Embark a New Writing Journey Conklin Matte Carbon Stealth Collection

Conklin Matte Carbon Stealth Collection

"I prefer it to ten other fountain pens because it carries its filler in its own stomach and I can't mislay it, even by art and intention. Also I prefer it because it is a profanity-saver: it cannot roll off the desk." - Mark Twain

Applauded for style, sturdiness, functionality and the unique filling system, Conklin pens have always been admired by pen enthusiasts. With their out worldly innovations and refined expertise, they have created a wide range of writing instruments for different type of pen users.

A recent addition in Conklin's line-up of exquisite writing instruments is the new "Conklin Matte Carbon Stealth Series". Hand turned in Florence, Italy; the new Conklin Matte Carbon Stealth Series is a marvel in itself. This beautiful series takes its design from the legendary Demonstrator Crescent Series and Conklin Mark Twain Crescent Filler Series. Characterized by its featherlike carbon fiber body, the pen offers a balanced writing experience and keeps you away from hand fatigues and cramps. The Conklin Matte Carbon Stealth Series is available in two different writing modes i.e. fountain and ballpoint version. The fountain pen version is equipped with Conklin's traditional crescent filling mechanism. This easy filling system allows you to fill your fountain pens without opening the barrel time after time.

The Conklin Matte Carbon Stealth Fountain Pen comes with a variety of nib options. The first one on the line and probably the most popular is the T-Flex steel nib. The nib offers vivid line variations depending upon the pressure of stroke. Press it gently and it writes like a premium fine point, apply a bit of pressure and the nib automatically transforms into a broad point. Overall, the T-Flex nib is all in one type of nib and offers the functionality of different points via one single nib.

Second option is the unique cushion point black steel nib. The appearance of the nib gels pretty nicely with the design of the pen, and provides the pen a full black color tone. The cushion point nib is available in fine, medium, broad and 1.1mm stub.

Third and the most expensive choice is the 14KT gold nib. Like other gold alloy nibs, this sturdy nib also writes perfectly and provides consistent ink flow whenever pressed against a piece of paper. The 14kt gold nib is available in fine, medium and Italic.

Over the course of time Conklin pens have acquired their reputation through their innovative product and step-ahead creativity. Today, Conklin pens are preferred by many pen enthusiasts for their undisputed qualities. Like other members of Conklin family, the new Conklin Matte Carbon Stealth is also strong pen and will last for generations if handled properly. The unique flair of this Italian writer manifests the traditional design which once made Conklin so famous. With the new Conklin Matte Carbon Stealth series, Conklin have modified their traditional design with a dash of modernism and delivered a writing tool for the new age. 

Lamy Imporium - A Sophisticated Heritage of Writing Instruments from Lamy

Lamy Imporium

Lamy - a German pen company famous for their vivid craftsmanship and out worldly innovations. With their large assortment of writing instruments, they have quickly reached top of the charts and modified the prospect writing culture. Evocative designs, premium functionality and moderate price tag, has made this German brand a prominent choice for every pen aficionados.  

Lamy Imporium

The Lamy Imporium is a gorgeous series of writing instruments. The lucrative design of the Lamy Imporium series clearly manifests Lamy's urge to stand as a premium manufacturer in the industry. The design, the style and the functionality, this unique writer has it all. With all the irresistible qualities, I couldn't stop myself from talking more about this wonderful collection of writing instruments. 

Before plunging into the details let's take an overall overview of the pen. This charismatic series boasts an electrifying amalgamation of fine materials, functional design and sturdy construction. The series is offered in two distinct finishes: gold or platinum/titanium. The pen is sleek and can be easily accommodated inside your organizers, backpack and even in the tightest pocket of your jeans. For carrying convenience, the pen features a spring loaded clip with a curved end which allows you to tuck the pen easily in your pocket without the fear of tearing the fabric. Designed by Marco Bellini, the Lamy Imporium is available in matching fountain pen, ballpoint pen, rollerball pen and mechanical pencils. 

1. Lamy Imporium Writing Modes

Lamy Imporium Series is available in two different colors - Black and Titanium. Both of these colors are equally elegant and are available in the following writing modes. 

Fountain Pens

Lamy Imporium Fountain Pens are exclusively designed to offer a distinct writing experience. At first look, the Lamy Imporium is a standard sized pen and features a full metal profile. Lamy Imporium Fountain Pens come with a bi-colored 14kt gold nib which is spectacularly smooth. The Lamy Imporium Fountain Pen is available in three different versions. 

