Known as "Da Book" among
fountain pen collectors,
Fountain Pens: The Complete Guide to Repair &
Restoration a
self-published volume by Frank
Dubiel.
Mr. Dubiel's book documents how to effect repairs on vintage fountain
pens. His assumption is that most of the pens in the scope of his book
have not been produced in, at best, a quarter-century. Even in their
heyday, repairs were often accomplished by "remove defective widget
with widget removal pliers ($1.00 net.) and replace with new widget
($.05 net.)" (direct quote from Da Book). Given that the
replacement "widgets" may be scarce at best, making do with what you
have is given a high value. This may require some
improvisation or even cannibalization. Repairs documented
range from simply replacing an ink sack, to manufacturing a
replacement part on advanced tools.
It is generally held that anyone attempting repairs of vintage
fountain pens must own a copy of Da
Book. Truthfully, anyone interested in collecting
vintage fountain pens should own a copy, even if the most simple of
repairs will not be attempted. It gives an excellent overview of how
things within a fountain pen may work, even on older techniques and
technologies. Further, it provides an interesting historical
perspective. Finally, if looking to buy a pen at a flea market, it
will help make an informed decision as to the condition of the pen,
and the effort to repair.
Mr. Dubiel passed away on December 7, 2003. The pen community will truely miss him.
Sources:
Fountain Pens: The Complete Guide to Repair &
Restoration
The Zoss Pen List