WATERMAN'S IDEAL - Ideal 52 - Fountain pen

A0000005200

Looking for a piece that embodies the absolute pinnacle of jewelry applied to early 20th-century writing instruments, complemented by an exceptionally unusual writing configuration? This Waterman’s Ideal 52 fountain pen with full gold-filled overlay is one of the most revered and sought-after historical treasures at the high-end international auctions.

Popularly known as the pens of the Golden Age, the 52 Overlay series is distinguished by the sumptuous jewelry work wrought over its robust black Ebenite inner framework. This specimen showcases an exquisite hammered guilloché pattern that offers an unrivaled aristocratic presence in hand.

The great appeal and uniqueness of this lot lie in its nib section: the piece mounts a rare official Waterman replacement nib, manufactured in solid 14-karat gold, as certified by the internationally recognized 585 purity contrast engraved on the metal. This nib features a very rare Broad (B) point, an exceptionally hard-to-find catalog variant in today’s vintage market, which is almost entirely dominated by fine points. The broad point gives this fountain pen a generous, juicy flow and an unparalleled smooth glide, making it the ultimate tool for signatures of high distinction or executive rubrics.

Key Highlights of this Piece
Rare Official Waterman B 585 Nib: The B marking certifies its broad stroke, and the 585 seal guarantees the purity of the 14-karat gold. An official historical enhancement that increases appeal for collectors of signature variants by the brand. Nib needs adjustment

Intact Catalog Marking: The ebony base back preserves the iconic 52 model engraving with extraordinary sharpness, a critical authenticity element that international appraisers prioritize.

Guilloché Work with No Wear: The geometric pattern carved into the precious metal maintains the factory-relief across the entire surface, without the typical wear or flattening caused by careless abrasive polishing over the decades.

Mechanical Closure and Adjustment: The cap fits perfectly over the body and the side lever with the Ideal stamp keeps its smooth travel, evidencing an optimal structural state of the components.

Technical Specifications
Manufacturer: L.E. Waterman Co.
Model: 52 Gold Filled Overlay (Linear geometric pattern).
Estimated body period: c. 1920 - 1928.
Materials: Black Ebenite base, gold-filled overlay, and 14K gold nib (585 contrast).
Nib: Official Waterman replacement, Broad (B) point in 14K gold.
Filling System: Lever-fill side lever.

Conservation Status
Aesthetic Condition (Grade AA): Excellent vintage collectible condition. The gold coating shows no dents, cracks, or loss of gold bath along the edges, maintaining a uniform and bright luster. The black ebony section of the nib section retains an excellent dark shade. The gold nib’s beaks (tines) are milled in alignment and the iridium tip is intact. As mandatory for pieces of this era, the inner ink sac would need replacing if you wish to render it operational.

Why acquire this piece?
The Waterman’s Ideal 52 with gold fill is a premier patrimonial investment that appreciates steadily. Finding a specimen that combines the purity of the guilloché pattern with the tremendous commercial rarity of an official Waterman nib in Broad 585 constitutes an ideal opportunity for the collector-user seeking the utmost distinction and exquisiteness in stroke. A museum piece destined to become the centerpiece of any collection of historic writing instruments.

A cult piece in enviable conservation condition. We wish you great success in your bids for this exclusive Waterman lot. May the best bidder win!