For your consideration, we are delighted to offer this 1995 Parker Sonnet Fountain Pen, beautifully finished in the striking Firedance Red & Black Lacquer with 14K Diamonite gold trim and fitted with a superb 18K solid gold Broad nib. Preserved in Mint, New Old Stock, Never Inked condition, this exceptional example remains remarkably well preserved and is accompanied by its original Parker presentation box, factory literature, and hang tag.
Introduced in 1994, the Parker Sonnet quickly became Parker's flagship modern writing instrument, bringing together the company's longstanding tradition of elegant design with the refinement of a contemporary luxury pen. This example dates to 1995, making it an early Sonnet and carrying the "IT" date code, indicating production during the third quarter of 1995.
Among the many finishes produced during the Sonnet's long production history, Firedance Lacquer is particularly distinctive. The rich red and black lacquer creates a dramatic, sophisticated appearance, beautifully contrasted by the brilliant gold-colored Diamonite trim. The combination gives this Sonnet a refined presence while retaining the unmistakable character of Parker's classic design.
The 14K Diamonite trim was a specialized Parker gold-plating and finishing technology employed during this period. Incorporating titanium-based technology into the finish was intended to provide enhanced durability and resistance to everyday wear while maintaining the warm brilliance and appearance associated with traditional gold plating. On this example, the trim remains exceptionally bright and beautifully preserved.
Condition throughout is outstanding. The lacquered cap and barrel retain their original finish with no dents, dings, scratches, chips, cracks, repairs, plating loss, or evidence of use. The slip cap engages smoothly and securely with the barrel, reflecting the precision expected from Parker's flagship writing instruments. The cap is crisply marked "PARKER SONNET FRANCE" and carries the appropriate IT 1995 third-quarter date code. There are no monograms, engravings, or personalizations.
The Parker Sonnet measures approximately 5 3/8 inches capped, 5 7/8 inches posted, and weighs approximately 0.95 ounces, providing an excellent balance of proportion, substance, and writing comfort.
The pen retains its original Parker cartridge/converter filling system. The factory converter has been tested with water and functions properly, while the pen will also accept standard Parker ink cartridges.
At the heart of this Sonnet is its original 18K solid gold Broad nib, beautifully engraved "PARKER 18K 750" and bearing the PP Arrow hallmark. The feed is correctly marked "B" for Broad, while the tipping measures approximately 1.06 mm using digital calipers. In keeping with this pen's New Old Stock status, the nib has never been inked or dip-tested, preserving its untouched factory condition for the next owner.
Completing the offering is the original Parker presentation box, factory literature, and hang tag. The inclusion of the original packaging significantly enhances the collector appeal of this example and provides an unusually complete representation of an early Parker Sonnet.
The 1995 Parker Sonnet Firedance Red & Black is an especially attractive example of Parker's early Sonnet production. Its dramatic lacquer finish, brilliant Diamonite trim, substantial 18K gold Broad nib, early production date, and untouched New Old Stock condition combine to make this a particularly desirable piece for the Parker collector.
Beautiful enough to display and fully equipped to become an exceptional writer, this Sonnet represents a superb example of Parker's transition into the modern luxury writing instrument market. Preserved for more than three decades in Mint, New Old Stock, Never Inked condition, it is an outstanding collector-grade Parker that can be enjoyed today or carefully preserved as part of a serious collection.
