Conklin Mark Twain 14K Flex Nib Crescent Filler

Conklin was the first manufacturer of practical self-filling fountain pens, and this is an exact replica of the company’s original 1897 design—now with a supple 14-karat-gold flex nib. One hundred and twenty years ago, the Crescent Filler was an innovation in penmaking that ultimately led to more practical construction. Mark Twain was an official Conklin spokesperson, famously stating, “I prefer it to ten other fountain pens because it carries its filler in its own stomach, and I can not mislay even by art or intention.” For this modern version, the demonstrator barrel has been turned and polished by hand, and all metal parts forged from solid sterling silver. Only 98 pens were made in each color and each is individually serialized.

Refilling a Crescent Filler is simple: Depress the crescent into the barrel of the pen while the nib is submerged in ink. As you release, ink will be drawn into the bladder of the pen. Repeat the process a few times to fill the ink sac completely. Once you’ve filled the pen, wipe off the excess ink from your nib with a soft cloth or tissue, then rotate the locking ring underneath the crescent to a closed position so that the ring opening is on the opposite side of the crescent. The same process can be used with cold water for cleaning, and the crescent itself also helps to prevent the pen from rolling unnecessarily when in use.