An Antiques Roadshow visitor was left stunned after learning that a set of pristine Waterman ballpoint pens, gifted by her father who served in the Dutch Merchant Navy, could be worth up to £600.
The guest brought the pens to an episode filmed in Ebrington Square, Derry/Londonderry, confessing she had never used them despite their sentimental value. Expert Mark Hill examined the set, noting its 'original' condition and the intricate Art Deco design.
Hill praised the pens, stating he hadn't seen a matching set 'for a very, very long time'. He speculated that the pens, likely dating from the late 1930s, had survived wartime perils, possibly including a torpedo attack.
After revealing a valuation of £400 to £600, Hill was taken aback when the guest declared she would not sell them. 'Really?! They're lovely. I wouldn't sell them,' she said.
Hill encouraged her to restore and use the pens to write letters, describing them as 'stunning pieces of Art Deco design by one of the world's greatest vintage fountain pen makers'. The guest responded warmly, saying, 'Well done, Dad. Yes, they're beautiful!'
