Category Archives: f-nib

Yard-O-Led Viceroy

Yard-O-Led, a venerable British company rooted in the craftsmanship traditions of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, has held a distinguished place in the world of writing instruments since 1934. Originally known for its uniquely engineered mechanical pencils that ingeniously carried twelve three-inch leads—hence the name “Yard-O-Led”—the firm eventually turned its attention to fountain pens, marrying mechanical ingenuity with the aesthetics of classic British design. Every Yard-O-Led writing instrument remains a testament to artisanal precision, with each piece hand-assembled and meticulously hallmarked in accordance with the traditions of British silversmithing.

The Yard-O-Led Viceroy Standard Barley Fountain Pen is a shining emblem of this heritage. Crafted entirely in sterling silver, it upholds a lineage of British elegance and uncompromising quality. The Viceroy series, especially the Standard Barley variant, serves not only as a practical tool but also as a bridge to a bygone era, when fountain pens were objects of dignity and status. It contributes to the United Kingdom’s legacy of fine pen-making, standing shoulder to shoulder with other giants of European craftsmanship.

What sets the Viceroy Barley apart in the modern world of fountain pens is its deliberate refusal to bow to trends. It does not chase lightweight materials or space-age aesthetics; rather, it leans into the tactile and visual opulence of traditional silversmith work. The pen’s body is engraved with a Barleycorn guilloché pattern—an intricate diamond-shaped motif that catches the light in an understated yet captivating way. This engraving is not simply decorative; it enhances grip, balances reflection, and underscores the pen’s handcrafted nature. The pen’s clip is die-struck, not merely stamped, with a classic “YARD-O-LED” inscription.

True to its form, the Viceroy Barley is constructed of high-purity 925 sterling silver, a choice not made for mere ostentation. Sterling silver not only carries tactile warmth but also ages gracefully, developing a patina unique to the user—an intimate and evolving signature of ownership. British hallmarking on the barrel, including the sponsor’s mark “YOL”, fineness marks, and assay office insignia, confirms its authenticity and ties it to a centuries-old tradition of precious metalwork.

The nib is an 18ct gold unit, plated in rhodium for durability and aesthetic harmony with the silver body. It is engraved with the Yard-O-Led scrollwork motif, echoing the symmetry and flourish of vintage British design. The nib featured here is a Fine (F) size, offering a precise and consistent line, ideal for both personal writing and formal correspondence. Smooth yet firm, it balances expression with control, much like the pen itself—a dignified blend of subtle luxury and mechanical clarity.

In the realm of contemporary writing instruments, the Yard-O-Led Viceroy Barley is less a competitor and more a category unto itself. It is a pen for those who value tradition, tactile beauty, and a deliberate pace. One does not rush through prose with such a pen; one composes. Each stroke is a continuation of legacy, and in an age of disposability, that is nothing short of revolutionary.

Egyptomania

The Montblanc Heritage Egyptomania fountain pen is a refined tribute to the enduring mystique of ancient Egypt—its geometry, its symbols, and its sense of permanence. Inspired by the design codes of the 1920s, yet with a distinctly modern execution, the pen pays homage to a time when egyptology captivated the world. This fascination, often referred to as egyptomania, surged after the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922, and Montblanc’s pen reflects this spirit not through overstatement, but with a quiet, intelligent elegance.

The pen’s cap and barrel are crafted from deep black resin, offering a pleasing weight and polish. The hardware is rendered in a warm bronze-coloured metal, subtly aged, which evokes the patina of ancient artefacts. The hieroglyphs engraved along the cap translate to “Montblanc” or more literally, “white mountain”, but unlike Montblanc’s usual bright white star emblem, the logo here is simply engraved into the bronze cap top—unobtrusive, respectful to the overall aesthetic, and perfectly in tune with the design’s restraint.

