Montblanc - Nº 2 (Third Series / 'M 3' - Ebonite) - Fountain pen

A0000005293

We are putting up for auction an authentic archaeological legend in the world of fine writing collectibles: the exceedingly rare Montblanc No. 3 button-filling fountain pen, made in Germany in the 1930s. Crafted from the fabled black hard rubber of the early twentieth century and topped with the brand’s historic white star emblem, this historic piece represents the foundations and golden age of engineering at the Hamburg firm, offering a writing instrument of extraordinary mystique, mechanical complexity, and heritage value.

The design of this exceedingly rare vintage fountain pen is a showcase of aesthetic fidelity and period engineering: its compact body measures 12.8 cm in length and has a slender diameter of 1.2 cm, offering unparalleled balance, ergonomics, and lightness in the hand. The cap features a classic vintage gold-plated clip, with the firm’s name engraved in relief above the silhouette of Mont Blanc, preserved in remarkable condition. The barrel end, meanwhile, bears the crisply stamped original factory mark identifying it as “M 3,” certifying that this is an original third-series body and mechanism, exceptionally difficult to find.

But the true heart of this work of art lies beneath its rear threads: unscrewing the barrel end reveals the original brass push-button mechanism. Pressing it activates the internal bar that compresses the filling sac, an iconic system of the 1930s that works flawlessly with a splendid original solid 14-karat gold Montblanc No. 2 nib. This period nib has impeccable geometry and a medium (M) point, delivering the flexibility and unparalleled, richly flowing ink of its historic feed.

Authenticity note: The body of this piece is a No. 3 model and is fitted with a Montblanc No. 2 nib from the same era—a historically accurate, fully functional combination that was very common in writing instruments that had spent years in service at the official workshops. A landmark of luxury design intended exclusively for discerning collectors.

Condition: Collector’s rarity / Excellent historical condition
The aesthetic, cosmetic, and mechanical condition of this example is excellent for a piece nearly a century old:

Hard Rubber Body and Cap: The hard rubber structure retains its original deep black color and a magnificent natural patina, completely free of cracks, splits, or deep scratches. The historic identifying engravings on the barrel end (“M 3”) and the side of the cap (“Montblanc”) remain crisp, clean, and perfectly legible.

Gold Details and Nib: The gold-plated clip retains its secure attachment and historic shine. The solid gold Montblanc No. 2 nib is impeccable, with no deformation to the tines or solder repairs.

Filling Mechanism (Button Filler): Unscrewing the rear section reveals a firm, working push button. The interior sac has been inspected/replaced to ensure optimal ink suction, allowing the pen to be completely clean and ready to write with, should its future owner wish to do so.

An Interesting Fact for Collectors
For Catawiki appraisers and experts, 1930s hard rubber No. 3 button-fillers represent one of the most stable and secure categories, with the greatest potential for appreciation, in the international market for exclusive antiques. What gives this lot its extraordinary value is the absolute clarity of its historic catalog engravings and the perfect working order of its original brass button—a historic contrast between interwar hard rubber and German mechanical sophistication that makes this piece a high-level investment with an exceptionally fierce bidding ratio at international auctions.

I wish you the very best of luck with your bids and an excellent auction to all Catawiki participants!