The Magic Fountain

Conway Stewart Dandy: an Impeccable Modern Classic

2009-05-08T03:32:00.000-07:00

A bespoke Conway Stewart Dandy in classic black: black resin, sterling silver trim, lever-fill, italic fine nib.

A full review has been posted on the Fountain Pen Network.

This pen is modeled on the vintage flat-top Conway Stewart Dandy and Duro models c.1920s, and the design elements have been faithfully retained: the form, the proportions, the "lolly-pop" lever, the knurled endcap, the fixed "stepped" clip, and the curved section.

The double cap-bands are unusual, in that they are rounded and 3-D (like two silver wires), as opposed to flattened strips against the cap.

The Italic Fine nib is the best nib made by Conway Stewart. It produces enough line variation to hint at a crisp elegance, while being extremely smooth.

Pelikan M400 Tortoise "White Honey"

2009-05-04T03:49:00.000-07:00

Spring is here and so is the beautiful "White Honey".

With its delicate, vintage-like feel, this pen resembles a white lily poised on its transluscent green stem right before the flower opens. The tortoise striations look organic, like high-res images of plant cells from Biology textbooks.

More photos are posted on the Fountain Pen Network. Also, writing samples of the XXF Flex nib.

Montblanc Dostoevsky Writers Edition

2009-04-20T08:58:00.000-07:00

The Montblanc Dostoevsky evokes a strong sense of a delicate, evasive, moody and dark sort of glamor -- very 19th Century Russian.

The Dostoevsky is a classic straight-sided domed-top, the design based on the early Montblanc fountain pens up to the late 1930s. It is fitted with a vintage-style, curved section.

The resin barrel is engraved with a sort of stylised "xoxo" pattern. The nib is decorated with a more elaborate version of the same.

The blue jewel at the end of the clip is a synthetic sapphire. The stone is cut in such a way, that it stays quite dark unless light falls directly upon it, at which point it lights up a deep royal blue.

The filling mechanism is a smooth piston. The ink window is a subtle shade of slate blue.

Dostoevsky's design includes references to various aspects of Russian culture and art that are subtle and well-placed, creating an overall sense of moodiness, glamor and nostalgia. In addition to its aesthetic merits, the pen is extremely comfortable to write with.

The Most Colourful Caseins Yet!

2009-03-11T12:11:00.000-07:00

The latest casein infusion:

. Dinkie CS 526J, Red Multicolour, F semi-flex nib
. Dinkie CS 540J, Blue Multicolour, F semi-flex nib
. Dinkie CS 540, Green/Black/Gold, F semi-flex nib

Visconti Alhambra

2009-03-08T10:32:00.000-07:00

The Visconti Alhambra, in black lucite with solid 18K white gold overlay and trim (including the clip).

Full review available on the Fountain Pen Network.

Several versions of the Alhambra were released in 1997-1999. Here is the complete list of editions:

Alhambra:
- 888 RHR with silver overlay
- 288 RHR with 18K yellow gold overlay
- 88 black lucite with 18K yellow gold overlay
- 88 black lucite with 18K white gold overlay (mine)
Alhambra HRH:
- 38 black lucite with 18K yellow gold overlay and diamonds
- 38 black lucite with 18K white gold overlay and diamonds

The overlay technique on the Alhambra is not only exquisitely executed, but is unique in that it is embedded into the body at the time of casting. The gold latticework is fused with the lucite, which I imagine was done similarly to the process used to make Sheaffer inlaid nibs.

This pen fills via Viconti's proprietary "power vac" system. The nib is an amazingly smooth EF that is about an 8.5/10 on the wetness scale.

The Alhambra is a full-size (but not oversize) pen of medium weight and perfect balance. It is extremey comfortable in the hand and suitable for everyday use. This is my favourite pen in my collection.

Montblanc 100 Years Historical Pen: The Retro-Retractable

2009-02-05T11:21:00.000-08:00

The 100 Years Historical Fountain Pen was released as a Special Edition in 2006 and only produced during that year. It was designed and marketed as a replica of the original Simplo Rouge et Noire safety filler c.1908 -- Montblanc's first safety pen. Unlike the later Montblanc safeties, this model used a sliding (rather than twist) mechanism, that covered and exposed the nib like a sleeve. Photos of the original pen can be found on fountainpen.de

Read the full review on the Fountain Pen Network.

Unlike the original safeties, which filled with an eyedropper directly into the barrel, the 100 Years Historical Pen is cartridge only. It fills via unscrewing the lower, bulbous part of the barrel. Inside is a rather scary looking black metal cage. The cartridge is placed inside the cage loosely and the "bulb" is screwed back on. The motion of screwing in the bulb pushes the cartridge forward and impales it onto the "nipple".

The nib is 18K single tone yellow gold. Instead of the usual MB nib decor, this one is imprinted at the base with a large snowcap outline enclosed in a circle and the words "MONTBLANC/ 2006". The most distinguishing and attractive feature is the snowcap-shaped breather hole.

Even though the pen is referred to as "retractable", the nib itself does not retract. The nib stays stationary, while the thin part of the barrel slides in and out of the bulbous part of the barrel and covers/exposes the nib like a movable sleeve.

More information and pictures can be seen here.

The Victorians: Yard-O-Led Pen and Pencil Set

2009-01-31T10:26:00.000-08:00

Pictured here is a Yard-O-Led Viceroy standard size fountain pen and a Perfecta Pencil, both in the Victorian finish. These are solid sterling silver, hand-engraved with a floral filigree pattern.

Yard-0-Led produces beautiful sterling silver writing instruments of remarkable quality. Their designs are a nod to the past: flat-top forms, old-style fixed clips, and traditional colour schemes and engraving patterns. A full review of the fountain pen is available on the Fountain Pen Network.

The Secret Lives of Nakaya Pens

2009-01-27T10:08:00.000-08:00

The pens pictured are the Decapod Clipless in the Heki-Tamenuri finish, and the Piccolo Clipless in the Kuro-Tamenuri finish. The Decapod has a single-tone gold .55mm stub nib that has been reground from a BB by John Mottishaw. The Piccolo has a two-tone gold super-extra-fine elastic nib, which is semi-flexible.

See more on the Fountain Pen Network.

A Rare Bird: the Pelikan M710 Toledo

2009-01-22T19:13:00.000-08:00

The M710 model of the Pelikan Toledo has not been produced sine the late 1990's, so I feel especially lucky to have found it. This is the smaller-size sterling silver version. The proportions are the same as the M215, but this pen is a bit heavier.

Read a full review of this pen on the Fountain Pen Network.

