Esterbrook Radio Pen #921 (Vintage)

Unlike many of Esterbrook's Radio Pen models, the #921 doesn't seem to derive from one of the company's previous bestsellers. It is an odd little spoon-shaped nib with a large oval vent hole, a sharp point, and firm-flex handling. We really like it for small lettering and detailed drawing. In these applications, its small size and firmness are great assets, making neat lines easy and blotches quite rare.

Like the rest of the expansive Radio Pen family, the #921 is finished in bright chrome. These nibs, manufactured in the 1940s, are neither ground nor groove-stamped at the tips, which may contribute to their firm feel.

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.

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.