In 1970, the luxury M models (M30, M60, and M100) were revised, their nibs were upgraded to 18 carat gold (Pelikan-collectibles.com) (or 1971 (Pelikan Schreibgeräte)). However, in 1973, the lineup of the M series was reduced to only M480 and M60 for the domestic market (Pelikan catalog No.250W (1977)). It probably had something to do with the fact that Pelikan was focusing on cartridge fountain pens at that time (Pelikan - ein unternehmen schreibt geschichte)⁽¹⁾, and that the piston filler models 400NN and 120 were reissued in 1973. However, the M100 continued to be sold in foreign markets such as Japan, until at least 1980 (万年筆評価の部屋 ).

Including earlier models, the M series was produced over a long period from 1965 to 1983⁽²⁾, but failed to become a mainstream of Pelikan fountain pen or produce a hit like the model 400. It was only after the introduction of the Souverän M400 that Pelikan finally managed to regain its former greatness in the fountain pen business (Pelikan: Ein Unternehmen schreibt Geschichte).

Getting back to the model M100, it was the successor to the old style model M100. Except for the 18 carat gold nib, almost all parts — from the cap top overlay, cap tube overlay, clip, sleeve, section ring, and turning knob overlay — are made of solid 14 carat gold. For each solid gold part, "14C-585" was engraved. Furthermore, the entire fountain pen was engraved with a guilloché pattern. Consequently, the M100 was a highly intricate piece of craftsmanship and was the most luxurious fountain pen Pelikan had ever produced.

Pelikan has traditionally produced solid gold fountain pens as the highest-end line of its flagship piston filler fountain pens. This tradition began with the model 112 and continued through to this M100 (although the model 400N series was manufactured for only a single year, Pelikan still produced a solid gold model 700N for the series). That tradition came to an end with this M100. This likely marked the end of an era in which fountain pens held a position of prestige (at least for Pelikan). Although the Souverän series was launched afterward, no solid gold fountain pens have been produced to this day. Given the recent surge in gold prices, it’s unlikely that fountain pens like this will ever be made again.

Note;⁽¹⁾Looking at Pelikan catalog 220A, cartridge fountain pens are listed above piston filler fountain pens.
⁽²⁾The M480 model was produced until 1983, and that was the last M model.