Aurora 80th Anniversary

2009-01-13T19:36:00.000-08:00

Aurora 80th Anniversary Limited Edition, silver overlay. The pen has a slightly domed top, which, like the section, is made of bordeaux resin. Piston filling mechanism with a tiny ink window above the section. This specific pen is a dealer's examplar and is outside the LE numbering system.

Montblanc Schiller

2008-12-27T11:54:00.000-08:00

Of the eight Montblanc pens I own, this one is my favourite: the Montblanc Schiller Writers Edition. It is a dome-topped pen, resembling Montblanc designs of the 1920s. The 3-band clip wraps around the cap, resembling vintage slip-on clips. The cap is covered by an overlay of reconstituted amber.

Like most Montblanc Writers Editions, the Schiller is a piston-filing pen. The 18K nib is engraved with a crossbow as a tribute to Schiller's “William Tell”. The pen feels fantastic in the hand: the size, weight and balance are perfect. The nib is smooth and not too wet, which for me is a positive characteristic.

The Schiller radiates warmth and subdued glamour as few other pens do.

Lovers in the Snow: Montegrappa Micra Bride and Groom Set

2008-11-27T21:14:00.000-08:00

A "bride and groom" set: Montegrappa Micra in Charcoal and Montegrappa Micra in White. Sterling silver trim, cartridge fill. Cap screws onto the threaded bottom of the barrel.

A Micra Wedding

2008-10-26T21:27:00.000-07:00

Italian Wedding: Montegrappa Micras in Charcoal and White. Sterling silver trim, cartridge fill. Cap screws onto the threaded bottom of the barrel.

Overlay Vintage and Modern

2008-10-25T19:08:00.000-07:00

Compared to vintage overlays, the modern ones are positively monstrous. Pictured here, top to bottom:
. Waterman 452 1/2 V Ringtop Silver Overlay in the Jasmin pattern
. Morrison Gold Overlay in the clover pattern
. Conway Stewart Centenary Silver Overlay by Henry Simpole

The Holy Grail of Silver Filigree

2008-10-23T21:45:00.000-07:00

The Visconti Taj Mahal was released in 1996 as a Limited Edition of 888. Unlike other silver overlay pens, this one is proper filigree: The overlay is hand-woven out of thin silver wire according to ancient Indian techniques.

The barrel and cap are made of Visconti's proprietary "vegetal" resin, which has a high-gloss, marblised look and a warm texture suggestive of a hardened organic material.

This pen utilizes Visconti's "High Power Vacuum Filler system" and has huge ink capacity. The nib is a 1.1mm stub, reground by Richard Binder.

A full review of this pen is posted on the Fountain Pen Network.

Ringtop Overlays

2008-10-23T21:33:00.000-07:00

Vintage overlay ringtops in gold and silver: a Sheaffer "Self-Filler" Gold-Filled flat-top Vest Pocket Pen, c. 1920's, with a super-flex nib, and a Waterman 452 1/2 V Ringtop in solid silver overlay, flex nib. Below these are joined by another 452 1/2 V Ringtop, silver overlay in the Jasmin pattern and a rigid XXF nib.

Sheaffer Beauty Queens II: Ladies in Tulle

2008-10-23T21:12:00.000-07:00

Lady Sheaffer Skripsert in the tulle pattern: the X (ivory), XI (black), and XIV (red) models. These were produced around 1958-1964 and were marketed as women's purse pens.

The tulle Lady Skripserts are clipless. There is no white dot on these models.

The tulle Lady Skripserts have lacquered metal bodies. The netting pattern is engraved and then gold-tone plated. The lacquer and plating are very delicate and it is becoming increasingly difficult to find these pens in undamaged condition.

The nibs are rigid "plump wrap-around" style (not inlaid). These nibs are turned up at the tip rather dramatically, which causes some to mistake them for being damaged.

On the images above and below, the Sheffer Targa No. 679 in the tulle pattern and the Lady Skripsert XI are compared side by side. The nib on the Targa is an inlaid nib.

The tulle netting on the Lady Skripsert is more elongated than on the Targa. The engraving on the Targa is considerably deeper and seems more durable. On the other hand, the Lady Skripserts are more elegant and delicate pens with an almost Japanese esthetic. Regardless of the pen, Sheaffer's "tulle" is one of my favourite patterns.

Nakaya Piccolo Kuro-Tamenuri

2008-10-23T17:11:00.000-07:00

My first Nakaya: Piccolo Clipless in the Kuro-tamenuri (red black) finish, with a super-extra-fine elastic nib.

Writing samples of the nib are posted on the Fountain Pen Network.

The Glorious Crescent

2008-10-23T11:36:00.000-07:00

Two modern crescent-fill pens: The Conklin Mark Twain Crescent and the Stipula Saturno. The Conklin is a dome-top with a black chased celluloid (?) body and sterling silver trim. The Stipula is a flat-top with a green woodgrain ebonite body and sterling silver trim.

The Conklin is twice as heavy as the Stipula, particularly the cap. Possibly, this is because its clip and cap band are much thicker.

Conklin's ring is set tighter than Stipula's, but neither presents a problem.

The crescent is considered to be an outdated filling system that is used in modern pens only for nostalgic or kitsch appeal. I disagree, and find it to be a very low-hassle, easy to use filling method that has the additional benefit of keeping the pen from rolling of the desk when uncapped (or if the pen is a clipless model). I also find the crescent quite beautiful, particularly when it is sterling silver. If only more of these were available!

Beauty and "Brains"

2008-10-23T03:51:00.000-07:00

Pictured here is the Bexley Owners' Club 2008 Limited Edition fountain pen in sterling silver overlay. The nib is a .5-.6mm stub reground by Richard Binder.

The 2008 Owners' Club Pen is based on the Poseidon model. It channels the form of vintage Pelikan, but has considerably larger dimensions.

The pattern, which is machine-engraved into the silver overlay, resembles the Wahl Eversharp "brains" design (officially called "sterling coral") from the 1920s.

The silver overlay adds just enough weight to the resin Poseidon body to make it a very well-balanced pen. Beauty, "brains", a spectacular nib, and comfortable to boot!

PJax?

2008-10-22T01:08:00.000-07:00

This is a plastic student pen by Platinim from the 1970s. There are different versions, with prints of other plant life such as tulips and clover leaves. The box is labeled "PJax," but I have not found any further information about this model. The pen is quite small when capped, but becomes full-sized when posted. It has a squeeze filler and a Fine nib.

"Antiques" Vintage and Modern

2008-10-19T16:59:00.000-07:00

Pictured here: a modern Conklin "Antique" silver overlay in Midnight Black, next to a photo of a Mabie Todd Swan "Leverless" rolled gold overlay c.1934, pictured on the back cover of of Andreas Lambrou's Fountain Pens Vintage and Modern.