• Lamy Imporium Black/Gold Fountain Pen
• Lamy Imporium Black Fountain Pen
• Lamy Imporium Titanium/Platinum Fountain Pen

Rollerball Pens

Extending the Imporium line-up is the Lamy Imporium Rollerball Pens. The rollerball tip glides across the paper allowing your creativity to flow.. 

• Lamy Imporium Black Rollerball Pen
• Lamy Imporium Titanium/Platinum Rollerball Pen
• Lamy Imporium Black/Gold Rollerball Pen

Ballpoint Pens

Lamy Imporium Ballpoint Pens offer the same exquisite feel as the fountain and rollerball versions. The ballpoint is best for the on-the go traveler and work enthusiasts who have to jot down daily notes.

• Lamy Imporium Black Ballpoint Pen
• Lamy Imporium Titanium/Platinum Rollerball Ballpoint Pen
• Lamy Imporium Black/Gold Ballpoint Pen

Mechanical Pencils

Lamy Imporium Mechanical Pencil completes the extraordinary series. The pencil shares similar design with its family members and includes a sturdy 0.7 mm lead sleeve. Upon writing, the pencil lays down unparallel impression on paper and exhilarates your joy of writing. 

• Lamy Imporium Black Mechanical Pencil
• Lamy Imporium Titanium/Platinum Mechanical Pencil.
• Lamy Imporium Black/Gold Mechanical Pencil 

2. Appearance, Design and Feel: 

Lamy Imporium series is a gorgeous range of writing instruments. The pen lends its opulence to the guilloche patterns ascending throughout the barrel.  All Lamy Imporium pens are beautifully finished with top quality PVD coatings and galvanization in a range of designs. Each pen features a ridged grip section scientifically tested for optimum grip. The unique combination provides the series an unmistakable look and quality.

Though the pen looks sleek, it is a heavy pen in hand. The hefty construction of the pen offers a sense of balance while imprinting your thoughts on a piece of paper and its ridged grip section adds extra delight to your writing. 

3. Construction and Quality: 

Lamy Imporium is a heavily built series of writing instruments. In hand, the pen feels comfortable and offers a balanced feel. The PVD coating on the body of the pen can wear down over the course of time, but the hefty construction makes the Lamy Imporium a product that will last for a lifetime. The only flaw that I noticed was the cap, when closed the cap doesn't fit tightly, it feels a little loose. But, it is the last thing that will hold me from bagging this fine pen. 

4. Filling System and Accessories:

The nib: Lamy Imporium fountain pens are fitted with two-toned bicolor 14kt gold nibs. Lamy Imporium Black/Gold Fountain Pen features a black exterior nib with a golden inlay, whereas the Platinum/ titanium version includes a silver exterior nib with a golden inlay. The Lamy Imporium Fountain Pen is available in four different nib sizes extra fine, fine, medium and broad.

Cartridge/ Converter:  Like other normal fountain pens from Lamy, the Imporium series also uses cartridge/ convertor as ink reservoir. Each fountain pen comes with a cartridge/converter. Specifically, the Lamy Imporium fountain pens work best with Lamy T 10 ink cartridges or the Z 26 converters.

Refills: 

• Lamy Imporium Rollerball pens are equipped with Lamy M 66 Rollerball refills. 

• Lamy Imporium Ballpoint pens use Lamy Giant M 16 refills.

• Lamy Imporium Mechanical pencil takes Lamy M 41 Lead - 0.7 mm (HB).

5. Performance: 

The innovative functionality of the pen lurks beneath the mesmerizing profile of the pen. Don't get fooled by the mesmerizing exterior of the pen, when it comes to performance the Lamy Imporium series is a monster. Each pen is hefty, and is opted to deliver a balanced feel when caged between your fingertips. 

The 14kt gold nib on the fountain pen is exceptionally smooth; it glides perfectly on the surface of the paper and leaves no sign of skips and scratches. The nib slowly adjusts to your style of writing and the consistent ink flow offers a hassle free writing experience. In the context of rollerball and ballpoint pens, both are fitted with genuine Lamy refills and when it comes to performance we all know how Lamy refills are. 

6. Cost: 

Here is the bitter part; Lamy Imporium is not a cheap pen. Lamy Imporium fountain pens are labeled with a price tag higher than $500 where as the rollerball and ballpoint pens cost more than $300.

7. Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Imporium pens are durable, and will serve for generations if kept safely.

• Heavily built, offers a sense of balance while writing.

• The 14kt nib is smooth as melting butter and glide precisely on paper surfaces. 

• No skips or hard starting. 

• Includes large cartridges that can hold decent amount of ink for everyday use. 

• Features really eye-catching and stylish design. 

Cons:

• Expensive, but actually it is good deal!!!

• Some pens do have issues related to caps, doesn't fit tightly with the barrel.

Summing Up

So, we wrapped the important details of the series in this small article. If you have further queries about the Lamy Imporium series please contact us at Pen Boutique. You can also contact us through Facebook, just leave your message in our inbox and we will reply as soon as possible. 

Graf Von Faber Castell Pen of the Year 2016

Graf Von Faber Castell Pen of the Year 2016

I don't think writing instruments from Graf Von Faber Castell need much introduction. The use of fine materials and meticulous craftsmanship makes Faber Castell writing instruments a premium choice for pen enthusiasts and collectors alike. Renowned for its novelty, Graf Von Faber Castell has become even more radical with the introduction of "Pen of the Year" series. The renowned "Pen of the Year" series was first introduced in the year 2003, since then the series is considered as a pinnacle in Graf Von Faber Castell's line up of exquisite writing instruments. "Pen of the Year" series is the most expensive collection of writing instrument amongst Graf Von Faber Castell's heritage of luxury collection, and are designed by most skilled artisans. Till date 14 "Pen of the Year" have been introduced and all of them are titled with hallmark of excellence. 

Three Pillars of History

The Elegant Graf Von Pen of the Year 2016 takes its design from the Vieux-Laque Room of Schönbrunn Palace. This beautiful writer completes the trilogy series of writing instrument designed to commemorate era defining places and personalities. The first of the series was introduced in 2014 and was named after "Catherine Palace" in St.Petersburg. Extending the series, in 2015 Graf Von Faber Castell introduced the elegant “Sanssouci, Potsdam” Pen of the Year. 

The Vieux-Laque room has its own story to tell 

“Nothing in this world, all diamonds mean nothing to me. The only things that give me joy come from China, especially lacquerware.” - Empress Maria Theresa

The Vieux-Laque room was remodeled by Empress Maria Theresa in loving memory of her beloved husband Emperor Franz Stephan. The Emperor had an affinity for lacquer, and to symbolize her timeless love the empress decorated the room with lacquer - which was then considered as an epitome of luxury. Black lacquer panels from Peking were set into walnut paneling and embellished with gilt frames. The empress also commissioned several portraits for this room which still hang there. The posthumous portrait of her husband by Pompeo Batoni was completed in 1769, four years after the death of the emperor.

A Modern Interpretation of the Vieux-Laque room

The new Graf Von Faber Castell Pen of the Year 2016 is a beautiful interpretation of the historic room designed by Empress Maria Theresa. The Conservator of the of the Vieux-Laque Room Silvia Miklin and master of Maki-e technique Tomizo Saratani have combined their expertise to create this fascinating writing instrument. The beautiful motifs of the room are carefully illustrated on the pen, reflecting timeless art of the era. The allurement of the Graf Von Faber Castell Pen of the Year 2016 is defined by the use of three sophisticated elements. Each of the three elements are first painted in black, then polished and burnt several times by hand. The provocative design of the pen is further enhanced by lovely artwork sprinkled with 24 carat gold powder to bring out the theme of the Vieux-Laque Room. Each "Pen of the Year 2016" is embellished with a black onyx which gels stupendously with the design of the pen. 

Like all the previous editions, the new Graf Von Faber-Castell "Pen of the Year 2016" also comes with 18k bicolor gold nib. The quality of these outstanding nibs complements the astonishing design of the pen. 

The Graf Von Faber Castell "Pen of the Year 2016" is available in platinum and gold version. Both versions are available in two different writing modes, rollerball and fountain pen. The numbered pens are available in limited numbers and come in a distinct black wooden case with an authentic certificate signed by the master craftsmen. This heart-winning collection will be available for a limited time period. So, before they start to fly out of our store order your "Graf Von Faber Castell Pen of the Year 2016" exclusively from Pen Boutique. 

