Who else uses Fountain Pens? [Archive]

BetterSense

11-25-2008, 08:27 PM

I have never been blessed with a decent fountain pen and never justified ponying up the cash for one. I met a coworker who used them however and realised that they really could be pleasant to write with considering the long mathematical analysis I do and note-taking. It does indeed make me more legible and even helps me remain destressed during exams. I still have no good pen, having no idea where to buy one, and use Platinum Preppy pens, which if you get a good one, and get it broken in, and replace the ink, I find they write passably.

Austin

11-25-2008, 08:46 PM

I have several. Montblanc, Pelikan, Visconti, etc.

ravkesef

11-25-2008, 08:50 PM

There is nothing like writing with a fountain pen, and for under $30 you can buy a Lamy Safari. It has a steel nib, but it writes superbly! In fact, I own four of them in addition to many other pens of varying quality.
And yes, writing with a fountain pen does make one a neater writer. The problem is that a good deal of the paper manufactured these days won't handle real ink. The paper tends to make your writing feather, shows through on the other side, etc. But, if you have a fountain pen and the right kind of paper, the experience is unequaled. Let me put it this way: writing with a fountain pen is like shaving with a quality razor and blade.
Now here's a little trick: if you'd like to see what a fountain pen feels like, and don't want to spring for one, try the Pilot G-2. The feel of the ink is the closest thing to a fountain pen I've come across. Of course, the nib doesn't develop the character of a fountain pen nib (these become increasingly personalized over time,) but it does a fine job of writing, and can be had for under $2. Try it, and if you like it, decide to take the next step upward. Or--even stay right there. The G-2 still makes writing an experience, rather than a chore. Kind of like wet-shaving.
My FP lineup:
Waterman Opera (expensive)
Waterman Phileas (proves that you can get a Waterman pen for a small price.)
Parker 45 (arguably the best FP ever made. )
Sheaffer Palladium Silver
Pelikan M-600
Pelikan Level 5 ( inexpensive, but superb writer!!!!)
Pelikan Technixx
Cross Century II
Cross Apogee
Cross (something or other--it was $19, but writes like a dream.)
and a few others that I'll mention later on.
see--it's like collecting shaving stuff.:wink:

Izzy

11-25-2008, 11:01 PM

I use FP's all the time, I have a few:

2 x Montblanc (147/149)
1 x Delta 'Dolce Vita'
1 x Sailor 1911 Naginata Togi
1 x Parker Duofold
1 x Waterman Edson
1 x Waterman Exception Night & Day
1 x Pelikan M200
1 x Lamy Safari
1 x Cross Townsend
1 x Caran d'Ache Leman Godron

:tongue_sm

MCsommerreid

11-25-2008, 11:29 PM

I have four or five of them, but one I use regularly. It's an entirely custom made pen, other than the nib. I really need to make one similar to it at some point, but far cheaper. A beater fountain pen, if you will.

And yes, writing with a fountain pen does make one a neater writer. The problem is that a good deal of the paper manufactured these days won't handle real ink. The paper tends to make your writing feather, shows through on the other side, etc. But, if you have a fountain pen and the right kind of paper, the experience is unequaled. Let me put it this way: writing with a fountain pen is like shaving with a quality razor and blade.
Now here's a little trick: if you'd like to see what a fountain pen feels like, and don't want to spring for one, try the Pilot G-2. The feel of the ink is the closest thing to a fountain pen I've come across. Of course, the nib doesn't develop the character of a fountain pen nib (these become increasingly personalized over time,) but it does a fine job of writing, and can be had for under $2.

I've found the UniBall Vision Elite to be even closer when it's nice and full. The ink is absolutely incredibly fluid and free flowing, to the point where it will form little pools within the ink line. Also has some of the same issue with feathering and bleed through, perhaps due to the wetness of the ink.

Huy

11-26-2008, 12:05 AM

I have quite a few pens and inks. I love writing with them but I don't get to use them as much as I like.

I have never been blessed with a decent fountain pen and never justified ponying up the cash for one. I met a coworker who used them however and realised that they really could be pleasant to write with considering the long mathematical analysis I do and note-taking. It does indeed make me more legible and even helps me remain destressed during exams. I still have no good pen, having no idea where to buy one, and use Platinum Preppy pens, which if you get a good one, and get it broken in, and replace the ink, I find they write passably.

There are lots of great fountain pens under $20: Lamy Safari, any Hero, any Pilot, Waterman Kultur, etc. There are many online stores but I recommend isellpens.com for the Pilots and Heroes.

Azza

11-26-2008, 12:31 AM

There is nothing like writing with a fountain pen, and for under $30 you can buy a Lamy Safari. It has a steel nib, but it writes superbly! ... The problem is that a good deal of the paper manufactured these days won't handle real ink. The paper tends to make your writing feather, shows through on the other side, etc. But, if you have a fountain pen and the right kind of paper, the experience is unequaled.

I also have a Safari and agree that some paper is just not suitable, which is annoying ... usually find it is the recycled type. Love using FP's!

- Aaron

DeaconKC

11-26-2008, 04:37 AM

It is a very similar experience to a good shave, using a good FP. My favorites are my Pelikan's, Crosses, Estie's, etc. Won't put up with one with a poor nib.

rikrdo

11-26-2008, 04:40 AM

I have a beautiful old Parker51 (filled with Noodlers Legal Lapis) that I use everyday at work.
Love the pen, the ink .....the entire process and I will not succomb to FPAD nor FPIAD. Ever.

DeaconKC

11-26-2008, 05:04 AM

jazzman

11-26-2008, 05:17 AM

My every day pen is a Pelikan M600. I also keep some cheaper steel-nibbed pens at my desk, mostly for ink variety. I have a couple of Sensas that are very comfortable to use and a couple of Rotrings. The real AD problem for me lately has been Noodler's inks: too many choices, too many colors, too many formulations, too much fun.

Who?

11-26-2008, 05:21 AM

I use a Lamy 2000 with Aurora Blue a a daily writer. And, among a few cheaper ones, I have a Waterman L'Etalon, which I don't use much.

SCWilson

11-26-2008, 05:46 AM

Love 'em. I've written with them prett exclusively for the past 6 or 7 years. Right now I have a Parker 45 loaded with Noodler's FPN Galileo Manuscript Brown and a Parker Vacumatic with Noodler's FPN Van Gogh Starry Night Blue. I love vintage fountain pens.

Esterbrook J - 2
Parker Vacumatic - 1
Parker 45 - 1
Sheafer 500 - 1
Conklin Nozak - 1
Aurora Style - 1
Namiki Falcon - 1
Hero 329 - 2

Soon to add an Edison Herald eyedropper fill. Noodler's inks are great. I too have an AD with Noodler's inks. Please help... send me all the Noodler's ink that you don't like! :biggrin:

chickpea

11-26-2008, 06:29 AM

Love my Lamy Safari. Coming soon to a stocking near me, a Pelikan M200! OOoh I can't wait!

(PS DeakonKC saw you over at FPN, here's to fine shaves and good writing:biggrin:)

Venom8431

11-26-2008, 06:34 AM

I don't but am really interested in getting one.

Trius

11-26-2008, 07:02 AM

Another good Chinese "cheapie" is the Bookworm, available at hisnibs dot com and other sites. But that is my only fountain pen right now ... I'm scared to go upscale. :rolleyes:

schadowrider

11-26-2008, 08:07 AM

It is a very similar experience to a good shave, using a good FP.

