Advice?

[OldSchool]

I have been drooling over Montblancs for a long time but am uneasy about purchasing one used since I don't know how to distinguish 1) a fair price and 2) a reliable seller. I'd appreciate any advice you can offer! Thanks.

[jar]

First learn all you can about the model of interest.

Second, if on eBay simply skip any seller with less than a 99% rating.

Third, if the pictures are not clear or look like studios shots, be wary.

Fourth, ask lots of questions.

Finally, if the deal looks too good it probably is.

[mmahany]

Substitute the words "Used Montblanc" for "Used Mercedes" and there's your answer.

[kaisnowbird]

I second tips given by Jar above.

If you have a particular model in mind, I'm sure someone can give you an idea on what may be a fair price for a really good condition used one.

[OldSchool]

Thanks for the sound advice, all.

[OldSchool]

I've been researching the 146 and would really appreciate advice on what I should expect to pay for a used one in good condition. Thanks.

[kaisnowbird]

I'd usually go to a trustworthy/respected dealer to see their prices. For example, Gary Lehrer's (GoPens.com) latest catalog had (already sold, sorry) a mint condition 146 with original packaging, circa 1991, for $300. See item No.154 (http://gopens.com/Vintage-pens-cat-69.php).

From my amateur perspective, this is a run-of-the-mill 146 from the early 90s. (On the other hand, item No.148 above it is a lot more special.) For mint condition, in original package, with the stickers still on, $300 is very reasonable. It may not be considered the bargain of the year, but it's a fair price for both the seller and the buyer.

Hopefully, one of the MB experts would chime in later and critique my view.

[john]

I'd usually go to a trustworthy/respected dealer to see their prices. For example, Gary Lehrer's (GoPens.com) latest catalog had (already sold, sorry) a mint condition 146 with original packaging, circa 1991, for $300. See item No.154 (http://gopens.com/Vintage-pens-cat-69.php).

From my amateur perspective, this is a run-of-the-mill 146 from the early 90s. (On the other hand, item No.148 above it is a lot more special.) For mint condition, in original package, with the stickers still on, $300 is very reasonable. It may not be considered the bargain of the year, but it's a fair price for both the seller and the buyer.

Hopefully, one of the MB experts would chime in later and critique my view.I'm lucky enough to get a 146 which is around $260 including shipping.It comes with 18k 2 tone M nib. It's a great writer which I use it daily.

[Jeph]

You could also ask Rick what he has available. He usually has several pens that are not on the website.
Plus, he has listed a 80's 146 14K M for $250 Rick Propas MB146 (http://www.thepenguinpen.com/montblanc/details/mb2969.jsp)

[Uncle Bud]

eBay seller 'fineandprecious' is trustworthy, I've bought several MB's from him and all has went well, he is a German seller. Cheers

[mmahany]

OldSchool and I ended up working out a deal on one of my 146 pens with the box and service guide. The last I heard, she was very satisfied with the pen.