Parker 100

The Parker 100 was introduced in 2004 and was retired in 2007. The pen was designed by the Parker Pen Company to bridge the large gap between the Sonnet & Duofold lines. The design of the 100 was meant to be a sleeker updated design of the classic Parker 51, which was a bestselling pen for the company in the 1950s and 1960s. The Parker 100 was offered in the form of a fountain pen, roller ball, ballpoint, and pencil. They were offered in several unique two-tone colors as well as an all black version.

The Parker 100 is a modern complement to the “51”, yet this pen has qualities and design to make it stand quite separate and apart from anything ever produced by Parker.

The design is borrowed from legend and brought to the 21st century with modern materials and technology.

Slightly larger than the “51” or “61”, it is still quite light and just as manageable as its smaller cousin. The 100 weighs in at 1.25 oz, slightly twice the weight of the “51”and only .25 oz more than the smaller Sonnet. So, given the slightly larger profile, the light weight makes this an almost almost identical feel in the hand.

The Parker 100 is 5 5/8” (142mm) closed and almost 6” (150mm) with cap posted. The barrel is 0.498” (12.66mm) diameter, noticeably larger than my “51”s yet has a very light and comfortable fit. The satin brushed caps and striking new style clip give an appearance fit for the new generation. The clip is tight and gives a firm grip, and notably a smooth and solid fit when it is posted. The trim is 23K gold or silver-plated gold trim with a high polish finish that contrasts nicely with the matte finish of the brushed caps. The metal end jewels are a bright high polish finish, but are recessed so they do not appear to be exposed to scratching or abrasion.

The ballpoint, pencil and rollerball are almost identical in size and the feel in the hand. Each weigh in at 1.25 oz . The pencil is a twist action clutch repeater, the lead is gravity fed and stored under the eraser. The ballpoint also accepts the new gel refills.

All gold trim Parker 100 fountain pens have 18K gold nibs. All silver trim fountain pens have 18K gold rhodium-plated nibs. Parker 100 caps are finished in a shimmered gold or shimmered graphite effect, and the barrels are lacquered in a choice of five modern colors. The barrel colors are Smoke Bronze, Diamond Blue, Honey White, Opal Silver and Cobalt Black.

The filling system is either ink cartridge or ink bottle with the Deluxe piston fill converter. Fountain pen nibs are available in XF F M and B. Parker 100 fountain pens are beautifully gift boxed, and include a black velvet pen pouch.