For your consideration, we are pleased to offer for sale this exceptional circa 1998 Sheaffer Connaisseur Transparent Smoke Fountain Pen, beautifully finished with palladium-plated trim and fitted with a 14K Fine nib. Preserved in Mint, New Old Stock, Never Inked condition, this outstanding example is complete with its original Sheaffer presentation boxes, factory literature, and ink converter.
Produced exclusively for Levenger's celebrated Sea Series II Collection, this fountain pen carries the model designation 9055-0F and represents one of the most distinctive variations of the Connaisseur line. Inspired by the translucent beauty and subtle tones found beneath the ocean's surface, the Transparent Smoke finish combines modern materials with Sheaffer's timeless design language. Produced in limited quantities for Levenger, these special editions have become increasingly desirable among collectors seeking the more elusive variations of Sheaffer's late twentieth-century production.
This example has remained carefully preserved in its original packaging since new and has never been inked, allowing the next owner to experience it exactly as it left the Sheaffer factory nearly three decades ago.
The translucent smoke resin is simply captivating, revealing remarkable depth while allowing light to pass gracefully through the barrel and cap. The sophisticated finish is beautifully complemented by bright palladium-plated trim, creating an elegant and contemporary appearance that remains as striking today as when it was introduced. The highly polished palladium-plated trim remains bright and pristine throughout. The cap band is crisply engraved "SHEAFFER'S LEVENGER U.S.A.", while Sheaffer's iconic White Dot proudly crowns the cap, symbolizing the company's legendary commitment to quality. The cap and barrel remain flawless, exhibiting no chips, cracks, scratches, repairs, or signs of use. There are no monograms or personal engravings.
The fountain pen measures approximately 5 5/8 inches capped, 6 1/2 inches posted, and weighs 0.82 ounces, offering exceptional balance and the comfortable proportions that made the Connaisseur one of Sheaffer's finest modern writing instruments.
At the heart of the pen is a beautifully finished 14K solid gold Fine nib with a palladium-plated finish, measuring approximately 0.59mm at the tipping using digital calipers. In keeping with this pen's untouched collector-grade preservation, the nib has never been inked or dip-tested, ensuring the next owner receives it in true factory-fresh condition. The nib is stamped with, "SHEAFFER'S LEVENGER 14K 580."
The pen utilizes Sheaffer's proprietary cartridge/converter filling system, accepting both Sheaffer ink cartridges and bottled ink through the included factory converter. The converter remains unused and ready for future service.
Accompanying the fountain pen are its original presentation boxes, factory literature, and unused converter, completing a package that has become increasingly difficult to find nearly thirty years after its original release.
Among modern Sheaffer fountain pens, the Levenger Sea Series II Connaisseur occupy a special place with collectors. Produced in comparatively limited numbers and available for only a short time, they offered distinctive translucent finishes not found in Sheaffer's standard catalog. The Transparent Smoke remains one of the most elegant and sought-after of the series, particularly when found in Never Inked, complete condition.
Whether destined for a serious Sheaffer collection or preserved as an investment-quality writing instrument, this Transparent Smoke Connaisseur represents a rare opportunity to acquire one of Sheaffer's finest modern special editions—combining understated elegance, exceptional craftsmanship, and true collector-grade preservation.