There is a symbolic richness in every detail. The clip is shaped like a stylised scarab beetle, one of the most iconic and spiritually resonant symbols in Egyptian iconography, representing renewal, rebirth, and the protection of the sun god Ra. On the Au750 solid gold nib—mine in a Fine size—Montblanc has engraved the crook and flail, the traditional regalia of the pharaohs, once held across the chest of Tutankhamun in his golden death mask. These motifs are not arbitrary; they reflect an intentional alignment with the core Egyptian values of wisdom, leadership, and eternity—elevating the pen from a writing tool into a portable emblem of timeless power.

While its aesthetics are rich with meaning, the pen is also remarkably functional. Its slender profile makes it suitable for daily writing, and the Fine nib offers a precise, smooth stroke—ideal for taking notes in meetings, outlining concepts, or writing down structured thoughts, including technical ideas and programming logic. The piston filling mechanism, hidden within the resin body, is reliable and offers a generous ink capacity for those who write extensively. What I appreciate most is the feeling of balance in the hand—the pen sits firmly but lightly, never slipping, never fatiguing.

I chose this pen not because of its ornamentation, but rather for its clarity of design. It represents the kind of simplicity I value deeply—where nothing is unnecessary, and every line has purpose. The black and bronze colourway is both elegant and subtle, conveying seriousness without ostentation. The small hieroglyphic engraving feels like a secret shared with the past, and the absence of bright logos keeps the focus on the pen itself. I picked it up at Harrods in London, June last year. An indulgence, yes, but a meaningful one — a modest gift to myself. Since then, the Egyptomania has remained a constant companion in my work and travels. It feels less like an object and more like a fragment of a larger story—where the wisdom of the past meets the craft of the present, and where every stroke of ink connects thought, hand, and history.

University of Cambridge — Onoto

The University of Cambridge has a rich history that spans more than 800 years. Its origins can be traced back to 1209, when a group of scholars migrated to establish ofa new centre of learning in Cambridge. By 1231, the institution received a charter from King Henry III, which granted it significant privileges. This charter marked the beginning of the university’s official recognition and its rise as a prominent academic institution.

The university is organised into a series of colleges, with the first college, Peterhouse, founded by Hugh de Balsham in 1284. Each college is an independent institution with its own property and income, but all are part of the university, contributing to its rich academic and cultural environment.

The university played a significant role in the Renaissance and the Scientific Revolution. Notable alumni include Sir Isaac Newton, who developed the principles of modern physics in the 17th century while at Cambridge. In the 20th and 21st centuries, Cambridge continued to expand and evolve, becoming a globally recognised and respected institution for higher learning and research. It has maintained a strong emphasis on scientific research and innovation, contributing to technological advancements and the development of new fields of study. Today, this university consists of over 30 colleges and numerous academic departments, faculties, and schools. It continues to be a leading centre for education and research, attracting students and scholars from around the world. The university’s commitment to excellence in education, research, and contribution to society remains steadfast, ensuring its place among the top universities globally for years to come.

I have an Onoto fountain pen designed for the University of Cambridge. It is a Magna Black & Gold model with the logo of this university on its crown, and a Trinity College crest; with Au750 F-sized nib. It is my second Onoto after the one designed for Oxford University.

Onoto, a prestigious brand of fountain pens from the United Kingdom, has a rich history and a strong reputation for quality, innovation, and cultural significance. The brand’s journey began in the early 20th century, making it an integral part of the fountain pen industry’s history and development. Its history dates back to 1905 when the brand was established by Thomas De La Rue & Co. The first Onoto pen, the Onoto Patent Self-filling Pen, was launched in 1905 and quickly gained fame for its innovative plunger-filling system, which was a novelty at the time. This filling mechanism allowed for a more straightforward and cleaner way to refill the pen, setting Onoto pens apart from their competitors.

