Conklin Pen Company 4VS Rolled Gold Mechanical Pencil W/Watch Fob Chain

Make:  Conklin Pen Company (Toledo, Ohio) 

Model:  4VS

Age: Prior to 1924

Construction: Rolled Gold

Dimensions: 4" Long (barrel only), 4 3/8" to top of hanging loop, Fob chain 13 1/4" Long

Condition: Excellent pre-owned antique condition. Very minor signs of wear. Please see photos.

Details:  Small rolled gold machine-engraved mechanical pencil with attached ring for watch fob or chain.  Engraved Near top "Conklin Toledo, Ohio  MADE IN U.S.A." and on reverse "PAT. 7-6-20  ROLLED GOLD  NO. 4VS".  4VS is the model number, or "V" Design, which refers to the machined decorative on the barrel.  There is a smooth panel on one side of the barrel to allow for personalization.  The cap at the top screws off, and its rounded design indicates that it was probably made prior to 1924.  The fob chain is a substantial curb design with a spring loaded loop fastener at one end, and a spring-ring clasp at the other. It is marked "GERMANY" on the spring ring.

The Conklin Pen Company began as the Self-Filling Fountain Pen Company by Roy Conklin in 1898, in Toledo, Ohio. Conklin had been involved in the design and manufacture of pens since 1891.  He developed the Crescent Filler, which predated the more common lever filler.  In 1904, Roy Conklin withdrew from the company, and it changed hands several times.  This began a period of expanded production and distribution.  At the time, Conklin was as popular and well known as the likes of Parker and Shaffer.  Business began to decline in the 1930s, and the company was sold to Chicago Interests, an investment group.  With the onset of WWII, production dwindled, and eventually ceased by 1948.  The Conklin Pen Company was rebuilt in 2000, creating replicas of their earlier successful models.

At one point, from the 1920s, they also produced mechanical pencils, both pendant and pocket clip models, in yellow, white and green rolled gold, as well as with other decorative finishes to match the pens.  In 1924, the design of the cap became more flattened.