Fountain Pens

Barbara Collins
16 min readSep 6, 2024
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Welcome to our roundup of the best fountain pens on the market! Are you looking to level up your writing game? Dive into the world of elegant, vintage-inspired writing instruments. From budget-friendly options to premium writing tools, we've gathered a variety of fountain pens to help you make an informed decision. So whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or new to the world of fountain pens, grab a cup of coffee, and let's explore what this classic writing instrument has to offer.

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Reviews

Esterbrook Estie Nouveau Bleu Fountain Pen with Gold Trim

Esterbrook Estie Nouveau Bleu Fountain Pen with Gold Trim | Image

The Esterbrook Estie Nouveau Bleu fountain pen offers a unique blend of aesthetics and functionality. Its crackled blue resin exterior is accentuated by either gold or chrome plated trim, making for a visually striking pen. The pen features a comfortable grip, allowing for effortless writing, as well as a cushion cap closure to ensure the ink stays securely in place. The JoWo #6 stainless steel nib is another standout feature, offering multiple nib options to suit any writing style.

One downside to this pen is the inability to post it safely due to the cap's spring mechanism. Users have reported accidental torpedoing of the cap, which requires caution when using the pen. However, the positives vastly outweigh this minor inconvenience. The pen's reliability, build quality, attention to detail, and range of nib options make it a worthwhile investment for any fountain pen enthusiast.

Scriveiner Gold: Award-Winning Luxury Fountain Pen for a Smooth Writing Experience

Scriveiner Gold: Award-Winning Luxury Fountain Pen for a Smooth Writing Experience | Image

Crafted with luxury and precision in mind, the Scriveiner Gold Luxury Fountain Pen boasts a stunning 22K gold finish and exquisite attention to detail. Award-winning Scriveiner London has made this pen a statement piece, designed to make a lasting impression in any setting. The solid brass construction and smooth-writing German Schmidt nib offer a premium experience, while the interchangeable ink cartridges ensure a perfect match for your writing needs.

Whether used for daily notes or a special occasion, this pen is the epitome of elegance and understated luxury. A beautiful presentation box completes the gift-giving experience for you and your loved ones.

Faber-Castell School+ Blue Fountain Pen

Faber-Castell School+ Blue Fountain Pen | Image

The Faber-Castell School Fountain Pen offers a sleek and practical solution for students looking for a comfortable writing tool. Boasting a durable plastic barrel and rubberized grip, this versatile pen comes with a pack of blue ink cartridges for easy use. The medium-sized stainless steel nib and ergonomic design ensure a smooth writing experience. While it may not have the most attractive aesthetic, its functionality and reliability make it a top choice for school use.

Hugo Boss Pure Black Fountain Pen for Luxurious Writing Experience

Hugo Boss Pure Black Fountain Pen for Luxurious Writing Experience | Image

I've been using the Hugo Boss Pure Black Fountain Pen for a few weeks now, and I must say, it's a real treat to write with. The pen's sleek black lacquer barrel and elegant tapered shape make it a pleasure to hold and write with. The brass cap, chrome-plated and highly polished, adds a touch of glamour to the pen's design.

I love how the cap can be easily removed and placed onto the end of the pen, which comes in handy when I need to take quick notes. The pen also comes with a blue ink cartridge as standard and is compatible with other standard international size ink cartridges, making it versatile. I can confirm that it's possible to convert the pen for use with bottled ink (converters and ink sold separately), for a more customized writing experience.

The pen's nib is made from polished stainless steel, with a simple line pattern engraved on it. The nib content is of a medium size, providing a smooth and consistent writing experience. One aspect I appreciate is that the Hugo Boss brand name is engraved on both the cap and nib, adding that brand recognition that makes this pen stand out.

To top it all off, the pen comes beautifully packaged in a luxury Hugo Boss gift box, perfect for gifting to someone special or even for yourself, as it feels like a special treat to unwrap. The two-year international guarantee is certainly a plus, giving me peace of mind about the pen's durability. Despite the high price point, I find the Hugo Boss Pure Black Fountain Pen to be a worthwhile investment for its elegant design and smooth writing experience.

