Five Fabulous Series of Writing Instruments For 2016

Five Fabulous Series of Writing Instruments For 2016

Every year top-notch pen brands introduce fabulous writing tools for our pen arsenal. But the year 2016 has been extra special as many pen manufacturing brands including Lamy, Montblanc, Delta and more have introduced innovative writing tools that have stood out compared to their predecessors. All the writing instruments listed below are selected because of their top-class performance and sophisticated design. Apart from being a statement of style and functionality, these unique writers are amongst our best sellers. So without further delay, let's look into the qualities of these finesse writing instruments.

Lamy 2000 Black Amber

Lamy 2000 Black Amber

The first one on our list is the new Lamy 2000 Black Amber collection. The pen is designed to commemorate Lamy's 50 years of undisputed legacy and their unwavering commitment in the pen industry. 

The unique appearance the Lamy 2000 Black Amber collection will grab the attention of every pen aficionado. Designed with precision, this unique collection of writing instruments is a careful mix of Lamy expertise and finest materials. The series is available in three different writing modes: fountain pen, ballpoint pen, and rollerball pen. All three models feature a solid stainless steel body with satin finish. The elegant design of the pen is accompanied by a sturdy spring-loaded clip; in the pocket, the clip ensures a perfect hold without any free movements.

The fountain pen version comes with a bottle of Lamy Blue-Black Ink and is available in a variety of nib options i.e. extra-small, small, medium and broad. On the other hand side, the ballpoint version features a precise click button. 

The new Lamy 2000 Black Amber series is a beautiful collectible for both collectors and everyday writers. 

Caran d'Ache Leman

Caran d'Ache Leman

A statement of style and sophistication, the master artistry of Caran d'Ache artisans is clearly visible on the new Caran d'Ache Leman series. Available in eight subtle finishes, this fine collection of writing instruments deliberately delivers the brand's promise.

Though the appearance of the pen is nothing extraordinary, it's the finesse detailing that makes this pen unique. The body of the pen is cigar-shaped and provides a harmonious balance while writing. Another fine attraction of this pen is the clip. The clip is long, slim and beautiful and features a logo of the brand. The central band is fitted at the opening of the barrel and features an etched name of the brand with a soft touch finish which gels pretty well with the design of the pen.

The new Caran d'Ache Leman series is available in fountain, ballpoint, and rollerball versions. And if you want to safe keep the pen then we also have matching pen pouches available for the series.

Delta Icon

Delta Icon

An epitome of fine art, the new Delta Icon series carries the proud tradition of Delta. At first glance, the pen looks simple yet subtle. Like its predecessors, this unique writer is also hand turned from solid Italian resin bars. The iconic design of the pen is garnished by small marble colors embedded on the top portion of the cap. The marble colors come in red, white or orange. The pen is available in fountain and ballpoint version.

The fountain pen version is fitted with a sturdy 18kt fusion nib. The nib works exceptionally well on paper and offers an effortless writing experience. Delta Icon fountain pen is offered with a variety of nib sizes i.e. fine, fine, medium, broad or stub. On the counter side, the ballpoint pen features a swift twist action mechanism. Each pen is fitted with a metal alloy clip which takes its design from traditional Delta nib and adds a distinct charm to the pen.

Visconti Van Gogh 2016 Shoes

Visconti Van Gogh 2016 Shoes

In Pen World, Visconti's Van Gogh series doesn't need any introduction. The series is popular amongst pen enthusiasts and everyday writers. The design of the pen is taken from Van Gogh's famous painting "Shoes". At his time in Aryles, it was the only painting of footwear.

The Visconti Van Gogh 2016 "Shoes" pens come in a beautiful presentation box with a picture of the famous painting. Each pen is carefully crafted from natural vegetal resin which brings out the charm of the original oil painting. The beauty of the pen is garnished by gleaming chrome plated accents and Visconti's trademark bridge shaped clip. This elegant writer features Visconti's famous 18 faceted design and includes multiple edges around the pen.

This fine series is available in three different writing modes i.e. ballpoint, rollerball and fountain pen.

The ballpoint version is equipped with a twist-action mechanism and operates with a slight movement of the wrist. The rollerball and fountain pen features a magnetic cap that closes swiftly without any hassles.