Reform Calligraph

2008-10-19T12:28:00.000-07:00

The Reform Calligraph may not be much to look at, but it is hands down the best calligraphy fountain pen I have tried thus far. In terms of both nib quality and flow consistency, it outperforms the usual suspects currently on the market, including the Lamy Joy, the Rotring Art Pen and the Sheaffer Calligraphy Pen. Reform pens use a piston filling mechanism, which regulates flow better than converters and cartridges .

The 2.3mm italic nib looks like a shovel and has 2 breather holes. The line variation is more than sufficient for Blackletter. The ink window is helpful (unlike the much-too-narrow window on the Lamy Joy).

These pens were produced in the 1970's (the nib is marked "W. Germany") and the only way to purchase them now is new old stock or second hand. They simply do not make pens that function this well anymore in this price category, let alone piston fillers.

I don't love the "narrow plastic barrel + faux gold trim" aesthetic of this pen, but the way it performs makes me forget all about this.

Tools of the Trade

2008-10-18T01:50:00.000-07:00

Calligraphy can be a fairly inexpensive activity if you opt for dip pens (which are more suitable for this purpose than fountain pens anyhow). Pictured here: two Speedball holders with C-1 nibs, and inks by three manufacturers (for dip pens only). Dip pens can also be used to write with gouache, albeit this takes some practice. Black eternal ink, coloured inks, and gouache, should each have their separate designated nibs.

Four Pelikans

2008-10-17T16:49:00.000-07:00

A small collection of small-sized Pelikans. From the top:
. Pelikan M100, white with black nib and clip
. Pelikan M215 in the Lozenge pattern, x2
. Pelikan M710 Toledo

What makes Pelikan great, is that at different price ranges they offer beautiful and reliable piston-filling pens with interchangeable nib units. I use these primarily with EF factory nibs, and with 1.1mm sharp italic calligraphy nibs ground by Richard Binder.

An Iconic Flat-top

2008-10-16T16:24:00.000-07:00

The Oversized Sheaffer Lifetime in black celluloid. This iconic flat-top sports a white dot inset on top of the cap, which I find incredibly beautiful. The large size of both body and nib make this a very comfortable pen if you are used to modern proportions. The Lifetime nib is a stiff Fine that produces an XF/F line. I have a feeling this will be my most-used vintage pen.

Pennarexia?

2008-10-15T19:55:00.000-07:00

Some very thin fountain pens are compared to a standard pencil.

From top to bottom:

Faber Castell Ambition
black resin body
.45mm italic steel nib reground by Richard Binder

Yard-O-Led Viceroy Victorian, Standard Size
solid sterling silver
.45mm italic 18K nib reground by Richard Binder

Caran d'Ache Ecridor Retro
silver and rhodium plated
XXF steel nib reground by Richard Binder

Loew-Cornell Pencil
Gray

Nakaya Decapod Heki-Tamenuri

2008-10-15T17:04:00.000-07:00

My second Nakaya, ordered from John Mottishaw with a custom-ground .55mm stub nib. This pen is super in too many ways to describe.

A full review with additional images and writing samples is posted on the Fountain Pen Network.

Italian Dome-top with Translucent Casein

2008-10-14T20:39:00.000-07:00

The beautiful Via Veneto is not a commonly known Delta model. It is a black resin "dome-top", with gold trim and translucent ivory casein insets.

Read the full review on the Fountain Pen Network.

Danitrio "Mae West" in Red Hana-nuri

2008-10-12T21:34:00.000-07:00

Danitrio "Mae West" in Red Hana-nuri urushi finish, with a flexi stub nib.

The pen is ebonite, with an urushi finish. The Red Hana-nuri finish has a "distressed" look to it, where the red appears to be scuffed around the edges to reveal a layer of black underneath. This is one of the most appealing urushi finishes I have sen, and the warm, highly aturated vermillion red is a particularly striking colour.

Montegrappa Cosmopolitans

2008-10-10T19:10:00.000-07:00

Montegrappa Cosmopolitan LEs: Arabian (left) and Gothic (right). Produced in 1997, the Cosmpopolitams feature solid sterling silver overlays with the low-relief engravings that the company was so well-known for. These pens are piston fillers and are quite heavy.

Delta Pens Named After Fellini Films

2008-10-08T20:26:00.000-07:00

Three Delta pens named after Fellini films: The Federico Fellini LE, the Dolce Vita Soiree, and the Via Veneto.

More on the Fountain Pen Network.

Creamy Deluxe

2008-10-07T01:55:00.000-07:00

Bexley Deluxe II in Antique Cream
acrylic resin barrel
woodgrain ebonite endcaps
10K gold trim
1.3mm factory stub nib
cartridge/converter filling system

Boheme Triplets

2008-10-06T12:19:00.000-07:00

Three beautiful Montblanc Bohemes and a 3-slot Boheme pouch, lined in royal blue. For more, see this thread on Fountain Pen Network.

Visconti Skeleton Ag925

2008-10-06T10:55:00.000-07:00

The Visconti Skeleton Ag925, in orange lucite with sterling silver overlay, treated with a titanium finish, 2002 release.

Read the full review on the Fountain Pen Network.

The tinanium plating gives the silver overlay a "brushed" appearance. It is durable and difficult to scratch. The design of the orage Skeleton is particularly interesting in that it harmoneously combines industrial and organic elements. The pattern of the overlay cutouts, with the orange peeking out underneath, is remeniscent of an ear of wheat. The black and transparent versions of this pen lack the organic component and look too cold and clinical to me.

The Ag925 version of the skeleton is a medium-sized pen that fills via cartridge/converter. The nib on this one is a Broad that will soon be transformed into an italic.

Modern Silver Overlay Pens

2008-10-06T09:31:00.000-07:00

My absolute favourite pens are silver overlays. Over the past two years, I have accumulated these five beauties and they are the crowning jewels of my collection.

See also my vintage overlays, and a comparison between vintage and modern.

The quality of the overlay on each of these is outstanding and the designs are unconventional. From left to right as pictured below, the pens are:
. Krone Architectus Swords, Piston Filler
. Conklin 100th Anniversary LE, Crescent Filler
. Conway Stewart Centenary LE, Cartridge/Converter Filler
. Visconti Taj Mahal LE, Pump Filler
. Krone Architectus Gothic, Piston Filler

On all of the pens except for the Conklin, the nibs have been reground to italics in sizes ranging from .4mm to 1.1mm.

Montblanc Boheme in Sterling Pinstripe

2008-10-05T12:04:00.000-07:00

My favourite Boheme is the sterling silver pinstripe model with the clear crystal jewel. This is not the same pen as the pinstripe model currently being sold. The current pinstripe model is platinum plated (brass?), whereas the pen pictured here is solid sterling silver. The difference may not be visible in photographs, but when handling the pens, it is significant.

