Kenneth Parker’s influence was ever-present in the concept, design, and marketing of Parker 51. Aviation was a common feature in Parker’s advertising due to Kenneth’s passion for the industry.

While the official launch wasn’t until 1941, design work was completed in 1939, Parker’s 51^st year. This is believed to be one of the reasons it was named “51”. Another reason was that Parker wanted a name that would translate easily into any language.

The Parker 51 was marketed as the ‘World’s most wanted pen’ due to its popularity among pen retailers in the 1940s.

When first launched, the Parker 51 with its hooded nib and streamline silhouette was like no pen ever seen before. It was described as ‘a pen from another planet’.