{"product_id":"1927-waterman-7-red-ripple-w-blue-keyhole-nib-fountain-pen-restored-near-mint","title":"1927 WATERMAN #7 RED RIPPLE W\/BLUE KEYHOLE FLEX NIB FOUNTAIN PEN RESTORED NEAR MINT","description":"\u003cp\u003eFor your consideration, we are honored to offer this magnificent circa 1927 Waterman's Ideal No. 7 Red Ripple Hard Rubber Fountain Pen, fitted with the highly coveted 14K Gold Blue Keyhole nib. One of the most desirable models ever produced by Waterman, this exceptional example has been professionally restored, thoroughly cleaned, fitted with a new sac, and returned to superb writing condition while retaining its outstanding originality. I would conservatively grade this pen Near Mint to Near Mint+, making it a truly collector-worthy example.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIntroduced during Waterman's golden era, the No. 7 represented the company's flagship writing instrument and was revolutionary for its innovative color-coded nib system. Each colored cap band corresponded to a specific nib characteristic, allowing customers to select a pen tailored to their writing style. Among these, the Blue Keyhole nib has become one of the most sought-after by collectors, prized for its expressive stub profile and remarkable flexibility. Finding an original Red Ripple No. 7 retaining its correct Blue band and matching Blue Keyhole nib in this level of preservation is becoming exceedingly difficult.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs part of the restoration, the nib, feed, and section were ultrasonically cleaned, while the interior of both the barrel and cap were meticulously hand-cleaned. A new latex sac has been installed, and the pen has been carefully reassembled and tested for dependable performance. The exterior of the cap and barrel has been gently cleaned, buffed, and polished to revive the beautiful luster of the hard rubber without compromising its originality. The 18K gold-filled cap band, Waterman's Ideal clip, lever box assembly, and 14K Blue Keyhole nib have all been hand-polished to restore their rich brilliance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCrafted from vibrant Red Ripple ebonite, this No. 7 displays exceptional color retention, with rich red ripples flowing evenly through deep black hard rubber. The vibrant coloration is remarkably consistent throughout the cap and barrel, creating one of the most striking patterns ever produced by Waterman.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 18K gold-filled trim is equally impressive. The lever box assembly is exceptionally clean with no wear to the lever. The original Waterman's Ideal clip remains crisp and bright, while the wide cap band retains its full gold-filled finish without brassing or wear. Completing the pen is the correct blue color-identification cap band, indicating the presence of the desirable Blue Keyhole nib—a hallmark of the prestigious No. 7 series.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe barrel imprint is exceptionally well preserved and reads: \"WATERMAN'S REG. U.S. IDEAL GLOBE PAT. OFF. FOUNTAIN PEN.\" The lower barrel imprint remains equally sharp, while the end of the barrel displays a crisp and deeply impressed \"7\", confirming the model designation. The cap threads engage smoothly and securely, ensuring a firm fit when capped. There are no monograms, engravings, chips, cracks, or repairs, leaving this example remarkably original throughout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis Waterman No. 7 measures 5 5\/8 inches capped, 7 3\/16 inches posted, and weighs approximately 0.67 ounces, providing the substantial yet comfortable feel that collectors appreciate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe original lever-filling system has been completely serviced. The lever and lever box assembly have been cleaned and properly lubricated, while the new latex sac ensures reliable filling performance. The filling system has been tested with water and operates flawlessly, exactly as Waterman originally intended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe true centerpiece of this fountain pen is its magnificent 14K Blue Keyhole nib, proudly stamped Made in U.S.A. The Blue nib designation has long been recognized as one of Waterman's most desirable writing points, combining a smooth stub profile with exceptional flexibility. This unique combination delivers expressive line variation while maintaining outstanding writing control. The iridium tipping measures approximately 0.82mm using digital calipers. During testing, the nib produces a smooth 0.60mm medium line with minimal pressure, and expands to an impressive 1.73mm double broad stroke under moderate writing pressure. The responsiveness is superb, providing the lively, expressive writing experience that has made Blue Keyhole nibs legendary among vintage pen enthusiasts. The accompanying writing sample was created using this exact pen after dip-testing with Graf von Faber-Castell Cobalt Blue ink.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Waterman No. 7 stands among the most iconic American fountain pens ever produced, and examples with the correct Blue cap band and matching Blue Keyhole nib have become increasingly scarce. Combined with its vibrant Red Ripple hard rubber, exceptional preservation, and professional restoration, this pen represents a remarkable opportunity to acquire one of the premier writing instruments of the vintage era.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFinding a Near Mint to Near Mint+ Waterman No. 7 of this caliber has become extraordinarily difficult. Whether destined for an advanced Waterman collection, a museum-quality display, or the hand of someone who appreciates one of the finest writing experiences ever created, this outstanding Red Ripple No. 7 is a true centerpiece worthy of the most discerning collector.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Antique Digger","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49215940395316,"sku":null,"price":950.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1862\/4123\/files\/1927Waterman7BlueKeyholeNibFountainPen1.jpg?v=1785182735","url":"https:\/\/antiquedigger.com\/products\/1927-waterman-7-red-ripple-w-blue-keyhole-nib-fountain-pen-restored-near-mint","provider":"Antique Digger","version":"1.0","type":"link"}