This is a stunning Parker 180 Flighter, made in England in Q4 1981 (date code "UI"), in a very uncommon variant:  it has a delicate floral pattern deep-etched into the surface of the barrel and cap.  It is very tactile and subtle.  This pen is in superb condition throughout and appears to be virtually unused.  It is boxed and has an original "loop" converter. 

A very slim and elegant pen, the Parker 180 was launched in 1977 and featured a radical new nib that was usable either on the top side or the bottom side, hence the name "180" to indicate that it could be turned through 180º in use. This also allowed the use of two different nib sizes on one pen, for example Fine on one side and Broad on the other or Extra Fine and Medium.  This pen's nib has "M" stamped to the feed, so this will be a Medium / Extra Fine configuration.

The polished chrome clip is secured by a 'stack of coins' cap stud, reminiscent of that of the Parker 75 (the 180 superseded the 75, and its design is echoed accordingly).  The barrel end stud, also chromed, is slightly flared so that, when posted, the cap 'clicks' on to the pen and prevents the cap rim from coming into direct contact with the barrel thus preventing rubbing or scratching.  Under magnification the end stud shows no wear to the edges, suggesting little use and good care.

This pen's condition is excellent throughout - no damage and virtually as-new.  The etched pattern is sharp and clean throughout.  The pen has been fully disassembled, cleaned and serviced.  The original "loop" converter was drawing and expelling water in testing, and does not appear to be perished or aged.  However - it is a perishable (the rubber ink sac can split) - and you may prefer to source a modern converter.

In dip testing, the nib was buttery smooth and very versatile.  I thoroughly enjoyed the way it rolled, and wrote, both conventionally and with the 180º flipped nib.  Note that it is a slender pen - larger hands may find it too narrow for a comfortable grip.

Dimensions (approx):

Length (capped):  13.2cm

Length (posted - capped "clicked" onto the barrel):  14.0cm

Width (barrel, max):  0.9cm

Weight (with converter fitted):  17.7g

I will send this 45-year old rarity carefully packaged, and under tracked Royal Mail delivery in the UK.  Please note if you are buying from outside the UK, this pen will be delivered by the eBay Global Shipping Programme, and it will take around 10 days to get to your door.