The sterling silver pinstripe model is richer in tone and warmer to the touch; I find it to be a more intriguing pen than the platinum-plated version. Of course, with sterling silver there also comes the tendency to tarnish. The pen came with a Broad Oblique nib, which writes like a stub.

BFFs with the Same Hat Size

2008-10-05T09:53:00.000-07:00

Two Bohemes = four possibilities. Pictured here: Montblanc Boheme in black resin with a platinum plated clip with no stone (Platinum Line) and in stainless steel with an onyx stone (Solitaire). Both are the classic size, retractable Bohemes. These pens take cartridges only, which load by opening a hatch at the bottom of the barrel.

Esterbrook Nurse Pens

2008-10-05T01:27:00.000-07:00

Esterbrook Nurse Pens
Purse Size
Red Jewel and Black Jewel
Lever Fill

Great Expectations... Montblanc Charles Dickens

2008-10-04T11:13:00.000-07:00

Pictured here is the Montblanc Charles Dickens (tied to a shoe). The Dickens was the 2001 Writers Edition pen.

For a complete review, visit the Fountain Pen Network.

The barrel is made of a mystifying slate-gray resin that can appeal green under some lighting conditions and dusty lilac under others.

The cap is an enormous hunk of fluted sterling silver. It is nearly twice as wide as the barrel and certainly heavier than the barrel.

The nib is engraved with the author's initials, "CD".

Dimensions are 15cm capped, 13cm uncapped (including nib), and just under 16.5cm posted.

The pen has a piston filling mechanism.

The overall shape of the Charles Dickens is a "nail-headed" version of a flat-top, where the endcap flares outward. This is one of my favourite shapes for pens, but I know it is not for
everyone. The classic, gracefully curved clip (on a washerattached underneath the endcap) adds to the vintage-inspired look.

Read more...

Yes Milord

2008-10-03T20:02:00.000-07:00

Omas Paragon Milord (old-style) in slate gray with "high-tech" trim. The nib is a .55 stub, reground by John Mottishaw. This pen is a piston-fill, though a double-cartridge version was also available in this model.

The old style Paragons have been discontinued and are getting increasingly difficult to find. The gray one is particularly uncommon.

A full review of this pen is posted on Fountain Pen Network.

Hooray for Gray

2008-10-02T21:36:00.000-07:00

Some slate gray pens (left to right):
. Omas Paragon Milord Old Style in "Gray"
. Pilot Prera in "Slate Gray"
. Pilot Vanishing Point in "Slate Gray"
. Parker 51 Vacumatic in "Navy Gray"

Read more about these on the Fountain Pen Network.

Conway Stewart Centenary : a Henry Simpole Masterpiece

2008-10-02T17:49:00.000-07:00

One of the most beautiful silver overlays in modern production: the Conway Stewart Centenary. The overlay was made by Henry Simpole, and the floral filigree pattern was designed to incorporate the letters "CS" and the number 1905 -- the founding year of the original Conway Stewart Company.

This pen uses an international cartridge/converter system. The nib is a .45mm cursive italic, reground by Richard Binder. This italic is so tiny that it is hardly visible in the image below, but it produces a great deal of line variation.

The Newest Conklin Crescent Model

2008-10-01T02:42:00.000-07:00

Conklin Crescent 2009, in the "green and goldleaf" colour. The new crescents are resin, with silver-plated trim and steel nibs, and available at low prices. This is an amazing writer: the F steel nib is smooth and produces a true fine line.

A review has been posted on the Fountain Pen Network.

BCHR: The Crisp and the Faded

2008-09-29T16:29:00.000-07:00

My best examples of BCHR (black chased hard rubber) to date:

Sheaffer large-size self-filling ringtop (left)
No.3 nib (flex)
lever fill
4 1/2" capped

Parker "Jack-Knife Safety" 22 1/2 ringtop (right)
flex nib
button fill
4 3/4" capped

The excellent condition of these pens really shows off what chased hard rubber was meant to look like when these pens were sold in the 1910's and 1920's.

For comparison, here are the pens next to some BCHRs in less pristine condition.

From left to right:
. Sheaffer early self-filling ring-top, flex nib
. Sheaffer Craig with .6mm stub nib reground by Richard Binder
. Conway Stewart Scribe 330, semi-flex nib
. No-name BCHR, restored by Ron Zorn, flex nib
. Parker "Jack-Knife Safety" 22 1/2 ringtop, flex nib

It is too bad that the Sheaffer Craig, the best writer of the bunch, is also the biggest eyesore. After thinking about it for some time, I decided to go ahead and have it professionally reblackened.

Lilac Lucky Curve

2008-09-29T04:32:00.000-07:00

Delta Jubilaeum

2008-09-27T19:45:00.000-07:00

The Delta Jubilaeum was a year 2000 Limited Edition produced to commemorate the "ano del Jvbilaeum" (Holy year of the Jubilee) that coincided with the beginning of the third millennium. The silver overlay is engraved with an image of the Piazza of the Vatican.

Like most Delta LEs, the Jubilaeum is a lever-fill pen. It came packaged with a red LE ink. Medium nib.

A full review of this pen is available on the Fountain Pen Network.

The "Nailhead": Extreme Flat-top?

2008-09-27T09:04:00.000-07:00

There must be a more formal term to describe pens in this shape, but I have been referring to them as "nailheads". The unifying feature is that the flat top of the pen is markedly wider than the rest of the body. The design was popular is the 1920s and earlier, and we see it mainly on pencils from that era. A few contemporary pens are manufactured in this style, but not many.

In the order pictured above: Yard-O-Led Perfecta Victorian pencil; Montblanc Greta Garbo fountain pen; Montblanc Franz Kafka fountain pen; Faber Castell Guilloche fountain pen; Yard-o-Led Corinthian fountain pen.

Danitrio Raw Ebonite

2008-09-25T23:12:00.000-07:00

The Danitrio Takumi in unlacquered ebonite. The Danitrio Raw Ebonite series were offered for limited period of time. These are the same pens as Danitrio uses for their urushi and maki-e models, only entirely unembelished.

The expanse of black hard rubber has a distinct look, feel and texture. The clip is simple and chrome-colored. The nib here started out as a Flexi XF and was ground down to a Flexi XXF by Richard Binder. The flex here is very easy and natural to use; this is probably the best that I have tried among modern pens.

The Takumi size is the second smallest in Danitrio's line-up, yet it is a sizeable pen -- larger than a Montblanc MS 149. It has been described as a giant mutant cucumber, which seems pretty close to the mark.

The size, shape, weight and feel of this pen, as well as the curvature of the gripping section, make it extremely comfortable to hold and to use for long writing sessions.