Kingboom 24K Gold Fountain Pen with Medium Nib and Ergonomic Grip

Kingboom 24K Gold Fountain Pen with Medium Nib and Ergonomic Grip | Image

Imagine gifting a luxurious writing instrument that exudes sophistication and elegance. The KINGBOOM 24K Gold Fountain Pen is just that, featuring a stunning 24K gold-plated body that radiates refinement. This pen's medium nib delivers a smooth and effortless writing experience, perfect for executives, professionals, and anyone who appreciates the art of writing.

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this pen is a symbol of luxury and class. Its timeless design, combined with its ergonomic grip and sleek shape, ensures a comfortable grip for long writing sessions. The pen's durability and versatility make it a reliable companion for both office and personal use.

But the luxury doesn't stop there. The KINGBOOM Fountain Pen comes in a beautiful wood and fabric pen case, showcasing its understated luxury. Whether you're giving it as a gift to yourself or someone else, this pen is a thoughtful and impressive choice. With its exquisite styling, compatibility with both standard cartridges and bottled ink, and the inclusion of a piston converter, this 24K gold fountain pen is truly a remarkable writing instrument.

Ferris Wheel Press Aluminum Harlequin Dream Fountain Pen

Ferris Wheel Press Aluminum Harlequin Dream Fountain Pen | Image

The Harlequin Dream Aluminum Carousel Fountain Pen is a sight to behold, with its limited edition charm. Handcrafted from a blend of copper, brass, and stainless steel, this pen is designed to provide a perfectly balanced and substantial writing experience. A true work of art, it features a capped length of 127mm, with a threaded cap to ensure a secure and reliable closure.

The pen's steel tip comes in two sizes, fine and medium, catering to various writing preferences. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just dipping your toes in the world of fountain pens, the Harlequin Dream is a worthy addition to your collection.

Scrivi Pens Artistry Collection: Luxury Fountain Pen Set - Elevate Your Writing Experience

Scrivi Pens Artistry Collection: Luxury Fountain Pen Set — Elevate Your Writing Experience | Image

Once, I stumbled upon the luxurious Scrivi Pens Fountain Pen Set featuring a sleek black design. The moment I held it, I was amazed at its comfortable grip, which perfectly contoured to my fingertips. The pen boasts a distinctive wide-barrelled executive style, radiating timeless elegance with a modern touch.

Scrivi Pens have managed to capture the hearts of journalists, authors, calligraphers, and business executives alike. With their fine tip fountain pen, I could feel the balance and weight meticulously crafted for optimal performance. The ink flows smoothly, leaving impeccable lines as the nib glides effortlessly across the page.

In addition to its impressive physical attributes, the pen offers a lasting impact, allowing me to create meaningful and unforgettable words that resonate with both the writer and the reader. Its understated confidence, combined with the power of meaningful expression, makes this pen an extension of myself that I take with me on my journey of self-discovery and creativity.

While the Scrivi Pens fountain pen is a harmonious blend of classic craftsmanship and modern innovation, it's essential to mention some minor drawbacks. One user shared their disappointment with the initial writing quality and the need to try different ink options to improve the flow.

Despite these minor setbacks, the Scrivi Pens Fountain Pen Set is a luxurious writing tool that blends timeless elegance with modern functionality. Its distinctive design, comfortable grip, and smooth writing experience make it a worthy companion for professionals, writers, and enthusiasts alike.

Faber-Castell Sparkle Ocean Fountain Pen Set for a Stylish Writing Experience

Faber-Castell Sparkle Ocean Fountain Pen Set for a Stylish Writing Experience | Image

Experience the ocean-inspired charm of the Faber-Castell Sparkle Fountain Pen Set. As a user, I found the ergonomic grip zone to be a delightful addition, providing a comfortable writing experience even during long letter-writing sessions.

The sturdy steel nib ensures smooth, gliding strokes on the paper. However, it's essential to clean the nib occasionally under warm water and use non-waterproof ink to maintain its pristine condition. A perfect present idea for the stationery enthusiast in your life, this sparkling set is truly a treasure to behold.

