About Cross
A.T. Cross is one of the oldest pen manufacturers in the world, established in 1846 in Providence, Rhode Island. With a heritage spanning 180 years, Cross has earned a reputation for producing elegant, reliable writing instruments that combine classic American design with exceptional build quality. Their lifetime mechanical guarantee, rare in the pen industry, is a testament to the confidence they have in their craftsmanship.
For the full story of the brand's remarkable history, see our Cross history article.
What Makes Cross Special
Cross pens are defined by their slim, elegant profiles and their use of high-quality materials including lacquer, chrome, and gold-filled finishes. They are a popular choice for corporate gifting and professional use, and have been the official pen supplier to the White House since the 1970s. The Townsend collection in particular has been used by numerous US presidents to sign legislation, earning it the nickname "the Pen of Presidents." See our article on US presidents and their pens for more.
Cross's lifetime mechanical guarantee covers any mechanical defect for the life of the pen, with free repair or replacement. This makes a Cross pen a genuinely long-term investment.
The Cross Range
Cross Century II
The Century II is the modern evolution of Cross's iconic Century design, first launched in 1946. Slim, lightweight, and available in a wide range of finishes including chrome, gold-filled, and lacquered colours, the Century II is a classic everyday pen that suits both professional and personal use. Available as a fountain pen, rollerball, and ballpoint.
Cross Calais
The Calais is Cross's entry-level range, offering the brand's characteristic slim profile at an accessible price. Available in a range of lacquered colours and metallic finishes, it is a smart, understated pen that makes an excellent gift. See our pen gift guide for more ideas.
Cross Bailey
The Bailey sits in the mid-range, with a slightly more substantial body than the Calais and a wider range of finishes. Available in both light (resin) and standard versions, the Bailey offers a comfortable writing experience with a smooth steel nib.
Cross Townsend
The Townsend is Cross's premium range and one of the most prestigious pens in their collection. Named after founder Alonzo Townsend Cross, it features a larger, more substantial body and is available in gold-filled and rhodium-plated finishes. The fountain pen version takes Cross cartridges or a converter for bottled ink. A pen with genuine gravitas, well suited to special occasions and executive gifting.
Cross Peerless 125
The Peerless 125 is Cross's flagship fountain pen, released to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the first Cross fountain pen. With an 18-carat gold nib and a beautifully crafted body, it is the finest writing instrument Cross produces and a serious collector's pen.
Cross Inks and Refills
Cross produce their own range of bottled inks and cartridges. Their fountain pens use Cross's own cartridge format, so a Cross converter is required for use with bottled ink. See our guide to using an ink converter if you are new to bottled ink.
Which Cross Pen is Right for You?
- Everyday carry or entry gift: Cross Calais
- Classic slim everyday writer: Cross Century II
- Mid-range with more substance: Cross Bailey
- Executive or premium gift: Cross Townsend
- Collector or special occasion: Cross Peerless 125
Shop Cross at Pure Pens
Browse the full Cross range at Pure Pens, including fountain pens, ballpoints, rollerballs, and inks. If you need help choosing the right Cross pen, get in touch and we will be happy to advise.