Vintage Overlays

2008-09-24T18:01:00.000-07:00

Vintage Overlays: a Morrison Gold Overlay with a clover design and a super-flexible nib, and a Waterman 452 1/2 V Ringtop Silver Overlay with the Jasmin design, XXF manifold "accountant nib".

The Morrison Pen is in near-mint condition; the Waterman is a bit chewed up at the bottom of the barrel, but otherwise fine. The hard rubber underneath the overlay is unfaded on both pens, and the engraving plates are clean. These pens are fully restored and get a lot of use. The Morrison is my best and easiest to use flex nib.

A Couple of Krones

2008-09-22T06:43:00.000-07:00

The Krone Architectus series: Gothic (red) and Swords (plum). Despite being the same model, the two pens are noticeably different sizes, as shown on the image above. The resin underneath the overlay is very thick, translucent, and embedded with bits of metal-like material that reembles seeds in berry preserves. The Gothic is a bright red, but the Swords is a very dark, subdued plum that looks almost black under some lights.

The silver overlay on these pens is very thick and resembles heavy ironwork. The clips are nicely integrated into the design of the overlay. The filling system is described as a piston, but is really more of a "trapped converter". Nibs on both have been reground by Richard Binder: XXF round on the Swords and .4mm cursive italic on the Gothic.

Sheaffer Calligraphy Pens

2008-09-22T02:21:00.000-07:00

Sheaffer Calligraphy Pens, and later a green Sheaffer No Nonsense with a calligraphy nib. In my experience, these pens function better than other currently produced cartridge/converter filling calligraphy pens. I stopped using Rotring Art Pen and Lamy Joy for calligraphy after discovering just how well the (much less expensive) Sheaffers perform. They also produce a bit more dramatic line variation that the other brans, which is an important feature when trying to learn Blackletter.

Danitrio vs Nakaya

2008-09-20T10:56:00.000-07:00

Quintessential models side by side: the Danitrio Takumi in raw ebonite and the Nakaya Piccolo in the kuro-tamenuri urushi finish.

Ladies in Tulle

2008-09-19T11:19:00.000-07:00

Yet another photo of my Lady Sheaffer Skripserts in the "tulle" pattern: X (ivory), XI (black) and XIV (red).

More information about these pens here.

Montblanc Scenium

2008-09-14T06:07:00.000-07:00

Montblanc Scenium, Fineliner and Ballpoint: My only non-fountain pens.

The Scenium line was created to provide a downscaled and minimalist version of classic Montblanc shapes at an affordable price. However, several years later it was discontinued.

The Scenium pens are very slender at the barrel -- similar to a standard wooden pencil -- with an expanded "domed" top reminiscent of the original Montblanc Safeties of the 1920s and 30s. The barrels have a matte, textured finish. The colour is somewhere between charcoal and black.

Because these pens are so thin, some find them uncomfortable. However, the pens re very durable; the tough body material and the textured finish seem nearly indestructable.

All My Dinkies

2008-09-12T15:47:00.000-07:00

This bad photograph reminds me never to use black velvety material as a background again, and I will eventually redo it. In person these early Conway Stewart casein Dinkies are stunning.

Early Conway Stewart flat-tops are the only vintage pens I intend to collect seriously. I am particularly interested in the casein Dinkies and Dandies and hope to acquire more soon.

To learn more about the names of Conway Stewart's early casein colours, please see Andy Russell's article: "'An Endless Galaxy of Colours…….' The Development and Naming of Colours by Conway Stewart, 1920 - 1940," in the Writing Equipment Society Journal.

Visconti Van Gogh: Midi and Maxi

2008-09-10T20:57:00.000-07:00

Visconti Van Gogh pens in the Midi and Maxi sizes: the opaque black Midi and the Swisher Limited Edition Laguna Verde Maxi. Both have .4mm cursive italic nibs reground by Richard Binder.

Greta Garbo

2008-08-31T22:37:00.000-07:00

The pen to lure me into Montblanc territory: the Greta Garbo, classic version. Black barrel, ivory cap, "nailhead" shape to the flat-top, pearl at the tip of the clip.

The filling system is cartridge / mini converter (fits both plunge and squeeze mini- converters). The nib is a .35mm cursive italic reground by Richard Binder.

This is a small pen: 4.8” capped, 4.5” uncapped and 5.3” posted, so appropriately it has my finest italic nib.

Almost too pretty to use, the greatest appeal of the Garbo is definitely in the aesthetics. But this does not stop it from being a great writer.

See more images and a comparison with the Fitzgerald.

White Tie Affair

2008-08-31T22:07:00.000-07:00

A stunning couple in classic black and white: The Montblanc F. Scott Fitzgerald Writer's Series LE and the Montblanc Greta Garbo.

The Fitzgerald is a piton fill and has a Fine nib. The Garbo fills via cartridge or mini-converter. The nib is a .35mm cursive italic, reground by Richard Binder.
Despite their very different forms, the pens share a 1920's Art Deco aesthetic and look wonderful together.

Too Cool for School: the Pelikan M100

2008-08-28T19:28:00.000-07:00

The Pelikan M100: white cap and barrel, black cap-lip, black clip and black nib. The Pelikan Mogo is engraved, rather than printed on top of the cap. Piston fill. The nib unit will fit M2XX and M4XX models.

The white and black combination looks extremely elegant on the M100. Discontinued in the 1990's, these initially inexpensive school pens have gained cult appeal.

Montblanc Kafka

2008-08-21T19:19:00.000-07:00

Montblanc Writers Edition, Franz Kafka. Translucent red-black resin, sterling silver trim. The pen starts out as round at the section, and gradually becomes square at the end of the barrel, to symbolise Kafka's Metamorphisis. The nib is decorated with an engraving of a cockroach.

The Kafka is the only Montblanc Writers Edition with a non-piston filler (the filler is a trapped converter that is accessed by opening the barrel). The nib has been reground to a .4mm cursive italic by Richard Binder.

Under the Shine of Saturn

2008-08-20T11:02:00.000-07:00

I was completely indifferent about Stipula until I saw the Saturno. This is an ebonite flat-top with sterling trim. It uses a crescent filling system.

There are several versions of this pen and they all come in shades of green: olive, ivy, acqua. I wish I had discovered the Saturno early enough to get them all; I like it that much.

The nib is a 1.1mm factory stub. It writes extremely smoothly, but ideally I like an italic to produce more line variation.

Dinkies on the Rocks

2008-08-18T15:04:00.001-07:00

Two more vintage Conway Stewart Dinkies. Both are early CS 526 models. The left is a "Pink Satin" and the right is a blue "S" colour, unofficially referred to as "blue toothpaste".

To learn more about the names of Conway Stewart's early casein colours, please see Andy Russell's article: "'An Endless Galaxy of Colours…….' The Development and Naming of Colours by Conway Stewart, 1920 - 1940," in the Writing Equipment Society Journal.