+1: been using FP's for most of my writing for a good dozen plus years now, and I have no doubt that what draws me to using them also drew me to DE shaving -- very tactile, requires a mindfulness and attention to what I am doing (get a mess if you don't: ink with the FP and blood with the DE!! :biggrin:), the quality of craftsmanship, the pleasure-factor, etc....

Have bought, sold and traded dozens and dozens of FP's over the years -- "down" to around 12 right now. A bunch of various Pelikan models and Sailor 1911's are the standard, day-to-day work horses, inked with various colors for various uses at work, and then there are the more "special" ones that I rotate:

Visconti Wall Street (my favorite)
Namiki Nightline Yukari (my other favorite :001_smile)
MB Silver LeGrand
MB F. Scott Fitzgerald (my other other favorite -- esp for a MB!)
Stipula Etruria
Montegrappa Extra (in Turtle Brown)
Delta Dolce Vita Soiree...

Favorite (and standard) inks: Private Reserve American Blue (recently kicked Aurora Blue out of the top blue spot...), Private Reserve Spearmint, Aurora Black and Rotring Brilliant Red (discontinued quite a few years ago -- I bought up all I could from suppliers around the country; have about 6 bottles left! :001_rolle)

Suzuki

11-26-2008, 08:09 AM

I have several and use my FPs daily.

My best writers (in order) are:

Pelikan 800 (fine nib)
Lamy 2000 (medium nib)
Waterman Carene (fine nib)

My favourite cheapies are:

Lamy Safary (fine and medium nibs)
Pelican Go (medium nib)
Parker Super 21 (fine nib)

norman931

11-26-2008, 08:20 AM

I have four or five: a Lamy Safari, a '46 Parker 51, a Pelikano, and a couple of Heros, one of which I carry in my pocket every day. The Hero pens are fantastic for the money.

burningdarkness

11-26-2008, 08:31 AM

MR.BurmaShave

11-26-2008, 08:51 AM

All I use are fountain pens. the Lamy safari is my weapon of choice since I tend to loose them. i do have some one of a kind custom pens with left handed nibs.

I am a professional writer so my Macbook pro is really my main rig; but I always have an extra fine nib pen on me somewhere.

schadowrider

11-26-2008, 08:57 AM

I've got a few of them. I've been collecting for years. My all-time favorite pen: A green Pelikan m600 in F point. It's usually loaded with Noodler's Greune Cactus (a lovely green ink), which is one of my favorite inks.

My other favorite inks include Mont Blanc Violet (this is a great ink - it seems to be formulated differently than their other inks, which are not worthy of any praise), and the Waterman line of inks.

I have a black m600 in XF that is very sweet and always inked up; unfortunately, my green m800 (also XF) has sprung a leak on one of the seams and has to go back to Pelikan...

A friend of mine makes a really pretty blend combining the Waterman Florida and South Sea Blues... While I appreciate it, it's too thin for my taste -- I strongly lean toward the more dense and saturated inks, like PR American Blue and Aurora Black...

How do you find the Noodler's green density/saturation-wise? The PR Spearmint (and Sherwood Green) have been the most saturated greens I've found so far, but I haven't tried the Noodler's (have tried their blue, which was again too thin for me...).

schadowrider

11-26-2008, 09:00 AM

I always have an extra fine nib pen on me somewhere.

Same here -- XF pretty much all the way! Sometimes it takes a while to find one that is buttery smooth, but worth the hunt! Some of my Japanese XF's are like needles, but still smooth and wet as anything else.

Scorpio

11-26-2008, 09:19 AM

Sheaffer's ranging from early 1920's to to early 1960's. A couple of Lamy Safari's, one Pelikan, Monte Verde Invincia, several Esties and a couple of modern Parker's.

For ink I mainly use PR and Noodler's.

I use them everyday.

Raf

kc0byy

11-26-2008, 09:50 AM

My own collection includes:

4 Parker "51"s, including a 1949 pen & pencil set
3 Esties
1 Namiki VP

Inks include:
Noodlers black, hunter green, fox red
FPN Galileo Manuscript Brown (although I usually mix it with some black)

Although I've really got enough and mostly prefer vintage, I'm thinking about a Lamy Al-Star or a Penquin M215 with a custom nib from Richard Binder.

I did have a couple of Parker Vacumatics--1936 (I think) and 1941. Absolutely stunning pens, but they continually blurped ink all over. After numerous returns to the vendor to fix, I finally gave up. Too bad. I just loved looking at them.

I bet there's at least a minimal correlation between between DE users and fountain pen users as this thread would attest.

Peter

GarageBoy

11-26-2008, 11:07 AM

My dailys are a Pelikan M200 and a M600
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/roofdweller49/IMG_3828.jpg This Vacumatic Imperial is my baby

Ferannia

11-26-2008, 11:41 AM

Big fan of Sailor FP here. Own a large size black Sailor 1911, a regular broad nib which glides over a paper like butter over hot teflon. I am in love with my 1911. Sailor's broad nib line is something like American/European tiny medium. Beautiful, really. I like it lot better that Pelikan 600M medium nib.
Now saving money to get one of Pilot's e-maki. That will be the day...

superbleu

11-26-2008, 11:46 AM

Contact Abi at Chartpak, the US distributer for Pelikan. [email protected]

Both she and Chartpak are great. They will get it fixed for you in a flash.

I have a black m600 in XF that is very sweet and always inked up; unfortunately, my green m800 (also XF) has sprung a leak on one of the seams and has to go back to Pelikan...

A friend of mine makes a really pretty blend combining the Waterman Florida and South Sea Blues... While I appreciate it, it's too thin for my taste -- I strongly lean toward the more dense and saturated inks, like PR American Blue and Aurora Black...

How do you find the Noodler's green density/saturation-wise? The PR Spearmint (and Sherwood Green) have been the most saturated greens I've found so far, but I haven't tried the Noodler's (have tried their blue, which was again too thin for me...).

kc0byy

11-26-2008, 11:58 AM

My dailys are a Pelikan M200 and a M600
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/roofdweller49/IMG_3828.jpg This Vacumatic Imperial is my baby

You just HAD to post a pic of your Vacumatic didn't you? That's just cold. :-)

I had a '36 Golden Perl and a '41 blue-green Jr that looked like it was made of stained glass. Never did find the root cause of the problems with them. I might try another one someday.

Peter

Rompin Donkey

11-26-2008, 12:20 PM

For over 40 years I always used a fountain pen - my handwriting is so bad that I relied on the "grip" of the nib to keep legibility.

I'm afraid that since about the year 2000 I no longer use one. Paper quality is so poor these days for one thing, and the other is that I don't actually put nib to paper these days - the computer does it all.

My pen of choice was a Waterman - black with gold bands on it. As with tobacco pipes and razors, I am no collector - they are tools and no more for me.

Mmmm - I might just give it a clean, and fill and try it out again.....

Doc4

11-26-2008, 01:26 PM

The various threads about fountain pens here at B&B prompted me to buy a Pelikan, and I love it. In university I used a Schaefer cartridge-filled pen, but gave up on that when I hit the workforce. The Pelikan (with Noodlers) is a big step up.

superbleu

11-26-2008, 01:43 PM

Get a Rhodia or Clairefontaine notebook and treat yourself to a relaxing writing session.

For over 40 years I always used a fountain pen - my handwriting is so bad that I relied on the "grip" of the nib to keep legibility.

I'm afraid that since about the year 2000 I no longer use one. Paper quality is so poor these days for one thing, and the other is that I don't actually put nib to paper these days - the computer does it all.

My pen of choice was a Waterman - black with gold bands on it. As with tobacco pipes and razors, I am no collector - they are tools and no more for me.

Mmmm - I might just give it a clean, and fill and try it out again.....

gatto

11-26-2008, 01:59 PM

I wish I could but I'm a lefty and I always make a mess with the ink. Any suggestions?

Ferannia

11-26-2008, 02:03 PM

Get a Rhodia or Clairefontaine notebook and treat yourself to a relaxing writing session.

Yeees, Clairefontaine... amazingly good paper for FP, but... it is also amazingly expensive for what it is: writing letters.
While I love Clairefontaine, my preference are printing papers HP30 and HP28.

Ferannia

11-26-2008, 02:05 PM

I wish I could but I'm a lefty and I always make a mess with the ink. Any suggestions?

Stay away from Private Reserve ink, they need more time to dry. Not all of PR's, but most of them yes. Get some rapid drying ink, for example Swisherpen's Tahitian Pearl made by Noodler. There are many others...

Huy

11-26-2008, 02:21 PM

I wish I could but I'm a lefty and I always make a mess with the ink. Any suggestions?

Use fine or extra fine nibs. Also use inks not known to be very free flowing. I think Pelikan ink would be good for this. Quick drying ink is also good.

bishop

11-26-2008, 02:26 PM

I use them at home...four vintage pens (Esterbrook, Reform, Sheaffer) with vintage inks.

I would like to use them at work, but fountain pens + elementary school kids = disaster. :yikes:

schadowrider

11-26-2008, 02:52 PM

Get a Rhodia or Clairefontaine notebook and treat yourself to a relaxing writing session.

+1 on the Rhodia -- great FP paper/notebooks! :biggrin: I picked up a sample pack with various sizes quite a while ago -- from Fahrney's I think...

schadowrider

11-26-2008, 02:54 PM

Stay away from Private Reserve ink, they need more time to dry. Not all of PR's, but most of them yes. Get some rapid drying ink, for example Swisherpen's Tahitian Pearl made by Noodler. There are many others...

PR has some "fast dry" inks, but I haven't tried them. I love the color and saturation so much on the colors I do use regularly, I just put up with having to pay a bit more attention to drying time...

Mr.Gentleman

11-26-2008, 03:01 PM

I have Parker Jotter Fountain Pen for 5 years.... I like it very much, although I use Parker Jotter ballpen as a daily pen...

Conrad

11-26-2008, 03:30 PM

I love fountain pens and have several that I use daily -- Omas, Pelikan, and Montblanc. My finest is a Montblanc Agatha Christie limited edition. I like to think that they improve my handwriting, but I can't say that's really true. I like them for some of the same reasons why I've taken to traditional shaving: Beautiful instruments, a reminder of the past, and a call to slow down.

GarageBoy

11-28-2008, 07:37 PM

PR Fast Dry bleeds like nuts (feathers)

MFS

11-28-2008, 07:49 PM

I write checks for my office usually once per week. I use a Montblanc fountain pen with blue/black ink from the ink well.:thumbsup:

Dennard

11-29-2008, 01:29 PM

I love them and I'm getting a Parker for Christmas.

napoleon

11-30-2008, 03:54 AM

I am a lefty, I cant use a fountain pen:frown: Oh, lord, why, oh... WHY!

LeGaulois

11-30-2008, 11:24 AM

I use Dupont Olympio (palladium).

Cheech

11-30-2008, 12:25 PM

PR has some "fast dry" inks, but I haven't tried them. I love the color and saturation so much on the colors I do use regularly, I just put up with having to pay a bit more attention to drying time...

I tried midnight blue in fast dry. Bled like a stuck pig. Ironically, the regular midnight blue dried in a fairly reasonable amount of time, without the bleeding. Go figure.

PS: I have a few vacs that haven't spewed forth yet. Although a diaphragm on a t6 '51 gave way during a flight a while ago...

Blades67

11-30-2008, 12:38 PM

I prefer a FP, but use a Zebra F-701 at work. I have a few, nothing high dollar.

GardenWeasel

11-30-2008, 02:10 PM

My EDC is a Sailor 1911M with fine nib - and the convertor is currently filled with Noodler's Highland Heather. My notebooks are a mix of Rhodia, Clairefontaine and Apica. Cannot imagine using a ballpoint pen anymore than I would use an electric razor...

telcontar

12-01-2008, 08:25 PM

I love FP's.
In my pocket is a Waterman Phileas Fogg. A great inexpensive pen.
I also use on a day to day rotation Parker Ciselle(sp) Pelikan 400 and Aurora Ipsilon.
For more formal occasions Aurora Optima, Bexley, Parker Duofold or Pelikan 800 or 1000.
They do make you slow down and think about what you writing. They also add a certain elegance and flair when you are out and about.

JaxShooter

12-02-2008, 06:37 AM

I have a pen fetish. I bought a very nice Waterman FP many, many years ago but I have to admit that I don't use it much these days. I'll have to pull it out of the drawer now, though. I'm really so in love with my Mont Blanc rollerball that I don't use the FP like I used to.

mmack66

12-03-2008, 10:59 PM

I have a couple of Parker 51's, a Parker 45, couple of Shaeffer Snorkels, Lamy Safari, and two Waterman Phileas's. Used to have a Parker Duofold, but stupidly sold it. Would like to get another. Love the fountain pens.

Mark

glennz

12-04-2008, 08:52 AM

I arrived at the B&B forums following a link from fountainpennetwork.com! It has diverted me (for now at least :wink:) from pen, ink and paper ADs to shaving related ADs.

I have long been a user of fountain pens, as I love how the nibs glide on the paper while exerting no pressure from the pen to the page. And the wealth of colours is fantastic.

My rotation of pens:
Pelikan M600
Parker Sonnet Cisele (first series)
'47 Parker 51 Vac
Pilot Capless (VP)
Waterman Liaison
Waterman Laureat (first series)
Reform Classico
Reform Calligraph
2 Reform 1745s (a superb knockabout pen, and very inexpensive as NOS, between $5 and $10, and its a piston filller)
Platinum Flower series Aerometric

I favour the Rohrer & Klingner and Diamine inks for colours, and Aurora for black and blue. R&K Sepia and Kongisblau as seeing the heaviest use right now. And of course Rhodia and Clairefontaine paper, plus a stock of Classic Linen I have accumulated.

I obtained a number of inexpensive Hero 616s, and had provided them to members of my project team several months ago. Most are still using them, and it got five or so inspired to broaden their fountain pen horizons.

Starting to work on the men from that group about wet shaving; got a couple who are expressing interest! :biggrin:

Austin

12-04-2008, 09:04 AM

Welcome to B&B glennz. I am also a member at fpn. It's a great forum.

DeaconKC

12-04-2008, 02:54 PM

On lunch today found a Parker 21 set in black in an antique store for $15. Got it home, flushed inked it up and a great writer. :biggrin:

_JP_

12-04-2008, 06:27 PM

I like fountain pens! I learned to like them in the sixth grade when I was attending a British run school. We were required to do all of our work with fountain pens, pencils and ballpoints were not allowed! Can you imagine doing math in fountain pen? After getting marked down for the messy look from crossing out errors, I quickly learned to use scratch paper to work out the problems before I wrote them down on the paper I was turning in.

Suzuki

12-04-2008, 06:44 PM

I am a lefty, I cant use a fountain pen:frown: Oh, lord, why, oh... WHY!

There's no reason southpaws can't use FPs - I've been using them almost exclusively for over a decade.

Just find the right ink (something that dries quickly) and use a nib that isn't to wet and you're good to go.

Austin

12-04-2008, 06:59 PM

There's no reason southpaws can't use FPs - I've been using them almost exclusively for over a decade.

Just find the right ink (something that dries quickly) and use a nib that isn't to wet and you're good to go.

A friend of mine uses fast drying ink and a extra fine nib.

ex-bugonaut

12-05-2008, 12:31 PM

PR Fast Dry bleeds like nuts (feathers)

Feathers make you bleed like nuts. :biggrin:

GardenWeasel

12-05-2008, 08:06 PM

Today I switched from my EDC of several months (Sailor) to my Waterman LeMan 100. Filled it up with Noodler’s La Reine Mauve New Bulletproof Royal Purple for a test run... fun!

DeaconKC

12-05-2008, 08:10 PM

Nice surprise today. Got a couple of old Esterbrooks from ebay that I paid $2 for, as parts donor pens. The cartridge one has a wonderful nib and is a great writer! WooHoo!

Chuckaluck

12-05-2008, 08:34 PM

I have a Parker Frontier. It is their bottom line fountain pen, but it is good enough for me. My favorite pen is the Parker Jotter.

Bird-Man

12-05-2008, 10:30 PM

I own a great looking Esterbrook Model J I bought on Ebay a couple of years ago. It's glossy black with steel bands. Very classy looking. I'd like to find a new nib for it though. I really enjoy using it and seeing the nice writing it produces.

I also own a fountain pen/pencil combo (pen @one end, pencil @ other end). I've not fixed that one up yet and can't remember the brand.

I enjoy them.

ctakim

12-06-2008, 06:19 PM

Pelikan M600
Waterman Phileas
Conklin Mark Twain Signature Collection
Sailor 1911 Maki-e
And a Namiki Falcon on the way!:001_smile

whitecrane7

07-13-2009, 03:45 PM

Favorites:
Namiki Vanishing Point
Namiki Falcon
Sheaffer Legacy, custom nib
Sheaffer Targa, medium nib

Aevum

07-13-2009, 04:01 PM

i have a waterman perspective, which i love, but its a bit heavy,
the one i would like to have is a waterman serenite, but i suspect that 500 euro on a pen is too much for me at the moment,

Jatte

07-13-2009, 04:26 PM

i use a waterman with a M nib, i dont know what kind, but i find it quite annoying because it bleeds such a wide line, no matter how i do it, can you get extra fine nibs for watermans?

pal

07-13-2009, 04:43 PM

I own a:
Cross Radiance (M)
Aurora Ipselon (F)
Sailor Sappporo (F)
Parker Jotter (M)
Kaigelu #323 (M)
Pilot Elite (EF)
Wing Sung #233 (F)
Pelikan M800 Green (F)

Brodirt

07-13-2009, 04:51 PM

Add my almost 10 year old daughter to the list of fountain pen users. She is such a good artist and has such impressive cursive penmanship that I bought her Jinhao 1200 (dragon clip which she was really diggin' since she's a HUGE dragon fan) and a bottle of ink.

I gave it to her yesterday just before we dropped her off at sleep away camp. I gave her the pen, the ink, a box of fine note paper and a moleskin notebook and told her that she was getting this gift because I trusted her to use it correctly and to write us everyday. I told her that the moleskin was for her to write whatever she wanted about her summer and to keep it to herself.

She was soooo excited I hope I have made her a fountain pen user for life. Well worth the $13 for the pen, $7 for the ink and about $15 for the paper.

TOB9595

07-13-2009, 04:57 PM

REB

07-13-2009, 05:23 PM

I have a collection that goes back to college in the 80's. Favorites are an Aurora and a Georg Jensen.

bwnewton

07-13-2009, 05:28 PM

Lamy Safari
Parker 88
Pilot 78G
Dollar 717i Demonstrator
Mont Blanc 144 Classique w/ cursive italic nib
Cross Century Classic
Cross Century II
Sailor Profit Superscript

bluenose

07-13-2009, 05:43 PM

Yes, I do use fountain pens. Currently have: Cross Solo, Waterman Phileas, Pelikan M200, Senator. All in black with gold trim, medium nibs.

Regards

Eskimo

07-24-2009, 11:27 AM

I have had several fountains over the years, but never found the one that "fit" me just right, so I decided to make my own. After several iterations, below is my daily pen. Using my pen making experience, I made my daily razor to match. For years, I used my own blend of ink (NOS Sheaffer's Skrip, vintage 1948 - 1952) very slightly diluted. It flowed like a dream, but nothing lasts forever, and I ran out about a year ago. Since, I've been using Pelikan ink, undiluted, and it has worked well.

The pen is about 6 years old and the razor, about 6 months. I periodically buff them both with a linen wheel on my lathe and they look like brand new again.

60260

evil.monkey.in.my.closet

07-24-2009, 11:45 AM

I use a cheapo Parker (Vector?) with a wide italic nib every day at work. You wouldn't believe the amount of comments I get about my writing - I don't even think it's particularly neat but the women really seem to love it! I do tend to find that the better the paper the easier it is to write neatly though. One day I will get around to doing a calligraphy course. One day.

I'd be interested to see examples of B&B members' handwriting on here. Come on guys, get scanning. :001_smile

DGS

07-24-2009, 11:48 AM

I have used fountain pens (mostly restored vintage pens) for years. I've pared down my colletion and now have around 100 pens. These are mostly Parker 51s (about 20 of them), Sheaffer oversize balance pens, Waterman Inkvue pens, Waterman 52 and 54 in hard rubber, oversize Diamond Medal and Moore pens, Moore Fingertip pens, vintage Aurora 88, and Pilot MYU and Murex pens. I also have several modern fountain pens, including a few Namiki vanishing points, Aurora 88, Pelikan 800 and 200, Pilot M90, Kaweco Sport, Cross Verve. I'm sure there are several both vintage and modern I'm forgetting right now. My daily users are usually a Parker 51 and one of the Pilots.

HesNot

07-24-2009, 01:35 PM

SmoovD

07-24-2009, 07:33 PM

I use a couple of cheapos but the write well enough and they are so cheap I do not worry about losing them.

Kaigelu #317 fp
Baoer Skywalker mp
Regal ? mp

They seem to love Pelikan and Parker inks but not Noodlers. ?.

Nickelodeon

07-25-2009, 04:25 AM

I'm a sucker for Italian fountain pens and am using an Aurora Optima as my daily writer. I have a Pelikan and a Lamy 2K in rotation at the moment too.

Bushranger

07-25-2009, 06:02 AM

i would love to, but where to start :huh: anything to improve my writing style and comfort

Token Kipper

07-25-2009, 06:19 AM

DeaconKC

07-25-2009, 01:33 PM

Bushranger, a great place to start is the Waterman Phileas. They are sold at most office supplies, and are a very modern, smooth writing, reliable pen. I have 2 of them and use them all the time.

DGS

07-25-2009, 03:24 PM

I purchased a Parker FP in the late eighties and up until recently only used it for writing letters, but use it every day now. I prefer to use Blue/Black ink as it gives a classier look to my terrible handwriting than traditional blue or black. I have always wanted a Mont Blanc but that luxury will have to wait a while. I had always been a bit wary of leakage when travelling by air. The last couple of trips I put my FP in a zip-loc bag in my hand luggage and luckily had no problems.

If you use a cartridge/converter type fountain pen, or a piston-filler, you will most likely have no problems with leakage in flight, but I'd keep it in a zipliock bag just to be safe, or leave the pen empty to be even safer. Actually if the pen is completely filled it won;t leak either, as there is no air to be displaced. The problem comes with the lever-filler or other type with a rubber sac inside. Unlike the cartridge/converter or piston filler which is rigid, the rubber sac is soft and pliable and the change in air pressure will push the ink out.

DGS

07-25-2009, 03:29 PM

I use fountain pens almost exclusively and have like a few others bought, sold and traded my fair share. I'm about to sell a handful of other pens as well as I've gotten a bit out of my normal 10-12 rotation. Those that aren't likely to be moved:

Parker "51"s: flighter (xf), cedar blue Vac (xf) and burgundy aero (f)
Parker 75
Pilot VPs: Sesenta (f) and black carbonesque (f)
Pilot Murex
Pilot Volex
Lamy 2000
Lamy Al Star
Lamy 27n
Aurora 88P's - one chrome capped model with a stubbish flexy fine and the other gold capped with a firm fine.
Sailor Sapporo (H-F)
Waterman Expert 2000 (f)

D'OH!! Don't know how I forgot the Lamy 2000! It's one of the greatest designs ever, and you can find them brand new for around $100. I frequently use mine. The original version with macrilon body is lightweight, shatterproof, and ergonomically perfect, IMHO. I once had the limited edition all-stainless model, but it was way too heavy, and I sold it, even though it was gorgeous.

Bushranger

07-25-2009, 04:25 PM

DeaconKC

07-25-2009, 05:31 PM

If you like a screw on cap, the Pelikan line is fantastic. The 150 is their starter pen and has a great nib and is a piston filler, so it holds a ton of ink.

DGS

07-25-2009, 06:13 PM

thanks for the suggestion. i need a pen that is portable and safe to carry in clothing. ball end pens are ideal, but a fountain pen 'forces' me to write relaxed and correctly rather than aggressively and tensely scribble. that's what I'm after. Also, i like the idea of screw on caps (which is not essential). I don't want it leaking either.

maybe I need two - one that is highly mobile and portable in clothing, the other on a desk.

For the highly mobile one, I'd go with the Pilot/Namiki Vanishing Point. It is an ingenious model that is capless and works like a ballpoint, with one-handed operation (in fact, the original 1960s versions were called Pilot Capless). They take cartridge or converter, but I always use the cartridge since they hold alot of ink, while the converter holds a miniscule amount of ink. Real gold nib and exceptionally smooth writers. You can find them for around $100. Best place I know to get them is from Pam Braun at Oscar Braun Pens. She not only has the lowest prices, but she can sell you additional nib inserts so you can get different width nibs for the same pen without having to buy two pens. Here's a link to her site (but you have to call her for the price): http://www.oscarbraunpens.com/

D.Irving79

07-25-2009, 06:18 PM

federal brand eyedropper and a conklin crescent filler are my go tos.

Steve P

07-25-2009, 10:14 PM

I have been a fountain pen guy for quite a while.

Hope this isn't taboo here, but I'd recommend two sites that are easy to connect with and folks welcome the newbie. One is a web site for a professional nib wizard, Richard Binder. He's at www.richardspens.com. Lots of info and suggestions on getting started. My favorite pen blog is www.pentrace.net. Go to the community board and fire away with the questions. Lots of skilled and friendly support.

Final remark: For cheap fountain pen friendly paper that won't "feather," be sure to pick up some inkjet paper. Cheap, and really good for fountain pens.

:w00t:

Steve P

DGS

07-26-2009, 06:45 AM

federal brand eyedropper and a conklin crescent filler are my go tos.

Dave -- you should consider changing your avatar to Mark Twain/Sam Clemens. Didn't he used to advertise for Conklin, saying he liked the crescent fillers since they wouldn't roll off the table? :biggrin:

tsmba

07-26-2009, 07:59 AM

DGS

07-26-2009, 08:29 AM

What I dislike about a fountain pen is carrying them. I love to use them at my desk, but for my pocket, a cheap ballpoint is what I carry. I hate it when, as always happens, something requires use of a pen. Of course, 70-80% of folks are unprepared for anything, so people immediately want to "borrow" mine. If you've ever been forced to hand over your $200 pen. you know what I mean!

I always carry a cheaper gel pen for just that purpose. Right now I really like the Pentel Energel retractable refillable metal alloy pen. It's a really smooth liquid/gel pen for around $6.00 at Staples: https://www.pentelstore.com/images/products/BL407-A.jpg

Yushiro

07-27-2009, 08:35 AM

I got my love for FP's from my Dad (a school teacher) and sad to say, destroyed many a Parker Vector that he put into my hands when I was younger. A few months before he passed away, he gave me a Sheaffer Award set. That instantly re-kindled my love for FPs. The Award still remains my daily writer. Of late, my interest had been kicked up a notch after my brother-in-law was talking to me about his visit to the "Pen-Doctor."

I got Mom to round up all of Dad's abandoned FPs lying around in the house to see what I can do about them (And I revived her Waterman for her to use at the same time). The Score? 2 Parker Flighters and a very shiny gold Shaffer (looks like an Agio) with my name engraved on it. That brought me close to tears. He gave me this in secondary school and I stopped using it and had completely forgotten about it. Guess he must have taken it and kept it safely till the day I was responsible enough to take care of them. I've restored all of them and they all work wonderfully.

Add to these the Rotring Core Coridium I got a few years back and some Chinese made pens, and I think I'm beginning to have a starter collection! By the way, one of the Parker Flighters has Dad's name engraved on it so every time I use it, I feel a connection to him and to a time when a lot of things in life were simpler.

Cmaster03

07-27-2009, 08:56 AM

Fountain pens for me are kind of like DE razors, used them years ago becase I thought they were neat, and got away from them as I got married and a job and got too busy for such things. Like John Lennon said, life is what happens while you're busy making other plans. So, I got back into Fountain pens and DE razors and wet shaving.

