I think my first exposure to Yard-O-Led was, like several of my MP firsts, all down to a review by Dave’s Mechanical Pencils. It would take some time for me to grow out of my sub-2mm comfort zone and a full decade or so of collecting before I felt, okay, I think I have a place for a Yard-O-Led in my collection.
However, I still wasn’t quite sure I wanted a sterling silver edition with proper hallmarks, etc. So I was quite pleased to find out that a less precious version was made in ‘Platinine’ alloy during the 1960s. For my purposes of wanting to get familiar with its operation and quirks, this was more affordable at just under £40 used and less likely to result in heartbreak if I were to damage it in my clumsiness.
The box included the original instruction sheet, which showed a number of different models. Based on the clip and finial design, I think my pencil matches with the ‘Universal Model’. There isn’t any documentation for the guilloche pattern, but I would describe it as a series of alternating knurled bands. I’d be most appreciative if anyone has more information to share.
The top of the pencil has ‘PLATININE’, ‘PATENT No. 422767’ and ‘MADE IN ENGLAND’ stamped neatly. The alloy reflects a warm sheen to the eye. I gave it a light buff but it doesn’t seem it’s meant to achieve a mirror like gleam. At first I thought ‘Platinine’ was just a fancy name for pewter or some such but a quick check reveals that it is actually considered more precious, and is sometimes called ‘German Silver’.
OK, that’s all I have. Now I wonder what (non-fountain) pen goes with it!
