Lever mechanism fillers

[Ray-VIgo]

The lever is probably my favorite filler, mainly because many of the classic pre-war Sheaffer and Waterman pens were levers. The lever filler system is simple. A beginner can usually do a simple re-sac, and a little more experienced repairman can replace the J-bar on most of the pens. Each variation has its weaknesses, but the lever filler soldiered on in various forms until well after ballpoints were on the market. And even by the 1950s, Esterbrook was still producing an economical lever filler pen concept in an attractive, durable line of pens. The lever filler was still a viable, solid option at that time, even after 40+ years. A classic lever filler from Sheaffer, Waterman, or Esterbrook is a great place for someone starting in vintage pens. And there is even variety of people with bigger collections from lesser-known makers - Eclipse, Salz Bros, Diamond, Gold Bond, etc. And I think a lever filler Balance is kind of the "classic" pre-war fountain pen.