A Comparative Analysis of Rollerball and Ballpoint 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.

Summary

Advantages of Using a Rollerball Pen

• ·         Consistent flow.
• ·         Reduces hand pressures and fatigues.
• ·         Ink on the paper will be clearer.
• ·         Best for people who love to write fast.

Advantages of Using a Ballpoint Pen

• ·         Good for writing in low quality papers.
• ·         Eliminates bloating issues.
• ·         Less leaking problems
• ·         Best for left-handed people.

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An Introduction to Fountain Pens

An Introduction to Fountain Pens

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.

• Italic Nibs

• Stub Nibs 

• Calligraphy Nibs

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. 

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A Lifelong Companion - Napkin Primina Inkless Pen

Napkin Primina Inkless Collection

I'm sure all of us have heard the famous statement "nothing lasts forever", but some innovations have proved this statement partially wrong.

Over the course of time Napkin Pens have changed the notion of pens and altered the world of writing instrument with their Forever series. A recent addition to Napkin's treasure trove is the new Napkin Primina collection. The Napkin Primina series share similar design with Napkin's Pretiosa and Prima models but are comparatively shorter in size, making them an ideal writing instruments to carry on the go. Though small in size, this chip off the old block includes every little quality of an ideal writing instrument and delivers the promising theme of the brand.

Unlike other pens, Napkin Writing Instruments work with a different technology, these fine writing instruments use a  special tip called ethergraf. For pen enthusiasts who are not familiar with the term ethergraf, it is a special metallic alloy designed for writing purpose. Ethergraf tips are free from hazardous elements like lead and graphite, and are popular among pen enthusiast who prefer inkless writing instruments. The lines drawn by ethergraf tip resembles with pencil lines but are not erasable. The functionality of these sturdy tips are quite different from nibs and ballpoint tips. When these tips come in contact with paper, the special metal alloy creates a permanent line via oxidization. The caliber of the tip depends upon the quality of paper, so if you prefer darker lines then it's best to go for high quality papers from authentic brands like Rhodia and Filofax.

The new Napkin Primina is available in nine bold colors; Yellow, Orange, Red, Magenta, Purple, Blue, Cyan, Turquoise, Green. Each of these fascinating writing instrument will make a great companion and will never leave you halting in the middle of your writing journey. However, the tip does wear out overtime but the effects will be microscopic, and most of the users won't even notice the change.

Upon writing, the minimalist profile of the pen fits perfectly between your fingertips and its tip leaves smooth and clean result on the paper. The ethergraf tip is as smooth as melting butter and glides perfectly on paper without getting spots of ink tattooed on your hand.

The Napkin Primina collection of writing instruments are exclusively available at Pen Boutique but are flying out of our stores fast. So, get your favorite Napkin Primina pen today and embark an inkless writing journey.

                                                                                                                                                                           

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Cross Peerless Citizen Special Edition

Cross Peerless Citizen Special Edition

Just when we start to think, "This is it!!!! pen manufactures should be out of innovative ideas by now."A luxurious brand steps in to steal the show, and introduces a writing instrument that sweeps us off our feet. And at the first glance, a quick thought pops up in our head, "this is going to be the next addition to my collection". But what can we do, as pen enthusiasts we cannot separate ourselves from the mesmerizing magic of fine writing instruments.

A recent release that caught my eye was the new Cross Peerless Citizen Special Edition. These special pens are an extension to classic Peerless 125 heritage, equally elegant but are garnished with a dash of modernism. The Cross Citizen collection is available in three special design, each decorated to reveal the allurement of three different cosmopolitan centers of the world; London, New York and Tokyo. Each pen features a traditional cigar shaped silhouette with etched motifs of these out worldly monuments and a Swarovski faceted cut crystal mounted on the top of the cap. This artistic collection from cross is sophistically designed to surpass the word "perfect" and offer a distinct penmanship experience.

Cross Peerless London: The subtle design of the Cross Peerless London replicates timeless elegance of the Elizabeth Tower. The intricate detailing on the cap and the barrel of the pen brings out the charisma of the ancient monument and unveils the meticulous craftsmanship of Cross artisans. In fountain pen, a sturdy 23kt gold nib is fitted to offer a joyful writing experience, and to ameliorate things even more decent amount of space is separated between the nib and the barrel of the pen. The 23kt gold nib is available in fine and medium, and can be easily replaced according to user preference.

Cross Peerless New York: Whether you are in a meeting, seminar or conference, if you have the new Cross Peerless New York you'll be the center of attraction. This elegant writer from Cross borrows its look from the architectural design of the New York’s Chrysler Building. The intricate details of the buildings are carefully etched on the body of the pen. This fine writer includes a conical cap with premium Swarovski crystal mounted on top. Its unparallel design is embellished with an  18kt rhodium plated nib and platinum plated trims to exhilarate the joy of writing. The nib option is available in fine and medium.

Cross Peerless Tokyo: The new Cross Peerless Tokyo exhibits the sophistication and Modernism of Japan's tallest structure and center of broadcasting and communications, the Tokyo Skytree. Its hefty satin black profile encapsulates the eternal beauty of the building, and presents it in the form of a pen. Each pen is adorned by an 18kt rhodium plated gold nib that adapts to the users unique touch. So, as tough as the appearance of the pen is, the mechanism is smooth sailing and it doesn't take a lot of hard work to make it perform.

For pen enthusiasts it will be hard to choose between these three mesmerizing series of writing instruments. Each pen in the Cross Peerless Citizen collection manifests the distinct beauty of three important cities of the world. So, what Cross pen are you going to buy today? Choose the one that suits you the best and embark a new writing journey with these subtle writing instruments.

 

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Montegrappa Copper Mule Collection - New with FREE MUG!!!!!

For most of us, a refreshing quaff is all it takes to drive away anxieties. And, what could be better than a mix of your favorite vodka with ginger ale and pinch of lemon to lighten up taste buds? Yes, I am talking about Manhattan's famous Moscow Mule cocktail. Considered as the cocktalian masterpiece of early 50s, Moscow Mule was first introduced by John G. Martin - an executive at the Heublein drinks company.

Montegrappa Copper Mule is an excellent series of writing instruments inspired from the reputed Moscow Mule cocktail. Everything about Montegrappa Copper Mule is refreshing, its design and functionality will offer you a smooth writing experience, and take you away from what we know today as "Pen Problems".

Curvaceous yet contemporary, its classic copper look is a reminiscent of the Copper mug in which the famous cocktail is served. Plus, its vintage Montegrappa profile will remind one of the piping and tubing concepts implied in the process to produce Grappa.

The barrel and cap of the pen is crafted from copper – a hygienic element that eliminates germs and reduces their growth. The sophisticated design of the pen is further adorned by brushed silver-plated trims and cap band that reads Montegrappa - bringing out the discerning artistry of Montegrappa experts.

The Mule series of writing instruments are crafted from the same elements used to design the famous Fortuna pens. In short, the Mule series is an extension of the Fortuna heritage. Being inspired from a famous spirit, it still reflects the persona of Fortuna Goddess and embodies her sheer beauty onto it.
The Mule series is available in 3 writing modes: fountain, ballpoint and rollerball pen. Each Montegrappa Copper Mule comes in a beautiful gift box with a matching copper mug that carries the spirit of the Moscow Mule.

The cleaver construction of the pen features a swift screw-on cap. The cap comes off with a slight movement of wrist - within two rounds. The elegant clip on the cap has a convenient roller wheel at the bottom, which helps to pull the pen out from pockets without the fear of tearing fabrics. Inside is a sturdy steel nib with an etched name of Montegrappa highlighted by Montegrappa's traditional filigree pattern. The fountain pen is available in Fine, Medium and Broad, and takes either a cartridge or converter as refill.

The rollerball version of the series shares similar dimension with the fountain pen and includes a screw on cap. The ballpoint pen features a convenient twist-action mechanism, and includes the same clip featured on the fountain and rollerball series.

The mesmerizing charisma of the Montegrappa Mule series is derived from its finesse construction that amalgams timeless elegance with functionality. The refreshing Mule series will definitely take you away from the pens that lead to a scratchy writing experience. And for pen enthusiasts who are constantly in hunt for fabulous writing instrument the Mule series will add up as a great collectable in their pen arsenal.

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Visconti Rembrandt Fountain Pen – Review

From an entry level writer to a fountain pen expert, the new Visconti Rembrandt is a perfect writing instrument for all range of writers. Distinctly designed, this fabulous Italian migrant features an appealing design that resembles with the most expensive Visconti pens.

The name speaks for itself. Inspired from one of the most influential artists of European art, the new Rembrandt series portrays a fabulous design reflecting motifs of Rembrandt himself. The pen is composed of variegated resin – a resin that has nice kinds of swirls into it. Its design imitates Rembrandt’s most practiced painting style commonly known to many as chiaroscuro painting technique. As other luxurious products from Visconti, this pen also flaunts a distinct design and delivers the brand’s promising theme. For daily writers, this fascinating pen can be a perfect companion. The sturdy construction of the pen defines finesse artistry of Visconti, and delivers a premium pen that reflects perfection from every ounce.

As per my personal opinion, Rembrandt pens are perfect for people who are looking for a luxurious pen at an affordable price. Just imagine how cool it would be to pull out a Visconti pen and jot down your words onto a piece of paper. If you have friends who fall in the circle of pen aficionado, they would be completely thrilled when they see this fabulous writing instrument from Visconti.

So, let’s go deeper into the topic. Today I will break it down for you guys, we will be talking about Rembrandt types, it’ construction, materials used and various other aspects about this fascinating Italian writer.

Visconti Rembrandt Types

The Visconti Rembrandt pens are available in six different colors, each reflecting a sophisticated design that evokes Rembrandt’s legacy and recalls one of his favorite style of painting.

·         Ivory White

·         Black

·         Blue

·         Purple

·         Red

·         Merry-Go-Round

Though we are talking about fountain pens, but this series of pens is also available in Rollerball  & Ballpoint pens.

  

Construction

Rembrandt series are precisely engineered for perfection. Experts at Visconti have sophistically picked each material to craft a perfect writing instrument. The body and cap of the pen is composed of variegated resin – a high quality material that’s used to craft the most expensive luxurious pen. Though these pens are classified according to their color, they specifically follow Rembrandt’s chiaroscuro painting pattern and are characterized by elegant swirls and lines.

To compliment its fabulous design a smooth metal grip is featured on the pen, the grip section fits snuggly between your fingertips and offers hours and hours of writing without any signs of hand fatigue. The pen also includes a magnetic cap, which is ideal for people who have to jot down quick notes on daily basis. With the magnetic cap closures, you don’t have to worry much about twists and turns. You can instantly pop out your pen whenever required and close it instantly after you are done. 

Appearance/Price

This fine Italian writer exhibits a luxurious design characterized by its high quality resin finish and stainless steel appointments. The hard work and dedication of Visconti experts are visible on Rembrandt series. The beautiful resin finish of the pen is highlighted by beautiful swirls and lines that clearly mark perfection. The pen comprises of a hefty cigar shaped profile that offers a balanced feel while jotting down your words on a piece of paper. The design of the pen is further enhanced by Visconti’s trademark clip and a subtle cap ring that gels pretty well with the design.

The price range of the Rembrandt series is not what you would expect from Visconti. Though the pen looks expensive, it has a reasonably fair price and might fit into the budget of every fountain pen enthusiast.

Nib

The Rembrandt pens feature a sturdy stainless steel nib with a plastic feed. Each nib is enhanced with an etched artwork of Visconti’s logo and an engraved name of the brand. The nib offers steady ink flow and lays down smooth and elegant lines whenever pressed against a piece of paper. The Visconti Rembrandts are available with a variety of nib options; you can choose between fine, medium and broad nibs. Choose the best one that suits your writing style.

Filling Mechanism

Visconti Rembrandts are designed to work with medium size standard cartridge and converters. Plus, the best part is that you’ll get a free cartridge and a converter with the pen, Fascinating isn’t it. With the new Visconti Rembrandt you can use any medium sized international cartridge. Obviously, the long cartridges will work as well but while changing they might get stuck inside the barrel. And you might have to waste your precious time trying to pull the cartridge out from the pen. Hence, it’s best to stick with medium size standard cartridges.

And talking about converter, Visconti has provided a standard size converter with the pen. The design of the converter may differ from a regular standard converter, but it’s not a big issue. The main point is that it takes any kind of standard cartridge.

Performance

When it comes to performance, Visconti pens have always stood a notch above its competitors. And the cool thing about this pen is that it delivers the same quality performance that we expect from any Visconti pens, but at a cheaper price. The sturdy steel nib featured on the pen delivers fine writing experience without any signs of skips and scratches. Upon writing, the nib offers a balanced feel and lays down consistent ink flow. And as writers, it is one of the most crucial things that we expect from a good fountain pen.

