Waterman · c. 1900s-1920s
Waterman 72
Variants
| Model | Material | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 72H | Vest (small) size | $2.50 (1919 catalog) | |
| 472 | Sterling silver overlay | Gothic, Filigree, Sheraton, Pansy Panel patterns available | |
| 572 | Solid gold overlay | $25+ (1919 catalog) |
What to Look For
Screw-cap eyedropper — the '7' in tens place denotes screw cap, described in the 1919 catalog as 'same general type as regular, fitted with screw lock security cap.' The 1919 catalog lists the full range from 72H ($2.50) through 78 ($8.00), with sterling/gold overlay options. The screw-lock cap prevented accidental opening and ink spills. Less common than cone-cap models but more common than straight or taper caps.
A Waterman eyedropper with a screw-lock security cap. The 1919 catalog describes the Pocket Type (screw cap) as ‘same general type as regular, fitted with screw lock security cap’ — the screw mechanism prevented the cap from coming off accidentally, a significant practical improvement for carrying a pen filled with ink. Available in the full nib-size range (72H through 78) with overlay options in sterling and gold. Less common than cone-cap models but deliberately chosen by users who needed leak-proof portability.