Ballpoint for Wannabe Engineers: Monteverede Tool 60

Pen review: Monteverede Tool 60

Something about this copper colored pen jumped out at me when I heard we would be receiving it. I've never been in the market for a tool pen, but in the store I'm always playing with the level of the regular tool pens. They're weighty pens, as many Monteverde's are, and have an interesting 3-sided shape with rounded edges. The copper coloring was what sold me-- I'm a serious sucker for anything even remotely related to copper material or color (have you seen the new Montegrappa Mule pen?!). 

This pen is good for:

- Budding engineers, architects, designers, or wannabes

- People who often say to themselves "I wish I had a ruler on me"

- People into weighty, well balanced, metal pens

- People who love copper colors

- People who use stylus' on phone or tablets

- Fans of the Monteverde Original Tool pen. 

Writing fantasy: Morning blue hour with my garage door open to the street. I'm measuring and cutting wood for a low bench I'm making for my friend's garden. Where did my ruler go? I take out my copper Tool 60 and double check that I measured the 4" correctly. 

Looks and color: I would describe the Tool 60 as fun, metallic pen with architectural influences. 

This is a triangular pen with slightly rounded off edges. It currently comes in 3 finishes-- Black, Copper and Grey. The Copper finish is on the lighter side, almost bordering on rose gold. The pens have a lovely brushed look and feel. It's a very unique looking pen-- I have never seen another pen like it. 

Most notably, this pen has 2 sides of the triangle marked with rulers-- one in inches and the other in centimeters. In the couple of weeks I've had this pen the ruler has come in handy the most, especially working at a pen store where I'm always measuring mystery refills that customers bring in. 

The stylus is made with a tightly-woven material-- a bit tan in color and looks far more sturdy than conventional plastic stylus'. There is a nice rounded clip that secures snugly to shirt or pant pockets. 

Feel and writing experience: The Tool 60 pen currently only comes in ballpoint and uses a mini ballpoint refill. It's sibling, the Classic Tool Pen, comes in fountain, pencil, ink-ball, and ballpoint. Writing with the Tool 60 is like a standard ballpoint writing experience, except the pen is nice and heavy allowing me to bear down on the paper with greater ease. 

The weight of the pen is a weighty, but not overly-heavy, feel. It is great for writing down quick notes, but I would never be able to write long letters with this pen because the pen's weight becomes too much for my small hands to handle after about 30 seconds of use. I personally do not enjoy the fat-line of the ballpoint refill, but I do not mind it for administrative work or quick notes to coworkers. 

The triangular shape with the rounded edges works very well for this pen. It serves as an awesome guide-point for a pen that is heavy enough that it may turn in the hand without some sort of anchor. 

The tip of the ballpoint is revealed and retracts by turning the grip section of the pen. It requires two hands, which doesn't bother me, but it may not be practical for people who are actually looking to use this pen while performing design or manual activities. 

It's a tool pen so this pen has a few additional notable features:

-THERE'S A SCREWDRIVER! The stylus screws off to reveal a Philips head and Flathead screwdriver. 

-Micro-weave stylus

-Level on one facet of the pen. 

-2 sets of rulers -- Metric and Imperial

Final thoughts: This pen is excellent for people who will be taking quick measurements and notes. If you're looking for a pen that is a functional, reliable ballpoint, and not looking for a tool to provide precise measurements then the Tool 60 is a good option. It's funky yet subtle and makes you feel super "mathematical" when using it. 

Shoot us an email at support@penboutique.com if you have any questions or if you just want to talk pens. 

Inked and ready,

Rachel 

Waterman Hemisphere 16 Luxury Cuivre CT Fountain Pen Review

Waterman Hemisphere 16 Luxury Cuivre CT Fountain Pen

The first Waterman writing instrument that I got my hands on was the beautiful Waterman Perspective Blue Fountain Pen. The pen featured a contemporary design and had a gleaming appearance. However, the pen didn't compromise on quality and was the first writing tool that got me into the world of fountain pens. Since then, Waterman fountain pens have been a prominent choice for me. The latest Waterman Pen that I added into my collection is the new Waterman Hemisphere 16 Luxury Cuivre CT Fountain Pen. Though the series is available in three different models - Bronze, Saphir and Cuivre, it was the Cuivre that won my heart. 

Frankly Speaking, the pen is a total disguise. The modern technology used to design the pen completely lurks beneath the contemporary appearance of the pen. The mesmerizing appearance of this fine writer was the first factor that allured me towards the pen and compelled me to take this pen along with me. 

