This update comes after the Chicago Pen Show at the end of April, beginning of May.
I am happy to acknowledge the contributions from someone new, Francis Meinhardt whose father Frank worked at Parker as a chemical engineer. Frank Meinhardt was instrumental in the creation of the T-Ball Jotter's spherical porous point, but it was through seeing his father's name on an internal Parker Research Shop Order for 75 sterling grid that caused him to contact me. Francis was kind enough to grant me access to his prototype Grec 75 pen so that I could photograph it and share with you.
Lynn Sorgatz again kindly provided me with another Parker product catalog, this time from the late 1970s. Since the 105 was omitted, I would say this catalog was from 1978 or earlier due to its launch on September, 1979. The 75s listed were:
Sterling crosshatch grid
Laque Thuya
Goldplated Grain d'Orge
Silverplated Milleraies
Also shown are the Parker 85 models which helps me expand that branch of the 75 family tree. One picture helps identify the name of the vermeil bark pattern -- Acacia.
Another past contributor is Tsachi Mitsenmacher who gave me access to his some prototypes in a variety of finishes. We met at the Chicago Pen Show and he carried them all the way from Israel!
Last but not least, my good friend Lee Chait won an unusual 75 at the Chicago auction. It was a Keepsake RB with a plaque inscribed with the seal and signature of President Ronald Reagan. Also he showed me another very early aluminum grid prototype.
Thank you Francis, Lynn, Tsachi and Lee for your contributions to this website.
As always, I welcome your feedback/criticisms on this site. I am always interested in hearing from you, especially if you have some 75 that you don't see here. Even better if you want to sell it to me. If you are looking for a particular 75 or have need of parts, drop me a note. I might just have it. Send me email at the LTW@Parker75.com address.
Thanks for visiting.
Here are the new items in the Parker 75 Reference section.
Parker models from a late 1970s product catalog including the 85 family branch.
Lots of prototypes!
Two more grey coated Flighters with tinged colors in purple and copper
Two more finishes of the Flighter BP giving it a frosted appearance
Refreshed and added pictures for the following: