"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 - 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 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 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 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.
•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.
•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.
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.
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"
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.
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
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.
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-ordersare open on Pen Boutique. Please contact us if you have any questions or want to talk pens!
People have their own preference over things; one cannot
insist others to choose a particular item against their will. But,
understanding the value before buying can make a big difference. In the world
of writing instruments, most pen enthusiasts choose a writing tool by relying
on the outer appearance. Question yourselves “Why would you choose a rollerball
pen over a ballpoint pen", you would probably point out that rollerball
pens are loaded with smooth gel ink which glides smoothly on the writing
surface and makes writing process convenient. But, a single point doesn't
conclude the whole decision. There are various other criteria that one has to look
into before choosing the correct writing instrument.
Ballpoint Pens
Ballpoint pens are simple writing tools. They were invented
around 1950's as a convenient writing device to put an end to the monopoly market
of what was at the time the only option - fountain pens. Ballpoint pens quickly
made fountain pens dissipate and reigned as the most demanded writing
instruments.
Every ballpoint pen includes a small tube (refill) filled
with paste ink. The paste ink backs up the small ball tip, and when you roll
the ball across the page it draws the ink onto the paper.
Before we move forward I would like everyone to know that
ballpoint pens are designed as a utility tool and not for the pleasure of
writing experience. The first point that I would like to bring out is
versatility. Ballpoint pens can be used with almost all kind of writing papers
without the fear of smearing and they leak rarely compared to their
counterparts. Though some of the words can be imprinted on the back of the page
but it doesn't bloat the paper like fountain and rollerball pens. Another point
I would like to point out is its compatibility with left-handed writers. Unlike
fountain, rollerball and fineliner pens, words written with ballpoint pens dry
very quickly without smudging your hand or paper.
Rollerball Pens
Rollerball pens are upgraded version of ballpoint pens. The
working mechanism of a rollerball pen resembles with a ballpoint pen but
instead of using paste ink it uses gel based ink. With rollerball pens your
words will be darker and uniform, and while purchasing a new refill there are
more color options to choose from.
When it comes to consistent flow, rollerball pens stand a
notch above ballpoint pens and are considered best by pen enthusiasts who
prefer writing experience similar to fountain pens. Unlike ballpoint pens,
rollerball pens require less pressure on the paper and are comfortable to write
with. Another best part about writing with a rollerball pen is the ink on the
paper will be more dramatic and clearer. And without putting much pressure in
hand and the writing instrument you will be able to jot down your words.
Now that we have learned about both ballpoint and rollerball pens, let’s tap into some of the factors that will help us to choose the right
writing instrument.
Expenses: Ballpoint tips use less ink compared
to rollerball tips, which means with ballpoint pens you will require less
refills. And because ballpoint pens include paste ink there is less chance for
the ink to dry out when the pen is not in use. Besides, ballpoint pens are
comparatively cheap than rollerball pens.
Choice of Paper: Ballpoint pen refills are filled with
oil-based ink, with ballpoint pens your words will flow smoothly on the writing
surface regardless of the paper quality. But, when it comes to rollerball pens,
the ink from its tip may soak into the page depending upon the paper quality. For
thin paper its best to use ballpoint pens. Plus, rollerball pens are not the best
choice for people with tiny handwriting. Upon writing the ink from a rollerball
pen tends to sink into the paper and results a horrible writing experience.
Feel: Rollerball pens are much smoother on
paper and offer exquisite writing experience like a fountain pen. With a
rollerball pen you don't have to push down hard to jot down your words on the writing
surface like a ballpoint pen. Due to this factor, rollerball pens are
considered best for pen enthusiasts who are prone to hand injuries like carpel
tunnel syndrome and arthritis.
We have discussed much on the benefits and downside of rollerball
and ballpoint pens. But what about usability and user preference? A recent
study on 100 pen enthusiasts revealed the following stats.
When it comes to user preference rollerball stand a notch
above ballpoint pens, but in practicality ballpoint pens are more into action.
If we analyze the current scenario, most pen aficionados prefer ballpoint/rollerball pens over fountain pens. With the increasing popularity of ballpoint and rollerball pens, fountain pens have been labeled as a retro nostalgia that's unable to serve the real purpose. It’s true, ballpoint pens have paved an easy path for writers. With ballpoint pens, you don’t have to worry much about stains, refills and maintenance. Just tuck the writing instrument into your pocket as long as it runs, and dispose it after it stops. Quite easy isn’t it!!!!
But, when it comes to fountain pens things are different. Writing with a fountain pen is an art which constantly evolves with every stroke. To operate this writing tool one needs skill, attention and dedication. Fountain pens are exclusively designed to offer vivid line variations based on the direction and speed of your stroke - delivering a human touch to whatever you write. And it’s one of the best things you can expect in this age of computers.
So, if you really want to plunge into the world of fountain pens this article will provide you a brief insight to get started.
History of Fountain Pens
History of Fountain Pens
The history of fountain pen goes way back to 10th century, but the fountain pen we know today were not introduced till 18th century.
In 1884, Lewis Waterman introduced the first fountain pen with an ink reservoir which filled from an external source. There were various other models before Waterman’s version but all of them had issues related to airflow and ink spills. As we all know, fountain pens operate via gravitational mechanism. To efficiently use a fountain pen you have to hold the pen vertically so the ink from the reservoir streams towards the nib. Upon writing, the used ink from the reservoir has to be replaced with air to stop the unnecessary spilling. And, this was one of the mammoth issues that most fountain pen manufacturers failed to deal with before Waterman pens were introduced.
Waterman did solve the issue, and introduced the first fountain pen which offered consistency and smooth penmanship experience. He created a layered feed which wrapped the spilling issue of fountain pens. The innovative idea of Waterman provided a distinct platform to fountain pens, and soon these fine writing instruments took their place as a favorite writing tool in every pen enthusiast’s pocket. Hence, the modern fountain pens were born.
Waterman’s innovative feed did sort out problems related to spilling and staining, but filling the pen still remained a grueling affair. To refill a fountain pen, one had to use an eyedropper and fill the reservoir drop by drop. But at the dawn of 19th century, many pen manufacturing company introduced fountain pens which enabled users to dip the nib into the ink bottle and fill the pen through a piston fill mechanism.
Fountain Pen Parts
A normal fountain pen usually comprises of three different sections.
•The Nib
•The Feed
•Reservoir or Filling Systems
The Nib
Nib
Nib is the part of the fountain pen that imprints your thoughts on a piece of paper. At the initial days, most of the nibs were crafted from gold due to the element’s flexible nature. But today, most of the modern nibs are composed of either stainless steel or gold alloys.
Stainless steel nibs are sturdy and durable. But when it comes to performance, stainless steel might be the last option for pen enthusiasts who love smooth and delicate writing. The tip of a steel nib is scratchy by nature and doesn’t offer fine line variations.
Another one on the list is gold alloy nibs. These nibs are preferred by most pen aficionados because they share similar flexibility as gold nibs. But due to the elements flexible nature, a sturdy tip (platinum or iridium) is featured on these nibs.
Every nib comprises of a central slit which helps the ink to reach all the way to the tip. And, at the end of the slit there is a breather hole to bring back air into the reservoir to replace the used ink. The breather hole also acts as a pivot which prevents the nib from damages caused by continuous flexing.
Based on the design, nibs are entitled with three different labels.
In the world of fountain pens Italic nibs are regarded widely put into action, while the stub and calligraphy nibs are commonly used for calligraphy.
Feed
Feed
This may sound quite awkward but the feed is considered as the most important part of a fountain pen. The feed is located at the back of the nib, and it acts as a transit through which the ink from reservoir travels to the nib.
A good feed with a higher ink flow will lubricate the nib very well resulting to a smooth and skip less writing. On the other hand side, a feed with a drier ink flow may result to scratchiness and can portray signs of skipping and skidding. However, with a drier feed you will have to rely totally on the quality of the nib.
Reservoir or Filling Systems
Reservoir or Filling Systems
Different pens come with different filling mechanism. Converter, cartridge, piston, lever, the list can go on and on. Each year pen manufacturing companies bring out innovative ideas regarding the filling mechanism, and it’s a good thing. With every new idea they avail us with a new option, and every filling mechanism offers a different flow.
Most of us believe the performance of a fountain pen is defined by its nib and feed. But, there are other factors that need to be overlooked before concluding the final results.
Gripping Style: Gripping Style is a key factor which influences your writing. Fountain pens are meant to be used in a special way. The tip should come in contact to the paper at an angle of 40 – 60 degrees, and shouldn’t be twisted left and right.
Here are three different gripping styles preferred by most fountain pen enthusiast.
Tripod Grip: This is a precise gripping style to use fountain pen. It offers a delicate balance and ensures the placement of nib at an angle of 45 – 60 degrees.
Forefinger-Up Grip: Like the Tripod grip, this style of gripping also ensures the placement of the nib at an angle of 45 – 60 degrees. Plus, the forefinger on the top of the pen allows a distinct control of pressure while writing.
Thumb Wrap Grip: Unlike the Tripod and Forefinger-Up grip, this style of gripping is not recommended for fountain pen users. In this method, the pen is vertically aligned with the surface which may distort the control and balance resulting to a nasty penmanship experience.
Paper Quality: Horrible paper is a major element which results to horrible writing experience. If the paper is thin and rough, even the finest pens will perform ineptly. Bleed through is also a common problem with cheap and thin papers. These kinds of papers soak maximum amount of ink and bloat your writing. If you are using a fountain pen, it’s best to use genuine papers from companies like Rhodia and Letts of London.
Ink: Low graded watery inks are another factor that results a nasty writing experience. So, to enhance your joy of writing it’s best to use lubricated inks from genuine companies like Diamine Ink and Noodler’s Ink. Lubricated inks will reduce nib friction, and offer you a better feel while jotting down your words on a piece of paper.
Fountain Pens for Starters:
I know there are lots of fancy pen on the market, but I would not recommend them for starters. For pen enthusiasts who are ready to plunge into the world of fountain, here are few options to start with.
Lamy Safari: After stalking through different pen forums and grabbing suggestion from pen enthusiasts, I came to know Lamy Safari resides on the top of the chart when it comes to fountain pens for beginners. The cost of the pen is below $30 and is definitely the best price for its value.
Pilot Namiki Retro Collection: Stylish, classy and trendy the Pilot Namiki Retro Collection offers a versatile array of fountain pens designed for beginners. The pen features classic cigar shaped profile accompanied by a sturdy steel nib that glides perfectly without any sign of skips. Easily available in the market below $20.
Noodler’s Konrad: From my personal perspective, Noodler’s Kornrad is a unique array of fountain pens for beginners. The pen costs less than $40 and offers a premium penmanship experience. Each Konrad pen includes a sturdy steel nib and a balanced profile which slips perfectly between your fingers.
How to Take Care of Your Fountain Pen
• Always cap your pen after you finish your writing. If left open, the nib might dry up and may cause scratchiness.
• I would probably recommend you guys to flush your fountain pens at least once a month. By doing so, you can get rid of the ink clots building up inside the cavities of nib and feed.
• Personalize the pen. The writing mechanism of a fountain pen is different than that of a ballpoint pen. With continuous writing, the nib will adapt your writing style. If you let someone borrow your fountain pen for a long period of time, they might wreck the nib and it may not perform as well as it used to.
Summing Up
There you have it!!! I have conveyed the basics required to dig into the world of fountain pens. A fountain pen is always an ideal companion to have; it serves as a long term friend and adjusts to your own style of writing. Besides, fountain pens are cost effective. Unlike ballpoint pens, they are not meant to be thrown away after the ink runs out. And, there is something amusing about fountain pens that compels us to take good care of it. So, if you have an immense desire to embark your fountain pen journey, then now would be the right time to start.