Desaturated Lamys

2008-08-13T11:25:00.000-07:00

I collect gray-scale Lamy Safaris and Al-Stars. With their classic flat-top styling, durable bodies, and replaceable steel nibs, these can be used as knock-about pens without it looking like you are writing with a school-pen.

And they look great scattered around on an office desk!

Targa in Tulle

2008-08-11T10:48:00.000-07:00

Pictured here is the Sheaffer Targa No. 679 in the "Tulle" pattern. This is my only Targa and I will probably not be getting more, but the tulle I could not stay away from.

As you can see in some of these images, the netting pattern is engraved into the lacquered metal of the pen's barrel and cap (as opposed to screen printed).

For a discussion of the Sheaffer Targa, see this thread on the Fountain Pen Network.

Sheaffer Beauty Queens I: Inlaid Nibs

2008-08-07T11:36:00.000-07:00

Two beautiful and very different Sheaffers with inlaid nibs: the Targa No. 679 in the "Tulle" pattern, and the Heritage Legacy Victorian. I cannot say that I am generally a fan of the Targa, but the tulle pattern makes it look wonderful.

For more, see this thread on the Fountain pen Network, as well as this discussion about the Targa.

Vintage Pen Wishlist

2008-08-04T00:50:00.000-07:00

Conklin
. crescents in good condition (domed-top bodies)

Conway Stewart
. early casein Duros, Dandies, and Dinkies (straight flat-tops only)

Sheaffer
. Lifetime Flat-tops in BHR and Jadite
. a Snorkel Statesman or Valiant in Sage Green

Waterman
. a full-size, self-filling BCHR (No. 52, No. 55, etc.) with full-flex nib

Other
. silver and gf overlays, any brand, "filigree"-style
. Aikin Lambert and Carter's flat-tops in BCHR or celluloid

---
Disclaimer: This is a list of the pens I wish to own someday. It is compiled for fantasy/amusement purposes and does not indicate an immediate readiness to buy.

Shark-headed Pilot

2008-07-30T10:11:00.000-07:00

The Pilot Plumix is an inexpensive student pen, used mostly with calligraphy nibs. Mine is a BB, which corresponds to a 2.3 mm italic. Unlike the smaller Puminix, the Plumix accepts international converters.

The Plumix sports a somewhat sci-fi aesthetic. Most notable is the cap, which is shaped like a shark's head. The elongated body is asymetrically curved at the bottom (see last photo) and chased in a large wave/ripple pattern. The lower portion of the barrel is transparent, but this does not function as an ink window, because the converter starts above it.

The cap posts securely, though looks bizarre in this position. Nib performance is on par with the likes of the Lamy Joy, Rotring Art Pen and Sheaffer Calligraphy Pen.

Summertime Dinkies

2008-07-29T10:41:00.000-07:00

More pictures of the 526 Dinkies, this time on red background. They are very photogenic and enjoy posing for the camera.

A Tireless Scribe

2008-07-28T21:13:00.000-07:00

The simple but wonderful Conway Stewart Scribe.
Produced in plentitude between 1931 and 1942, the Scribe No. 330 is a "domed" flat-top made of black chased vulcanite (the English term for hard rubber). It is a lever-fill pen. n uncommon feature of this model, is that the cap screws onto the threaded back of the barrel.

A full review is posted on the Fountain Pen Network.

Dinkies in Bloom

2008-07-27T12:29:00.000-07:00

Early Vintage Conway Stewart Dinkies
CS No. 526, c. 1920's
casein body; gold trim; 14K semi-flex nibs
untapered flat-top; ringtop; single cap-band

This is a beautiful pair in the "green jade" and "blue lapis" colours,
otherwise known as green and blue "measles".

In the image below, the "measles" are joined by a slate-gray "A" colour Dinkie.

Many thanks to Andy Russell, and to Barry Rose of Writetime for supplying me with these beautiful pens.

Bejeweled Dinkie

2008-07-26T19:00:00.000-07:00

Early Conway Stewart Dinkies: Vintage Casein Gems
This slate gray Dinkie has a No.526A barrel, and what started out as a band-less 540 cap, but was refitted after-market with bands to make it look like a 526. The lever is a replacement lever, without the CS logo. Nib is a nice semi-flex.

Cherry Blossom Girls

2008-07-19T07:58:00.000-07:00

The "Cherry Blossoms" Limited Edition pen from Retro 51 and Fahrney's: the 2007 (light blue) and 2008 (electric blue) models.

A full review of these pens is posted on the Fountain Pen Network.

A Dazzling Lozenge

2008-07-10T19:42:00.000-07:00

One of the best pens in modern production is the Pelikan M215: lacquered lightweight metal barrel, piston filler mechanism, interchangeable nib system, and classic styling. The Lozenge model is particularly glamorous. The diamond pattern is engraved into the bind and platinum plated.

Montblanc Meisterstück 146 Solitaire, Gold and Black

2008-05-09T06:44:00.000-07:00

A very interesting Meisterstück 146 Solitaire! The unusual overlay resembles slender archways. The design evokes both art deco and medieval decorative patterns.

The base material is a lacquered metal. Despite the metal, this pen is not too heavy. With its delicate, vintage look, this is the most interesting of the Meisterstück Solitaires I have seen thus far.

Modern Pens Wishlist

2008-05-04T00:59:00.000-07:00

Ancora
. 80th Anniversary
. Mramora Romana
. Siena or Unica

Aurora
. 75th Anniversary
. Verdi

Caran d'Ache
. Ecridor Retro Mini, silver

Danitrio
. Takumi, clipless, Nanako-nuri urushi finish

Montblanc
. Agatha Christie WE
. Faulkner WE
. Wilde WE
. Catherine II POA
. Medici POA

Nakaya
. Desk Pen with Stand, black

Pelikan
. Originals of Their Time 1931, Toledo
. Originals of Their Time 1935, Jade
. Originals of Their Time 1935, Lapis

Sailor
. Pro-Gear, black
. Pro-Gear, ivory

Stipula
. L'Orangerie
. Sol Levante
. Saturno, blue ebonite

Visconti
. Ragtime II
. Ripple, blue

Yard-o-Led
. Viceroy Victorian Grand
. Viceroy Victorian Pocket

---
Disclaimer: This is a list of the pens I wish to own someday. It is compiled for fantasy/amusement purposes and does not indicate an immediate readiness to buy.

Lamy Studio in Pearl White

2008-04-12T01:55:00.000-07:00

Two identical Lamy Studio Pearl White LEs, EF nibs. This version of the Studio comes with a metal gripping section and the two-tone gold nib. Released as a limited edition for Christmas Season 2007.

