Bonhams Fine Writing Instruments Auction, June 11 in San Francisco will offer more than 260 examples including Montegrappa Dragon Pen and Montblanc John Lennon which lead the sale. A rare, artist’s proof Montegrappa Dragon 18K Yellow Gold and Brilliant-Cut White Diamonds Limited Edition Prova d’Autore Fountain Pen is estimated to fetch $35,000-55,000. Created in 1995, Montegrappa’s celebrated Dragon pen quickly achieved status unmatched perhaps by any other modern limited instrument. A limited edition of 10 white diamond-studded 18K yellow gold pieces was made, which quickly sold out and has become famously unobtainable.
This rare artist’s proof is one of only two created. Its heavy, elaborately hand-finished 18K solid yellow gold dragon overlay is a work of art, set with 590 brilliant-cut white diamonds (6.95 carats), and its eyes are set with two rubies (3.36 carats). Its finely-marbled black celluloid body provides striking contrast to the overlay and the finishing touch is a fine 18K two-tone gold nib.
A unique version of this pen crafted of blue celluloid and sapphires will also be offered in the sale (est. $35,000-50,000), as well as a rare yellow gold and white diamond-encrusted crystal inkwell ($40,000-60,000).
Highlights of the sale continue with a Montblanc John Lennon 18K Solid White Gold Skeleton Limited Edition 70 Fountain Pen, estimated at $30,000-50,000. It features an 18K solid white gold skeleton overlay, with the word “Imagine” encircling the barrel in honour of Lennon’s solo hit. Translucent blue precious resin shows beneath the overlay in reference to Lennon’s trademark blue glasses. The clip, inspired by Lennon’s guitar, is set with a blue sapphire. It also has a medium 18K gold nib, engraved with Lennon’s self-portrait.
Also among the sale’s highlights is an Omas UNICEF Signs for Children Solid 18K Gold Limited Edition 30 Set of 24 Fountain Pens, produced in 1996 (est. $30,000-50,000). The set, numbered 19/30, features solid 18K gold overlays, with each designed by a different figure in the arts. They include extra-fine 18K gold nibs with UNICEF insignia. Full sets in solid gold are quite rare.
