The Parker 17 was introduced in 1962 and was made for the next fifty years.  The only significant change was made, however, in 1964 when the large open nib, now referred to as a 'beak nib' was replaced with a much smaller version that was hidden under a hood, as in the Parker 51.

This is a fine example of the early beak nibbed pen.  It is in superb condition, showing little sign of use, although I have inked the pen for testing purposes.  It has a showroom finish, a clear barrel imprint, and the ink sac is unstained.

The 'aerometric' filling system is easy to use and trouble free.  The 14 Ct. Gold nib is a very handsome affair and a great writer, it produces a super smooth line with a pleasinng 'soft' feel.  Parker described the nib as 'semi flexible', and it does offer a small amount of line variation.

The early Parker 17 is now very collectable, due to the very short production run, ending shortly after introduction and the consequently few numbers of 'survivors'.  This pen is clearly of collectable quality but it is such a super writer that perhaps it should now be used and shown off!