PARKER “51” PREMIUM: A 20TH CENTURY CLASSIC REIMAGINED


May 1st 2022 – London: Introducing the Parker 51 Premium, a classic design set to take the 

world by storm, again. 


Hailed as ’the world’s most wanted pen’ the Parker 51’s notoriety began the moment it was 

launched back in 1941 and continues to this day. Its distinct hooded nib and innovative filling 

system set it firmly apart from other fountain pens and it quickly became one the most revered 

and loved writing instruments the world had ever seen. 2021 saw a highly successful relaunch 

and we’re pleased to announce a new chapter in its history with the launch of the Premium collection. 


The Premium sees the Parker 51 reimagined to appeal to a whole new audience. Even in a 

world where minimalist hi-tech tools reign, we have a pen that can be equally appreciated for 

its stunning design and desirable application from a loved and trusted brand. 

What’s in a name?

Although it’s not uncommon for PARKER to use numbers to name its models, from the time it hit the market until the present day, many have wondered where the name ‘51’ originated. Several theories exist ranging from the pragmatic to the more abstract.

What’s in a name?

Although it’s not uncommon for PARKER to use numbers to name its models, from the time it hit the market until the present day, many have wondered where the name ‘51’ originated. Several theories exist ranging from the pragmatic to the more abstract.


While the official launch wasn’t until January 1941, design work was completed in 1939, PARKERs 51st 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. With ambitions

for marketing the pen on the global market, using a title made of only one number was the ideal solution.

A third reason highlighted in an early print advert was that the name ‘51’ suggested that it was 10 years

ahead of its time!


Like a pen from another planet

For over 130 years, PARKER has constantly innovated and evolved to ensure it can meet the demands of the modern writer. The hooded nib not only looked ‘like a pen from another planet’, it also had two functional benefits that set it apart from previous PARKER models.


Unlike conventional fountain pen nibs, the hooded nib was designed to protect and keep the nib moist so it

would start as soon as the nib hit paper. The other improvement was to the nib feed which allowed the ink to

get to point of the nib with more control, preventing leaking and a faster restart.      

Around the same time PARKER launched a “51” branded ink that was super quick to dry. It was said that the

hooded nib on the Parker 51 was ‘the pen made for the ink’ and that the ink was ‘made for the pen’ due to

its ability to keep the ink wetter inside the hood.


Evolving an icon



Making changes to an icon is no easy feat. That’s why PARKER ensured that any changes 

made to the Parker 51 had to be made with improvement in mind.  

Like all contemporary PARKER pens, a cartridge/converter refilling system has been 

included to fit with different lifestyles whether on the go or based at home. 

Cartridges are the most convenient way to fill fountain pens. They’re prefilled with ink, 

lightweight, and portable. For the purists, the converter enables the writer to use the bottled

links and choose from whichever ink they prefer. 


The addition of a modern screw-fitted cap to replace the original clutch mechanism 

ensures a reliable cap on/cap off and a tighter seal around the nib, preventing from it 

drying out when not in use. It sounds like a given that a pen would meet these basic 

requirements, but such are the expectations of today’s users.


New premium finishes with engraved caps 

The Parker 51 Premium bears all the hallmarks of superior Parker craftsmanship. The distinct silhouette is true to the original 

design as is the unique hooded nib. Luxury materials make up the Premium with the barrel crafted from precious resin. 

A colour choice of Black, Forest Green, Red Rage and Turquoise have been carefully selected from Parker 51 heritage range for their 

timeless appeal. Gold is used to beautiful effect in creating the pen’s trim.


The meticulous, expert engraving on the cap shows a series of four intricate ornate patterns. Each individual style takes its 

inspiration from contemporary architectural designs and structures and reaches out to a new generation of creators, designers 

and smart thinkers.

More than a Fountain pen

Like the classic, the new Parker 51 will be available in more than just the fountain pen. Ballpoint has been added to the

assortment to fit with different writing preferences. Whether you prefer the convenience and reliability of a Ballpoint the 

prestige of the fountain pen, there’s a Parker 51 for any writing occasion.


The Perfect Gift

 The elegant gift box enhances the whole unwrapping experience, with a modern exterior enclosing the Parker 51 pen and an ink refill underneath the pen platform. The packaging features PARKER’s two Royal Warrants, demonstrating PARKER’s continued commitment to craftsmanship and excellence.

The Perfect Gift

 The elegant gift box enhances the whole unwrapping experience, with a modern exterior enclosing the Parker 51 pen and an ink refill underneath the pen platform. The packaging features PARKER’s two Royal Warrants, demonstrating PARKER’s continued commitment to craftsmanship and excellence.

For further information, please visit https://www.parkerpen.com


-ENDS-


ABOUT PARKER

Established in 1888, Parker has spent 130 years pioneering innovation, style and unique craftsmanship in fine writing instruments, 

giving people the confidence to write their own stories. Recognised worldwide for its use of high-quality materials, Parker puts 

its renowned expertise into every pen through rigorous testing and attention to detail. A hallmark of Parker’s commitment to 

craftsmanship and excellence, Parker has been awarded two Royal Warrants, first in 1962 by Her Majesty The Queen and again in 

1990 by His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales.