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Fountain of wealth?
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October 3, 1996: 2:33 p.m. ET
Even in this computer age, vintage fountain pens are making a comeback
From Correspondent Carmine Gallo
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NEW YORK (CNNfn) -- In the high tech era of computers, there seems to be a trend back to the ways things used to be done, such as writing a meaningful letter -- with a fountain pen.
The French, like Boucheron chairman Alain Boucheron, say love letters written with pens come straight from the heart. But pen collectors are springing up all over the world, partially due to the Internet. Prices are skyrocketing.
An early Waterman Cable Twist pen from 1904 would have sold for $7.50 at the time. Today, it goes for about $10,000 - $12,000.
Geoffrey Berliner, an authority in the pen business, says collectors new to the trade should feel comfortable with their new writing instrument.
"Go to a pen shop with a budget in mind," he said. "Try out many pens. See what fits your hand well, see what kind of line you like."
Quality pens start around $50 - $100, and range up to $30,000 for vintage pens.
When you start investing, look for brand names such as Waterman, Parker or Mont Blanc. Rarity, beauty and workmanship are also important. One way to become familiar in the field is by browsing through magazines and catalogues -- but don't discount the sale next door.
"Try to find the rare pieces at flea markets because sometimes you may have interesting surprises and keep loving them," said Waterman president Jean Veillon.
The latest addition to the pen market is the collaboration between Waterman and the French house of Boucheron -- a fountain pen for the 90's for $2,500.
"As long as we have feelings, thoughts and fingers, I think there will be a strong link to pens," Veillon said.
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