Pros and Cons

Pros

·         Affordable

·         Stylish design with top class finish

·         Good for people who have to take down quick notes.

·         Lightweight

Cons

• ·         Wet nib, not good for writing on thin papers.
• ·         Not a good choice for people who tend stick with long standard cartridges.

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LAMY pico -- Telescopic Minimalism

 

LAMY pico

Take away: If you're into pocket pens, minimalist design, or retractable pens-- the pico may be a great pen for you. With a few bright color options, this pen is perfect for tossing into a bag and fishing out with ease.

I have a problem with pocket-sized pens-- I can't get enough of them. I love being able to slip a pen into my jeans pocket and how this small object that fits in the palm of my hand can extend into a full-sized pen in two twists-- or one click (as I'll discuss in this post).

One of the most convenient and gratifying pocket-sized pens I have experienced is the LAMY pico. It's an awesome pen that extends from a palm-sized (3.75 inches) discrete metal tube to a 5 inch, dependable ballpoint. One word-- TELESCOPIC. Read on for more details on this cool little pen:

The expanding nature of the pen is a very gratifying to use. To extend the pen just push on the rounded back section. You'll feel it as the spring-action mechanism extends the body a couple of inches. To close it you just click on the rounded back section and it will magically shrink, and the ballpoint tip will retract. There's a small, raised, rectangular plastic piece on the side of the pen that prevents the cylindrical pen from rolling off when placed on a table.

The pico is similar in shape and size compared to the Fisher Space Bullet Pen and Kaweco Lilliput.

This is a great talking-point pen. Try showing this pen to a friend-- they probably won't know what it is at first. Once you have the pen fully extended most everyone goes, "Wow, that's really cool!" then they'll want to write with it.

Writing with this pen is smooth and steady. In the hand the pen feels cool to the touch and a bit slippery. When writing, it will probably rotate in your hand, but because it's uniform in shape on all sides of the pen, it won't be bothersome.

Due to the rounded shape of the pen and lightness, it's not suitable for long writing sessions. If you use it for jotting down notes or messages, you're golden.

These pictures were taken with the Laser Orange pico. I think it's a bold, fun color that will stand out in a dark bag, purse, or in between the couch cushions. In addition to Laser Orange, this pen is also available in Chrome, Chrome Matte, White, Red, Black, Imperial Blue, and Wild Rubin (a glossy red). The pico takes the L22 (compact ballpoint refill), which is easily available anywhere you can purchase a LAMY pen.

Give us a call or shoot us a message if you want to talk pens or if you have any questions about the pico!

- Rachel Snell

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7 Series of Fine Writing Instruments for Everyday Use

7 Series of Fine Writing Instruments for Everyday Use

From the beginning of time humans have an undeniable bond with pens. Though the ancient writing instrument appeared quite different than modern pens, they did serve the purpose and encrypted the history of ancient civilizations. Today, pens are considered as an important part of our everyday life. From a school kid to a business owner, everyone needs an ideal pen to efficiently handle their daily responsibilities. But, finding a perfect writing companion is a mammoth task. You might prefer pens that are found in local stationary shops, but most of these pens will leave you hanging in the middle of your journey. So, to ease your burden we have selected an array of writing instrument preferred by most pen enthusiasts for everyday writing.

Fisher Space Bullet Ballpoint Pens

When it comes to ballpoint pens Fisher Pens have always maintained their position on top of the chart. Fisher Pens were specially designed deliver smooth writing experience in space. But, today Fisher pens are considered as close companions by most of the busy professionals who have to keep up with the speed of time. Fisher Bullet Ballpoint Pens are loaded with high quality pressurized ink that never lets you down. The tip of the pen glides perfectly underwater, on greasy surfaces and in extreme weather conditions.

Fisher Space Pen Matte Black Bullet Pen

Fisher Space Bullet pens are available in variety of colors. I have listed some of my favorites below but if you are unsatisfied with our choices there are various other colors to choose from.

• Fisher Space Pen Chrome Bullet Ballpoint Pen

• Fisher Space Pen Matte Black Bullet Pen

• Fisher Space Pen Blueberry Bullet Ballpoint Pen

Lamy Safari

Elegant, stylish and full of life, the Lamy Safari is a perfect choice of writing instruments for pen enthusiasts who are looking an ideal companion for everyday life. The Safari series features an elegant ABS plastic barrel with an ergonomic grip section that offers a balanced feel while jotting down your words into the paper.

