that the inscription has, through decades of use and the sulphur migration typical of hard rubber, completely disappeared; with a professional restoration, remains of the embossing might reappear. A cap exchange or an old repair is also not to be ruled out. Montblanc itself classified the pen in an email statement as a possible 204 with correction to 201 from the 1930s, but not as a 222; caps without engraving are not known there. Experienced collectors rather advise against sending in to Montblanc service with old pieces, since the competence for vintage models there is limited and repairs can be very expensive; specialists like Lutz (interpens.de) are better suited for restorations.

### Is a Montblanc 32 with a striking nib and grip section original, or has it been assembled from parts of other models?

With the piece described, presumably a parts assemblage exists. The nib depicted is a so-called butterfly nib, which typically belongs in the 22, 12 or a standard 32; gold versions with 14K mostly stem from the 22, 18K versions from a Meisterstück 12. The body shows the form of a 32 for a D nib with a free-standing nib, the only known variant with this geometry. A gilded steel nib of this form is therefore no rare special model but, in the assessment of experienced collectors, also stems from another 32.

### How are older, presumably gilded Sheaffer fountain pens from an estate to be classified, and where can the market value be assessed?

Sheaffer is not among the price-strongest vintage brands; older Sheaffers with a gold-electroplated marking therefore lie price-wise rather moderate. Market prices can be well observed via auction platforms like martiniauctions.com. Since these writing instruments write very well, it is also being considered to keep one of the duplicates instead of selling.

### Is it worth repairing a Montblanc No. 22 with missing rings on the viewing window and a broken ink window, and who carries out such work?

Montblanc itself no longer offers free repairs or spare parts for such old models. A tried and tested solution is the purchase of another No. 22 as a parts donor via eBay. Alternatively, specialised workshops like Horst Schrage (maxpens) or Interpens are available, who professionally restore such vintage pens.

### Which refills fit the old Montblanc ballpoints with lever mechanism from the 1950s and 1960s?

The lever mechanism in the clip was a pure Montblanc construction and ran in many variants from 1956 to about 1968. In writing instruments of this early generation, today's Montblanc refills no longer fit; instead, Ballograf refills can be used, which were anyway fitted at the factory at that time. Alternatively, the somewhat thicker standard refills of Schmidt or Schneider can be adapted by cutting off the plastic end and filing it round. Models produced from about 1970 to 1989, on the other hand, take today's Montblanc refills without problem.

### What does the letter G in the engraving "138 G" on the blind cap of a Montblanc 138 mean, and where is the nib width usually noted?

The letter G after the model number does not denote a nib width but particular surface properties, patterns or materials (analogously to PL or S). The nib width is normally engraved on the opposite side of the blind cap. On the 138, "G" was widespread as a standard designation of the pre-war and early post-war pens but does not occur on every example. Gold nibs were no rare exception on the 138.

### Does a Montblanc 1866 in 925 silver with the marking "1970 5 KM" exist, and are there counterfeits of the Montblanc Carrera?

Of the Carrera no counterfeits are known, since it is a comparatively cheap school fountain pen whose reproduction is not economically worthwhile. A missing inscription on the cap is therefore no indication of a plagiarism but rather of normal wear. Sales references to one's own eBay auctions are unwelcome in the forum.

### Which Montblanc model from the 1970s is a fountain pen with unusually shaped plastic around the nib?

Based on the cap form below, the pen can be identified as a Montblanc 121, which was produced from 1971 to 1976. In contrast to the visually similar 221, the lower cap end differs on the 121. It is a solid everyday writing instrument that is neither particularly rare nor particularly valuable but offers long-standing joy in writing.

### From what period does a Montblanc 161 mechanical pencil with a doubly tapered ring date, and does this model belong to the Meisterstück range?

The 161 with the characteristic pointed ring (form of a mountain as the symbol of the Montblanc) was produced from 1971 to 1973 and corresponds visually to the 151. The 6 in the model number identifies the Meisterstück range and means that 1.18 mm leads are used. In quality, the Meisterstück pencils and ballpoints of the second and third series of the 1960s and 1970s differed mainly through different surface versions; alongside stood the simpler mass models like Noblesse, Monte Rosa, Carrera and Caressa.

### Do body, end pieces and nib of a Montblanc 333 1/2 with designation "B" and ribbed rings reliably stem from the same production period?

The body of the 333 1/2 with ribbed rings is a wartime model from about 1942 to 1944, when even Meisterstücks were no longer made with the usual rings; the pen itself is original in this case. Discolouration between body (celluloid) and end pieces (hard rubber) is normal due to the materials. The feed is also original Montblanc and matches the production period; the nib, on the other hand, is unambiguously not by Montblanc and was inserted later.

### Does a 334 1/2 nib fit into a Montblanc 236, or is this nib size faulty?

A 334 1/2 nib does not belong in a Montblanc 236. Originally, a size-6 nib is fitted in the 236, which is significantly larger. Even if the smaller nib appears visually fitting, it is a later exchange. Replacement nibs in the correct size can most likely be procured via specialist dealers or the second-hand market.

### How rare and valuable is the Montblanc 97 lever ballpoint in 14K guilloché from the 60s, and which refill fits in?

The Montblanc 97 is not extremely rare but a high-quality collector's piece from the 1960s. Realistic market prices, depending on condition and engraving, are about 160 to 250 euros; dealer offers of 1,600 euros or more are utopian. A normal Montblanc large-capacity refill often does not fit, since the tip opening is smaller and an additional sleeve sits in the cap; suitable refills are e.g. Schmidt 1011 refills. The 585 hallmark stamped multiple times confirms the solid-gold housing.

### Is it worth having an old Stöffhaas fountain pen without nib and with a stuck push button restored?

With a Stöffhaas remnant without nib and with a stuck push button, a restoration is generally not worthwhile. Especially cap and nib are often taken from such pieces as spare parts, so that only a residual value of about 5 to 10 euros remains for the parts box. A professional restoration significantly exceeds this material value.

### How does one remove sticky-tape adhesive residues from an old Montblanc Meisterstück (presumably 132/134/138) made of celluloid and hard rubber, without damaging the embossings?

On old Meisterstücks, the barrel typically consists of celluloid, the other parts of hard rubber. Hard rubber can carefully be rubbed with olive oil; light spots thereby become darker and the appearance evens out. Polishing reliably removes adhesive and discolouration residues but can also wear off fine embossings like nib-width statements or model designations. Anyone wishing to avoid the risk should hand the writing instruments over to a specialist (e.g. Horst Schrage, maxpens.de), who can gently freshen them up.

### In what period was the Montblanc 31 piston filler produced, what type of nib does it have and what is it worth?

The Montblanc 31 was made from 1961 to 1966 and is fitted with partly gilded steel nibs, that is, not with gold nibs. For value determination, collectors refer to the relevant forum articles on school and middle-class models of this era; concrete market prices vary strongly according to condition and completeness.

### What does the 'S' before or after the fineness stamp (e.g. 'S 900' / '900 S' or 'S 585' / '585 S') on old Montblanc writing instruments mean?

The 'S' stands for 'Sarastro', the master responsible for overlays at Montblanc at the time. He was allowed to apply his mark to writing instruments whose overlays were particularly high-quality executed. Such hallmarks are found on pencils and fountain pens that Montblanc produced in Germany between the two world wars. The marking is today regarded as a quality indication for the workmanship of the precious-metal coating.

### What is a brown ring on the inside of a Montblanc 146 cap, and is this a structural feature or a repair indication?

The brown ring is a brass ring fitted at the factory, structurally introduced to remedy the known problem of loose cap rings. Over time the brass oxidises and takes on a brownish colour. Closely viewed, the brass shimmers through the patina, and on light scratching the metallic surface is recognisable. It is therefore neither a repair nor a defect but an original component.

### How does one deal with an inherited scratchy Montblanc Meisterstück 142, and which ink and repair possibilities are recommendable?

