For your consideration, we are pleased to offer for sale this distinctive 1993 OMAS Amerigo Vespucci Fountain Pen, a beautiful Italian Special Edition created in tribute to the legendary Italian naval training ship Amerigo Vespucci. Based upon OMAS's classic Ogiva design, this unusual fountain pen features a warm, beautifully figured natural briarwood barrel and cap complemented by gold-plated trim. This particular example is especially appealing to collectors as it remains in Mint, Never Inked condition and retains its original 18K two-tone Fine nib. The original OMAS Vespucci presentation box, cylindrical briarwood pen case, and original literature are also included.
OMAS, founded in Bologna in 1925 by Armando Simoni, became internationally respected for its distinctive Italian fountain pens, elegant engineering, and willingness to work with unusual and luxurious materials. The Amerigo Vespucci is an excellent example of that philosophy, combining the graceful proportions of the Ogiva with natural briarwood and a presentation inspired by one of Italy's most famous sailing ships.
The inspiration for the edition is the Amerigo Vespucci, the Italian Navy's famous full-rigged sailing training ship launched in 1931 and designed by naval engineer Francesco Rotundi. Known for its traditional sailing-ship appearance and exceptional Italian craftsmanship, the vessel has become an enduring symbol of Italy's maritime heritage. OMAS translated that character into a remarkably tasteful writing instrument, using natural wood not only for the fountain pen itself but also for its distinctive cylindrical presentation case.
The fountain pen follows the classic rounded Ogiva form, giving it the graceful, substantial profile for which OMAS was known. The natural briarwood is the star of the design, offering a warmth and depth completely different from the celluloid and resin more commonly associated with OMAS. As with any genuine natural wood pen, the grain and coloration are individual to the piece, giving each Vespucci its own character. The gold-plated trim provides an elegant contrast without overwhelming the natural beauty of the wood.
This fountain pen remains exceptionally well preserved and has never been inked. The original briarwood finish remains beautifully presented, and the fountain pen shows no evidence of having been used as a writing instrument. I have intentionally preserved the pen in its original Never Inked condition rather than introducing ink simply for testing purposes. There are no nicks, chips, cracks, or repairs. The barrel is stamped with, "OMAS A VESPUCCI."
The Vespucci is fitted with OMAS's traditional piston filling system and its original 18K two-tone Fine nib. The nib retains its original decoration and remains completely untouched and Never Inked. The point measures approximately .54mm at the tip, consistent with the F designation stamped on the left shoulder of the nib. For collectors who appreciate original, untested examples, finding a Vespucci with its original 18K nib in this condition is particularly appealing.
The original OMAS Vespucci presentation is also included. The package contains the original presentation box, the distinctive cylindrical briarwood pen case, and the original OMAS literature. The interior of the presentation box remains in good condition; however, the exterior vinyl covering has experienced age-related deterioration and is flaking in places. I want to make that condition clear, as the outer box is not in collector-grade cosmetic condition. The briarwood pen case and literature, however, remain with the pen and make this a substantially more complete original presentation.
The Vespucci is sometimes described as a Limited Edition, although specialist references more accurately identify it as an OMAS Special Edition rather than a conventionally numbered Limited Edition. Individual examples are identified by the production year engraved on the section, and this particular fountain pen carries the 1993 production designation.
The early 1990s represent OMAS's independent, pre-LVMH period, when the company was continuing the Italian manufacturing and design traditions established by Armando Simoni decades earlier. The Amerigo Vespucci is a particularly interesting representation of that era, combining the classic Ogiva form with an uncommon natural material and a presentation specifically created around an important piece of Italian maritime history.
For the collector of OMAS, Italian fountain pens, maritime-themed writing instruments, or unusual natural-material pens, this 1993 Amerigo Vespucci offers a wonderful combination of character, originality, and completeness. The classic Ogiva design, beautifully figured briarwood construction, gold-plated trim, original 18K two-tone Fine nib, Never Inked condition, and surviving Vespucci presentation make this a particularly interesting piece of the original OMAS history.
This is not simply an OMAS with a commemorative name—it is a thoughtfully conceived Special Edition in which the material, design, and presentation all relate to the legendary Amerigo Vespucci. For someone who appreciates the craftsmanship and individuality of classic Italian fountain pens, this 1993 OMAS Amerigo Vespucci would make an exceptional addition to an OMAS collection or writing arsenal.