Onoto pens are renowned for their high quality, craftsmanship, and durability. The brand has consistently emphasized the production of pens that are not only functional but also beautiful, often using precious metals, high-quality resins, and intricate designs. Collectors and users of Onoto pens value them for their smooth writing experience, balance, and the tactile pleasure they provide. In the 21st century, Onoto has experienced a revival, appealing to both collectors of vintage pens and enthusiasts of luxury writing instruments. The brand continues to produce limited editions and bespoke pens, often commemorating significant historical and cultural events, further enhancing its cultural significance and appeal to connoisseurs of fine pens.

University of Cambridge — Onoto

The University of Cambridge has a rich history that spans more than 800 years. Its origins can be traced back to 1209, when a group of scholars migrated to establish ofa new centre of learning in Cambridge. By 1231, the institution received a charter from King Henry III, which granted it significant privileges. This charter marked the beginning of the university’s official recognition and its rise as a prominent academic institution.

The university is organised into a series of colleges, with the first college, Peterhouse, founded by Hugh de Balsham in 1284. Each college is an independent institution with its own property and income, but all are part of the university, contributing to its rich academic and cultural environment.

The university played a significant role in the Renaissance and the Scientific Revolution. Notable alumni include Sir Isaac Newton, who developed the principles of modern physics in the 17th century while at Cambridge. In the 20th and 21st centuries, Cambridge continued to expand and evolve, becoming a globally recognised and respected institution for higher learning and research. It has maintained a strong emphasis on scientific research and innovation, contributing to technological advancements and the development of new fields of study. Today, this university consists of over 30 colleges and numerous academic departments, faculties, and schools. It continues to be a leading centre for education and research, attracting students and scholars from around the world. The university’s commitment to excellence in education, research, and contribution to society remains steadfast, ensuring its place among the top universities globally for years to come.

I have an Onoto fountain pen designed for the University of Cambridge. It is a Magna Black & Gold model with the logo of this university on its crown, and a Trinity College crest; with Au750 F-sized nib. It is my second Onoto after the one designed for Oxford University.

Onoto, a prestigious brand of fountain pens from the United Kingdom, has a rich history and a strong reputation for quality, innovation, and cultural significance. The brand’s journey began in the early 20th century, making it an integral part of the fountain pen industry’s history and development. Its history dates back to 1905 when the brand was established by Thomas De La Rue & Co. The first Onoto pen, the Onoto Patent Self-filling Pen, was launched in 1905 and quickly gained fame for its innovative plunger-filling system, which was a novelty at the time. This filling mechanism allowed for a more straightforward and cleaner way to refill the pen, setting Onoto pens apart from their competitors.

Onoto pens are renowned for their high quality, craftsmanship, and durability. The brand has consistently emphasized the production of pens that are not only functional but also beautiful, often using precious metals, high-quality resins, and intricate designs. Collectors and users of Onoto pens value them for their smooth writing experience, balance, and the tactile pleasure they provide. In the 21st century, Onoto has experienced a revival, appealing to both collectors of vintage pens and enthusiasts of luxury writing instruments. The brand continues to produce limited editions and bespoke pens, often commemorating significant historical and cultural events, further enhancing its cultural significance and appeal to connoisseurs of fine pens.

Le Petit Prince #3 — Montblanc

As a personal joke, I call it an example of a cognitive dissonance, or specifically on the aspect of cognitions importance — the greater the perceived value of something, the greater the magnitude of the dissonance in the relation. The dissonance on the importance values result sometimes in unpredictable things. An example is the activity of collecting fountain pens (in the 21st century nonetheless). Another example is the cohesion to the books and other artefacts related to Le Petit Prince. That is the reason that I choose this very day to exhibit another, or two other, artefacts from both collections: Montblanc, Le Petit Prince Series of the 3rd Year, in burgundy.

I have also explored my other Montblanc pens collection related to Le Petit Prince:

Obviously, I skip MB The Meisterstück Le Petit Prince #3 on purpose — albeit an inapparent reason.