The 142 is the smallest Meisterstück of that time and consists of celluloid, which can be discoloured by certain inks; an ink window that is no longer yellow is an indication of this. A self-repair of the nib with sandpaper is risky, since the iridium tipping is quickly ground off and the nib is then unusable. Replacement nibs for the 142 from the 1950s are hardly available in the trade; a repair is therefore difficult and should at most be carried out by a specialist. Since nibs can be ground in to the previous owner, it can be worthwhile acquiring a new matching nib instead of getting used to the old one.

### Which refills fit a Montblanc Quickpen, and are old models like the 342 still repairable?

In the Montblanc Quickpen, fineliner refills by Schmidt Feintechnik fit if a paper ball is inserted as a spacer at the back in the barrel; the spring-loaded fineliner refills made by Schmidt for Montblanc also work. For the Montblanc 342 (third series), Montblanc no longer keeps spare parts, since these writing instruments were not designed for a lifelong repair supply. With defects on old models like the 342 or 32, a repair is therefore problematic and only possible via specialised repairers with a stock of spare parts.

### How can the authenticity of an inherited Montblanc ballpoint from the 1980s without a serial number on the clip be ascertained?

Older Montblanc ballpoints from the 1980s often bear no serial number on the clip but only engravings like Germany on the upper and Mont Blanc Meisterstück on the lower ring. From the imprint and the design, the model can be identified, here for example as model 164 with corn guilloche. A missing serial-number code is therefore no indication of a counterfeit but normal for the age.

### Does a Montblanc push filler from the time of the Reichsdeutsche Füllhalterfabrik exist with nib engraving Exekutiv and eagle?

Without pictures, such an unusual constellation cannot be seriously judged, since Montblanc has indeed produced many models, but a combination of green-marbled push filler with the inscription Reichsdeutsche Füllhalterfabrik Niederlage Wien and eagle nib engraving is not commonly documented. Collectors recommend critical examination and research of the sources from which corresponding information stems. A verification without photo material and original piece is not possible.

### Which Bordeaux or brown inks are suitable for a Montblanc 144 from the 1950s with cork piston?

Bordeaux inks exist from Montblanc, De Atramentis, Waterman (remaining stock) and Visconti, as well as a multitude of brown tones. With old fountain pens with cork piston (e.g. 144 from the 1950s or 139), however, caution is advised: certain inks, especially Montblanc ink itself, can attack the cork piston. Reliable here is traditionally Pelikan Royal Blue. With writing instruments with modern plastic piston this problem does not exist, so coloured inks can be used unhesitatingly.

### Do Montblanc Meisterstück 146 G from the 1940s exist, and what residual value is to be expected with a defective piston?

The Montblanc 146 was only produced after the Second World War from 1951; a 146 G from the 1940s therefore does not exist. Corresponding eBay offers with dating to the 1940s are wrongly described. With a defective piston seal, a repair through specialists is possible but partly expensive; the market value depends strongly on original condition, completeness and nib condition.

### How is an older Montblanc to be classified that cannot be unambiguously assigned either to the models of the wartime or to those of the 50s/60s?

In the described case it is not a uniform Montblanc but a combination of two brands. Cap and nib come from the Montblanc 334 1/2, while the body comes from a Pelikan 500 from the 50s. Such hybrids arise when someone assembles a usable one from two damaged writing instruments. For this reason no comparable models can be found on the internet. As an everyday writer, such a mixed piece can nevertheless give good service.

### Which Montblanc desk set (e.g. 204 or 222) is it on the basis of the photos provided, and is the cap of the fountain pen made of gold?

It is a Montblanc desk set 204, made between 1970 and 1975. The cap consists not of gold but of gilded brass. For an unambiguous identification, assessment based on photos is necessary.

### How can the value of a Vintage Montblanc Rouge et Noir with nib number 2 in visually good condition be determined?

An objective, fixed value does not exist with vintage writing instruments; the market value fluctuates considerably and depends strongly on the actual condition of preservation. A serious evaluation based on the unsharp photos provided is not possible, because decisive aspects like the state of the iridium tipping, the function and originality of the filling mechanism cannot be judged. A German-language guide to value determination of writing instruments can be found in the community fountainpen.de. A condition described as only externally good corresponds rather to a normal condition and does not justify a premium markup.

### Is the depicted Montblanc Carrera rollerball genuine, and do the Montblanc refills made today fit it or is an adapter needed?

The model shown is an original; counterfeits of the Carrera are not worth the effort for counterfeiters, since it is a simple school writing instrument and no luxury product. Until 1991 Montblanc was a normal writing-instrument manufacturer with the whole spectrum from cheap school to Meisterstück level. On the question of refills, the information circulates that current Montblanc refills may fit under certain circumstances; otherwise an adapter is available; it is recommended to test this practically with an existing refill (e.g. from a StarWalker rollerball).

### Is the 25 Meisterstück still a Safety, and why does the model designation change from numbers like 1-12 to 25 or 45?

Safety does not designate a model but a filling mechanism with an extendable nib. The numbers 00 to 12 stand for the Safetys for the size of nib and housing and do not denote Meisterstücks. From 1924, Meisterstücks and also other models (12.5 / 15 / 17.5 / 25 / 45) were named with their then retail price in Reichsmark as model number. A 25 Meisterstück could therefore be made as a Safety but also as a button, lever or compressor filler; decisive is always the combination of model number and filling system. A more detailed account can be found in the Montblanc book by Jens Rösler.

### How is the inside of the Montblanc 144 constructed, and what changes has the model undergone in the course of its production?

The 144 exists in two basic variants: the original version of the 50s from celluloid with piston filling mechanism and the version reissued from the 80s of resin as a cartridge filler, initially without platinum intarsia on the nib. The 80s variant existed in Bordeaux and black with gilded clips and rings; a platinum-plated version of the regular 144 has never existed; the platinum trim was only introduced with the successor 145. Today the 144 is only offered as a Solitaire, there then also with platinum-plated surfaces. The flexible nibs characteristic of the 50s are no longer produced in this form today, which is regarded as the main cause for different writing feel between old and newer examples; the choice of the suitable nib, however, remains strongly dependent on individual writing posture.

### What does the suffix -N mean on the Montblanc Meisterstück 742-N, and how can the current value of a well-preserved example with original gold nib be estimated?

The Montblanc 742 was made from 1951 to 1956. The N stands for the wing nib used in this period; the 742 also existed before with a normal nib. A flat-rate value estimate is not seriously possible; it depends strongly on the concrete condition of preservation and the condition of the nib. A guide to evaluating writing instruments can be found in the community fountainpen.de.

### Should a Montblanc Meisterstück No. 14 have two gold rings at the ink-view window, and is a repair worthwhile with a missing ring?

In the standard work by Rösler/Wallrafen, only one ring is depicted on the No. 14; however, variants are quite conceivable in the course of production. A professional repair is generally not worthwhile with these writing instruments from the 60s, since the costs exceed the value; rather the purchase of another example is recommended. Sometimes suitable spare parts can be obtained from collectors for a small contribution; for this, however, a photo of the area in question is helpful.

### How can one sell a Montblanc Meisterstück L25 with the inscription D.R.P. 508058 and what value does it have?

The L25 is the longer variant; the rarer K25 achieves higher prices, so the value of an L25 is to be set somewhat below it but nevertheless clearly above that of usual pre-war Meisterstücks. For the sale eBay is very well suited, since there one reaches the most collectors; alternatively collectors' meet-ups can be used, whose dates can be found e.g. via collectiblestars.de. A professional value determination is by current state hardly still offered, and the effort would only pay off with very high-quality pieces. For price-finding, the observation of comparable eBay auctions is best suited.

### When was the Montblanc 1497 (149 Solitaire Solid Gold) introduced - 1983 or 1987?

The correct chronology is: first presentation 1982, market launch 1983, which can also be substantiated by an entry in the Guinness Book of Records from 1983. Deviating datings like 1987 or 1988 in individual publications obviously rest on errors or sources copied from each other. The model 1497 with thread guilloche was offered until 1992 and then succeeded by the model 1499 with bicolour fishgrate pattern. Only at Pentecost 1992 was the designation Meisterstück Solitaire introduced within the framework of the New Dimensions event.

