For your consideration, we are pleased to offer this NO RESERVE auction for a restored Circa 1917–1923 Waterman 0552 1/2 Gold-Filled Overlay Lever-Fill Fountain Pen in the highly desirable Trefoil pattern, fitted with a wonderfully expressive 14K #2 flexible nib. This is a beautiful early Waterman overlay combining elegant period craftsmanship with the kind of lively writing performance collectors actively seek today.
This fountain pen has been carefully cleaned, lightly polished, fitted with a new sac, and restored back to dependable writing condition while preserving its originality and vintage character.
The 18K gold-filled Trefoil overlay remains in very attractive condition with crisp pattern detail and strong visual presence throughout. The Trefoil design is one of Waterman’s more recognizable and collectible overlay patterns, offering a refined architectural appearance that displays beautifully in hand. There is really no wear to the overlay, and it does not have any major dents, dings, or structural damage. The barrel cartouche carries the period engraving: “From Dad To Herbert” , which adds a wonderful touch of early personal history to the piece. There are no repairs noted to the overlay.
Both the cap and barrel retain clear “Waterman’s Made in U.S.A.” imprints, while the butt end remains stamped “0552 1/2,” confirming the model designation. The clip and lever arm remain exceptionally clean with no notable wear.
The fountain pen measures approximately 5 1/4 inches capped, 6 5/8 inches posted, and weighs 0.58 ounces, offering a lightweight, balanced feel typical of Waterman’s finest early overlay pens.
The true highlight of this example is the outstanding 14K Waterman #2 nib. The nib measures approximately 0.66mm with digital calipers, placing it in the Medium range at rest. In use, the nib delivers exceptional flexibility and line variation, producing strokes from approximately 0.58mm to 2.44mm under controlled medium-to-firm pressure — ranging from Fine to Triple Broad+ line variation The nib is lively, responsive, smooth, and highly expressive, delivering exactly the kind of vintage flex writing experience that has made early Waterman fountain pens legendary among collectors and calligraphy enthusiasts alike.
I will note for complete accuracy that there is a small fissure beginning beneath the lower portion of the breather hole, clearly shown in the final listing image. Even with this, the nib remains fully functional and performs beautifully. At some point in the future, a collector may choose to have the area professionally laser welded for long-term preservation.
Overall, this Waterman grades in the Fine to Very Fine range, offering strong originality, beautiful overlay work, and a truly exceptional flexible nib.
An elegant and increasingly difficult-to-find early Waterman overlay fountain pen in the sought-after Trefoil pattern, offered here with an outstanding vintage flex nib and at NO RESERVE.