L-R: Fixpencil 58, Fixpencil Metal F-S and Fixpencil Metal, all in 0.5mm.
The ‘58’ is a model number saved from a past auction, and I do not know if it is accurate. It was paired with a 858 ballpoint with identical gold accents, but the pen tip follows the common form factor of the 849 series.
As far as I know, the Metal F-S has the most intricate machining on the cone, and it also comes in gold plated version as seen in Allen’s ‘Black and Gold’ thread. On the other hand, I have not seen the ‘58’ style cone offered in normal silver.
The third model, the Fixpencil Metal 0.5 was obtained recently in a trade with @Leonov. I had imagined it to be mechanically similar to the other two, but no, it is a 2mm slide pipe.
I am grateful that the paint and markings on all 3 of these vintage pieces are still intact and legible.
What endears them to me is the stark contrast with today’s Caran D’Ache 844 pencils, which are really all about pouring the latest fashion trends onto a classic silhouette.
The 58 and F-S in particular share a very robust adjustable spring cushioning system. Even the less complicated Metal 0.5 is a full-metal build.
A last close-up of the clutches. The Metal 0.5 uses an o-ring to hold the clutch block securely through the neck opening, and also to tighten the cone when it is screwed on. A real class act!
I wonder if we will ever find catalogs that document this period in Caran D’Ache’s history?