### What value does an about 40-year-old fountain pen with the cap inscription 333 1/2 M and a 3 1/2 nib have?

Such pieces mostly achieve on eBay prices between 50 and 100 euros, depending on condition also below or above. The sentimental value of an inherited fountain pen, however, cannot be objectively quantified and should stand in the foreground for the heir. Anyone wanting to ascertain the actual market value can list the piece on eBay and observe the bidding behaviour.

### Is the Montblanc 234 1/2 with glass nib offered on eBay as 'unique vintage' genuine?

Most likely the piece is a counterfeit; in particular the snake is not original, and the location of the seller (Bulgaria) has for years been a typical source of such vintage fakes. Even though Montblanc historically did produce models with glass nibs (e.g. a variant documented in the 1936 catalogue), such nibs are today easily bought for a few euros and fitted into fakes. Generally, with old writing instruments from Eastern Europe, at Penbid and at auction houses that despite warnings auction fakes, greatest caution is advised. Buyers have paid for such plagiarisms partly over 1,000 USD, which underlines the necessity of thorough research and advice.

### Can one use a converter instead of cartridges in the Montblanc Generation, and which one fits?

The Generation can basically also be filled with a converter, but the current Montblanc converters do not fit. Suitable are universal converters of other manufacturers like Pelikan or Faber-Castell, that is, all standard converters without manufacturer-specific cartridge format (e.g. Lamy or Parker). Since the mechanical fit can nevertheless be tight, it is advisable to take the pen to a writing-instrument specialist shop and select a suitable converter on the spot.

### Was the Montblanc No. 124 with completely guilloched reservoir and turning knob produced in parallel to the smooth variant, or is it a transitional model?

The fully guilloched variant with continuation of the cap thread guilloche on the barrel was made only briefly, essentially in 1969, and offered in parallel to the variant with smooth barrel; it is therefore actually an independent, cheaper version between pure metal version and simple 124. The models existed with gilded as well as solid silver cap, the latter with rhodium-plated white-gold nib. The variant with smooth barrel and thick feed was after that still produced until about 1974/75. Overall, the guilloched version is rare and regarded as an interesting collector's piece.

### Which vintage fountain pen from the time before 1950 is suitable as an inexpensive entry piece, and should one choose a piston filler or Safety?

Anyone who only collects the piece can quite reach for a Safety, since this offers a special mechanism. If the pen is also to be used, however, a piston fountain pen is more suitable for everyday use. As inexpensive entry models, the Montblanc 134 or the 234 1/2 are recommended; the latter especially in the luxury variant with tie clip has a well-writing nib. Important is, when buying — e.g. on eBay — to pay attention to functionality; in particular the cork seal often has to be renewed.

### Which refill fits a Montblanc 215 ballpoint, and can the nib be freely chosen at the refill entry?

In the 215 from the 1950s belongs a Swedish Ballograph refill, since Montblanc at that time, lacking its own ballpoint production, used such refills as bought-in articles; the standard refills supplied by Montblanc today often do not fit. The nib is part of the writing instrument and not of the refill, so it is not arbitrarily exchangeable. Sensible is to take the ballpoint together with the existing refill to a specialist shop and have a suitable refill, e.g. by Schneider, fitted there.

### What value do several Montblanc vintage fountain pens (3 x 31, 342, 344g) in mediocre condition, partly with bent nibs and engraved caps, have?

Without a photo and concrete defect description, hardly a serious price statement can be made. The models mentioned are widely common, so corresponding spare parts can often also be obtained cheaply; experienced collectors pay for such parts overall rather under 35 euros including shipping. Thus the pieces have above all a spare-parts character and are mainly interesting for collectors, dealers or self-repairers. With rare vintage Montblancs, nibs alone are significantly more expensive.

### Did the Montblanc Meisterstück 149 also exist from the factory with a 14-carat, two-tone nib?

Yes, earlier 149s were actually delivered with two-tone 14-carat nibs (585); the today widely common 18-carat nibs are only the later construction. The imprint '4810 / M / 14k / Montblanc / 585' in connection with yellow-gold outer and platinum-plated inner surface fits an original 149 nib of this period. An overview of the various nib variants can be found in relevant Pentrace articles. A wrong nib or cap is therefore not necessarily to be assumed, provided the other inscriptions (e.g. 'Meisterstück Nr. 149' and 'Germany') are consistent.

Related pages on fountainpen.de:
• Montblanc Meisterstück 149 (Grand Format): https://www.fountainpen.de/c-montblanc-meisterstueck-149-en.htm

### How does one fill an old golden Montblanc safety pen with retractable nib, in which only the rotary wheel for extending and retracting the nib can be moved?

This model is a Safety fountain pen whose functioning differs basically from later piston fillers. A sensible help requires at least photos of the writing instrument; without a visible model, general instructions are hardly usable. It is recommended to search in the forum specifically for the terms 'Safety' or 'Sicherheitsfüller' and there to heed the relevant explanatory articles as well as the forum rules on first name and picture attachment. On this basis, the concrete mechanism can then be identified and the pen properly filled.

### How large were the Montblanc Meisterstück models 142, 144, 146 and 149 from the 1950s in comparison to today's versions?

The 50s versions are somewhat smaller than today's counterparts; the difference moves in the range of a few millimetres. Concretely reported dimensions: 149 from the 50s about 14.3 cm closed and 12.9 cm from the turning-knob end to the nib tip, versus 14.6 cm and 13.1 cm on the current 149. The 142 from the 50s measures about 12.5 cm closed and 11 cm opened; the 146 around 13.5 cm closed and 12 cm opened; an older 144 about 13 cm closed and 11.3 cm opened. The values are to be understood as guideline values, since tolerances and transitional series can differ.

### How can a piece of fluff trapped in the ink chamber of an old Pelikan 342 be removed, and is professional disassembly worthwhile for this?

On the 342, often first the feed together with the nib can be carefully pulled out; subsequently the chamber can be thoroughly rinsed; with success, the piston mechanism does not have to be further disassembled. A complete disassembly requires suitable tools and is not trivial – in the specific case the unscrewing succeeded with a coincidentally available tool. Economically, sending to a specialist like maxpens.de hardly pays off with a 342, since market prices for used examples are around 10 euros and the postage alone exceeds the value; exceptions are rare features like a music nib. Alternatives are to leave the fluff, to acquire a replacement 342 or to seek help at a collectors' meet-up.

### Is a 20- to 30-year-old, used Montblanc cartridge filler still suitable as a reliable everyday pen on a budget of around 100 euros?

Older fountain pens can basically be used without problem in everyday life; the rumour of writing in a gold nib is unfounded, since the nib tip consists of iridium and does not wear off. With Montblanc, however, it is to be noted that the brand has only positioned itself as a luxury-goods manufacturer since 1991 and before that – similarly to Pelikan or Lamy – covered the entire range from simple school fountain pen to expensive typewriter. An older Montblanc is therefore not automatically high-quality, which is why model and condition are to be heeded. As equivalent alternatives, older Pelikan or Lamy models come into question, which in the mentioned budget often offer solid used writing instruments with a gold nib.

### What characterises a Montblanc No. 32 with a free-standing nib and 'D' marking, does this model belong to the Meisterstück series and what explains the hardness of a D nib?

The No. 32 is not a Meisterstück but part of the third series and thus settled two steps below the Meisterstück. The marking 'D' designates a very hard, inflexible carbon-copy nib; with it one could press so vigorously while writing that simultaneously a carbon copy could be generated via carbon paper. D nibs were increasingly displaced by ballpoints in the 1960s. The nibs were mostly made of solid gold (in this case 14 C); the high stiffness results from a correspondingly dimensioned and more strongly executed nib body, not solely from the material.

### How can a more than 70-year-old, presumably gilded fountain pen without brand marking — only clip stamp 585 and weight 32 g — be reliably assigned to a manufacturer?

