Waterman 42 Italian Vintage “Putti” on Open Filigree Overlay 18k Rolled-Gold Safety Fountain Pen
This vintage pen is close to 100 years old, it has seen regular use and shows signs of having been lovingly owned through the years. There are some clear signs of surface wear, with scratches on the section and piston knob (see last 2 images). It is equipped with a 14k Broad Waterman’s Ideal nib that’s writes very wet, almost a Double Broad. It fills via Eye Dropper and the trim, cap and body are rolled 18ct gold. (Writing Sample at the bottom). Having an “open filigree” refers to a style of decorative metal overlay—typically sterling silver or gold-filled—that is pierced, lacy, or cut through. Instead of a solid metal casing, the filigree pattern features openings that allow the base material of the pen (usually black hard rubber, or sometimes celluloid) to show through underneath.
A note from Bry—
I’m often asked, “Can this be a daily pen?” And the honest answer is: yes… and no.
Yes, these vintage pens can absolutely write and function the way they were intended to. They’ve already been used and enjoyed for generations.
But no, I don’t recommend one as a daily carry in the modern sense—tossed in a bag, taken to the office every day, or traveled with. This is a nearly 100-year-old pen, built with 100-year-old technology and tolerances. They stopped making safety fillers for a reason. 🙂
If you want the experience of a true vintage safety pen, it’s incredibly rewarding—just treat it like you’d treat a vintage watch: best enjoyed at a desk, maybe with a little extra care, and not necessarily as a travel companion.
Here is a writing sample:
