Keltonik Inkwell

Stephen Keltonik patented this combined inkstand and pen rack. When a pen is removed from the rack, the inkwell is shifted to the open position. Replacing the pen in the rack results in the automatic closing of the inkwell. He advertised it as “The Only Inkwell Made That Closes Itself Perfectly”. The backplate is embossed with a ship’s wheel and the remark: “You will sail as you will steer”.

The company also made a brass version – pictures added. It was also patented in England.

The corresponding British patent (GB 308,011) was applied for on March 27, 1928, and officially accepted/issued on March 27, 1929 to Stanislaus Keltonik (matching the S. Keltonik & Co. and reissue U.S. Patent RE. No. 17,400 marked on the piece pictured).

Summary of the Patent

The patent covers an inkstand / inkwell mechanism designed to protect ink from dust and evaporation while allowing convenient, one-handed opening and dipping:

• Pivoting / Counterweighted Lid Mechanism: The ink reservoir is sealed by a fitted closure/lid that is linked to a lever, rocker, or pivoted arm mechanism. Depressing a forward rest or lever automatically swings or lifts the lid clear of the well.

• Automatic Re-Sealing: Upon releasing pressure (or lifting the pen), gravity / counterweighting (or an internal spring arrangement) automatically drops or swings the stopper/cover firmly back over the well opening to keep ink fresh and prevent drying out.

• Integrated Pen Rest: The actuating lever or cradle is shaped to double as a pen support, ensuring that placing or retrieving a pen naturally coordinates with the opening and closing cycle.