Century II Ballpoint Pen

Last verified May 12, 2026 by the Lifetime Picks Editorial Team

The Cross Century II is the long, slim ballpoint pen American executives have used in boardrooms since 1982, same shape, same balance, same lifetime mechanical warranty. The body is solid brass with chrome / gold / lacquer finishes; the click is a smooth twist (not a button click), and the pen sits on a desk in the iconic Cross silhouette: long, slim, with a single claw clip. Cross's lifetime warranty is the BIFL story, they'll repair or replace any Century II for the life of the original owner, no questions asked, no proof of purchase required. r/PenAddict and r/EDC threads frequently surface Cross Century II as the upgrade from disposable pens that's still serviceable 40 years later. Refills are widely available from any office supply.