PA3852 Parker Duofold AF. (Medium).

PA3852 Parker Duofold AF. (Medium).

Date: c1950

Size: Capped - 137mm; posted - 155mm.

The AF or "Aluminium Filler" Duofold was made by the UK arm of Parker in 1948.  A very short production run means these pens are not common today.  It is the immediate predecessor of the much more common Aerometric Duofold and looks outwardly almost identical.  This is a glossy jet black example that is in very good condition.  As is usual with the AF Duofolds, the metalwork is a little bit "iffy", though i have to say, much better than most.  It has a little plating wear to the lower edge of the cap band, but that is about it for this one.  The cap has a black conical end "jewel" and a rolled gold Parker Arrow pocket clip.  There is also a wide cap band - also rolled gold - that has the usual "deco" engraving.  At the end of the barrel is a blind cap.  This can be unscrewed and beneath is the original aluminium filling button and aluminium collar that it is held in.  The barrel imprint is lovely and sharp and deep; complete and easily read.  The lovely large nib is in 14 carat yellow gold and marked "PARKER DUOFOLD" and "N" for Newhaven.  It has a medium point.   

I have fully serviced this pen.  It fills and writes very well.  The nib lays down a very smooth, wet and consistent line of a medium thickness.  Would make a super every-day writer even if it will not be winning any concours competitions!