Visconti Van Gogh 2016 "Shoes" fountain pens are fitted with a sturdy stainless steel nib. These fine writers take standard ink cartridges as refill and can also be used with standard converters.

Overall, this unique collection of writing instrument from Visconti is labeled with a moderate price tag and carries the supreme quality of the brand.

Lamy LX

Lamy LX

Lamy pens have always been applauded for their top-notch performance and their distinct appearance. Similarly, the new Lamy LX collection is no exceptional. The appearance of this series closely resembles with the popular Lamy Al-Star series. The body of the pen is crafted from anodized aluminum and is available in four subtle finishes colors (ruthenium, rose-gold, gold and palladium). The elegant body of the pen is accompanied by a snap cap with an iconic Lamy clip and a translucent plastic grip section. The grip section is decently sized and slips perfectly between your fingertips. Each Lamy LX fountain pen is equipped with a sturdy stainless nib polished in black. Though made from steel, the nib delivers a smooth and steady writing experience.

So, what do you think about our choices? I hope this article will help you to select the right instrument. For further information, please contact our store or visit our website www.penboutique.com. 

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Parker Sets for all Sorts

The Question is WHICH Parker?

If you're scrambling for a last minute gift for a Grad or Dad in your life then have a look at our fresh new stock of Parker pen sets. Parker is well established internationally as one of the forefathers of the modern fountain pen. Parker's have become so ubiquitous in the pen world that many "pen standards" have been set based on how Parker did it at first (a Parker-style ballpoint refill is extremely easy to find and will fit into ballpoints from many pen companies). 

While Parker is still making classic, low-key pens, what many people don't know is that they have a stellar selection of pens mixing modern with classic. It's these unique combinations that make a pen a pleasure to use and others take note. Pen Boutique has 4 newly-introduced sets all of which are stellar gifts (for yourself or others) that feature gorgeous pens. 

Packaging

All of the sets come in gorgeous gift boxes with a dark brass and gold colored box. The interior of the boxes is a tan velveteen with a brass-colored embossing of the Parker name and logo. The attention to detail in packaging perfectly reflects the sleek, modern pens that are stored inside of them. Read on about one of the sets we're now offering at Pen Boutique:

Parker IM Ballpoint and Fountain Pen Set in Brushed Metal

This is a set of 2 pens from the Parker's IM line -- a ball point and a fountain pen in a brushed metal finish. The pen appointments are a glossy chrome finish and of course the clip is the iconic Cross-arrow. The IM pens are an incredible value. 

Due to the metal body they have a great weight to them and a modern look. The ballpoint performs just as you would expect from a Parker pen-- dependable and with a lovely flow. Same can be said for the fountain pen in the set. When using Parker blue ink, the pen comes to life when vivid blue words are effortlessly created. This pen comes with one blue ink cartridge and will accept a Parker converter. 

This pen/these pens would be good for people who are: 

-looking for a pen that will match most any outfit (including Mad Men costumes or wedding dresses)

-just starting at a professional job 

-interested in dabbling in fountain pens

-into pens on that are heavier or made of metal

-want to switch between a ballpoint and fountain pen 

Stay tuned for a post tomorrow about other Parker sets that are now available!

Inked up, 

Rachel

Pen Boutique 

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Faber Castell E-Motion Fountain Pen Review

Faber-Castell E-Motion Pure Black Fountain Pen

The e-motion has long been one of the most popular Faber-Castell lines available.  It has mainly been built with a wood or precious resin body and metal front section, cap and rear section.  Faber-Castell’s latest iteration is a whole metal affair – the Pure Black edition.  This is a modern looking, minimalist designed writing instrument. The body is made of an anodized aluminum with a guilloche pattern engraved on it, which offers a tactile feel and grip without being too rough.  The front section, cap and end piece are chrome plated and then finished in matte black.  The fountain pen’s nib is stainless steel coated in PVD, and is available in Fine, Medium or Broad. Faber-Castell also offers this line in Rollerball, Ballpoint or Mechanical Pencil.  The fountain pen uses international size cartridges and a converter is included.

 While a bit shorter than most other pens, the tapered cylindrical shape allows the e-motion to fill the hand.  The all metal construction leads to a weighty pen – 1.9 oz as measured on our postal scale.  The cap is .7 oz and the body is 1.2 oz.  While somewhat shorter in stature than most pens, the Pure Black does not feel inconsequential. Posted, the length is just right and I found the shorter body and heavy cap to create an overall well balanced writing experience – the combination of the smoothness of the nib and the weight of the pen made writing with the e-motion very enjoyable.  I like the feel of the guilloche pattern on the body, and the front section is of a good diameter as well.  The nib is removable, making cleaning a breeze.  If I had to choose one issue, it would be that the guilloche pattern traps dust and lint very easily, and the black color makes this easy to see.  However, a quick wipe with a cloth and it goes back to looking brand new.  Something that I really like about the finish on this piece is that it will not readily show fingerprints, unlike chrome plated pens.

 The Faber-Castell e-motion Pure Black fountain pen is by far one of my favorites – It is understated, yet catches your eye; it is shorter, yet has a surprisingly nice weight; it is easy to clean, easy to write with, and should be on everyone’s must-try list.

- Joe (Pen Boutique Limited, 5560 Sterrett Place, Columbia, MD 21044)

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Lamy Wild Rubin (ruby) Studio Pens

Lamy Wild Rubin Studio Pens

The Lamy Wild Rubin (ruby) Studio pens have finally arrived!  The pictures I first saw of the Wild Rubin reminded me of the Lamy Royal Red color.  Boy, was I wrong.  The true color of the Wild Rubin does not come through in the pictures.  The Ruby color is shimmery and bright, not a matte color at all.
The Wild Rubin has a stainless steel barrel and polished chrome accents.  It has the iconic propeller clip.  The fountain pen and rollerball are the same style as previous colors, but the ballpoint is now tapered and has a longer front section.  The finish is smooth and lacquered, not the usual satin metal finish.
The fountain pen is available with a stainless steel nib or a 14k nib, both pens come with a converter and ink cartridge to start writing right away.  The 14k fountain pen arrives in a gift box with a bottle of blue ink.
All in all - these are beautiful pens and a great addition to any pen lovers collection.

- Joy (Pen Boutique LTD, Suite 115, Columbia, MD 21044)

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History of Collecting Autographs

The joy of collecting autographs on signed letters, books, memorabilia and good old fashioned autograph books has long been satisfying hobby for the serious and novice alike. In this fast-paced world of electronic communication personal collections of the past offer the unique satisfaction of holding pieces of history, quite literally, in our hands.

Autographs bring moments in time to life, often with incredible power. The window they open onto the past helps us better understand a person or event of importance to us. Autographs let us feel an individual's presence, experience his or her joy or sadness, inspiration or frustration, exultation or despair. In short, at their best, autographs convey the essence of an individual's personality. There are multiple clubs, magazines and blogs devoted to the subject.

For many people, collecting autographs is a stimulating and absorbing pastime. Franklin Delano Roosevelt, for example, often turned to his autograph collection as a distraction from the pressures of the presidency. Others find autographs a way to learn more about the people and circumstances that especially intrigue them. Some present autographs as memorable gifts, delighting in their recipients' pleasure at owning a memento of an admired individual.

The word autograph comes from Greek meaning to “self write". It is a document transcribed entirely in the handwriting of its author as opposed to a typeset document or one written by a copyist the meaning overlaps with that of the word holograph.

Autograph also refers to a famous person's artistic signature; this term is used in particular for the practice of collecting autographs of celebrities. The hobby of collecting autographs is known as philography. What might be considered the oldest "autograph" is a clay table from about 3100 BC which includes the name of the scribe. No ancient written autographs have been found, and the earliest one known for a major historical figure is that of El Cid from 1098.

If you are the one providing the autograph, do yourself a favor and invest in a nice writing instrument. It doesn’t matter if the ink is blue or black, if the barrels is thick or thin, just choose something that you love and that makes you feel like an author!

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Kaweco Ice Sport Ballpoint Pen Review

Kaweco Ice Sport Red Transparent Ballpoint Pen

I went pen shopping with my daughter and she fell in love with the Kaweco Sport pens.  She is 5 and this series of pens are just her size.  She went straight for the Ice Sport Red Transparent Ballpoint pen, since Red is her favorite color.  

