Montegrappa 402 Sterling Silver Fountain Pen: 18k Gold Fine Nib

Pen: Montegrappa 402 Sterling Silver Fountain Pen 
Maker: Montegrappa, Italy c1970's
Colour: Sterling Silver / Gold
Material: Engraved Sterling Silver 925 / Vermiel Trim (Full Hallmarks) 
Nib: 18k Montegrappa 585 Nib: Fine 
Filling System: Montegrappa Ink Converter / Cartridge Compatible 
Length: 142mm (full measurements below)
Condition: Serviced, Excellent 

The Story
Montegrappa pens have been manufactured since 1912. Their premises stands in the same historic building on the bank of the River Brenta, in one of the most picturesque areas of the historic town of Bassano del Grappa in the prosperous north-eastern part of Italy.

The 402 was introduced in the 1970's as a tribute to the 1937 Montegrappa 402 celluloid pens. The 400 series followed the release of the 300 series.The Montegrappa catalogue states: 

'The 300 collection is a modern reproduction of the mythical 1937 Montegrappa 402 fountain pen. The 402 was proposed entirely in celluloid with details in gilded metal. In the 1940's the proprietor of Montegrappa commissioned the production of an exclusive version of this model with trims in 925 sterling silver. The fountain pen was never manufactured commercially but was destined exclusively for his personal use.'

The 300 series featured a number of colourful enamel finishes, with solid 18k nibs and gold trims, the 400 series featured 925 sterling silver cap and barrels with gold trim and 18k gold nib of which this example is one.

The pen is a superb and rather rare example, long at over 14cm and gently tapering at both ends, it weighs in at 35 grams and feels beautifully well balanced - the nib is a smooth 18k gold fine nib, it comes fully serviced with Montegrappa sleeve and ink converter installed: a pen with gravitas.  

The Nitty-Gritty 
There are no major imperfections to note, no chips splits or engravings.

There are some minor hints of handling, micro-scratches in places.

There is some pitting at the base of the grip section visible around the bottom of the nib. This does not detract from the overall striking appearance of the pen but is nonetheless present. 

Ink Recommendations
Why not pair with a bottle of Herbin ink? Bleu Ocean or Kyanite Du Nepal ink would suit this pen very well

Measurements
Length Capped: 142mm
Length posted: (N/A)
Barrel length inc nib: 121mm
Cap length: 61mm
Barrel diameter: 12mm
Section diameter: 10mm