Montegrappa Eternal Bird LE Fountain Pen Pre-owned

The Montegrappa Eternal Bird Limited Edition is an impressive and highly collectible writing instrument inspired by the legendary Phoenix (Feng Huang) of Eastern mythology. Introduced in 2005 as the female counterpart to Montegrappa’s iconic Dragon, this exceptional fountain pen combines sophisticated silversmithing with the high-quality writing technology for which Montegrappa is renowned.

The Eternal Bird carries a strong symbolic meaning. The phoenix represents rebirth, renewal, the cycle of the seasons, the sun and fire. The rich red colour of the pen beautifully reflects these powerful associations.

Design & Inspiration

The design is inspired by a 12th-century Chinese painting depicting a phoenix alongside a female figure. In Chinese symbolism, the phoenix represents the empress, serving as the feminine counterpart to the dragon, traditionally associated with the emperor.

The intricate details of the Eternal Bird were created by the same artist responsible for the original Montegrappa Dragon, making this edition a particularly fitting companion to the Dragon series.

Materials & Silversmithing

The cap and barrel are crafted from bright, marbled red celluloid, giving the pen a warm and vibrant appearance.

Surrounding the celluloid is a highly detailed overlay made from solid 925 sterling silver. The silver elements form intricate miniature sculptures of a phoenix in flight. These components were produced using an advanced die-casting technique and subsequently hand-finished by Montegrappa’s master jewellers.

The eyes of the phoenix are set with natural, brilliant-cut rubies, providing a subtle yet striking accent.

Nib & Filling System

The Eternal Bird is fitted with an 18-karat (750) gold, two-tone Medium nib. The nib features a special engraving depicting the phoenix motif, carrying the theme of the pen through to the smallest details.

The pen uses an integrated piston filling system, allowing it to be filled directly from an ink bottle.

Limited Edition

The Eternal Bird was produced in a strictly limited edition of only 1,912 pieces worldwide. The number is a direct reference to 1912, the year Montegrappa was founded.

Each pen is individually numbered, with the serial number discreetly engraved on the underside of the barrel.

Specifications

• Brand: Montegrappa
• Model: Eternal Bird
• Year introduced: 2005
• Limited Edition: 1,912 pieces worldwide
• Nib: 18-karat (750) gold, Medium, two-tone
• Filling system: Piston filler
• Cap & barrel: Marbled red celluloid
• Overlay: Solid 925 sterling silver
• Gemstones: Natural rubies
• Decoration: Phoenix / Feng Huang

Condition

Considering its age, the pen is in beautiful condition, although there are visible signs of use on the clip. The clip is damaged and shows scratches.

As the clip is made of silver, it can be polished and refinished, potentially restoring much of its original appearance. The condition of the clip has been fully reflected in the asking price.

The price of this pen is based on its current condition. An Eternal Bird in undamaged condition would normally command a considerably higher price.

Box & Documentation

The pen comes with its original luxury wooden presentation box and accompanying documentation.

The wooden box is finished with lacquer and provides an appropriate presentation for this exceptional writing instrument.

Please note: the outer box has some light age-related damage. The inner presentation box is in good condition.

A Distinctive Collector’s Edition

The Montegrappa Eternal Bird is a remarkable Limited Edition in which Eastern mythology, symbolism and Italian silversmithing come together beautifully. The combination of rich red celluloid, the solid sterling-silver phoenix, natural rubies and the elaborately decorated gold nib makes this a highly distinctive Montegrappa.

Although the clip shows damage, this example offers an interesting opportunity for a collector who values the model and its exceptional craftsmanship, while accepting that the pen is not in pristine condition.