You might have already seen our new Condition indicator in our Marketplace listings. We made the update to not only give a more visual indicator for the information, but also to try to add greater clarity and transparency to how we present the pre-owned writing instruments we receive from private collectors.

To that end, we also wanted to share the process of how we determine condition, as well as what our terms mean.

Reception

Every time we get a new box of writing instruments headed to our Marketplace, we get excited. Usually we have some sense of inventory ahead of time via conversations with collectors, but just as frequently our opening of the box is the first time we get to see the new pens.

And unboxing is our first step. We examine the sleeves, outer boxes, and cases first with an eye toward wear and any storage-related aging. We note any dings and tears, and with regard to cases check hinges, linings, and function, ensuring that it opens or slides without issue.

The Pen

Next is the important (and fun) part: the writing instrument. Our first inspection is simply holding it and checking for any dings or scratches in the body itself, before we uncap (or twist, in the case of ballpoints) to check the nib. Besides assessing things like tine alignment and feed quality, we’re also looking for signs of whether it’s been inked previously, as well as whether there are any blemishes or signs of aging that are irreversible.

While we don’t go so far as microscopes, we do use high-quality, professional grade optic magnification to ensure that we have a sense of even the most minute of surface imperfection.

Some pens don’t make it past this initial quality check, as we strive to ensure that our Marketplace features only the highest quality of pre-owned writing instruments. We want to make sure that rehomed pens satisfy their new owners in every way, and over the past year and a half we have rejected pens for issues like surface-level damage in the metal of either the nib or the trim.

We don’t just want them to write well; we want to ensure they look good doing so, as well! Every day people walk into our store and marvel at our displays, and we strive to achieve that same “Wow” factor with every online order, as well. We hope all our shipments arrive to customers who have the same thrill at the unboxing!

Cleaning

Once we know the pen will function well, it’s time to clean it. From polish of the metal furnishings to a dip in our ultrasonic machine to clear out any residual ink, we give every writing instrument a thorough deep clean to restore all writing instruments as close to their original luster as possible.

Once the writing instrument (or accessory) is thoroughly inspected and cleaned, we feel confident about evaluating conditions. We try to keep our rubric as simple, transparent, and straightforward as possible.

We assess the overall presentation of each writing instrument, including the physical condition of the item and any accompanying box or packaging. As a result, the final condition rating reflects the complete presentation, not just the instrument itself. An instrument in better cosmetic condition may be rated lower if original packaging is not included or shows significant wear.

Condition Scale

• Pristine

  Appears essentially new with no visible wear. Includes original presentation and box, if originally issued, with no noticeable flaws.
  
  

• Excellent

  Shows extremely light signs of handling. Includes original presentation and box, which may show minimal, barely noticeable wear.
  
  

• Very Good

  Displays minor cosmetic wear consistent with careful use, or is in near-new cosmetic condition but does not include the original box. The writing instrument may be shipped with a branded or unbranded replacement box, which will be clearly indicated.
  
  

• Good

  Shows visible cosmetic wear consistent with regular use, or may be in better cosmetic condition but lacks original packaging or includes packaging with noticeable wear. The writing instrument may be shipped with a branded or unbranded replacement box, which will be clearly indicated.
  
  

• Fair

  Exhibits heavier cosmetic wear such as scratches, scuffs, or discoloration, or may show moderate wear while lacking original packaging or having significantly worn packaging. The writing instrument may be shipped with a branded or unbranded replacement box, which will be clearly indicated.
  
  

• As Is

  Shows significant cosmetic wear or imperfections and is offered in its current condition. Packaging, if included, may be heavily worn, replaced, or incomplete and will be clearly indicated.

Final Note

Finally, it’s worth noting that there is a high likelihood we would reject writing instruments we’d consider “Fair” or “As Is.” At The Pleasure of Writing, because we are dedicated to excellent client experiences, we would endeavor to ensure that all writing instruments we evaluated were in at least “Good” condition before allowing them to be part of our Marketplace.

That means that as a buyer, you can rest assured that all the items listed in our Marketplace have undergone rigorous evaluation; as a seller, you can also be ensured that your writing instruments are in capable hands and presented to prospective buyers alongside our reputation as purveyors of fine writing instruments.