Sailor introduced the first pocket pen in 1963 with the launch of the Sailor Mini. Platinum followed later the same year with its Poket PK-2000 (18k nib) and PK-1000 (14k nib). Pilot was the last of the big three to join the trend. Pilot introduced the Elite S in 1964. The "S" was meant to distinguished the new short pens from the full size Pilot Elite. Outside the big three, there were a number of smaller manufacturers that produced pocket pens through the 1980s.
Pocket pens are designed with portability in mind. While capped, a pocket pen will measure less than 125mm from end-to-end. However, when posted, it becomes a full sized fountain pen. Pocket pens were popular in the 60's & 70's but recently have been making a comeback. Being easy to slip in a pocket or purse make pocket pens ideal for travel and those who are always on the go.
This pocket pen bears the JIS number 3232, which was registered to the Kawakami-Giken company owned by Haruo Kawakami. It was a job shop that produced nibs for various manufacturers. Its solid gold nibs (such as this one) are high quality. The eight pointed star on the cap was used by Pioneer. It also bears a resemblance to the "Special Dial" marking on vintage Seiko watches which noted solid gold markers. A nice cross-over pen for vintage Seiko collectors. This pen is in (B) Very Good condition. There is a name engrave on the grip section. 18K Gold Fine nib.
- Manufacturer/Model: Pioneer Pocket
- Year of Manufacture: 1970s-1980s
- Color: Black
- Material: Resin
- Nib: 18K Gold, Fine
- Filling System: Cartridge (Not Incl.)
- Condition Rank: (B) Very Condition. Please See Photos and Condition Rank Guide.
- Country of Manufacture: Japan
Condition Rank Guide:
-N: Item is in New Old Stock condition (NOS). Shows little to no signs of use apart from some minor handling wear.
-A: Item is in Excellent condition. Micro-scratches can be seen on the barrel, cap, and/or grip section. No noticeable scuffs, chips, or cracks.
-B: Item is in Very Good condition. Minor scratches and scuffs can be seen on the barrel, cap, and/or grip section. No Chips or cracks.
-C: Item is in Good condition. Moderate scratches and scuffs can be seen on the barrel, cap, and/or grip section. Minor hairline cracks not affecting functionality may be present. See photos.
-D: Item is in Fair condition. Heavy scratches and scuffs can be seen on the barrel, cap, and/or grip section. Cracks or chips that potentially affect functionality may be present. See Photos.
-F: Item is in Poor condition. Item is not functional. For parts or repair only.
