Vintage Japanese Eyedropper Fountain Pen. These pens were very popular during the first half of the 1900's, but fell out of major use due to the invention of automatic filling systems. However, they still maintained a niche interest during the second half of the 1900's and even till today.
These pens were designed as eyedroppers, meaning ink was stored directly in the barrel without cartridges or converters. A key feature was the shutoff valve, a small mechanism that prevented ink from leaking during use or travel. This valve allowed users to seal the ink reservoir, ensuring a steady flow only when writing, which addressed issues like burping or dripping often seen in traditional eyedropper pens.
The pen features an "Ideal" marked 14K gold nib. Ideal was a brand associated with Ginjirō Kabutogi. Ginjirō Kabutogi was the most famous post-world nib meister. His nibs are know for their writing characteristics. This nib does show a good amount of flex. The lack of a JIS mark indicates late 1940s/early 1950s production.
This pen has NOT been serviced by our pen repair team and would make an excellent restoration project or parts pen. The grip section is currently stuck, likely with dried ink. The pen will likely need to be soaked for a period of time to free up the section. Shutoff valve seals also will need replaced. This pen is NON-FUNCTIONAL. There are NO RETURNS on NON-FUNCTIONAL pens. The nib alone is worth the price of this pen. We would love to see someone restore this pen or put the nib to use.
- Manufacturer/Model: Ideal Eyedropper
- Year of Manufacture: Late 1940s/early 1950s.
- Color: Brown
- Material: Ebonite (Hard Rubber)
- Nib: Warranted Ideal 14K Gold Flex Fine
- Filling System: Eyedropper w/ Shut-off Valve
- Condition Rank: (F) Poor 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.
