The day I had been planning for since January finally arrived this past Saturday - it was Atlanta Pen Show time! My shopping list was ready, my car was fueled, and my bank account was emptied as I made my way an hour and a half north to the show.
I wanted to get there early because it was imperative I got in the queue for Mike Masuyama, lest I be there all day waiting for the nib work I wanted done. I arrived at 9:45 and put my name on the list. I was already 8th in line. Oh well, time for shopping!
As soon as I turned from Mike Masuyama's table, here comes Lisa Anderson from Anderson Pens to give me a big welcoming hug. I was happy to meet her right out the gate and her enthusiasm helped set the tone for what would be a great day. She is a real joy to talk to, as is Brian, who I met as he manned the four packed Anderson Pens tables.
One of my goals this show was to purchase an Esterbrook from Brian. He went through the various models and nibs and I settled on a beautiful blue Esterbrook J and swapped in a 9550 (EF) nib. I also picked up a couple of bottles of ink I wanted to try out, including the interesting Scribal Work Shop Cryptid Siren Blue.
After the Andersons, I made my way around the remainder of the show, making sure I gave every table a good once-over before making my next purchase. Right when I was rounding the last corner of the second ballroom I spotted a few Edison Pens. Many dealers stocked the Production Line Edison pens but I happened upon a single Signature Line Pearl snuck between a few others. I inquired on what turned out to be a blue/black swirl ebonite Edison Pearl, the price was good, and it was mine.
During my lap around the show I checked out dozens of Parker 51's. I was pretty sure one would be coming home with me, but I never found the perfect match. Many were in rough shape, and I had been spoiled already by the one Thomas loaned me. So, I passed on the 51, but a different Parker caught my eye - the Vacumatic.
To be continued ...