The first FP I got when I got back into them was a Lamy Safari, but the fountain pens I like best are Parker "51"s. Many pen lovers consider the Parker "51" to be the greatest pen ever made, and I can see why. I Love the history and the way they write. My "go-to" pen is a Parker "51" Aerometric dated 1951 in burgundy. It has a fine nib that writes more like a medium, and I love it. I have some others, and a Vacumatic, but the "51"s really are my favorite. I picked up a gold filled Heritage capped 1945 "51" a few months ago- it has the solid gold trim and is SWEET- and it's out at one of the primo pen doctors getting restored and having a dent removed from the cap. Can't wait to get it back. :biggrin:

L-R, Heritage 1945 "51","51" Special, 1945 Blue Diamond "51"

http://www.fototime.com/52E591E05EC923B/standard.jpg

http://www.fototime.com/4FB147C76386370/standard.jpg

My Go-To Parker Aerometric "51"

http://www.fototime.com/F24A0423F4D384E/standard.jpg

Fnord5

07-27-2009, 09:17 AM

I do, I have two, and they are dirt cheap.
The Preppy from Japan. $5 each, use them at work and for any kind of writing around the house.
http://www.jstationery.com/images/preppy_bb.jpg

HesNot

07-27-2009, 01:20 PM

D'OH!! Don't know how I forgot the Lamy 2000! It's one of the greatest designs ever, and you can find them brand new for around $100. I frequently use mine. The original version with macrilon body is lightweight, shatterproof, and ergonomically perfect, IMHO. I once had the limited edition all-stainless model, but it was way too heavy, and I sold it, even though it was gorgeous.

I agree that the Lamy 2000 is a wonderfully robust daily user. If pushed it might be the one pen I would keep if I only could have one. Nice enough to carry when wearing a suit, rugged and understated enough to work with shorts and a polo shirt, holds a ton of ink, has an excellent spring loaded clip, is seemingly impervious to scratches and dings, and is a rock solid reliable writer. I love "51"s and Vanishing Points, and have fallen in love with my Aurora 88P, but the L2K presents a very strong case!

OpusX

07-29-2009, 01:20 PM

I just started using my Parker Frontier once again and thouroughly enjoy it.

glycerine

07-31-2009, 10:21 AM

GarageBoy

08-06-2009, 05:05 PM

Custom Japanese pens have a huge following (Nakaya, etc) I think for those pens, people go nuts over the raw, organic look

Sam

08-06-2009, 05:13 PM

Do any of you use custom made pens? I have recently started turning pens, but mostly rollerball and ballpoint so far. What is so different about the high end fountain pens that makes them so expensive? Is there a way someone like me could make a pen that is on par with the quality of Visconti, Montblanc, etc. Is it mostly the weight of the pen and the nib that is used?

I have no idea to be honest, maybe the resin/celluloid and the quality of the nib, the assembly of the components. Sure, Id love the clip of a visconti and components from other pens, but custom would be out of sight

Bird-Man

09-21-2009, 06:38 PM

Hey Deacon,

I too like to use a fountain pen. Right now I use an orange Esterbrook J series double jewel, with a 2556 nib. What a great pen.

I also just bought a desk pen from a flea market yesterday afternoon that will be going on my office desk once I get it refurbished.

I'm stuck on Esterbrooks due to the usually low prices they can be acquired for.

Daniel

DeaconKC

09-21-2009, 07:14 PM

The Estie's are very sweet pens, plus they are easy to restore.

Bayamontate

09-22-2009, 07:11 AM

Fountain pen only since I can remember. I have a bunch of vintage Esterbrooks, Parkers, Omas, Conklin.

Razor&Pens

09-22-2009, 07:41 AM

NYC Pen Show (http://nycpenshow.com/) in 3 weeks! October 9-11!!

Scissors

10-05-2009, 08:46 PM

Another fountain pen user here. :smile:

I started way back in high school with a Pelikan 120. IIRC, it was less than $10, and you could get interchangeable nibs for it. I wrote with it until it literally fell apart.

Today, I have another Pelikan, a Waterman, two Lamys, and three Mont Blanc, among others. I lucked out on two of the Mont Blancs: one of their boutiques in a nearby mall was closing and they were having fire sale prices on their fountain pens—as much as 60% off! I scored two LeGrand sized models, one in black resin with a gold plated cap, the other in stainless steel with encased carbon fibers in the cap.

Each pen has a different personality. The Pelikan is very sensitive to the paper it writes on. The right paper can make it fly; the wrong paper and you can feel every bump and ridge on the page. The Waterman has a fine nib and makes my writer more angular than it usually is. The Mont Blancs have a practically 'cushiony' feel to them regardless of what sort of paper it's writing on.

The differences between the feels of each pen is why I love fountain pens. They're more expressive in the first place, with just the ink from the pen gliding across the paper as it comes from the tip of the nib. On top of that is the different feel different pens provide.

kwk285

10-05-2009, 08:51 PM

I just bought my first fountain pen last week. I got a basic Lamy.

I have been using DEs and straights for two years. I have had no AD issues so far.

Fountain pens are the first thing that I see a chance of an AD.

mmack66

10-05-2009, 08:54 PM

Do any of you use custom made pens? I have recently started turning pens, but mostly rollerball and ballpoint so far. What is so different about the high end fountain pens that makes them so expensive? Is there a way someone like me could make a pen that is on par with the quality of Visconti, Montblanc, etc. Is it mostly the weight of the pen and the nib that is used?

You are paying for craftsmanship, material the pen is made of, the nib, and the name. Having said that, I have seen some very nice custom made pens. www.penturners.org is a great site to check out, if you haven't already done so.

bob.e

10-05-2009, 08:54 PM

The fountain pen I carry daily is a Namiki it's retractable like a ball point, just click and write.

I used to have a Rotring I really loved it, it was pencil thin but became a real leaker and had to be retired.

And I have a nice Cross I should clean and start using again

thanks

10-11-2009, 02:57 AM

I was thinking of getting a Pelikan M150. I have small hands so it seems like it would work out for me. Anyway I've written using a disposable fountain pen before, but that was years ago, and I was wondering what I should know about fountain pens? Are there any care tips, things that seem like common sense (I wouldn't know them), things you must always do or do not, etc.

Hughies_online

10-11-2009, 03:19 AM

I only use a fountain pen. My daily writer is a Lamy with a broad nib. I also use a Montblanc, Parker 75 and Waterman at work. I've used them for so long now, I can hardly go back to a ballpoint. Plus the range of Noodlers inks are vast and are great for smooth writing. My Waterman is the most expensive and interestingly I found it on an empty train in Sydney. My gold 75 was a gift my father bought for me when I was a boy. The Montblanc is nothing special really (just a Montblanc).

baggiez

10-11-2009, 03:27 AM

I mostly use a Waterman Expert FP or a Lamy Safari. I also have a collection of NOS Parker 51s and a couple of second hand 75s which I just look at occasionally:wink:
Anyone else see a common thread here?
Paul

DeaconKC

10-11-2009, 02:06 PM

I am the opposite with very large paws, but my 150 is one of my favorite pens. An absolutely great writer, Pel's reliability and very robust. Mine likes absolutely any decent ink fed through it.

thatotherguy

10-11-2009, 02:11 PM

I have a collection of fountain pens that consists of:

S.T. Dupont (Orpheo)
Cartier (Louis Cartier, Diabolo)
Mont Blanc (Meisterstuck Classique, LeGrand, 149)
Parker (Duofold)
Waterman (Carene, L'Etalon)
Rotring
Pelikan (800 Souveran)

I do not use my fountain pens as much as I would like to, but I hope to bring them back out of being dormant. My favorite pen to write with is the S.T. Dupont, it just glides across the page with no drag or feeling of scratching. The Louis Cartier is also very smooth. My least favorite are the Mont Blanc's, compared to the others, they seem to be a little scratchy (maybe it is just the angle I place the nib to the paper.)