The Sport series uses a standard mini ballpoint refill, so I can find the refills easily.  The simple push button on the top is easy and smooth.  The pen is a little over 4" long and about 1/2" wide.  The octagonal shape prevents the pen from rolling off the table or desk.  A clip is available, in gold or silver color.  The Sport is available in a Fountain Pen, Rollerball, Ballpoint or Mechanical Pencil.

Kaweco has been around for over 130 years and is based in Germany with retailers all over the world.  The Sport series was first started in 1912 and is still popular today.  Many of the Kaweco pens are less than $100.00, with the Sport under $30.00.  

- Joy (Pen Boutique LTD, Suite 115, Columbia, MD 21044)

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Sailor 1911 Fountain Pen Review

Sailor 1911L Fountain Pen

In 1981, Sailor introduced their 1911 series as a celebration of the company’s founding in its namesake year.  The line can be had in a number of different sizes, shapes, colors, and nib configurations.  The 1911L, which stands for Large, is a step up in size from the 1911S (Standard) both in diameter and length.  Other than the nib, clip, and decorative rings, the pen is made entirely of resin.  This imparts a light weight that is easy to handle, even in this larger iteration.  The 21k Gold nibs range from Extra Fine all the way up to Music, and includes Sailor’s Medium Fine for those that find the Medium too broad but the Fine too thin.  The 1911 series traditionally uses either cartridges or a converter, though Sailor has recently created the piston filled Realo line.  Both the cartridges and converter are proprietary Sailor designs, and the cartridges are available in Black, Blue, Blue/Black, Red, or Pigmented Black or Blue/Black.  The pigmented inks are waterproof, but extra care should be taken when using these as the tiny particles that cause this characteristic may create issues if the pen is not used or cleaned regularly.

In general, Sailor’s nibs tend to run a size smaller than a Western counterpart – i.e. the Fine writes like an Extra Fine, the Medium writes like a Fine, etc.  In testing a Fine nib, I found this to be true as the pen laid down a very thin line.  Despite the Extra Fine-like width, the nib was smooth, no doubt aided by the 21k Gold construction.  The pen was comfortable to use both posted as well as with the cap left off – another advantage of the light weight.  The larger size compared to the Standard version allowed for a solid grip without much effort, which is something I have come appreciate when having to write for long periods.  I did notice that the nib had a little flex to it, lending a slight variation to line widths if I was so inclined.  This led to a line that was more akin to a Western Fine.

The 1911L looks good and writes well.  Sailor has done a fantastic job in creating a piece that is large enough to use comfortably yet light enough to not fatigue your hand while doing so.  If you are looking for a thicker pen with a smooth nib and classic good looks, the 1911L should definitely be at the top of your list.

- Joe (Pen Boutique Limited, 5560 Sterrett Place, Columbia, MD 21044)

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Delta Dolcevita Skeleton Limited Edition Fountain Pen Review

Delta Dolcevita Skeleton Limited Edition Fountain Pen

Are you looking for the perfect October pen?  Take a good look at the Delta Dolcevita Skeleton Limited Edition fountain pen.  The gorgeous orange resin marbling with the black rhodium coated metal cage-style overlay looks like something from Dr. Frankenstein.  There is a clear demonstrator version with the black metal rhodium coating, which is nice to see the ink and piston filler, but I prefer the classic orange and black for looks.

The metal overlay does not interfere with comfort when writing.  The stainless steel nib is fused with 18K gold making for a striking nib design.  It is very smooth and doesn't grab the paper when writing.

The cap is a screw on, both to open/close the pen and to post.  The size of 5 9/16" x 5/8" makes it pleasant to hold and to fit in most pen cases with ease.  It is a heavier pen at 1.8 ounces. The rear top piece unscrews to allow access to the piston filler knob.
It is limited to only 888 pieces and the serial number is on the rear of the cap.

Pair this pen with Diamine Autumn Oak ink and you have a great pen to write your October notes and Halloween greetings with.  This pen is definitely a treat, not a trick.

- Joy (Pen Boutique LTD, Suite 115, Columbia, MD 21044)

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Best Writing Pens 2013

Best Writing Pens 2013

Author :  Ciera Boyd

Best Writing Pens 2013

                In less than two weeks from now the curtain will fall on what has been, if not an easy, then certainly a sensational, year for mankind. While this year has been plagued with more than its fair share of military conflicts, international incidents and heartbreaking circumstances, it is always important to remember the wonderful, beautiful, and truly surprising things that have come about amidst all the insanity. This year alone, American scientists managed to create a lab-grown ear using a 3-D printer, the world gained “two popes” with the resignation of Benedict XVI and the ascension of Francis I, the English line of succession became secure with the birth of Prince George of Cambridge, and China’s Jade Rabbit robotic rover became the first spacecraft to soft land on the moon since 1976. 

While it is admittedly not the most shocking of years, 2013 has certainly been no pushover when it comes to lists of accomplishments, and the Pen Boutique would like to end it with a list of our own. We’ve compiled (in no particular order) what we believe to be some of the finest and in demand pens of 2013. So enjoy this tour of this year’s crème de la crème, and keep in mind that while Christmas is only a few days away, it’s still not quite here yet, and personally, I believe this list boasts more than one nice little stocking stuffer. 

First at bat in the countdown is one of the fiercest and finest pens of the season:

           Namiki Falcon

Namiki Falcon

The piece’s jet black barrel possesses a silky, smooth texture akin to the feeling of a falcon’s feathers. Its bold, dark look is elegantly accented with shined, gold trimmings, a gold clip and the Falcon’s crowning feature: a flexible, “hooded” 14k gold nib. The nib’s versatility provides a soft, flexible writing feel that that can create smooth, crisp, sweeping, or thin lines depending upon the writing style of each individual user. In keeping with its natural adaptability, the piece is also able to utilize not only Namiki cartridges but Namiki twist type converters. As the recipient of multiple awards and high acclaims from writing forum, the Namiki Falcon is the pen of choice for all writers and business professionals.

      Montblanc Meisterstuck

For generations, the Montblanc Pen Company has been known as a forerunner in the making of sophisticated, high quality writing instruments. Since the new millennium, the company has managed to become a world renowned purveyor of exclusive, luxury products. The peak of their accomplishments, however, undoubtedly lies in their famed Meisterstück Collection. This particular series boasts a wide assortment of pens of varying colors, accents, finishings and bands that, while distinctly unique unto themselves, still bear the tell-tale traits that mark them as a Meisterstück: a masterpiece. Those in the Meisterstück Collection bear slender, sturdy bodies made out of precious, jet black resin. These sleek midnight shades are complemented by either gold, silver or platinum trimmings.  Following its genesis, this striking product line has been the inspiration for hundreds of pen designs not only for the Montblanc Company itself, but for its competitors as well. As such, its revolutionary style has earned the Meisterstück Collection a reputation as one of the greatest writing instruments of the century.  

 

Montegrappa Fortuna Skull

Montegrappa Fortuna Skull

To the ancient Romans, the immortal, cosmic personification of luck was embodied by the veiled goddess Fortuna. A representation of blind justice and the capriciousness of life, Fortuna’s affiliation with chance events have always been closely tied with virtue and strength of character. This ancient goddess, however, doles out bad luck with just as much fervency, as she does good luck, and it’s this darker side that has inspired Montegrappa’s Fortuna Skull Rollerball pen. The body of this piece is made of a smoky, black resin with fitted gunmetal grey accents. Alternating rows of skulls decorate the pen’s sleek barrel and a solitary, enchanting skull with Swarovski crystals as its teeth grace the top of the cap. The cap’s bottom bears a central band with an engraving of Montegrappa’s name while the cap’s dark silver clip boasts a rotating metal wheel. 

Edison Pens

Edison Pens

The Edison Pen Company was founded by the Grays: a husband and wife team located in Milan, Ohio. Their pens are created with the utmost care and precision to ensure the highest quality product. In fact, the company itself has no standard, mass produced stock of pens waiting to be sold, nor does it even have an online store. All pens purchased directly from the company are custom made to the buyer’s specifications, down to the make, model and materials used. Despite their individuality, each of these home grown treasures writes with a buttery smooth ink flow that makes writing a pleasure. Made with all the love, dedication and care reminiscent of master artisans, this two-person team has dedicated themselves to making some of the finest, most distinct pens on the market. 