Varuna Double-End Pen

2008-04-11T15:00:00.000-07:00

A stylographic creation of unbridled eccentricity: the Varuna Double-End Pen!

For a complete review with lots of photographs, please visit the Fountain Pen Network.

The Varuna Double-End Pen is essentially two eyedropper pens connected by a middle section that functions as a cap for both. The pens are fitted with steel "Fellowship" nibs, decorated with an engraving of a dove.

Varuna pens are hand turned. They are made in India and imported exclusively by All Write Now.

German Calligraphy Pens

2008-04-01T11:16:00.000-07:00

From top to bottom on the image above: the Rotring Art Pen, the Pelikan Script and the Lamy Joy. All accept standard cartridge and converters and are available in a variety of italic nib sizes.

A comparison review of these pens is posted on the Fountain Pen Network.

Cool Pens from Pilot

2008-03-25T16:25:00.000-07:00

The Clicking Fountain Pen: Pilot Vanishing Point
You click the button and a tiny nib comes out from the hatch over the clip. You write with the pen upside down, clip pointing towards the paper. I used to hate these things for their resemblance to ballpoint pens, but they have won me over. The Vanishing Points really are very convenient -- and they mesmerize you with all that clicking. Pictured here the Slate Gray and the Chrome models, both with Fine nibs.

The Pilot Prera is a smallish pen that is both tastefully designed and extremely inexpensive -- a rare combintion. The nibs run extra-extra fine. Pictured here is the Slate Gray Model (which is a much lighter colour than the Slate Gray on the Vanishing Point).

Ink Sample Index by Colour Family

2008-03-09T08:32:00.000-07:00

.
These samples are done on white printer paper, using q-tip swabs, from bottled ink unless stated otherwise. New colours are added on an ongoing basis.

Click on a colour family to view comparison scans of inks:

Reds
Browns
Violets and Mauves
Blue-Blacks
Greens
Blacks

Please note that the samples shown here are by no means representative of the full range of colours that ink manufacturers have to offer. Because our interest in ink is limited to quite specific colour palletes, you are likely to see many variations of some colours, and none at all of others.

Ink Index: Reds

2008-03-08T21:17:00.000-08:00

Click on a colour family to view comparison scans of inks:

Reds
Browns
Violets and Mauves
Blue-Blacks
Greens
Blacks

Ink Index: Browns

2008-03-07T22:01:00.000-08:00

Click on a colour family to view comparison scans of inks:

Reds
Browns
Violets and Mauves
Blue-Blacks
Greens
Blacks

Ink Index: Violets and Mauves

2008-03-07T21:34:00.000-08:00

Click on a colour family to view comparison scans of inks:

Reds
Browns
Violets and Mauves
Blue-Blacks
Greens
Blacks

Ink Index: Blue-Blacks

2008-03-07T05:48:00.000-08:00

Click on a colour family to view comparison scans of inks:

Reds
Browns
Violets and Mauves
Blue-Blacks
Greens
Blacks

Ink Index: Greens

2008-03-06T09:09:00.000-08:00

Click on a colour family to view comparison scans of inks:

Reds
Browns
Violets and Mauves
Blue-Blacks
Greens
Blacks

Ink Index: Blacks

2008-03-06T01:55:00.000-08:00

Click on a colour family to view comparison scans of inks:

Reds
Browns
Violets and Mauves
Blue-Blacks
Greens
Blacks

A Pen with Finesse

2008-02-24T01:40:00.000-08:00

One of my first "nice" pens: the Aurora Talentum Finesse. This is a slimmer version of the regular Talentum model. The EF nib on this pen is smooth and has a lot of character.

She Sells Seashells: Retro 51 Cioppino

2008-02-21T03:17:00.000-08:00

The Retro 51 Cioppino is named after an Italian fish stew. The name reflects the medley of abalone shell fragments with which the pen is decorated. Pieces of shell are arranged around the barrel and cap in a way that best reflects the lights, then covered with several layers of lacquer for a smooth finish.

The Cioppino is a Limited Edition Retro 51 Tornado Model. Like all Tornados, it accepts short international cartridges and mini-converters. Mine is a F nib.

Stamp Collection: Retro 51 Postmaster

2008-02-21T03:07:00.000-08:00

The Retro 51 Postmaster is a Limited Edition Tornado model. The cap and barrel of the pen are covered in real canceled stamps, then lacquered. This makes the theme and colour scheme of each pen unique. The stamps on mine include: the Salzburg Castle in Austria, Johny Appleseed, and a Korean ocean liner.

Like other Retro 51 Tornado models, the Postmaster takes only short international cartridges or mini-converters. Mine is a Fine nib.

Collection Index: Modern Pens

2008-01-29T22:55:00.000-08:00

click on a pen for images and information

Ancora
. Four Seasons "Russian Winter" Prototype, F/M nib

Aurora
. 80th Anniversary LE, Bordeaux and Silver Overlay, F nib
. Asia LE, EF nib + Sketch Pencil

Bexley
. 5th Anniversary BCHR, 1.3mm stub nib
. Deluxe II, Antique, 1.3mm stub nib
. Owners' Club 2008 Silver Overlay LE, .6mm stub nib

Caran d'Ache
. Ecridor Retro, XXF nib (in a set with pencil)

Conklin
. 100th Anniversary Crescent LE, Silver Overlay, B nib
. Antique, midnight black with Silver Overlay, F nib
. Mark Twain Crescent, black chased celluloid, F nib
. Mark Twain Crescent 2009, green and goldleaf, F nib
. Mark Twain Crescent Mint Julep, F nib

Conway Stewart
. Centenary Silver Overlay LE, .45mm cursive italic nib
. Churchill BCHR LE, sterling trim, lever fill, F nib
. Churchill BCHR LE, gold trim, lever fill, IF nib
. Dandy, Classic Black, silver trim, lever fill, IF nib
. Dandy, Classic Green, gold trim, lever fill, IF nib

Danitrio
. Mae West, Raw Ebonite, flexi F nib
. Mae West, Red Hana-nuri, flexi stub nib

Delta
. Dolce Vita Soiree, .45mm cursive italic nib
. Dolce Vita Soiree Mini, M nib
. Federico Fellini LE, M nib
. Jubileaum, red and silver overlay, M nib
. Via Veneto, black with white casein insets, F nib

Krone
. Architectus, Gothic, .4mm cursive italic nib
. Architectus, Swords, XXF nib

Lamy
. Lady, M nib
. Studio, Pearl White LE, EF nib

Montblanc
. 100 Year Historical Pen, M nib
. Boheme Pinstripe Sterling, OB nib
. Greta Garbo SE, .35mm cursive italic nib
. Meisterstück 146 Solitaire, Gold and Black, M nib
. Patron of the Arts: Prince Regent, M nib
. Writers Edition: Dickens , M nib
. Writers Edition: Dostoevsky, M nib
. Writers Edition: Schiller, M nib