An unambiguous brand assignment is hardly possible with old gold pens without manufacturer or nib marking, since before the Second World War there was a very large number of mostly nameless producers. Often body blanks or whole pens were additionally fitted by jewellers with individual gold overlays, which has displaced the original brand name. From the clip form alone nothing unambiguous can be derived; comparable clips are found with Astoria and numerous other manufacturers. Recommendable is presentation of the piece at a collectors' fair, e.g. in Hamburg, where the direct assessment has significantly more meaning than a forum post with photos. Anyone wishing to preserve the piece can have a suitable gold nib fitted and thus create a long-term usable writing instrument.

Related pages on fountainpen.de:
• Astoria — brand overview (fountainpen.de): https://www.fountainpen.de/astoria-en.htm

### In what price range does a Montblanc 322 Black & Pearl with defective push mechanism move, and where could the defect lie on a writing instrument of this construction?

The price range for a vintage model like the 322 Black & Pearl reaches, depending on condition, from about 100 to 1,000 euros; it depends on overall condition, housing damage, signs of use, discolouration, originality, previous repairs, mechanical defects and rarity. At auctions the individual bidding behaviour and the number of serious interested parties additionally come in. For a reliable estimate, meaningful photos are necessary. The push mechanism of older Montblanc models of this type generally rests on an ink sac; a defective, hardened or leaking sac is a plausible and generally repairable cause of failure.

### What is known about the writing-instrument brand EBOS and does a Montblanc pen of ebony exist?

The brand EBOS is unknown to experienced collectors, so no reliable statements about history or model range can be made. A Montblanc pen of ebony was never made; the corresponding description of the family piece is therefore incorrect; the material must be another.

### Which model and which value are to be assigned to an old Montblanc pen with 585 gold nib?

It is a Montblanc 1124, made between 1976 and 1980. The value of such models can only be roughly estimated and depends strongly on condition and nib width; corresponding comparison offers can be found in relevant collector forums. Important is the historical context: only from 1991 has Montblanc positioned itself as a luxury-goods manufacturer; before that the product range reached from the cheap school pen to the Meisterstück.

### Which Montblanc model is a cartridge filler with the inscription 'Montblanc Germany' and without a type number?

Based on the description, the cartridge-filler models 320 or 320P come into question. An unambiguous assignment is not possible without sight of the grip section and further detail pictures; more meaningful would be shots from a suitable perspective. The designation 'Montblanc Germany' on the lower cap ring is typical for this series.

### Is a Meisterstück with corn-guilloched body, two-tone 14C-585 nib (4810/M) and unused engraving plate a Montblanc 742, and in which variant?

The Montblanc 742 existed in the production period 1951–1956 in two variants: 'rolled gold' (gilded) and 'solid gold' (solid 585 gold). The solid-gold variant is unambiguously recognisable by the 585 hallmarks on cap, clip and body; if these imprints are missing, the gilded rolled-gold variant is present. A serious value statement is only possible after assessment of the piece, since condition and completeness decisively determine the price. General hints on value determination can be found in the relevant forum posts on price-finding.

### How can a Montblanc 146 with a completely golden nib be classified in time and how can its authenticity be checked?

A nib made entirely of gold typically speaks for a model from the 1980s. A reliable authenticity and condition assessment, however, is only possible based on meaningful photos of nib, cap ring, clip and body. Aids for posting pictures are available in the relevant forum guides. Value statements from eBay auctions are without precise condition check only very restrictedly reliable.

### Can a Montblanc fountain pen with 14-carat nib, '246' embossing on the end cap, green viewing window and hard-rubber parts be identified as model 246?

The features mentioned, especially the '246' embossing on the end cap, the green viewing window, the hard-rubber components and the white star, speak for a Montblanc 246 from the 1940s, made of celluloid. The correct clip embossing reads 'MONT BLANC'. Especially in wartime, on the 246s various components from the available stock were combined, so e.g. clips can deviate without this fundamentally impairing the authenticity. A ball clip is in this context no special variant.

### Did exclusively Montblanc safety fountain pens have a safety pin in the cap, or did comparable constructions also exist on other brands?

The safety pin in the cap is not exclusively attributable to Montblanc but was also fitted by other manufacturers. Its function consists in preventing a deformation of the nib if with the cap closed the rear blind cap is turned and thereby the nib is moved. For the concrete brand assignment of an octagonal Safety, detail photos or the assessment by an experienced specialist on the spot helps further.

### How can the value of two Montblanc Slimline writing instruments found in the attic from the period 1978–1982 be determined?

A reliable value determination takes place based on a guide stored in the forum that is used as a standard for older Montblanc writing instruments. Since Slimline models are regularly offered on eBay, the current market value can be determined by comparison with completed auctions, with the condition of the auction pieces being compared with one's own piece. Flat-rate fixed prices do not exist for older Montblanc writing instruments.

### Which Montblanc rollerball model is a pen on which the inserted star at the barrel end is missing, and is a spare part available?

It is most likely a 'Noblesse I' from the 1970s. On the barrel end, what is missing is not a closure but only the inserted Montblanc plastic star typical of these models, whose loss frequently occurs. An original spare part is not regularly available, since Montblanc does not release individual parts; replacement can only be obtained via other 70s donor models from flea markets, which economically, however, seldom pays off.

### Did Montblanc in the 1950s really make Meisterstücks of real tortoiseshell, and how are the materials of that time to be compared?

Montblanc did not produce Meisterstücks of real tortoiseshell in the 1950s; tortoiseshell inlays are known from the 1920s by other manufacturers like Waterman. The models 244 and 246 designated in the literature as 'tortoiseshell' or English 'tigereye' consist of celluloid; the designation thus describes only the colour scheme. These celluloid Meisterstücks are regarded as rare, technically high-quality in writing and superior to many modern models. For repair it is however to be noted that the mechanism was partly glued with mastic and a piston exchange on the 146 is only possible via the mouthpiece; greened or discoloured examples are frequent.

### How high is the approximate price of a well-preserved Montblanc No. 22 from the period 1960–1970?

As a rough orientation, a price range of about 20 to 30 euros is named; a binding guideline price, however, does not exist for older Montblanc writing instruments. The actual value determination takes place based on the concrete condition as well as current comparison offers, especially completed eBay auctions.

### How can model, year of manufacture and authenticity of a Montblanc Meisterstück acquired at a flea market be determined?

On the end piece of the pen the model number is generally located, by which the model can be unambiguously identified. In the specific case it is a Meisterstück 102G from the last Safety series, produced between 1936 and 1937. The coding reads 1=Meisterstück, 0=safety pen, 2=smallest size of the series, G=high gloss. Nib, clip and cap fit; the hard rubber is, however, due to age matt and discoloured, and the seals are likely no longer to function. A value estimate can be made based on comparable market prices.

### Which manufacturer is an octagonal Safety pen with the barrel inscription COLUMBUS 18KT and a gold nib signed with MONTBLANC 4 14CT?

It is not a Montblanc but a Safety pen of another manufacturer; only the nib comes from Montblanc. The pen is likely to come from Italy or Germany; based on the turning knob, German origin seems more likely. An unambiguous model assignment is not possible based on the features mentioned. Despite unclear origin, it is a beautiful Safety pen that with service can be made writable again.

### Is a Safety pen with the cap inscription THE ROYAL FOUNTAIN PEN, NEW YORK U.S.A. and a nib with SIMPLO PEN CO. a Montblanc or a sideline product?

Without a photo, especially of the mechanism, a reliable statement is not possible. The inscription suggests that either pen or nib are pieced together, that is, a wrong pen with the right nib or vice versa is present. The nib with the designation SIMPLO PEN CO. is interesting as a hint of the early brand phase of Montblanc. A definitive classification is only possible based on clear pictures.

### Did the Montblanc 234 1/2 with only one cap ring also exist in combination with an older clip instead of the tie clip?

A single cap ring rather points to a cap sleeve of a 3 model (e.g. 324) that could be transferred to later models. An unambiguous statement on the originality of the configuration presupposes a photo and clarification of which earlier clip is meant (teardrop or Danish clip). A mixed assembly from different model generations is thus more plausible than an original factory configuration.

