This is an extremely rare late Eversharp ballpoint pen and pencil set in rolled gold - manufactured after the Parker takeover (when that Big E logo was developed) and dated to 1961 - 1964. It is thus one of the very last Eversharp writing sets marketed under that brand.
The condition is very good - this set had clearly been bought and only very lightly used. For its 60+ years of age, it is in excellent condition. No dents, damage or dings - all the gold finish is bright and unworn. Only the lightest handling wear. Neither is engraved - both have vacant cartouches.
The ballpoint is a twist mechanism, and is fitted with a fully working blue refill. Vintage refills are hard to find, and probably dry - however, this is fitted with a new one which is an adapted (cut-down) Cross refill. Twist mechanism is working perfectly. Cap pulls off to reveal the screw access to the refill. Cap top is stamped with the Big E logo.
The pencil is extraordinary because it mimics the ballpoint almost totally. Looking almost identical in every way, it is a press-top clutch-lead mechanism, and is full of original Eversharp leads both loaded in the pencil and stored in the storage chamber. The very top of the cap pulls out (see photos) - to access the lead storage and the original unused eraser (hardened but replaceable). This cap top is not stamped with the Big E logo.
Both pen and pencil have identical triangular barrels which are very comfortable to hold. They have a fine line / milleraies pinstripe pattern to each face, and one face has the empty cartouche, should you wish to engrave and personalise the set. The caps, by contrast, are circular. Both have pinstriped clips with the Big E logo to the tip. The tops of each cap are engraved "Eversharp: in cursive script and "MADE IN ENGLAND" "ROLLED GOLD".
The box is in excellent condition - with a cross weave gold on ivory pattern to the exterior, and a royal blue satin interior. The lid interior is stamped "EVERSHARP" to the satin. The pen and pencil beds are spotless. The box is entire and solid, no marks to the blue satin. Some age related wear to the exterior (some ink dots to the top and some sticky tape marks to the base).
Dimensions (all approximate):
Length and weight of Pen: 12.3 cm, 22.3g
Length and weight of Pencil: 13.0cm, 18.8g
Width (max, across triangular barrel): 0.9cm
I will send this very collectible set via tracked Royal Mail and please note if you are buying from outside the UK, this set will be sent via the eBay Global Shipping Programme and it will take around 10 days to arrive with you.