For your consideration, we are privileged to offer for sale an extraordinary circa 1926 Conklin Senior Endura Fountain Pen in the breathtaking Sapphire Blue celluloid with inlaid red bands—a color combination that stands among the most visually captivating of the American Golden Age. This is not simply a fine example; it is a standout, collector-level specimen that embodies everything desirable about the Endura line.
The first impression is immediate and lasting. The Sapphire Blue celluloid is nothing short of mesmerizing—deep, luminous, and remarkably uniform from cap to barrel. The vibrancy and saturation of color seen here are exceptionally rare, even among well-preserved examples. The subtle red banding adds contrast and character, elevating the pen into something truly special. Quite simply, this is among the finest color presentations one is likely to encounter on a Senior Endura.
This pen has been meticulously restored with a focus on both performance and preservation. It has been fully disassembled, ultrasonically cleaned, and carefully reconditioned throughout. A new rubber sac has been installed, the filling system serviced, and all components reassembled to ensure reliable function. The gold-filled trim—including the clip and cap band—has been hand polished to a brilliant finish, while the celluloid has been gently restored to enhance and protect its natural luster.
Condition is exceptional. The cap and barrel are free from chips, cracks, or repairs. The gold-filled Conklin clip, stamped “PAT. May 28, 1918,” shows no wear, as does the cap band—an uncommon and highly desirable trait. The barrel imprint, reading “Trade CONKLIN Mark TOLEDO OHIO U.S.A. ENDURA,” remains visible, with only slight softness to the “CONKLIN” portion noted for accuracy. The lever is correctly stamped “PAT. NOV. 17, 1925,” and the filling system has been tested to ensure smooth, proper operation. There are no monograms or personal engravings.
This is the desirable Senior size, measuring approximately 5 5/16 inches capped, 6 5/8 inches posted, and weighing .78 ounces—offering a substantial yet balanced feel in hand.
At the heart of this pen lies a large 14K Conklin Endura nib, a true highlight. The nib point (iridium) measures approximately .61mm or a Medium nib point. In use, it produces a fine line around .45mm with light pressure and opens to approximately .67mm under moderate pressure. The nib is a very rigid writer and one can feel feedback when writing. That said, the nib writes nicely, you just know it you have a pen to paper when you are writing. The writing sample provided was created with this very pen, dipped in Faber-Castell Cobalt Blue ink.
The Conklin Endura represents one of the defining American fountain pens of the 1920s, and examples in Sapphire Blue—especially in this level of preservation—are increasingly difficult to acquire. When paired with near-pristine trim, strong color, and a properly restored filling system, the result is a pen that transcends the ordinary.
This example grades confidently in the Near Mint to Near Mint+ range, and stands as a true collector’s piece—equally suited for display or as a refined writer.
