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Parker Sonnet
The Parker Sonnet fountain pens first made their way on to the scene in early 1993. There were 2 different type of bands released. They had a sleek thin styled band and also a broader thicker capped model. There was the Original MK1 model of the Parker Sonnet fountain pen. It was later followed by its successor the MK2. There are quite a few variations between the two models of pens.
Parker Sonnet MK1:
After the very successful run of the Parker 75, The Parker Pen Company decided to launch the Parker Sonnet Mk1. It boasted a new design more appealing to the modern day 90’s market of the time. This was hailed as the flagship model at parker at the time. It was later followed up by and replace by the Duofold line of pens.
The Parker Sonnet MK1 had wide range of design materials and customization possible. Some of the introductory models were made from coated brass. There were also some standard metals used on them as well. Stainless Steel was the material of choice used for the more sturdy base models. They had a more basic finish. These designs included some un-plated nubs an most often carried a thin band.
The higher end models of the Parker Sonnet came equipped with intricate design work. The painstaking designs included the Ambre and Chinese Red. Higher end precious metals were used in the accenting and designs. These included pure gold plating which was the most expensive. They also had 18kt gold nibs as well. These were followed by silver plated models and last but not least the Sterling Silver. Some of the Parker Sonnet pens came with lacquers and other colored substances to give the pens a unique look and feel.
The Firedance finish was the very attractive lacquer design. It carried its own style and flavor. It usually came in a thin band, but varied models of the thick band do exist.
The Parker Sonnet MK1 had a very good run. The Sonnet Refresh MK2 Design later complimented it.
Parker Sonnet MK2:
These Parker Sonnet pens were the latest in the Sonnet line. There were changes made to the engraving work. The engraving was now done horizontally on the baps band. The MK1 originally had 7 feathers. The Parker Sonnet MK2 now boasted only 5. There were also changes made to the nib. The new design had a V like shape added to the pen. It was made from steel. The golden nib was a lattice look.
With the popularity and success of the Parker Sonnet, there were a lot of fake pens being made. Be sure to double check with a reputable dealer when attempting to purchase one. These counterfeit Parker Sonnet pens are showing up all over the internet so buyers beware.
Amongst the most commonly counterfeited were the special edition pens. The Terracotta was a popular special edition model. They had a much larger box than the regular Parker Sonnet pens. More recently the 2 newest special edition Parker Sonnet pens are the Sonnet Crocodile Vermeil and the Sonnet Fu. Be sure to inspect Parker Sonnet pens for weak or fading materials. They may have tarnished finishes as well. This is an indication that you may not be holding an original.
In closing the Parker Sonnet has lived up to the Parker name as one of their original flagship pens.
For more information on your Parker Sonnet click here