This Montblanc LPP Series #3 were launched in 2020, with burgundy colour, and with gold nibs (Au 585) carved with The Little Prince cleaning his planet from the sprouts of bad seeds. The Chapter 5 of Le Petit Prince book describes on the little prince’s planet, as on all planets, there were good plants and bad plants, and so of course there were good seeds from the good plants, and bad seeds from the bad plants. But seeds are invisible. They lie dormant hidden deep in the dark of the earth until one of them has the notion it would be a good idea to wake up. This little seed will first have a stretch, then grow slowly, ever so slowly, up towards the sunlight, until at last there it is, a sweet little innocuous twig of a plant. If it is the first shoot on a radish perhaps, or the early sprig of a rose, then it can be left to grow on as it wishes. But if this is a bad plant, you should pull it up at once, the moment you recognise it for what it is. “It’s just a question of self discipline,” the little prince explained later.

I have two size of this excellently designed pen: Le Grand (146 size, above) and the Classique (145 size, below). The Meisterstück 146 is larger and has a slightly thicker barrel compared to the Meisterstück 145. The 146 is often considered a full-sized pen, while the 145 is slightly smaller and more compact. Both have similar nib design, albeit with obviously different size, and consequently different detail. The 146 has an internal piston, while the 145 is equipped with a cartridge.

Having two fountain pens with different size and similar design makes it easier to compare the experience of using these quite standardised pen (in term of size). Since the Meisterstück 146 is larger, it tends to be slightly heavier than the Meisterstück 145. The weight difference is generally not substantial, but some individuals may have a preference for either a lighter or heavier pen. While both pens offer a smooth writing experience, some users find that the larger size of the Meisterstück 146 provides a more comfortable grip and balance. However, this can vary based on personal preference and hand size.

The the previous Le Petit Prince -themed pens, these pens were designed in collaboration with Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s Estate. Le Petit Prince, authored by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, is a beloved and timeless literary work that has captivated readers worldwide. Montblanc’s collaboration with the Estate of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry allows them to pay homage to the author and his iconic characters while creating a special connection with literature enthusiasts and fans of Le Petit Prince.

Surely we are all curious that Montblanc released three different pen designs related to Le Petit Prince in three consecutive years. Or four, if the pen released in 2017 to commemorate Antoine de Saint-Exupéry is also counted. But releasing the pens in different colours each year has successfully created a sense of exclusivity and limited edition allure. It can also incentivise collectors to acquire all three pens (at least), appealing to the desire to complete a set or collection. This approach allows Montblanc to tap into the passion and enthusiasm of collectors who seek to possess the entire series. Each new colour or design release also keeps the story and its themes fresh in the minds of fans, fostering a continued connection with the narrative. And this is why I started it with a mention of cognitive dissonance.

Le Petit Prince #3 — Montblanc

As a personal joke, I call it an example of a cognitive dissonance, or specifically on the aspect of cognitions importance — the greater the perceived value of something, the greater the magnitude of the dissonance in the relation. The dissonance on the importance values result sometimes in unpredictable things. An example is the activity of collecting fountain pens (in the 21st century nonetheless). Another example is the cohesion to the books and other artefacts related to Le Petit Prince. That is the reason that I choose this very day to exhibit another, or two other, artefacts from both collections: Montblanc, Le Petit Prince Series of the 3rd Year, in burgundy.

I have also explored my other Montblanc pens collection related to Le Petit Prince:

Obviously, I skip MB The Meisterstück Le Petit Prince #3 on purpose — albeit an inapparent reason.

This Montblanc LPP Series #3 were launched in 2020, with burgundy colour, and with gold nibs (Au 585) carved with The Little Prince cleaning his planet from the sprouts of bad seeds. The Chapter 5 of Le Petit Prince book describes on the little prince’s planet, as on all planets, there were good plants and bad plants, and so of course there were good seeds from the good plants, and bad seeds from the bad plants. But seeds are invisible. They lie dormant hidden deep in the dark of the earth until one of them has the notion it would be a good idea to wake up. This little seed will first have a stretch, then grow slowly, ever so slowly, up towards the sunlight, until at last there it is, a sweet little innocuous twig of a plant. If it is the first shoot on a radish perhaps, or the early sprig of a rose, then it can be left to grow on as it wishes. But if this is a bad plant, you should pull it up at once, the moment you recognise it for what it is. “It’s just a question of self discipline,” the little prince explained later.