Nahvalur Schuylkill Fountain Pen - Dragonet Sapphire Fine: Classy Writing Accessory

Nahvalur Schuylkill Fountain Pen — Dragonet Sapphire Fine: Classy Writing Accessory | Image

The Nahvalur Schuylkill Dragonet Sapphire Fine Fountain Pen brings a unique and striking appearance to any writing enthusiast's collection. With a gold-plated nib, brass barrel ring, and pocket clip, it exudes a sense of elegance and luxury. Featuring a limited edition piston-filling fountain pen design, the Dragonet Sapphire sports a vibrant blue barrel constructed from exclusive custom-made resins.

This Californian company, Nahvalur, has made its mark with an array of visually stunning pens. The Dragonet Sapphire Fine Fountain Pen is no exception, with dimensions of 144mm long when capped, 132mm open, and 175mm posted. Weighing in at a comfortable 24g, it offers a well-balanced writing experience. The pen comes armed with filling instructions and is presented in a lidded gift box.

While the pen's exterior may be its standout feature, the internal workings are equally impressive. The filling system is a piston mechanism, specific to bottled ink only, which ensures smooth and uninterrupted use. The writing experience is further enhanced by the gold-plated nib and brass barrel ring, providing a level of comfort and precision unparalleled by other fountain pens in its class.

The Nahvalur Schuylkill Dragonet Sapphire Fine Fountain Pen is a true testament of quality craftsmanship, and, with only around 2000 units available worldwide, it's a unique addition to any pen lover's collection. It's certainly a worthy investment for those seeking a durable, visually stunning, and well-crafted writing instrument.

Opus 88 Mini Pocket Fountain Pen

Opus 88 Mini Pocket Fountain Pen | Image

The compact and sleek Opus 88 Mini Dot Fountain Pen is a fabulous choice for writers who appreciate stylish, reliable writing instruments. With a silver stainless steel body and a beige dotted cap, it's a standout addition to any writing station.

One of its key features is an innovative high-capacity eyedropper filling system, which allows you to pour in a generous amount of ink for extended writing time. The steel nib ensures a smooth glide and consistent lines.

Despite its modest size, this pen is made by Opus 88, a reputable Taiwanese company known for eye-catching, high-quality fountain pens. So, if you're seeking a reliable, visually appealing pen that can keep up with your daily scribbles, look no further than the Opus 88 Mini Dot Fountain Pen.

Luxury Walnut Fountain Pen with German Schmidt Fine Nib and Converter

Luxury Walnut Fountain Pen with German Schmidt Fine Nib and Converter | Image

This stunning LACHIEVA Luxury Fountain Pen, with its walnut body and matchingwood gift box, makes an impressive and elegant gift for any occasion. The pen is made from real natural walnut and features a German-made Schmidt fine nibfor a smooth and enjoyable writing experience. Included in the set are 2 disposable ink cartridges and 1 ink converter.

The pen measures 138mm in length and weighs just 37 grams, making it a perfect fit for those with a preference for left-handed writing. The unique handcrafted design of this fountain pen, combined with its top-notch quality and versatility, makes it a fantastic gift for family, friends, and colleagues.

Retro 51 Tornado Cat Rescue Fountain Pen

Retro 51 Tornado Cat Rescue Fountain Pen | Image

Kickstart your 2024 with the Retro 51 Tornado Cat Rescue Series 5 Fountain Pen, a limited-edition masterpiece designed by pastel artist Katy Klassman. This vibrant and dreamy pen features a navy blue to orange ombre from the twist-top to the nose cone, inspired by the night sky flowing through trees to blossoms. With a screw cap, retractable nib, and steel nib material, this pen is perfect for planning and daydreaming your way to success. The 1-year mechanical warranty ensures its durability and function.

Wisteria Laban Fountain Pen: Noble Elegance with Gold-Plated Appointments

Wisteria Laban Fountain Pen: Noble Elegance with Gold-Plated Appointments | Image

Experience the beauty of a wisteria-inspired fountain pen with the Laban Fountain Pen in Wisteria. This exquisite pen brings a touch of luxury and comfort to your writing experience. Made of high-quality acrylic resin, the pen features a gold-plated cap and barrel, adding a touch of elegance to its design. The 1.5mm stub nib ensures smooth writing, while the pen's dimensions are perfectly suited for comfortable use. With a classic fountain pen design and premium materials, the Laban Fountain Pen in Wisteria is sure to make a striking addition to your collection.