### What does the embossing M N or M.-N. on the turning knob of older Montblanc models stand for?

The embossing M.-N. stands for Montblanc-Niederlage, that is, the historical designation for a Montblanc branch. It is thus an origin or distribution mark and not a model or nib statement.

### Is ink leakage at the turning knob of a Montblanc Safety pen acquired on eBay a typical phenomenon, and how can it be remedied?

Ink leakage at the turning knob is a frequent problem with old Safety fountain pens and is no serious defect but results from ageing of the cork or rubber seal. With some luck, the seal saturates anew with ink and seals again; pre-filling with water can also let the cork swell up. Experienced collectors report that the majority of their Safety stock required restoration, which is why it is recommended to have the seal in case of oddities replaced or to renew it oneself. The phenomenon is no authenticity, but an ageing problem.

### What does the addition N after the model number of a Montblanc Meisterstück mean, e.g. on the 644 N?

The appended N marks on older Meisterstücks the version with wing nib. Models without N are, by contrast, equipped with the classic Meisterstück nib. The distinction is well comprehensible based on the nib illustrations in relevant overviews (e.g. at Maxpens or Penboard).

### From what period does an old box of Montblanc royal-blue ink in a cardboard barrel come?

Royal-blue Montblanc ink in original cardboard packaging with glass barrel is usually dated to the 1950s. A more precise temporal narrowing-down is possible by collectors based on label variants and glass form or based on relevant literature.

### How can an older gold-coloured Montblanc ballpoint with the inscription 'No. 88' and lever mechanism on the clip be identified and supplied with refills?

It is the Montblanc 88, a gold-plated ballpoint that, according to Collectible Stars (page 59), was produced between 1961 and 1970. By contrast, the 98 consists of solid gold and was made in 14- and 18-carat variants. The standard work Collectible Stars is available via collectiblestars.de and provides further details. Original refills for the 88 are no longer delivered by Montblanc; alternative refill options have to be procured via collector sources.

### Which model is an inherited Montblanc multi-colour ballpoint, and why does it carry the Montblanc logo although it comes from Fend?

It is presumably a Montblanc 60-series multi-colour ballpoint. These pens were not made by Montblanc itself but by the firm Fend in Pforzheim, which held the patent on the four-colour mechanism; Montblanc sourced the pens and had them labelled under its own name. There existed various variants with different refill counts, depending on Fend production. Such commissioned manufacture was and is common in the industry; even today, mechanisms and accessories are often bought in. For more detailed information, the Fend expert Dirk Barmeier (Penexchange) is a suitable contact.

### How is a clogged Montblanc click pencil 251 made workable again, and how is it correctly filled with leads?

Basically, Montblanc pencils can be filled from the front by operating the mechanism and pushing the lead in. If a lead remains stuck in the barrel or the mechanism can no longer be pushed through, this indicates a jammed lead piece that must be carefully removed. Since the forum has not been actively maintained since 2007, an additional enquiry in the active Penexchange forum is worthwhile, which also covers pencils and mechanism topics. The standard leads available in 60 mm are generally suitable for such models.

### How can a Montblanc fountain pen Simplo No. 0 with the nib hallmark 'Simplo 0 14k' be identified and assessed in value?

It is the Montblanc No. 0, a historical model from the early days of the brand; the digit denotes the size and stands for the second-smallest version (smaller was only the 00). Such early Simplo pieces are regarded as impressive and valuable. An eBay search helps only restrictedly with this model rarity; meaningful value statements are provided by experienced collectors. For a well-founded evaluation or a fair sale, an enquiry to Horst Schrage (max@maxpens.de), known for fair purchase offers, is recommended.

### What should be considered when buying a used mechanical typewriter from the build year 1960 regarding ribbons and function?

With mechanical typewriters from the 1960s, strike differences are to be expected that arise with a soiled or jammed typebar segment and can be remedied through a service; later golfball typewriters do not have this problem. Ink ribbons are not generally standardised but, depending on the model, still available in specialist trade. Before purchase of a concrete model (mentioned was e.g. a Privileg 160T), research on spare-parts supply and, if applicable, cleaning/service of the mechanism by an office-machine mechanic is worthwhile.

### Which Montblanc model is an old writing set in a leather case with the imprint linea bianca, and did this model have a gold nib?

The set corresponds to the Montblanc Slim Line series from the 1970s/80s, recognisable by the star on the clip; the leather case with the imprint 'linea bianca', however, presumably does not come from Montblanc itself. Slim Line models had exclusively gilded steel nibs, never real gold nibs – a frequent confusion with the externally similar Noblesse series, which had real gold nibs. The value of the Slim Line models is limited; comparison values are best ascertained via current auctions, with the search term 'Montblanc' broadly set and the exclusion principle used. A chargeable value determination is offered e.g. by Stefan Wallrafen.

### What is known about Ric Lei Safety fountain pens from Leipzig, and can a crack on the hard-rubber body be repaired?

Ric Lei was founded by a former Montblanc employee (Richter) in Leipzig and produced qualitatively high-grade writing instruments in the style of a Montblanc octagonal Safety with heart-hole nib; detail information on the brand is rare and predominantly documented in collectors' forums. Hard rubber cannot be reliably glued; a cracked component must be newly made. For such repairs, reference is made to specialised workshops, e.g. Horst from maxpens.de.

### What is known about the Montblanc models Meisterstück 12 and No. 38 from the 1960s?

Both models were made between 1959 and 1968. The Meisterstück 12 is the smaller Meisterstück fountain pen with piston filler and so-called butterfly nib; the No. 38 a ballpoint (not a rollerball) of the third line below the Meisterstück range. In black standard colour both models are relatively frequently preserved and accordingly not particularly valuable; collector prices reach especially deviating colour versions.

### What does the 'S' in the mountain imprint on the cap of the first Montblanc Meisterstück edition (25) mean?

The 'S' in the broader mountain imprint of early Meisterstücks stands for 'Simplo' and refers to the company history: Montblanc emerged from the Simplo Filler Pen Company and later operated as Montblanc Simplo GmbH. In the later Meisterstück generations this 'S' was dropped; likewise the nib engravings were changed from '18 ct' to '4810' and cap rings supplemented.

### Which Montblanc Meisterstück model bears the embossing D.R.P. 652405 as well as 4810/M/250 on the nib?

The nib inscription correctly reads 4810 (not 1810); this figure marks the height of Mont Blanc and is standard on Meisterstück nibs. For an unambiguous model determination based on the D.R.P. number and the imprint details, a photo is necessary. The further discussion was moved into a separate thread.

### Why are historical Montblanc Safety fountain pens often falsely offered in trade and on eBay as 'compressor', and what should be considered when buying?

Safety fountain pens and compressor fountain pens have different filling systems; a movable, extendable nib is unambiguous identification of a Safety pen and rules out a compressor. Even employees of regular specialist shops often do not know historical writing instruments sufficiently, which is why wrong information frequently occurs, on which sellers then rely. Collectors should therefore check models themselves or verify via relevant collector forums and specialist literature. Additionally, secondary defects like wrong nib or wrong cap sleeve can further reduce the value, which is why high prices for such pieces are mostly not justified.

### Which Montblanc model is a Meisterstück with 'Hermes' engraving, nib inscription 4310/140/585 and warranty slip 13 400?

It is a Meisterstück 144 from the 1950s with a promotional embossing 'Hermes' (promotional gift to business customers, no reference to the brand Hermès or Hermes abrasives). The nib engraving reads 4810/14C/585 (height of Mont Blanc and gold content); the model emerges from the number on the piston end (142, 144, 146 or 149); on the turning knob of the piston, often the nib width is noted (e.g. OBB). The dating to the 1950s takes place on the basis of the celluloid material and the non-melted-in, loosely sitting cap rings – from the 1960s the bodies consist of plastic with melted-in rings. The 144 was produced from 1949 to 1960; the model numbers 13 400 and 13 200 from the 90s warranty papers therefore do not fit this fountain pen.