. Weiters Edition: Faulkner, F nib
. Scenium, FL & BP set

Montegrappa
. Cosmopolitan, Arabian, M nib
. Cosmopolitan, Baroque, F nib
. Cosmopolitan, Gothic, M nib
. Micra, charcoal, F nib
. Micra, white, M nib

Nakaya
. Decapod Heki-Tamenuri Clipless, .55mm stub nib
. Piccolo Kuro-Tamenuri Clipless, SEF elastic nib
. Portable Ishi-me Kanshitsu Green, .55mm cursive italic nib

Namiki/ Pilot
. Nippon Art Maki-e: Mt. Fuji & Fishing Boat, M nib
. Nippon Art Maki-e: Courtesan, F nib

Omas
. Paragon Milord Old-Style, gray, .6mm stub nib

Pelikan
. M100, white with black trim, EF nib
. M200, anthracite, F nib (en route)
. M215 Lozenge (x2), EF nibs and 1.1mm crisp italic nibs
. M400, white tortoise, XXF Flex nib
. M405, black, .6mm stub
. M710 Toledo, F nib
. Originals of Their Time 1931 Gold Overlay, M nib

Platinum
. Maki-e: Rabbit and Moon, M nib

Sailor
. Maki-e: Owl, EF nib

Sheaffer
. Legacy Heritage Victorian, sterling silver, F nib

Stipula
. Novecento Cromo, sleeve filler, 1.3mm stub nib
. Saturno, green, crescent fill, 1.1mm stub nib
. Xalegrafica Crescent, M nib

Visconti
. Alhambra, black lucite with 18K white gold overlay, EF nib
. Metropolis LE, sterling silver, gunmetal finish, F nib
. Ragtime I, green celluloid, piston filler, M nib
. Skeleton Ag925, orange lucite with titanium-plated overlay, B nib
. Taj Mahal LE, pump vac filler, 1.1mm cursive italic nib
. Van Gogh Maxi, Swisher LE pastel green, .4mm cursive italic nib
. Van Gogh Midi, black, .4mm cursive italic nib
. Van Gogh Midi, musk green, B nib

Yard-o-Led
. Corinthian, EF nib
. Viceroy Victorian, .4mm cursive italic nib (in a set with Perfecta MP)

Three if by Sea

2008-01-29T16:10:00.000-08:00

Left to Right:
. Sailor Sapporo, black resin with rhodium plated trim
. Sailor 1911 Sterling (full-size) with gold-plated trim
. The Owl, from the Sailor Resin Maki-e series

Sailor Pens are known for their very fine nibs and for their reliability. These are no exception. Like most Sailors, they use a proprietary cartridge/converter filling system.

Maki-e from the Big Three

2008-01-28T15:21:00.000-08:00

Pictured here are maki-e pens from the "Big Three" Japanese pen manufacturers: Sailor, Pilot/Namiki, and Platinum. For a comparison review of these pens, please visit the Fountain Pen Network.

From left to right on the image above:
. Sailor Resin Maki-e: Mimisuku Owl, old version
. Namiki Nippon Art: Mount Fuji and Fishing Boat
. Namiki Nippon Art: Courtesan
. Platinum Pens: Rabbit and Moon Maki-e

Here is a closeup. The images are partly screen-printed, partly hand-painted. They look beautiful. The two Namiki pens appeal to me the most, because they have the least hardware to interfere with the pictures. I also prefer namiki's old-style ball clip to the thicker flat clip of the other two companies.

Nibs...
The Namiki Nippon Art pens use the same body as the Custom 743.

The Sailor Resin Maki-e (below) is a 1911M (small) body.
The Platinum Maki-e is a PTB-60000 model.

Collection Index: Vintage Pens

2008-01-27T08:49:00.000-08:00

Collection Index: Calligraphy and Student Pens

2008-01-21T06:37:00.000-08:00

click on a pen for images and information

Faber Castell
. Ambition, black, .45mm cursive italic nib

Hero
. Pen with Chinese Paintings, F nib

Lamy
. Al-Star (x3), XF nibs and 1.1mm italic nibs
. Joy (x2), 2.3mm italic nibs
. Safari (x3), XF nibs and 1.1mm italic nibs

Namiki/ Pilot
. Birdie, F nib
. Plumix, BB italic nib
. Prera, ivory, F nib
. Prera, slate gray, F nib
. Vanishing Point, slate gray, F nib

Parker
. Vector (x10), F nibs

Platinum
. PJax Violets, F nib

Reform
. Calligraph (x2), 2.3mm italic nib

Retro 51
. Cherry Blossoms LE 2007, F nib
. Cherry Blossoms LE 2008, F nib
. Cioppino LE, F nib
. Postmaster, F nib

Rotring
. Art Pen (x2), 2.3mm italic nib

Sailor
. Student Ink Pen, .27mm italic nib

Sheaffer
. Calligraphy Pen (x2), F-B italic nibs
. No Nonsense, M italic nib

Speedball
. Dip Pens with C nibs

Ink List

2008-01-20T02:58:00.000-08:00

click on an ink to see sample comparisons

Aurora
. Black

De Atramentis
. Gruener Veltiner (white wine-scented)
. Kaiser Franz Josef of Austria (Sahara Gray)
. Kaiserin Sisi of Austria (Royal Red)

J. Herbin
. Bouquet d'Antan (cartridge only)
. Cacao du Bresil
. Gris Nuage
. Lie de The
. Perle Noire
. Rouille d'Ancre
. Poussiere de Lune
. Terre de Feu
. Vert Empire
. Vert Olive

Montblanc
. Black
. Blue-Black (cartridge only)
. Burgundy (cartridge only)
. English Racing Green
. Je T'Aime Rose-scented Red
. White Forest Season's Greetings '08
. Sepia

Noodler's
. Antietam
. Army Green
. Borealis Black
. Boston Brahmin Blue
. Bulletproof Black
. Dragon Napalm
. Fox Red
. Highland Heather
. Hunter Green
. Legal Lapis
. Lexington Gray
. Luxury Blue
. Nightshade
. Old Manhattan Black
. Sequoia
. Squeteaque
. Walnut

Pelikan
. Blue-Black
. Brilliant Black

Private Reserve
. Avacado
. Black Cherry
. Blue Suede
. Burgundy Mist
. Copper Burst
. Dakota Red
. Ebony Blue
. Ebony Green
. Ebony Purple
. Gray Flannel
. Orange Crush

Sheaffer Skrip
. Black
. Blue-Black
. Red

Stipula
. Moss Green

Waterman
. Blue-Black