The is a vintage fountain pen from the early 20th century, highly valued by collectors for its large size and flexible nibs. Under the classic Waterman numbering system, the "16" indicates two key specifications: the "1" designates the pen as an eyedropper filler , and the "6" refers to the size 6 nib . Key Features of the Waterman 16
The Waterman Pen Company, founded by Lewis Edson Waterman in 1883, revolutionized writing with the invention of the "Three Fissure Feed" system, which used capillary action to provide a reliable, controlled ink flow. The #16 model belongs to the "Golden Age" of Waterman (the 1920s and 30s), a period known for producing high-quality ebonite pens that remain functional today. Modern Collector's Value
: Typically equipped with a Waterman Ideal #6 14K gold nib . These nibs are renowned for their smoothness and significant flexibility, often capable of producing line variations from a fine line to a triple broad stroke. Construction & Design :
: Some versions, such as the Waterman 16 P.S.F. (Pocket Self-Filler), featured a lever-filling mechanism rather than the standard eyedropper system. Historical Context
: As an eyedropper pen, the barrel itself serves as the ink reservoir. Users unscrew the section and fill the barrel directly with ink using a dropper.