### How is a sale offer for a Montblanc L139 (M nib) to be placed at the right place, and which information on condition and price are necessary?

Sale offers for writing instruments belong in the forum section 'For Sale' and not in general discussion areas. Sensible is the supplementation with a photo (maximum 499 pixels wide) as well as concrete information on condition and price expectation, so interested parties can judge the offer.

### What do the engraving "universo" and the abbreviation "PL" on a Montblanc 432 Stylo mean?

"universo" is most likely an individual promotional or gift engraving, as was usual on Montblanc writing instruments as corporate gifts; an official register of such engravings does not exist. The abbreviation "PL" does not denote the material but the colour or the celluloid of body and cap (platin-lined) and has nothing to do with platinum as metal. The 432 is a stylo, that is, a writer without nib, with a steel tube and a silver rod inside that controls the ink supply via capillary action. Stylos offered the advantage that document-proof inks could also be used, which would have gummed up a fountain pen.

### How is a Montblanc Meisterstück with 14ct gold nib (star with 35) and moving piston mechanism to be classified, whose description turns out scant?

The writing instrument described is apparently a so-called Bastard, that is, an assemblage of at least three not-matching parts. The cap presumably comes from a 136, the nib from an even older model and the barrel probably from a 246. In this constellation, the components are only usable as spare parts, but not as a complete, original-true collector's piece.

### Has Montblanc produced writing instruments without the characteristic star on the cap?

Yes, such writing instruments exist. They were made for the Arab market, since the star there evoked unwanted associations; therefore the trademark was modified or omitted. Examples are found already in the 50s and 60s. In Germany these variants turn up only rarely, e.g. on eBay. On the value, the absence of the star has, by collector experience, no significant influence; for some collectors such pieces are even particularly interesting.

### Which model is an old Montblanc with 14C/585 nib, flat feed and no inscription on the turning knob, presumably 334 or 334 1/2?

Based on the features, a mixed model is likely present: the cap probably comes from the 334 1/2, the body from the 344. Two cap rings point to a cap of the second price series, while clip and cap crown (engraved instead of white-inlaid star) are to be assigned to the third series. The components thus do not belong to a uniform original model.

### How is a Montblanc fountain pen without model number in the cap ring, with a gilded steel nib without 585 hallmark to be classified?

The writing instrument is officially not a 221, since the 221 always had a particular gold nib. An early model of the "Generation" 13100 can also be ruled out, since these had a model number in the cap ring and also a gold nib. The "Classic" line or older writing instruments from the third series come into question; the latter, however, had only one cap ring. The missing 585 hallmark unambiguously points to a gilded steel nib, which supports the classification as a cheaper model.

### How does one fill an old Montblanc Masterpiece 642 with piston mechanism that has been unused for decades, and which ink is suitable?

With a writing instrument so long unused, ink residues almost always block the piston mechanism. It is urgently recommended to entrust the writing instrument to an expert who can properly make the mechanism workable. The plastic housing of these early Montblancs has lost plasticisers over the decades and is brittle, so it easily breaks with force application. Filling or disassembling oneself the fountain pen should therefore not be done.

### What did a Montblanc 144 cost in the early 50s?

In the year 1958, the shop price of the Montblanc 144 was 45 DM.

### Are the small holes on the closure cap of a Montblanc 342 normal, or do they indicate a counterfeit?

The holes on the cap are normal, structurally intended air holes for pressure equalisation and must be present. Counterfeits of the 342 are unknown, since the model is price-wise unattractive for counterfeiters; imitations primarily concern fountain pens with overlay or coloured celluloid. For checking older writing instruments, a detailed comparison of the nib with further models of the same series as well as specialist literature like Collectible Stars is recommended.

### Which model could the unknown fountain pen be?

Based on the available hints, the pen was estimated as a Montblanc 34 or a 32. The exact assignment depends above all on the length of the fountain pen, since these two models differ from each other in dimensions. An unambiguous identification is only possible with concrete dimensions.

### How old is a Montblanc Pix push pencil really, and how is its preservation condition to be evaluated?

The push pencil Pix was made from 1935 to 1950 and is thus rather between 70 and 80 years old, not older. On the example described, on the push button the cover as well as the clip are missing; the piece is therefore incomplete. Comparison photos of a complete pencil of this type can be found on fountainpen.de under old-72-mechanical-pencil.htm.

### Which writing instrument is an expensively auctioned supposed Montblanc vintage piece?

The piece is not a Montblanc but an extremely rare coral-red Pelikan, which explains the high auction price. Only the clip comes from Montblanc; the nib is from an unknown manufacturer. It is therefore an assembled pen whose value is based solely on the rare Pelikan housing.

### What background information is there on the writing-instrument brand Goldring, whose clip bears this inscription?

The brand Goldring was a rather small German manufacturer; corresponding works existed in Leipzig and in Bühl. Before the Second World War, in Germany thousands of writing-instrument manufacturers existed, so smaller brands like Goldring are only difficultly assignable. For a more precise determination, photos of the writing instruments are helpful. Supplementary information can be found occasionally on eBay as well as in the forum penexchange.de.

### Can an old Montblanc lever filler with heart-hole nib, star marking 6 and Simplo imprint be more precisely dated and identified based on the description?

The fountain pen is most likely genuine; heart-hole nib, feed and barrel imprint speak for a manufacture towards the end of the 1920s. The cap seems somewhat shortened, and also the lever appears not to be original, since the correct lever had the Montblanc star engraved on the round lever end. Regarding the stated size 6, it is a comparatively rare model. A definitive determination requires further detail photos, especially of the barrel end and any further engravings.

### Can a gilded Safety filler with the inscription "ASTORIA FABRICAT" be an Astoria or Montblanc-Astoria filler?

Without a picture, the exact assignment can hardly be made. Astoria, however, made alongside Safety models also lever fountain pens in different sizes, among others in size 1, partly also with overlay. A designation "Montblanc-Astoria" could not be clarified in the thread; for a reliable determination photos should be posted.

Related pages on fountainpen.de:
• Astoria — brand overview (fountainpen.de): https://www.fountainpen.de/astoria-en.htm

### What does a minus sign after the nib width (for example "B-") on an old Montblanc 149 from the 1950s mean?

If the sign really looks like a minus, the thread gives no unambiguous explanation. If the sign rather looks like a small "L", it is a special left-hander nib with a one-sided flattened tipping. A detailed overview of nib markings and their meanings can be found in newsletter No. 1 of 2005.

### Is an old Montblanc fountain pen offered on eBay with an untypical clip a real Montblanc, and if so which model?

The fountain pen is a real Montblanc; the unusually designed overlay, however, does not come from Montblanc but from the Stuttgart jeweller MAENNER. MAENNER refined in the 1930s writing instruments of various brands (Montblanc, Pelikan and others) with silver or gold work and supplemented partly matching pencils with the same overlay. These pieces were officially distributed via the field staff and stationery dealers of the brands and delivered in original cases, in whose lid lining "MAENNER Stuttgart" stood. Such refinements are sought-after collector pieces today.

### How high is the sale value of an inherited Montblanc Hemingway fountain pen in used but good condition?

For a serious value statement, two points are decisive: whether it is the ballpoint or the fountain pen and whether the original packaging and the special service guide are present. Both have a considerable influence on the achievable price, since complete sets are traded significantly higher. In the specific case, it is a fountain pen without packaging and without service guide; a concrete price range was not finally named in the thread.

### Can a leaking Montblanc 242G with a dried-out cork seal be repaired oneself, or is it sensible to use only the nib further?

A 242G is collector-wise not particularly valuable; the gold nib, on the other hand, is very beautiful; if the writing tipping is missing, the nib is, however, unusable. A self-repair is not recommended for laypersons, because work on the old material can quickly lead to a total loss. Montblanc itself no longer repairs these old models due to a lack of spare parts; restorations are taken on exclusively by specialised restorers, who have to demand corresponding prices. A proper restoration is worthwhile above all with culturally and historically more significant pieces; on the 242, it is economically to be weighed.

