Please Help - Cross Fountain Pen

[TerryF]

Hi all

Looking at a vintage Cross FP model 3006. It is made of sterling silver and the nib is marked 14K and XF.

Any comments? Good idea, bad idea?

[Taffi Abernathy]

I think that is a beautiful pen. This is an older model manufactured here in the States. The models manufactured within the past few years are made in China and many believe that their quality has been compromised. (I started a Cross pen thread a while back and a former Cross employee commented about the quality decline within the past few years.) Nonetheless, that sterling silver pen is a dream with x-fine point. The best thing about Cross is that regardless of when it was purchased, from whom or where and whether or not you have a receipt, they will always make good on their merchandise by fixing writing instruments you have broken or by replacing them (usually with a pen of even greater value). Providing the seller isn't requesting an exhorbitant amount, grab it and treat yourself to years of writing pleasure.

[TerryF]

Thanks Faith, what do you think would be a fair price for the pen?

[Taffi Abernathy]

That pen was discontinued in late '94 to early '95 at which time it retailed for $135.00. (If you happened to purchase it in '91, the cost would have been $125.00). Keep in mind despite the retail, many Cross pens were discounted approximately 20%, the norm for even authorized dealers. You didn't mention the condition of the pen or nib; I would certainly want to know their condition. Is it pre-owned or old new stock?

P.S. I must tell you I owned a sterling silver ladies set (minus pen clip with a blue leather carrying case), and it was one of my favorite Cross pen & pencil sets by far! Grab it if you are able. How much should you pay? Hard to answer without knowing the condition and how badly you want it, but at least now you know the retail. Good luck, and please let us know whether you purchase it.

[TerryF]

Pre-owned but like new. Never had ink through it.
Got a choice of either fine or extra fine nib as there are two available.

[Taffi Abernathy]

Originally Posted by TerryF

Pre-owned but like new. Never had ink through it.
Got a choice of either fine or extra fine nib as there are two available.

Offer $50.00 and see what happens, you can always go up.

[TerryF]

hmm...dont think he will fall for that - he is currently asking $125 each.

What would the equivalent value of a currently available model be?

[Lion]

Terry, see if you can offer him $100.00 cash(20% off)...he might just agree. As for nib size you'll have to go with what you like. If it was me I'd go with the extra fine nib but I like narrow writing instruments!!!

[Taffi Abernathy]

I personally would not pay $125.00 for a used Cross F.P nor would I pay $100.00. This is your Cross Century II Sterling Silver F. P. sitting on Amazon.com brand new for $154.49, and at least you know exactly what you are getting.

[TerryF]

Originally Posted by Taffi Abernathy

I personally would not pay $125.00 for a used Cross F.P nor would I pay $100.00. This is your Cross Century II Sterling Silver F. P. sitting on Amazon.com brand new for $154.49, and at least you know exactly what you are getting.

Thank you Faith - I think I'll pass on it then. Your help is appreciated :)