MUJI Aluminum Fountain Pen - Sleek & Stylish Writing Instrument

MUJI Aluminum Fountain Pen — Sleek & Stylish Writing Instrument | Image

The MUJI Aluminum Fountain Pen is a reliable and stylish writing instrument that is perfect for anyone looking to experience quality. Crafted in Japan with an aluminum body, this pen is both lightweight and durable. Available in a sleek, black finish, the fountain pen offers a professional look that will look great in any setting. With a total length of 13.7 cm and a 1 cm diameter, the pen comfortably fits most hands.

This fountain pen features a fine ink cartridge that is easy to access and can be interchangeably used with standard ink cartridges. The nib is made of stainless steel, providing a comfortable writing experience. Compatible with Muji's ink cartridges, this pen is perfect for people who prefer to use refillable ink cartridges.

In terms of weight, the MUJI Aluminum Fountain Pen weighs in at only 20g, which makes it quite comfortable to use for long periods of time. With an easily accessible nib that can be adjusted for those who prefer a lighter or heavier writing experience, this fountain pen is perfect for those who want a pen that provides both comfort and versatility.

Overall, the MUJI Aluminum Fountain Pen is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and stylish writing instrument. Its smooth writing experience, combined with its lightweight and durable construction, makes it perfect for both personal and professional use.

Luxury Plaited Gold Tress Ferris Wheel Press Aluminum Carousel Fountain Pen - Limited Edition

Luxury Plaited Gold Tress Ferris Wheel Press Aluminum Carousel Fountain Pen — Limited Edition | Image

Experience the delight of writing with the exquisite Plaited Gold Tress fountain pen. Crafted by Ferris Wheel Press, this limited edition masterpiece brings a touch of nostalgia to your daily writing. The Carousel fountain pen is meticulously designed with a premium aluminum body and a custom-milled grip for superior comfort. The pen's intricate details and durable acrylic barrel make it a true luxury. The light, agile nib delivers subtle flexibility, allowing you to create expressive lines with ease. Available in two nib sizes (0.7 mm and 1 mm) and featuring a beautiful, decorative galloping horse design, the Carousel fountain pen is a must-have for any discerning writer.

Buyer's Guide

Welcome to our buyer's guide for fountain pens! This section will provide you with important information and advice to help you choose the perfect fountain pen for your needs. We'll cover key features, considerations, and general tips to ensure you make the best decision.

Nib Material and Size

The nib is one of the most crucial parts of a fountain pen. It determines the pen's writing style, line width, and smoothness. Common nib materials are steel, gold, and stainless steel. Gold nibs typically offer superior writing performance and durability but are more expensive. Steel and stainless steel nibs are more affordable and can be found in a wide range of sizes (from extra-fine to broad). The nib size also influences the line width, so consider this when choosing your fountain pen.

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Ink Compatibility

Fountain pens require ink to function. Different pens may be compatible with different ink types. Some pens use proprietary ink cartridges, while others accept bottled ink. Always check the pen's ink compatibility before purchasing to avoid any compatibility issues or performance problems. Common ink types include cartridge/converter, paste, and dip.

Design and Aesthetics

Fountain pens come in various designs, materials, and finishes, which can influence your choice. Consider the pen's overall appearance, weight, and ergonomics when making your decision. Do you prefer a sleek, minimalist design or an ornate, vintage-inspired pen? Materials such as resin, metal, or ebonite can also impact the pen's weight and feel. Lastly, ensure the pen's dimensions and weight are comfortable for you to use.

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Price Range and Durability

Fountain pens come in different price ranges, from budget options to high-end models. Consider your budget and desired pen features when deciding. Generally, more expensive pens offer better build quality, materials, and performance. However, it doesn't mean cheaper pens are not worth considering. Remember to check the pen's durability and warranty information to ensure your investment is protected.

FAQ

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What are the perks of utilizing a fountain pen?