Monteverde One Touch Stylus

Monteverde One Touch Stylus

In today’s fast paced world, having the right tools at hand has become a crucial aspect of survival that borders on necessity. In response, Monteverde has created the OneTouch Stylus Fountain Pen, bringing together nine distinct tools into one premium quality instrument. The heavy, six-sided barrel houses a smooth, fountain pen tip made of German Iridium on one end and an ultra-sensitive touch screen stylus at the other. The barrel itself is made of enameled brass and is comprised of 3 different scale functions. Underneath the stylus lies a Phillips flathead screw driver. A chiseled, chrome-plated spring clip is the finishing touch to this high-functioning piece that, no matter the time, place or situation, is more than ready to handle more jobs than any other pen on the market. 

Montblanc Starwalker Carbon

Montblanc Starwalker Carbon

With its beautiful craftsmanship, mystic design and undeniable charm, the Starwalker Carbon Medium Point Fountain Pen is one of Montblanc’s most beautiful designs to date. The body is wrapped in Montblanc’s signature precious black resin and features a daintily woven anthracite carbon fibre decoration. Platinum-plated furnishings are artfully complemented by the beautiful, crystal cap with a floating Montblanc snowflake in its center. The platinum-plated clip is embossed with Montblanc’s brand name and the pen’s individual serial number. The crystalline, monochrome-theme of the piece is brought together by the final accessory: a hand-crafted, 14k gold, rhodium-plated nib that adds the final glimmer to this truly remarkable piece. 

Faber Castell Ondoro Wood

Faber Castell Ondoro Wood

The Ondoro Wood Fountain pen’s simplistic name and appearance belies the lovely uniqueness of this truly remarkable piece. The Ondoro is one of the first models of Faber-Castell’s new product line. Its barrel is made of a deep, earthy, smoked oak wood that is perfectly smooth to the touch. The wide, six-sided barrel is topped with a cap made of polished, chrome-plated metal accented by a spring-loaded metal clip. The Ondoro’s nib is made of high quality stainless steel that allows the ink to flow and flourish in smooth, crisp lines as the nib glides across a the paper. With a design that is no less elegant for its minimalism, the Ondoro is a product that will add a heavy dose of refinement to anyone’s stationery repertoire.

Waterman Carene

Waterman Carene

The Waterman Pen Company was established in 1884 in New York City by Lewis Edson Waterman and remains one of the only surviving first-generation fountain pen companies in the world. Ever since its creation, Waterman has worked to combine innovation, design and excellence in all its products. With unrivalled levels of quality and imagination, the grace and distinctiveness of Waterman collections has secured it a place at the heart of elegance and luxury. One of the most renowned and simplistically beautiful of its many collections is the Waterman Carene, known for its timeless, classical style. From the vibrant fountain pens of royal blue with silver accents to ballpoint pens with the muted sophistication of midnight black and gold trimmings, the Carene collection hosts a variety of pieces graced with subtlety and coated in luminous finishes that make them the perfect addition to any pen collection.

Cross Townsend Medalist

Cross Townsend Medalist

Bright, polished, and a poster child of chromatic elegance, the Cross Townsend Medalist collection is a sure-fired gold medal winner in any competition. The body of each piece is composed of polished chrome, accented by shimmering 24k gold-plated appointments and finishes. Though they are on the heavier side, they still retain an excellent sense of balance and evenness that makes writing a much smoother and more enjoyable experience for the user. 

With that, we present to you the final list of this year! The last call, the final countdown, the coup de grâce, etc., etc. It’s all coming to a close, and Pen Boutique backs each and every one of these pristine products with the full confidence that each one is perfect in its own right. Whether you’re just starting your collection, need just one special companion, or are adding one more trimming to your carefully cultivated collection, any one of these pieces would be a priceless addition to your stationery family. While this marks the end of 2013, 2014 is right around the corner, and there isn’t a doubt in the world that it’ll bring us more pens, memories, and heartfelt experiences than we could ever even imagine!

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