One of the most beautiful pens I had the pleasure of writing with is the Tertio Millennio (http://www.montegrappa.com/product.php?id=39#) by Montegrappa. A customer who bought the pen let me try it out, and it was amazing. If it were my pen, it would be in a case to admire, not write with!

BEAR DEN

10-11-2009, 07:06 PM

This is by far the most serious AD that I have. Six weeks ago I bought a Waterman Phileas...Today I have two Waterman Phileas, Pilot M90, Parker Sonnet, Pelikan 200 and a Pelikan 800 coming to me in the mail. I have also aquired two rollerball pens which I won't go into detail since this pertains to FP's...Yes I use them...I love them...help me stop buying them! :biggrin:

Lo'Tek

10-11-2009, 07:32 PM

HUH!

I have foun more than ten pens.

OCDshaver

10-11-2009, 07:45 PM

I have used fountain pens ever since I was a schoolboy in England during the late 1960s. Mostly Parker 51 models, which at the time were relatively inexpensive.

Today my everyday pen is a Pelikan 800 with a medium nib. I have several others (Montblanc 149, Parker International w/italic nib, Schaeffer, Namiki retractable) One of these days I will try out a Waterman Carene, but I do love the Pelikan. Besides, I have nothing in the budget, especially after all the shaving creams, brushes and soaps......

The Lamy Safari is inexpensive and quite good. I had one a while back but lost it.

Anyway, it's very nostalgic for me, plus I enjoy using them.

Cheers!

thanks

10-11-2009, 09:45 PM

I broke down and ordered a Pelikan M150! I'll let you all know how it treats me when it comes in. All I have is Moleskine stuff though, I hear these aren't great for FP. What's the best classy looking Moleskine equivalent for FP use? I like simple and classy, like Moleskine, or the Pelikan itself.

HeF

10-11-2009, 10:13 PM

I own several different types of fountain pens and highly recommend the experience of using them on a regular basis. It has been already pointed out that one has to be careful about the type of paper one uses as it can bleed through or not dry fast enough. However, once you become familiar with your fp and the type of ink you use, you can effortlessly write on both everyday bond and high quality specialty paper (such as Levenger's.)

I am new to wet shaving but the analogies with fountain pen use will likely appeal to forum members here. While writing with a fountain pen one is aware of using a high quality tool that doesn't compare with disposable pens, from the heft to the feedback one gets from the paper (sound and even smell.) There is a popular misconception that fountain pens do not lend themselves to fast writing and are not practical. However, once you get to know your pen with regular use you can write just as fast as with a disposable gel pen. If anything, what happens is that a good fountain pen prompts you to take your time writing as it is a pleasurable experience.

For those contemplating venturing into the world of fountain pens, Waterman makes a vast array of very affordable pens. If you want to spend even less, search for a Rotring Core, a versatile, modern looking, sturdy fountain pen. One thing I strongly encourage potential fountain pen new users to do is to think carefully about the nib width they select as that is a factor that affects writing style.

Joker

10-13-2009, 07:14 PM

I have a few FPs but these days I find I like writing with a Uniball Signo the best. Every few years the wife and I try and spend a summer in France. I always find it interesting how they like to use cheapo disposable FPs. You go into the store there and you see FPs in bulk bags and boxes like you see regular pens here in the States.

BEAR DEN

10-13-2009, 07:27 PM

Add a Cross Townsend to my ever growing....stash! :eek:

JonDC

10-13-2009, 07:37 PM

I've used and collected fountain pens for years. My favorite collectibles are Parkers, and my favorite writers are Auroras and Pelikans.

I use a Pelikan Ductus as my daily writer. It writes like a one of their Souverans, but it takes cartridges -- I don't want to have to bottle-fill at work.

I also buy Rhodia or Clairefontaine notebooks and notepads. The paper is perfect for fountain pens and doesn't bleed like that recycled junk in the office supply closet. The way the nib moves across the paper will make you feel like everything you're writing is profound.

thanks

10-19-2009, 08:22 PM

DeaconKC

10-20-2009, 08:25 AM

When you clean it, just use the piston and empty out the old ink, then fill and reempty a couple of times with soapy water. Repeat with clear water, then refill. My 150 travels with me every day at work and has held up to the use very well. Have to admit my Pelikan 215 is my absolute favorite though. Mine like both Private Reserve American Blue and Mont Blanc Racing Green.

t612s03

10-20-2009, 08:29 AM

and use one of them every day to do my writing. If it isn't a keyboard, it's a fountain pen.

Wil Dorenbos

10-20-2009, 08:38 AM

I admit it, I am a sucker for fountain pens. Elegant to write with and force me to slow down and be more legible. Vintage Esterbrooks and Sheaffer's to modern Pelikan's and Cross'. Who else enjoys this bit of luxury?

I do, have been writing with fountain pens since I was 10. Still no other pen for me..

lamina

10-20-2009, 08:52 AM

I received my Pelikan m150 in the mail today with Noodler's Bulletproof Black! Writing in my Moleskine was a huge disappointment as I've heard it was, but when I went to proper paper my mind was blown at how amazing this pen really is. Moleskine's are a bit too expensive anyways, so I guess I'll try to find a cheaper alternative with better paper (yeah, right!).

Moleskine, Moleskine...only trying we learn!! It's possible to buy better paper for cheaper prices such as G.Lalo, Herbin à Paris

If I only write with black ink, and I'll probably only stick to the Noodler's, do I have to clean my pen out? Also, how do I even clean it out? Do I just piston fill it like I would with ink, and if so, how do I release what's already in the pen?

It helps the comfort of writing a nice cleaning sometimes...If you don't mind about a transitional ink just fill it with blue, as it wents down on black the blue will take place with several grades of blueish blacks until plain blue.

The secret to clean a pen?A wonderful and simple one: your sink, fill it with warm water and a mild soap, put your pen in the water...One night, 8 to 10 hours inside. The next morning, clean it with regular water, 3 or 4 blasts of air (those lungs are OK?!:001_tongu) inside -> outside (same direction as ink...) and wipe it off with a clean tissue/soft textile and you're done!! Do it regularly (6/8 months), it will increase the longevity of your pen!!

Refill it...first ink will be as a watercolour ink, keep writing on and in 3 minutes you will have your brand new and regular ink flowing. Enjoy!!:wink2:

WhosYerBob

10-20-2009, 10:06 AM

I used to have a really nice collection of fountain pens, but it was too many for SWMBO so the herd got severely thinned about a year ago. Now my go to pen is a Pelikan Souverän M805 Blue Stripe with a custom nib from Mottishaw. The ink of choice is PR Electric DC Blue and I still have a number of favorite papers.

brianw

10-20-2009, 05:02 PM

I have a beautiful old Parker51 (filled with Noodlers Legal Lapis) that I use everyday at work.
Love the pen, the ink .....the entire process and I will not succomb to FPAD nor FPIAD. Ever.
Well I wish I could say that:
30 parker "51"'s
6 parker "21"'s
6 Edisons
1 Franklin Christop
1 Shaeffer "snorkle"
50 Misc others as well as numerous Dip Nibs and 14 different bottles of ink
Serious FPAD, and now a Shaving gear AD

