New life for an old Cross pen (as a pencil)


This Cross pen was part of a set that had a matching pencil. Unfortunately, I lost the pencil years ago. The pen is beat to hell from years of use, but also is one of my most prized pieces because it was a gift from my mom when I graduated college. It’s been misplaced and forgotten in several places over the years, but when she passed almost a year ago, I wanted to keep closer tabs on it and maybe use it more frequently.
A few months ago I learned of a (now discontinued) product called “Switch-it” that allows you to convert a Cross pen to a mechanical pencil.


in the picture above, the lead is advanced by pressing/clicking the yellow end. BTW there are erasers included. They are tiny.

While is does “work” in that it does turn your Cross pen into a MP, the function leaves a little to be desired. To advance the lead you have to turn the (clip end) end of the pen about a quarter turn left and then right, essentially “clicking” the yellow end I mentioned above. You have to return the cap back to the right to set the clutch, or the lead will back up into the pencil when you write.

On a side note, I am looking for any advice on what I can do about the surface of this pen. Any suggestions? I was considering maybe some very high grit microfiber or something.

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I have a similar pen from when I graduated high school. The one I have is “gold” plated. Is yours “gold” or just brass?

it may have been gold - now its just gross though :expressionless:

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Came across this converter a while back and used it to add some variety to my quartet of translucent Cross Solo… glad to have this!

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My thread about another possible conversion

How much did you pay for your Switch-It converters?

They go for about $30 on eBay, not sure I want to shell out for it. It looks like mine should be compatible though.

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They were like 15-17 bucks back then. I think there was even option for a 3-pack. Not sure if they’re still being made today.

I recall reading about someone who owned a vintage Cross Century twist pencil that broke (over twisted etc) and Cross could only offer a new Century BP plus a Switch-it as solution.

I paid $22 for mine w shipping

TBH I’m not that impressed with it

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I would suggest a metal polish cloth (the type used for jewellery) as the gold plating is very thin.

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