Esterbrook Double Spring #126 Pen Nib (Vintage)

This very rare Esterbrook dip pen is more than 100 years old. Manufactured around 1915 in Camden, N.J., the Double Spring #126 is an unusually intricate steel nib with a large cut-out in the center and two stabilizing fins in the back. The chevron-shaped cutout allows the nib to flex in the middle, which reduces the pressure on the tip. The result is a very smooth, controlled writing pen, with a line width that doesn't change much. You can almost think of the cutout as a shock absorber, creating a nice smooth ride for your nib.

Thanks to the protective coating applied to all dip pens (even new ones produced today), these pens are in excellent vintage condition. They've been checked for rust and other defects by our experts and are ready to return to service on your desk.

Please note that some of these nibs feature prominent grinding at the tip and others do not. This type of variation was common with the less-standardized manufacturing practices of a century ago. We tested both types and did not note any performance difference, perhaps because this nib already has a high capacity and a springy feel, with or without the grind.

As with any dip pen, you will need to remove the protective coating so that ink will stick to the nib consistently. To remove the coating, simply dip your new pen in ink a couple of times and wipe it off. Repeat until the ink coats the nib completely and doesn't bead up. This process takes about 15 seconds and only needs to be done once, before you use the pen for the first time.

Sold individually. Made in the United States.

About R: Esterbrook & Co.:

Founded in 1856, R. Esterbrook & Co. was the United States' very first manufacturer of steel dip pens. Formerly, these important 19th century tools had to be imported from Europe, but Richard Esterbrook brought expertise and craftspeople from England and opened a factory in Philadelphia.

For over 100 years until the company finally went out of business in 1970, Esterbrook produced the finest steel pens in the country, with a level of quality and a range of shapes that would put contemporary nib manufacturers to shame. Whenever we're able to get our hands on a vintage batch of Esterbrook pens, we're excited to offer them to you. Supplies, of course, are limited.