For your consideration, we are pleased to offer for sale this 1998 Parker Sonnet Gold Cascade Fountain Pen, beautifully finished in the elegant 23K Gold-plated Cascade pattern and fitted with an 18K Broad nib. Preserved in Mint, New Old Stock, Never Inked condition, this exceptional example remains exactly as it left the Parker factory and is complete with its original Parker presentation box and accompanying literature.
*NOTE: Any black lines you see on the fountain pen are reflections of my camera bouncing back onto the gold. The finish is perfect and polished brightly!
Introduced in 1994, the Parker Sonnet quickly became Parker's flagship writing instrument, blending classic styling with contemporary refinement. This example is from 1998 and displays the IIIE date code which stands for 1998 in the 1st quarter. Among the many finishes offered throughout the Sonnet's production, the Gold Cascade pattern stands apart for its luxurious appearance and sophisticated engraved design. The finely chased cascading motif reflects light beautifully across the gold-plated surface, creating remarkable depth while showcasing Parker's renowned French craftsmanship.
Condition throughout is simply outstanding. The cap and barrel retain their original brilliant finish with no dents, dings, scratches, cracks, repairs, plating wear, or signs of use. The slip cap engages securely with the precise fit expected of a premium Parker writing instrument. The cap is crisply engraved "PARKER FRANCE" with the IIIE date code (1998 in Q1), and there are no monograms or personal engravings.
The pen measures approximately 5 3/8 inches capped, 5 7/8 inches posted, and weighs approximately .97 ounces, offering the balanced proportions and comfortable writing experience that have made the Sonnet one of Parker's most enduring modern designs.
The fountain pen retains its original Parker cartridge/converter filling system. The factory converter has been tested with water to ensure proper operation, and the pen also accepts Parker ink cartridges for added convenience.
Fitted with its original 18K solid gold Broad nib, the nib is correctly engraved "PARKER 18K 750 FRANCE" with the Parker Arrow assay hallmarks. The feed is factory marked "B" for BROAD, while the iridium tipping measures approximately 1.08mm 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 collector.
Included is the original Parker presentation box and factory literature, and two ink cartridges completing an increasingly difficult-to-find collector package.
Finding a Parker Sonnet Gold Cascade is becoming increasingly challenging, particularly in Mint, Never Inked, New Old Stock condition. Complete examples with the original box and documentation are considerably scarcer and are becoming highly desirable among collectors of modern Parker writing instruments.
Elegant, refined, and beautifully preserved, this Parker Sonnet Gold Cascade represents one of the finest luxury finishes produced during the early years of the Sonnet line. Whether destined for an advanced Parker collection or ultimately enjoyed as an exceptional everyday writer, it stands as a superb example of Parker's enduring commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and timeless design.
Overall, we confidently grade this Parker Sonnet Gold Cascade as Mint, New Old Stock, Never Inked condition—a truly exceptional collector-grade writing instrument.