Whoo Boy

BEAR DEN

10-21-2009, 12:53 AM

GarageBoy

10-21-2009, 02:31 PM

Esterbrook J Copper
Esterbrook LJ
Parker 51 Aero
Parker 51 Vac
Parker 51 Vac
Parker 51 Aero
Parker Striped Duofold
Parker Striped Duofold
Parker Vacumatic Imperial
Sheaffer Balance (Jade)
Sheaffer Balance (Silver)
Sheaffer Balance OS
Sheaffer Balance (3-25)
Sheaffer Balance (Jade)
Sheaffer PFM
Sheaffer Triumph
Sheaffer Tuckaway
Sheaffer Valiant
Waterman Commando
Eversharp Skyline
Sheaffer Valiant II

That's all my vintages as of today!
Have my PFM inked up and ready to run

ama015

10-25-2009, 09:37 AM

I use a St.Dupont Fidelio fountain pen when I write. A beautiful pen that performs very well. When I write in my cigar book or wine book I always use the St.Dupont, it gives a luxurious feeling.

daven1986

10-25-2009, 09:43 AM

My parents got me a Cross C-Series Carbon Black Fountain Pen for my graduation. Am going to try it out when I get back from holiday but it feels very well balanced. It looks bloody amazing, and can't wait to use it as my main writing instrument. Haven't used a fountain pen since I was about 16 (am 22 now).

goby

10-25-2009, 10:12 AM

Well I wish I could say that:
30 parker "51"'s
6 parker "21"'s
6 Edisons
1 Franklin Christop
1 Shaeffer "snorkle"
50 Misc others as well as numerous Dip Nibs and 14 different bottles of ink
Serious FPAD, and now a Shaving gear AD

Whoo Boy

I've never heard about using soapy water. I would imagine that getting all the soap out would be very difficult. I use plain water, and never, never use hot water. Always lukewarm, or room temperature.

I have about 50 pens, and Parkers are certainly my favorite, with P51's being my very favorite!! Have you tried a Vanishing Point? They are also incredible.

BTW (and I know you knew this), it's an Edson, not an Edison. :wink2:

dave_nf

10-28-2009, 01:55 PM

I use a fountain pen daily and I love them. I got my first as a gift when I was in high school - an Elysee which is a now out of business German brand. I was recently bit by the FP bug again recently and bought a Waterman Carene and now looking to see which shall be next!

It is interesting in that I find the potential return to older styles of shaving to be inline with fountain pens. There is a hell of a lot more character in a fountain pen than your standard ol' bic :)

dave_nf

10-28-2009, 01:59 PM

I've never heard about using soapy water. I would imagine that getting all the soap out would be very difficult. I use plain water, and never, never use hot water. Always lukewarm, or room temperature.

I have about 50 pens, and Parkers are certainly my favorite, with P51's being my very favorite!! Have you tried a Vanishing Point? They are also incredible.

BTW (and I know you knew this), it's an Edson, not an Edison. :wink2:

Not sure if this is an inside joke or not so I might be overstepping. Edison Pens may not be a typo. Brian Gray is a fellow in the US who makes custom pens under the brand Edison Pen Co. Gorgeous looking pens too.

superbleu

10-28-2009, 01:59 PM

Well I wish I could say that:
30 parker "51"'s
6 parker "21"'s
6 Edisons
1 Franklin Christop
1 Shaeffer "snorkle"
50 Misc others as well as numerous Dip Nibs and 14 different bottles of ink
Serious FPAD, and now a Shaving gear AD

Whoo Boy

BTW (and I know you knew this), it's an Edson, not an Edison. :wink2:

Maybe not. Have a look here (http://pencraftonline.com/index.cfm/2008/10/30/index.cfm)

statius

10-29-2009, 01:13 PM

I've a mandarin yellow vanishing point, which I don't use. My users are an Edison Pearl in Tortoise Lucite and....well, that's it. I'm trying to keep things simple. I mean, I can only write with one at a time anyway! I keep it filled with Private Reserve Orange Crush. I use it for everything: writing lists, marking horrible Latin translations, writing my dissertation.

A fountain pen makes it much more enjoyable, whatever you're writing.

chainfire

10-29-2009, 01:18 PM

I use Aurora fountain pens and love them.

Basset

10-29-2009, 01:54 PM

Good heavens, I have so many FPs, new and old. The one that's getting the most daily use is a 1990s special edition of the Eversharp Skyline, Chrome cap, translucent blue barrel.

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/julioathompson/DSC06154.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/julioathompson/DSC06155.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p297/julioathompson/DSC06158.jpg

I got started in straight razors by trading some FPs for straights. It worked quite well, and I'd do it again in a heartbeat if the straights were of a make / type I've not tried before. (Hint, hint!)

J.B. Books

10-30-2009, 10:43 AM

I admit it, I am a sucker for fountain pens. Elegant to write with and force me to slow down and be more legible. Vintage Esterbrooks and Sheaffer's to modern Pelikan's and Cross'. Who else enjoys this bit of luxury?
I agree. Fountain pens are my writing instrument of choice. My main pen is the large Mount Blac #149, followed closely my a vintage Parker Sterling Silver.

GarageBoy

11-02-2009, 08:09 AM

Fountain Pens actually make me write faster and NOT slow me down. Italic nibs, DO slow me down, though

Flux

11-02-2009, 08:31 AM

I completely switched over to fountain pens a few months back, although I don't have many good ones. Mostly just a cheap Sheaffer. It's not too pretty, but it gets the job done.

I've recently gotten annoyed at ink prices, and have started to figure out how to make my own ink. Nothing too promising yet, but I'm getting there.

bishop

11-05-2009, 07:05 AM

One problem I run into is that I don't use any one pen consistently enough to keep it continuously flowing. I often have to dip the nib into an inkwell filled with water to get it flowing again. I have a vintage Sheaffer in my attache bag, which gets sporadic use, and I'm not always in a position to dip it in water. What are the methods of choice for keeping nibs flowing?

DunEdinRanger

09-23-2011, 06:26 AM

http://www.courierpress.com/news/2011/sep/23/handwritten-letters-are-nostalgic-yet-rare/

This sums up why we use Fountain Pens...

DougK

09-23-2011, 07:18 PM

I used to have a Lamy Safari and a cheap Target fountain pen but both were destroyed at work. I liked them enough to go buy a Waterman Phileas that I absolutely love and an Acme fountain pen converter for my Acme rollerball that I haven't tried yet.

coyotewhisper

09-24-2011, 06:51 AM

I am both a collector and user. My collection includes Waterman, Sheaffer, Parker and other lesser known makes. The majority of my collection is vintage.
Writing with a fountain pen becomes personal, I slow down, similar to wet shaving it is taking time to do it right.

Vintage Razor

09-24-2011, 09:46 AM

It seems the longer I use fountain pens the more I dislike ballpoints.

legrandfromage

09-27-2011, 09:32 AM

When I was a kid my handwriting was pretty awful. I liked my father's handwriting and decided to emulate it. I had him write out the alphabet in caps/lower case and practiced copying it until my writing style was somewhat similar. Part of the fun was using his Parker 51; the other part was getting compliments on my penmanship. This was in the days when they taught penmanship in grade school, although I was past that when I changed my style to something that would not have been acceptable to the teachers of the time. My handwriting is still far more legible than probably 90% of what I see.

I have a pen and some ink sitting in front of me, with the intention of getting back to it (letters, journal, etc.) after a great many years. If it once again becomes the pleasant experience that it used to be, I'll probably hunt down a maroon Parker 51, to complete the circle.