The pen comes in a beautiful box; inside you'll find the pen along with a cleaning cloth and a user manual. At first glance the pen looks perfect, symmetrical slim body, gleaming stainless steel cap etched with "Geographical flow of Art Deco creation" and Waterman Paris engraved trims. The pen looks astonishing and is easy to hold as well. The slim profile of the pen fits snugly between your finger tips and offers a balanced feel. The elegant design of this fine German writer is complemented by a sturdy steel nib. Though made of steel, the nib performs precisely like gold alloy nibs and is built with sturdiness that Waterman is famous for. Overall, the clever construction of the pen is remarkably admirable and strikingly gorgeous.

The Waterman Hemisphere 16 Luxury Cuivre is a cartridge/ converter pen, it takes all standard international cartridges but performs best with Waterman Ink Cartridges. If you are not into fountain pens, the series is also available in rollerball and ballpoint versions.

Perfectly balanced, elegantly designed, sturdy, the description about Waterman Hemisphere 16 Luxury Cuivre Fountain Pen can go on and on. The timeless elegance and thin price tag makes this writing instrument a premium choice for fountain pen enthusiasts and students alike. Like other pens from Waterman, this unique masterpiece also carries the determination of Lewis Edson Waterman and offers an exquisite writing experience. The premium design of the pen evokes Waterman's traditional approach and is labeled with a thin price tag. Overall, I would say that the pen is worth every penny and makes for a great everyday writing instrument. And, it's not the kind of deal that you get every day in the world of writing instruments. 

The Safari Dark Lilac-- First Impressions on a Long Awaited Pen

The Safari Dark Lilac-- First Impressions on a Long Awaited Pen

Hi folks! The release of the Dark Lilac Safari fountain pen is quickly approaching. Here's a bit of a teaser for those of you still wondering, "Do I really need another Safari in my life?"

The Safari Dark Lilac

This pen is great for:

-Purple lovers

-RAVENS FANS!!

-People with sweatier hands

-People who like tank-pens (pens that will take A LOT of effort to break)

-People who want a subtly fun pen for work (or life!)

-People interested to see the Safari with dark nib and clip

Pen Writing Fantasy: 

Early morning while walking the dogs I see the first Spring tree full of Purple Martins in Maryland. I take my beautiful Dark Lilac pen and sketch the crisp morning skyline dappled with deep purple birds.

Color:

This Dark Lilac color is absurdly captivating. With a side-eye glance the pen appears to be a normal, well-to-do pen. But when you take a good look at the Dark Lilac it's a deep, complex grape color. I've noticed this about many purple colors (i.e. my recent foray into the Caran D'Ache Ultra Violet). Due to the pebbled plastic finish the light disperses at the surface creating a silky sheen. 

The nib and clip are black-coated steel. I think this was a great choice on LAMY's part-- the color of the body is the star and the black clip and nib take back-seat. 

Lamy Safari Dark Lilac

This pen would look great inked up with:

- Caran D'Ache- Ultra Violet

- Diamine- Graphite

- Noodlers- Purple Martin
- Iroshizuku- Murasaki Shikibu (Beauty Berry)

Feel: 

The feel is precisely the same as the Charcoal Safari fountain pen. For those that have not used a Safari pen, I would describe it as a fairly light, ergonomic pen with a pebbled plastic feel. It feels and IS extremely sturdy. 

The feel in the hand is perfect for people (like me!) who may have slightly sweatier hands. Because of the pebbled finish the pen wont slip around when writing for long periods of time. I love how dirt and fingerprints wont show on the body of the Dark Lilac. 

It has a friction-fit cap, which is perfect for people who need to quickly jot notes. The cap will post beautifully on the back of the pen body. The clip is a black-coated, rounded, hefty wire that will slide easily onto any pant, shirt, or bag-pocket.

Writing: If you've used a Safari in the past then this is the same deal. It's a smooth writer with a large variety of nib choices. It's especially suitable for folks who like to lay down a larger line. 

It's super easy to switch out the nib if you would like to try another size. If you want to stick with the black-coated steel nib then that would limit you slightly to XF, F, M, B, and Left-y.  

Pre-orders are open on Pen Boutique. Please contact us  if you have any questions or want to talk pens!

Inked and ready, 

Rachel