### Does a black Montblanc mechanical pencil No. 10 K from the year 1935 exist, and how rare is it?

Mechanical pencils with the model number 10 K were made at Montblanc between 1925 and 1939. In black hard-rubber version they are not a particularly rare collector's piece, unlike the variants in silver or gold, which are significantly rarer. A fixed price of 400 euros for the black model is therefore ambitious and not justifiable by rarity.

### How can inherited writing instruments like a supposed Meisterstück 144 and a ballpoint 164 be identified and which sale prices are realistic?

A reliable model determination is not possible without meaningful pictures; descriptions and comparisons with the model pictures on the homepage, however, help with prior assignment. For value determination of relatively young writing instruments, forums are not the right place; the real market value is most likely ascertained by an eBay auction with a starting price of 1 euro, since higher starting prices experience-shows lead to lower closing prices. As a guideline, a Meisterstück 164 including papers and original packaging was sold on eBay for 135 euros; a LeGrand ballpoint typically lies at 180 to 200 euros. Prerequisites are good photos and a correct description based on the model specifications.

### What total length does a Montblanc Meisterstück 146 from the 1980s have?

A 146 with monochrome golden nib, which usually indicates a manufacture between about 1987 and 1992, shows a total length of 14.2 cm. This value matches already documented dimension specifications on Meisterstück writing instruments since the 1980s.

### How can an older push-button fountain pen with the inscription "4810 Montblanc Meisterstück" and a barely legible DRP number be unambiguously assigned to a model?

For identification of a push-button Meisterstück from this era, especially the model number on the turning knob at the rear end is decisive, e.g. 20, 25 or 30. Dimensions like length and diameter alone do not suffice for a reliable assignment. If the number on the turning knob is no longer legible due to signs of use, the exact model determination can experience-shows fail even with a magnifier. Inscription, nib engraving and brand name on the cap merely confirm the rough belonging to the Meisterstück range.

### Are there affordable alternatives for the repair of a Montblanc 244 with a disintegrated cork seal if the Montblanc quotation lies at around 310 euros?

The price set by Montblanc is high but can be explained by warranty service as well as the effort for procurement of the no-longer-used cork seals. Significantly cheaper are generally specialised independent repair workshops and experienced collectors who offer such restorations. An overview of corresponding workshops can be found in the forum under the section "Reparatur". With comparable result, the effort with these specialists, and thus also the price, is mostly considerably lower.

### Are the Montblanc models 254 and 24, which do not appear on relevant collector sites, nevertheless independent versions?

Both models are documented in collector literature: the Montblanc 254, similarly to the 252, was made between 1954 and 1959 in various versions; the Montblanc 24 was produced parallel to the 22 between 1960 and 1970. For further research the search functions of collector forums like penexchange.de are recommended, even if there search terms like "Montblanc 24" are partly ignored due to too-frequent occurrence. Collectors' meet-ups, e.g. get-togethers in the Pforzheim region, offer additional possibilities for knowledge exchange.

### Is there a matching mechanical pencil (Pix) for the Montblanc 244?

A Pix belonging directly to the Montblanc 244 is not known. As a visually fitting supplement, a model 272 with identical clip comes most likely into question.

### How can a damaged vintage Montblanc 139 be repaired whose rear end shows a crack and a worn thread?

A Montblanc 139 with a cracked sleeve and broken-out thread can be saved through a special repair by shortening the barrel and reducing it in diameter in order to install a new sleeve with stepped bore and thread. In the case described here this was implemented in so-called Hemingway style with a red hard-rubber sleeve; a visually original-true variant in black would alternatively be possible. The method counts as suitable to make heavily damaged vintage models functional again and is visually accepted by the owner, provided the effort is fully documented.

### How can a Montblanc ballpoint designated as Solitaire Vermeil without a hallmark be dated and classified materially?

A piece without a precious-metal imprint is no real vermeil (gilded silver) but merely gilded brass; even real solid-gold writing instruments always bear a corresponding hallmark (585 or 750). The absence of a serial number and the sole engraving Germany point to a model from the time before 1991, since Montblanc only introduced serial numbers from this year. It is therefore an older version of the Solitaire Korn in gilded brass. This information can be confirmed by the relevant Solitaire Vermeil Korn overview on fountainpen.de.

### How does one remove on an old Montblanc 333 1/2 the press-fitted piston mechanism, and where does one get a matching vintage nib size 4 1/2?

The piston mechanism of the 333 1/2 is mostly glued or welded in, so loosening with heat and pliers or driving out through a thin brass tube does not in many cases lead to success; a special procedure or a workshop visit is then necessary. In the specific case the removal succeeded ultimately only with luck. For replacement nibs in old sizes, the search on eBay Germany is recommended, where such vintage pieces are frequently offered in non-functional condition and accordingly cheaply, so the nibs can be removed for further use.

### How does one classify an old Montblanc Safety pen from family possession with octagonal form, and what is it worth?

The piece described is an octagonal Montblanc Safety No. 2 with OB nib; the engraving 20B refers to the nib width OB. The fountain pen is very similarly to be classified as the documented Astoria No. 02 Octagonal Safety Filler. Cracks basically reduce the market value significantly but are emotionally hardly relevant for family heirlooms. Comparable octagonal Safetys are regularly traded on eBay and lie in market value significantly above that of a damaged Meisterstück 14, which is economically classified rather as a parts donor.

### Is the high price for the collector's book by Jens Rösler on the Montblanc Diary and Collectors Guide justified?

The price for the book rises since years approximately half-yearly by around 50 euros, since the work is out of print and only available in limited numbers. It counts among collectors as a standard reference and nearly indispensable reference for pre-war Montblanc writing instruments. Owing to supply and demand, prices around 200 euros are by now seen as appropriate. Anyone who already owns a copy is well served; everyone else should regard the acquisition as long-term sensible.

### Does an allegedly deviating mechanism justify a premium for a Montblanc 342 from 1950 offered as a prototype?

The designation prototype is, with a 342 of usual look, generally not justified; it is mostly a normal series example. Writing instruments with an untypical component mix are at Montblanc no rarity, especially from wartime, and do not lead to a value increase. On the contrary, a deviating mechanism rather indicates a tinkered piece and reduces the value. High price demands of individual sellers say nothing about the real market value but bet on uninformed buyers.

### Does the most recently observed price decline of Montblanc Meisterstücks from the 1950s explain itself through a trend?

The prices on the collector market for vintage Meisterstücks fluctuate considerably and can only restrictedly be traced to individual trends. By way of example, a 139 brought about a year ago around 4500 USD, while current prices lie significantly lower; even a 149 with silver rings lost significantly in value within a short time. The collector market behaves in this respect similarly to the stock market, with partly not understandable up and down movements. Trend statements should therefore be regarded with caution.

### How can a Montblanc button filler without star emblem on the cap and without nib inscription be classified?

The single cap ring points to the inexpensive 3xx series, whose star is merely engraved into the cap top. The form speaks for a production period from the 1930s. Nib and possibly feed could have been exchanged in between, and whether cap and barrel belong together is not unambiguously to be clarified without inspection. Unlike the designation suggests, the body does not consist of plastic, since plastics only became common in writing instruments in the 1950s.

### How can a disintegrating casein star on a Montblanc push filler of size 6 from the 1930s be conserved or replaced?

With a disintegrating casein star, in the short term a covering with cold enamel helps in order to stop further decay. The self-manufacture of casein as a replacement material is occasionally discussed; corresponding recipes exist; their practical suitability, however, is unclear and would have to be tried out case by case. For a professional restoration, contact with specialised restorers like maxpens.de is recommended. A pure polish, as is usual with intact stars, should be avoided on damaged casein stars.

### How can a Mont-Blanc fountain pen found in an old garage be classified and is a sale worthwhile?

The piece is likely a Mont Blanc 17.5 with push-button mechanism from the 1930s, which is far too good to throw away. Before a sale, it is recommended to observe the price development of similar writing instruments over some weeks on eBay in order to gain a realistic classification. There is no hurry; keeping it or a later, well-prepared sale are more sensible than a hasty disposal. For a value statement, it is additionally helpful to obtain further information on the model and its preservation condition.

