At the time, after the Second World War, it was not easy to export German works. For that reason, Montblanc called the Masterpiece the model for the worldwide Market. Only a few numbers of the Demonstrator were made in the first production, some sources from the most important Montblanc collectors, say only 200/300 Demonstrators were made for testing the Market. The model was immediately discontinued because it was too expensive to make in regular production. Today, is one of the most beautiful and coveted Montbanc models, a sort of Holy Grail for every MB Collector.
The Pen has been gently used and is in excellent condition in relation to the age with some very minor micro signs and a tiny crack on lip of the cap, which has been stabilized. The telescopic filler (not to be confused with a piston filler) is working perfectly and it is ready to use! I keep a small amount of water in the pen to keep the cork conditioned.
Among the celluloid models, "Masterpiece" seems more common than Meisterstuck. According to post-war literature from MB, most pens were intended for export to the UK and North America in an attempt to earn hard currency for the devastated German economy. Thus, most pens were marked "Masterpiece, " as they were intended for English-language speakers.Later came the "Meisterstuck" which would be recognized by German speakers. Lambrou's first book shows a German ad which reads in part: These pens are for export only. Tom Westerich tells me that the transparency of the barrel is due to the varnish having worn off over a very long time.
So not a demonstrator by design but a "demonstrator" by age. The item "Montblanc Masterpiece 149 Celluloid Telescopic & Transparent Model Very Rare" is in sale since Monday, August 12, 2019. This item is in the category "Collectibles\Pens & Writing Instruments\Pens\Fountain Pens\Montblanc". The seller is "crairett" and is located in Owen Sound, Ontario.
This item can be shipped worldwide.