Parker 61 (Black)
This was a development of the Parker 51, but never achieved the same success, though it continued in production until 1983. When first introduced in 1956 its main feature was the ‘self-filling’ mechanism, using capillary action to suck ink into the pen, but this was ultimately abandoned in favour of the aerometric squeeze filler, as with this example which is probably a post-1969 model. The body is slimmer than the 51 and has an end-taissie.
Note the inlaid silver arrow. This is not solely decorative, but assists the writer hold the pen in the correct position, which can be difficult with very shielded nibs. This example has a broad nib, perhaps even extra broad.