I have two size of this excellently designed pen: Le Grand (146 size, above) and the Classique (145 size, below). The Meisterstück 146 is larger and has a slightly thicker barrel compared to the Meisterstück 145. The 146 is often considered a full-sized pen, while the 145 is slightly smaller and more compact. Both have similar nib design, albeit with obviously different size, and consequently different detail. The 146 has an internal piston, while the 145 is equipped with a cartridge.

Having two fountain pens with different size and similar design makes it easier to compare the experience of using these quite standardised pen (in term of size). Since the Meisterstück 146 is larger, it tends to be slightly heavier than the Meisterstück 145. The weight difference is generally not substantial, but some individuals may have a preference for either a lighter or heavier pen. While both pens offer a smooth writing experience, some users find that the larger size of the Meisterstück 146 provides a more comfortable grip and balance. However, this can vary based on personal preference and hand size.

The the previous Le Petit Prince -themed pens, these pens were designed in collaboration with Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s Estate. Le Petit Prince, authored by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, is a beloved and timeless literary work that has captivated readers worldwide. Montblanc’s collaboration with the Estate of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry allows them to pay homage to the author and his iconic characters while creating a special connection with literature enthusiasts and fans of Le Petit Prince.

Surely we are all curious that Montblanc released three different pen designs related to Le Petit Prince in three consecutive years. Or four, if the pen released in 2017 to commemorate Antoine de Saint-Exupéry is also counted. But releasing the pens in different colours each year has successfully created a sense of exclusivity and limited edition allure. It can also incentivise collectors to acquire all three pens (at least), appealing to the desire to complete a set or collection. This approach allows Montblanc to tap into the passion and enthusiasm of collectors who seek to possess the entire series. Each new colour or design release also keeps the story and its themes fresh in the minds of fans, fostering a continued connection with the narrative. And this is why I started it with a mention of cognitive dissonance.

Otto Hutt Design 04

Otto Hutt Design 04 is a notable and highly regarded series of writing instruments by the German manufacturer Otto Hutt. Introduced in 1999, Design 04 has become synonymous with the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship, innovative design, and luxurious aesthetics.

Otto Hutt is a German manufacturer known for producing high-quality writing instruments, including fountain pens. The company was founded in 1920 by Karl Hutt in Pforzheim, Germany. Initially, the company focused on creating jewelry and accessories, including gold and silver pens. During the 1950s, Otto Hutt expanded its production to include more affordable writing instruments while maintaining its dedication to quality. The company incorporated advancements in pen technology and materials, such as the use of new plastics and metals, to cater to a wider market. In the 1990s, Otto Hutt underwent a significant transformation under the leadership of Dr. Christa Hutt, the granddaughter of the founder. Driven by a vision of combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics, she revitalised the brand’s focus on luxury pens. This led to the introduction of the “Design 04” series in 1999, which gained widespread acclaim for its sleek and innovative design.

The Design 04 series is characterised by its sleek and modern design, combining clean lines with sophisticated details. It uses premium materials — the collection includes options crafted from precious metals, such as sterling silver and gold, as well as high-quality lacquers and resins. These materials not only enhance the pen’s aesthetic appeal but also contribute to its durability and longevity. The Design 04 pens are available in a range of finishes, allowing users to select a style that suits their personal preferences. Some of the finishes include precious metals with polished or brushed textures, vibrant lacquers in various colors, and elegant combinations of materials. The finishes are meticulously applied to ensure a flawless and visually captivating appearance.

