Should I pop for this restoration? | FerrariChat

Should I pop for this restoration?

Discussion in 'Other Off Topic Forum' started by PeterS, Jul 7, 2006.

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  1. PeterS

    PeterS Five Time F1 World Champ
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    I have an original Montblanc 149 from 1948. I'm thinking of sending it to the most prestigious pen restorer, Daniel Kirchheimer for restoration. This pen has a very low serial number and has been in the family for many years. A full restoration will run about $3K.

    I trust you won't think I'm out to lunch, but this restoration should really be worth it. Thoughts?
     
  2. BT

    BT F1 World Champ
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    Let Matteo handle the restoration. He can get his done at the same time.;) I am sure he has contacts. I don't know how passionate you are about pens, but if you are really into them I would say do it.
    :)
    BT
     
  3. LetsJet

    LetsJet F1 Veteran
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    Well,

    How much would it cost to have the work done locally? Do you know some place that can also do good work? Seems expensive, but until you know what it will cost locally and can compare I don't see how you can make an informed decision.

    Good Luck

    BTW - I'm kind of a pen guy.... I own about 65 collecable pens. Why don't you post the quote to have the repair done? I'd like to see it.
     
  4. bpu699

    bpu699 F1 World Champ
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    Peter, just do it yourself. Those montblanc parts are really over priced. I heard that the internals are the same a a bic pen. Paint the shell rustoleum plack, and use some whiteout to top off the cap... :)

    Make sure you get the gold band (belt) changed too. If that thing goes while you are writing, you will be in a world of hurt!

    Oh, and post some pics. Preferably with some cutie sprawled all over your pen...
     
  5. PeterS

    PeterS Five Time F1 World Champ
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    Since I live in Hooterville, there are no restoration companies local. Daniel Kirchheimer is really the only person of high recommendation in the US that has been factory authorized to do high-end work. Yes, there are many that claim they can perform a factory restoration, none probably as good as Kirchheimer.
     
  6. PeterS

    PeterS Five Time F1 World Champ
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    Hey, it's MY pen and I really don't care how much it costs. I do agree that many components are over-priced, but when you are having the best company do the restoration, money is not really an issue. Hell, it's not like I'm shipping a car half way around the world.
     
  7. bpu699

    bpu699 F1 World Champ
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    Yeah...and if you do it yourself you won't have the certificate... ;)
     
  8. darth550

    darth550 Six Time F1 World Champ
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    #8 darth550, Jul 7, 2006
    Last edited by a moderator: Sep 7, 2017
  9. 134282

    134282 Four Time F1 World Champ
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    Pete, from what I understand, a user here named "Old Guy" likes to collect pens and just might know a thing or two about them... PM him...
     
  10. PeterS

    PeterS Five Time F1 World Champ
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    #10 PeterS, Jul 7, 2006
    Last edited by a moderator: Sep 7, 2017
    LOL!!!!!! Just gave you the Noah UniBrow look with my trusty 149!
    Image Unavailable, Please Login
     
  11. LetsJet

    LetsJet F1 Veteran
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    Peter,

    I took the liberty of making a quick call to MB for you. After spending about 3 min. on your behalf I've learned a few things that might be helpful to you.

    MB does have their own service center in the US. Further, they don't have a "factory authorized" program. So, I know DK is highly regarded but he does not appear to be "factory authorized" and I know how important that piece of paper is worth to you. What's more interesting is he seems to be charging you far more then published rates. You should take a look at his web site. Does he know you own a Ferrari? Maybe this is what he calls a Ferrari discount??

    I wish you luck on your restoration project as a pen of this vintage should be kept in pristine condition. Though, I caution that you might have erred in your decision process. Seems you could get the work done much cheaper dealing directly with the factory. Had you done the due diligence and waited for their quote, you might have found this info out on your own.

    But, never the less, I'm glad to help......

    As a note to others - Not all manufacturers will be the best value in getting repair work done. But, it never hurts to ask....

    I can't wait to see the picts of your completed restoration!
     
  12. BT

    BT F1 World Champ
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    Would Peter need to go over to France and hold the pen in a container (both ways)? I think the shipping alone would cost $10-20k so $3k for the entire job is a deal here. Speak up Darth, eh?
    BT
     
  13. darth550

    darth550 Six Time F1 World Champ
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    Damn! Wish I knew! If I hadn't sold all that Fed-Ex stock I'd have their quarterly!
     

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