1920S CROSS ALWRITE NICKEL PLATED ENGINE TURNED CHEVRON PATTERN W/SNAKE-LIKE CLIP PENCIL

For your consideration, we are pleased to offer for sale this vintage 1920s Cross Alwrite mechanical pencil, beautifully executed in nickel plate with a finely engine-turned chevron pattern and the distinctive snake-like accommodation clip. This is a remarkably clean and Cross mechanical pencil example, free of monograms, and fully functional—qualities that are increasingly difficult to find nearly a century on.

The cap and barrel are in outstanding condition, showing no dings, dents, cracks, or repairs. The nickel-plated surface and clip exhibit no visible wear and have been carefully polished, restoring the pencil’s original luster without compromising its vintage character. Just above the clip, the barrel is stamped “CROSS ALWRITE MADE IN U.S.A.”, a mark that speaks to Cross’s early American craftsmanship. The pencil measures 5 1/8 inches in length.

This example features a twist-action mechanism, advancing the lead by turning the nose cone. The crown removes easily, revealing an intact eraser and a storage chamber designed to hold additional lead—an elegant and practical touch typical of Cross engineering from this period.

The pencil is designed for 1.1mm lead and currently contains one stick in the chamber.

Early Cross Alwrite pencils from the 1920s are scarce, and examples in this level of preservation are particularly difficult to acquire. With its crisp engine turning, excellent plating, and complete functionality, this piece would make a standout addition to any vintage writing instrument or mechanical pencil collection—a true survivor from Cross’s golden era of production.