Fountain pens are renowned for delivering a first-rate writing experience because of their meticulously crafted nibs and top-grade ink. Additionally, they come with an alluring aesthetic charm that appeals to numerous users. Furthermore, the use of a fountain pen enhances handwriting abilities as it demands more precision than other pen types.

Another advantage of employing a fountain pen is its eco-friendliness. It does not necessitate the utilization of disposable ink cartridges or plastic pens. Instead, the ink is reusable, and the pen is often composed of sustainable materials. This attribute makes it a compelling option for those who prioritize eco-friendly products in their writing tools.

How can I preserve my fountain pen?

Maintaining your fountain pen is crucial for preserving its longevity and functionality. Begin by cleaning the pen regularly by running water through the ink channel. Ensure you do not get any water in the nib to prevent rust or damage. Next, use a dry cloth or paper to gently dab the pen dry. You can also use a specialized fountain pen cleaner to help eradicate obstinate ink deposits.

At times, you might want to disassemble the pen and soak its parts in a fountain pen cleaner before reassembling it. This aids in removing any dried ink accumulation. It is also advisable to replace the ink regularly to ensure optimal performance and prevent clogging. Lastly, store your fountain pen vertically to enable any residual ink to flow out effectively.

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How can I refill a fountain pen?

Refilling a fountain pen is an effortless process. Start by unscrewing the pen cap, and then unscrew the pen nib from the pen body. Next, remove the pen's ink chamber screw and insert a new ink cartridge or a pre-filled ink converter into the ink chamber. Screw it back into place, and allow the pen to completely dry before writing with the new ink.

If you're employing a pre-filled ink converter, ensure it has a proper air-tight seal to prevent ink from leaking. When you're prepared to change the ink color, merely remove the ink converter and insert a new one with the desired ink color before reassembling the pen. Always adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines for proper refilling procedures.

What are the various fountain pen materials?

Fountain pens are typically constructed from a variety of materials, each featuring its unique feel and appeal. The most common materials include: plastic, resin, acrylic, and metal. Some pens also incorporate lacquered, ebonite, or celluloid components to enhance their design. Each material has its own pros and cons. For example, plastic pens are generally more cost-effective, while resin and acrylic pens boast better durability and a unique appearance.

Metal pens are typically more expensive but possess a high-end appeal due to their sleek finish and smooth surface. Lacquered pens provide a glossy, radiant finish that adds to their overall aesthetic appeal. Ebonite, a type of natural rubber, is another material used in fountain pens, offering both durability and warmth to the writing experience. Finally, celluloid is a rare and highly valued material due to its translucent and lustrous quality, making it an alluring choice for collectors and enthusiasts.

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How should I store my fountain pen when it's not in use?

Proper storage is vital for preserving the longevity and functionality of your fountain pen. Keep your pen upright in a pen stand or case, with the nib pointing upwards. This helps to maintain a consistent ink flow and prevent any dried ink accumulation in the nib. It is also crucial to keep the pen away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and humidity, as these factors can damage the pen's finish and components.

Lastly, avoid storing the pen alongside other pens or in pockets where it may be exposed to pressure or movement. This can negatively impact the nib and the pen's overall performance. It is best to store your fountain pen in a dedicated pen case or pouch, which protects it from dust and potential damage when you're on the go.

How should I initially ink my fountain pen?

When inking a fountain pen for the first time, it is essential to prime the pen and ensure a smooth ink flow. Start by unscrewing the pen cap and nib from the pen body. Carefully remove the ink cartridge or converter, depending on which ink filling method your pen uses. Then, saturate a paper towel or cloth in the new ink and wrap it around the nib. Gently press the tip of the nib into the ink-soaked paper towel or cloth.

After several seconds, remove the paper towel or cloth, and use a clean cloth or paper towel to blot any excess ink. Reassemble the pen, ensuring the nib is aligned correctly with the ink chamber. Finally, write a test line on a piece of paper to check the ink flow and nib performance. If the ink flow is too heavy, you can blot the nib gently with a clean cloth or tissue. If it's too light, you can apply more ink to the nib or use a little more pressure when writing.

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