Lamy Safari Neon Coral Limited Edition Fountain Pen

Lamy Safari is available in Fountain, Rollerball, Ballpoint and Mechanical Pencil, and there are varieties of colors available. Choose the one that suits you the best and embark a writing journey with this magnificent German migrant.

Pilot Namiki Metropolitan Retro Pop Collection

Pilot-Namiki has and always will be a pioneer in the world of pen manufacturers. Products from pilots are always opted with the best and are designed to deliver the best user experience. Recently, Pilot has introduced a new array of pens especially designed for pen enthusiasts who are searching for a premium writing instrument with a thin price tag.

Pilot Namiki MR Collection Retro Pop Green Rollerball Pen

The new MRcollection from Pilot exhibits a sophisticated amalgamation of style and functionality. These fine writing instruments feature a subtle design characterized by bright color patterns. Each writing instrument from these series features a slender streamline profile that is very pleasant to hold and comfortable to write with. This collection is available in fountain, ballpoint and rollerball, and there is a wide array of colors to choose from.

Noodler’s Konrad

Noodler’s Konrad is a perfect writing instrument for pen aficionados who are willing to plunge into the world of fountain pens. This unique pen will be a great addition in every pen enthusiast’s treasure trove. The Noodler’s Konrad is a giant pen that offers a robust grip while imprinting your thoughts on a piece of paper. This piston filler has a large ink reservoir and can hold decent amount of ink compared to normal fountain pens.

Noodler's Konrad Nantucket Chimney Afire Acrylic Fountain Pen

It includes a sturdy steel nib that flexes according to the pressure implied on the pen. The tip of the nib flexes simultaneously with the movement of your hand and offers beautiful line variations. Though composed of steel the nib offers a smooth and skip less writing experience and lays down even amount of ink whenever pressed against a piece of paper.

Faber-Castell Basic 

I don’t think products from Faber-Castell need much introduction. For most Pen aficionado’s its one of the favorite brands. And, for people who don’t want to invest much in a pen but are willing to enjoy the fame and quality of a luxurious brand then the new Faber-Castell Basic might be the right choice.

Faber-Castell BASIC Metal Shiny Ballpoint Pen

Elegantly designed, the new Faber-Castell Basic is a premium quality writing instrument with a thin price tag. The pen features a slim profile with matte finish. Each of the Faber-Castell Basic writing instruments include a sturdy snap on clip and an ergonomic grip section that offers hours and hours of joyful writing experience without any signs hand fatigue. The pen is available in variety of choices, just click on the link below to jump into our Faber-Castell Basic page.

• Faber-Castell Basic Collection

Rotring Tikky Ballpoint Pens

Sleek, Stylish and affordable, the new Tikky Ballpoint Pens from Rotring includes all the qualities of an everyday pen. The smart construction of the pen is designed to deliver premium penmanship experience. Its triangular profile prevents it from rolling on smooth surface while the rubber grip section offers a perfect hold of the pen and absorbs moisture from your hand while writing.

Rotring Tikky Ballpoint Pen - White Barrel

Tikky ballpoint pen is ideal for pen enthusiasts who have to jot down their words in a hurry. Just a slight click on the top and this beautiful writer extracts a sturdy tip that glides perfectly on paper and delivers a pleasant writing experience. Overall, Tikky Ballpoint pens are best choice for people who are seeking for a premium writing instrument in a budget.

Retro 51 Tornado

When it comes to modern writing instruments Retro 51 Tornado is one of the favorite choices. Hands down Retro 51 Tornado is the smoothest feeling, heavyweight and durable pen with a price marked less than $30. Overall it’s the best value for the price you pay. The selection of options  available in colors and finishes is astonishing.

Retro 51 Tornado Limited Edition Ceramic Brown Rollerball Pen

Here are few of my favorite choices of the Retro 51 Tornado. If you are not happy with my choices there are various other models to choose from. Navigate to our Pen Boutique site and go into Retro 51 page and you’ll notice an abundance of Retro 51 Tornado pens that are ideal for everyday use.

So, are you satisfied with our choices? If you think these series of pens are not for you, we have an abundance of writing instrument at our site. For more information please visit www.penboutique.com. 

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