For your consideration, we are pleased to offer for sale this elegant circa 1997 Waterman Carène Fountain Pen in the highly desirable Black Sea finish with 23K gold-plated trim, fitted with an 18K Extra-fine nib. Preserved in Mint, New Old Stock, Never Inked condition, this exceptional example is complete with its original Waterman presentation box and accompanying literature.
Introduced in the late 1990s, the Waterman Carène quickly became one of Waterman's most celebrated modern designs. Named after the French word carène, meaning the hull of a ship, the pen draws its inspiration from the sleek, flowing lines of luxury yachts. Its sculptural silhouette, seamless transitions, and integrated nib combine contemporary styling with the refined craftsmanship for which Waterman has long been admired.
This example is finished in the timeless Black Sea lacquer—a deep, mirror-like black that exhibits remarkable richness and depth under changing light. Beautifully complemented by brilliant 23K gold-plated trim, the combination creates a sophisticated contrast that has made Black Sea one of the Carène's most enduring and desirable finishes.
The lacquered brass cap and barrel remain in flawless condition with no chips, cracks, dents, dings, scratches, repairs, or signs of use. The polished gold-plated appointments retain their original brilliance, while the friction-fit cap closes securely with the precise feel expected of a luxury French writing instrument. The cap band is crisply stamped "WATERMAN FRANCE," and there are no monograms or personal engravings.
The pen measures approximately 5 3/4 inches capped, 5 7/8 inches posted, and weighs 1.22 ounces, providing a substantial yet perfectly balanced feel that makes the Carène equally enjoyable as a daily writer or collector's piece.
The pen utilizes Waterman's cartridge/converter filling system and includes the original converter along with one Waterman ink cartridge, allowing the flexibility of both bottled ink and cartridge use.
Fitted with Waterman's distinctive integrated 18K/750 solid gold Extra-fine nib, the tipping measures approximately 0.44mm when checked with digital calipers. The rear of the section is correctly stamped "EF" to denote the nib size. One of the Carène's defining features, the partially inlaid nib appears to flow seamlessly from the grip section, echoing the graceful bow of the yacht that inspired its design. In keeping with this pen's collector-grade preservation, the nib has never been inked or dip-tested, remaining exactly as it left the Waterman factory.
Accompanying the pen are the original Waterman presentation box and factory literature, both of which remain in excellent condition.
More than three decades after its introduction, the Waterman Carène continues to be regarded as one of the finest modern fountain pens produced in France. Its distinctive design, exceptional balance, and luxurious finish have earned it a loyal following among both collectors and writers. Examples preserved in Mint, New Old Stock, Never Inked condition are becoming increasingly difficult to locate, particularly in the coveted Black Sea finish.
Whether destined for an advanced Waterman collection or ultimately enjoyed as an elegant daily writer, this Waterman Carène Black Sea represents a superb example of modern French pen design—beautifully preserved and ready to be appreciated for generations to come.