The Design 04 series offers a selection of finely crafted nibs, designed to deliver an exceptional writing experience. The nibs are available in different materials, such Au750 (18k gold) shown here, and in various widths to cater to individual writing preferences. Each nib is carefully tuned to provide smooth and consistent ink flow, resulting in effortless and enjoyable writing.

Otto Hutt is known for its attention to detail, and the Design 04 series exemplifies this commitment. From the precision-engineered threads to the meticulously finished clips and accents, every aspect of the pen is thoughtfully designed and executed.

Otto Hutt Design 04

Otto Hutt Design 04 is a notable and highly regarded series of writing instruments by the German manufacturer Otto Hutt. Introduced in 1999, Design 04 has become synonymous with the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship, innovative design, and luxurious aesthetics.

Otto Hutt is a German manufacturer known for producing high-quality writing instruments, including fountain pens. The company was founded in 1920 by Karl Hutt in Pforzheim, Germany. Initially, the company focused on creating jewelry and accessories, including gold and silver pens. During the 1950s, Otto Hutt expanded its production to include more affordable writing instruments while maintaining its dedication to quality. The company incorporated advancements in pen technology and materials, such as the use of new plastics and metals, to cater to a wider market. In the 1990s, Otto Hutt underwent a significant transformation under the leadership of Dr. Christa Hutt, the granddaughter of the founder. Driven by a vision of combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics, she revitalised the brand’s focus on luxury pens. This led to the introduction of the “Design 04” series in 1999, which gained widespread acclaim for its sleek and innovative design.

The Design 04 series is characterised by its sleek and modern design, combining clean lines with sophisticated details. It uses premium materials — the collection includes options crafted from precious metals, such as sterling silver and gold, as well as high-quality lacquers and resins. These materials not only enhance the pen’s aesthetic appeal but also contribute to its durability and longevity. The Design 04 pens are available in a range of finishes, allowing users to select a style that suits their personal preferences. Some of the finishes include precious metals with polished or brushed textures, vibrant lacquers in various colors, and elegant combinations of materials. The finishes are meticulously applied to ensure a flawless and visually captivating appearance.

The Design 04 series offers a selection of finely crafted nibs, designed to deliver an exceptional writing experience. The nibs are available in different materials, such Au750 (18k gold) shown here, and in various widths to cater to individual writing preferences. Each nib is carefully tuned to provide smooth and consistent ink flow, resulting in effortless and enjoyable writing.

Otto Hutt is known for its attention to detail, and the Design 04 series exemplifies this commitment. From the precision-engineered threads to the meticulously finished clips and accents, every aspect of the pen is thoughtfully designed and executed.

Pelikan Souverän M1000

For the International Handwriting Day today I will display Pelikan M1000 as one of the best pens I have (considering, though, that almost all my pens are the best pens). This pen is the top member of the Pelikan Souverän family. This family consists of the M3xx, M4xx, M6xx, M8xx, and M10xx — with the higher numbers before xx are related to the increase in size. So this Souverän M1000 is also the flagship pen of Pelikan.


This pen has a gigantic nib made of Au750 — and it is virtually a perfect 18C gold that it writes so smoothly with the effect of a flexible nib. We can compare it with the magnificent Montblanc Meisterstück 149 with flex nib. Both have an Au750 nib. But not all 149 nibs are designed as flex nib — only those that are advertised so. So both writes excellently well for flexible nib effect. But then when we use them for simple signature, M1000 can simply transform to a cool signature pen, whle 149 flex would lose its magic without its flex effect. It means, to replace an M1000, I’d need a 149 with flex nib and another 149 without flex nib. But surely others may have different experiences.


M1000 has some alternative designs. But for the sake of why not and mwahahahahaha I have chosen a perfect black M1000 with golden cap and ring. Now I have more collection for my gold banded black pen. The barrel and the cap of the pen are made of cotton resin. The cap features a 24k gold-plated finial with a laser-etched relief logo of a pelican and its chick. This pen has an 18k gold bib.