### Which older Montblanc models (1940–1970) with a flexible gold nib are suitable for beginners with a budget under 150 euros?

An unambiguous recommendation does not exist, since the individual writing behaviour varies strongly. Worthwhile is a look at models from the 40s and 50s, alongside the classical Meisterstücks also the cheaper variants of the second price series like the 24x, 25x and 34x ranges, whose nibs count as particularly soft. Before purchase it should be decided whether a free-standing or a partly hooded nib is preferred, as usual in the 50s to 70s. A BB nib grade can also write very softly; a try-out or specialised sources help with the choice.

### How can a leaking Meisterstück 25 (Safety pen) be re-sealed?

For the repair new seals are needed; a competent point of contact is the workshop of Max Schrage (maxpens.de), which fits the seals professionally. If the nib after cleaning slips back during writing, this is mostly because the seal does not show the necessary radial preload. With the installation of a new, correctly preloaded seal, both the leakage and the nib problem can be remedied in one step. A self-repair is, without experience with Safety pens, not recommendable.

### Does the Pelikan ballpoint K400 have a thread of plastic or of brass, and is a plastic version original?

The Pelikan K400 exists both with plastic and with brass thread; both variants are original versions. The change to the brass thread took place presumably at the end of the 1990s or the early 2000s. A plastic thread is therefore no indication of a repair, an assembly from parts or a confusion with the 200. Both variants are found on auction platforms.

### Must an original Montblanc 234 1/2 necessarily have a nib with the designation 4 1/2, and what does the 1/2 in the model designation mean?

According to the reference "Collectible Stars", the 234 1/2 was built not only with a gold nib but also with a steel nib, although only in the normal version and not in the luxury variant. A 585 gold nib is thus one but not the only original configuration. The designation 1/2 is part of the model system and does not necessarily allow conclusions about a specific nib inscription. For a final authenticity judgement, nib inscription and model variant must be considered together.

### From what period does the Montblanc 334 with the barrel engraving "D.R.P. angem." come?

The Montblanc 334 was produced in the years 1935 to 1936 and is thus the immediate predecessor of the better-known model 334 1/2. The designation "D.R.P. angem." stands for "Deutsches Reichspatent angemeldet" (German Reich patent applied for) and is typical for writing instruments from this period. Information on the internet is rare on this model, since it was only briefly made.

### Why do the decorative rings on a Montblanc Meisterstück 142 loosen, and how can the defect be remedied?

The body and cap materials of older Meisterstücks consist of celluloid, which shrinks over the course of decades. As a result, the placed decorative rings come loose and can rotate or even fall off. A repair with adhesives like Uhu is not recommended. Instead one should turn to a specialised restorer for vintage fountain pens who can professionally re-fix the ring.

### Is a Montblanc 144 with a completely smooth hard-rubber feed without grooves an original, and does it actually come from the 1970s?

The piece described is an original 144 from the 1980s, not from the 1970s. The variant with a completely smooth feed without grooves was actually delivered in this time and is not unusual. Authenticity problems therefore do not exist. The frequently demanded price of around 219 euros is, however, ambitious; used older 144s are available on the market already from about 80 euros.

### How can beginners assess the appropriateness of prices for vintage fountain pens, e.g. on eBay?

As orientation aid the book "CollectibleStars" is recommended, which delivers not only rough price ranges but above all also assessments of the rarity of the individual writing instruments. The rarity is often the more important indication for realistic market prices than the pure price specification. Important, however, is that all statements presuppose a good preservation condition; damages or strong wear reduce the value significantly. The book is available via relevant collector sites and also directly at collectors' meet-ups.

### How can the model number of an inherited Montblanc Meisterstück be determined, and can an engraved name engraving on the clip be removed?

An existing engraving on the clip can be most safely removed by exchanging the engraved spare part for a new one. Polishing is possible but mostly leaves a visible dent and is therefore not to be recommended. For model determination, comparison with overview pages on the classical Montblanc Meisterstücks is worthwhile, which list all common models together with pictures and dimensions. A realistic sale price can only be named after exact model assignment and condition evaluation.

### Did Montblanc have a calendar pen, and what is known about it?

Montblanc bought in at the end of the 1950s to the early 1960s a calendar pen and offered it in combination with a pocket calendar or notepad in a leather sleeve. As refill, a 3/4-length seamstress refill was used, which today is no longer regularly available. The pen is therefore a rather rare collector's object from this era.

### What is an extremely slim Montblanc pencil with rotary mechanism and about 5 mm diameter, and is it to be classified as a PIX?

A very slim Montblanc pencil with rotary mechanism at the end part is no PIX but a rotary pencil. The designation PIX was originally reserved exclusively for push pencils before Montblanc used the name for other products for reasons of brand-protection law. There are additionally significantly smaller rotary pencils than the piece described.

### Which model is an inherited Montblanc fountain pen from the 1940s to 1950s with an elaborate overlay?

Provided the nib is provided with the embossing 4810, everything points to a Montblanc 144 from the 1950s. The additionally present silver or precious-metal overlay was not made by Montblanc itself but by the firm B&E and applied subsequently.

### Is a vintage gold-coloured Montblanc fountain pen with the nib embossings 4810, M, 140, MONTBLANC and 585 genuine, and what collector value does it have?

The writing instrument described corresponds to an original Montblanc from the late 1950s; due to the size it is presumably a 744 rather than a 742. Counterfeits of old vintage models are extremely rare and stem, if present, mostly from no-name vintage nibs that are visually easily to distinguish. This model is quite of interest for collectors and counts as a good everyday writing instrument; a concrete value statement can only be derived via realised sale prices of comparable examples.

### Where can information be found on model name, production time and collector value of an old Montblanc mechanical pencil and rotary fountain pen from before 1944?

For detailed model, dating and value information on vintage Montblanc writing instruments, The Montblanc Diary and Collectors Guide by Jens Rösler is the central reference. The book covers, among other things, rotary pencils and rotary fountain pens from the pre-war period and enables a well-founded identification. Supplementary hints and a book review can be found in the forum section on literature.

### Why does a Montblanc 234 1/2 sometimes have a brownish-discoloured end cap over the turning knob?

On Montblanc writing instruments of this time, housings are made of celluloid and end pieces of hard rubber. Hard rubber tends in the course of years to discolouration into brownish, which explains the colour difference between barrel and end cap. The discolouration is thus no defect but material-typical.

### From what period does the Montblanc PIX No. 16 push pencil come, and how is it to be classified?

According to the book Collectible Stars, the Montblanc PIX No. 16 was made between 1960 and 1970. It is an everyday model that is comparatively simple to find and has no pronounced rarity status.

### Did the Montblanc No. 94 also exist in solid white gold, and what does the unusual hallmark 580 instead of the usual 585 mean?

A white-gold variant of the No. 94 (around 1965) counts as very rare and is not documented in the relevant Montblanc book either. The hallmark 580 instead of 585 is in the jewellery area unusual but occurs on some historical gold alloys. That corresponds to a gold content of about 13.6 carat instead of the usual 14 carat (585). Such pieces count as rarities that even experienced collectors have so far not encountered.

### How can an old Montblanc push pencil of 585 gold with the engraving "M-W-E" be identified and dated?

Based on a pure description, a 585 gold pencil by Montblanc can hardly be identified, because several models exist in 585 gold. For a sensible estimate, clear photos should be posted. An engraving like "M-W-E" is mostly an individual initials or company engraving and no model marking. A dating to the 1950s or 1960s appears plausible but should be verified picture-based.

### Did the Montblanc Carrera ballpoint also exist with a cap, or only with a click mechanism?

The Montblanc Carrera ballpoints were made exclusively with clip-lever mechanism; a variant with cap did not exist in this model range. Anyone seeking a classical Montblanc ballpoint with cap must therefore switch to other model ranges.