Pelikan’s nib is so breathtaking. It has a unique design: a long and slender nib, with narrower shoulders and a shallower curvature. The face of the bi-color nib is stamped with a series of intersecting, graceful, swooping curves. The Pelikan logo is stamped in the middle of the nib face.

Some dimensions:

  • Length (capped): 145.6mm
  • Length (uncapped): 135.1mm
  • Length (posted): 173.6mm
  • Section diameter: 12.1mm
  • Barrel max diameter: 13.8mm
  • Cap max diameter: 16mm
  • Weight, uncapped (with ink and/or converter): 25g
  • Weight, capped (with ink and/or converter): 35g

Writing using M1000 giving a wet effect of the ink — a favourite for a calligrapher. But, no, it is very wet — but somehow I like it. The big nib is springy, allowing to make line variation as we wish. Again, it is a favourite for a calligrapher.

Pelikan is a 190 year old manufacturer of stationeries. It launched its first fountain pen in 1929. Pelikan is also credited as the pioneer of piston filling mechanism with a differential spindle gear aims to overcome the ink capacity issue in fountain pens. Hungarian engineer Theodor Kovacs is credited with the invention of the original filling mechanism before selling off the patent to Günther Wagner in 1927.

Yes, another Wagner. I know.

Pelikan Souverän M1000

For the International Handwriting Day today I will display Pelikan M1000 as one of the best pens I have (considering, though, that almost all my pens are the best pens). This pen is the top member of the Pelikan Souverän family. This family consists of the M3xx, M4xx, M6xx, M8xx, and M10xx — with the higher numbers before xx are related to the increase in size. So this Souverän M1000 is also the flagship pen of Pelikan.


This pen has a gigantic nib made of Au750 — and it is virtually a perfect 18C gold that it writes so smoothly with the effect of a flexible nib. We can compare it with the magnificent Montblanc Meisterstück 149 with flex nib. Both have an Au750 nib. But not all 149 nibs are designed as flex nib — only those that are advertised so. So both writes excellently well for flexible nib effect. But then when we use them for simple signature, M1000 can simply transform to a cool signature pen, whle 149 flex would lose its magic without its flex effect. It means, to replace an M1000, I’d need a 149 with flex nib and another 149 without flex nib. But surely others may have different experiences.


M1000 has some alternative designs. But for the sake of why not and mwahahahahaha I have chosen a perfect black M1000 with golden cap and ring. Now I have more collection for my gold banded black pen. The barrel and the cap of the pen are made of cotton resin. The cap features a 24k gold-plated finial with a laser-etched relief logo of a pelican and its chick. This pen has an 18k gold bib.

Pelikan’s nib is so breathtaking. It has a unique design: a long and slender nib, with narrower shoulders and a shallower curvature. The face of the bi-color nib is stamped with a series of intersecting, graceful, swooping curves. The Pelikan logo is stamped in the middle of the nib face.

Some dimensions:

  • Length (capped): 145.6mm
  • Length (uncapped): 135.1mm
  • Length (posted): 173.6mm
  • Section diameter: 12.1mm
  • Barrel max diameter: 13.8mm
  • Cap max diameter: 16mm
  • Weight, uncapped (with ink and/or converter): 25g
  • Weight, capped (with ink and/or converter): 35g

Writing using M1000 giving a wet effect of the ink — a favourite for a calligrapher. But, no, it is very wet — but somehow I like it. The big nib is springy, allowing to make line variation as we wish. Again, it is a favourite for a calligrapher.

Pelikan is a 190 year old manufacturer of stationeries. It launched its first fountain pen in 1929. Pelikan is also credited as the pioneer of piston filling mechanism with a differential spindle gear aims to overcome the ink capacity issue in fountain pens. Hungarian engineer Theodor Kovacs is credited with the invention of the original filling mechanism before selling off the patent to Günther Wagner in 1927.

Yes, another Wagner. I know.