Quality pen recommendations

[ᕦ(ò_óˇ)ᕤ{Adventure!)]

In terms of a gift, I suppose it also depends on the type of person you’re getting it for.

If the person knows little to some things about them and it’s a milestone celebration, you can never go wrong with a traditional Meisterstuck MB, whether ball point or a fountain.

If they’re big on art and uniqueness, I’ve found Aurora and Montegrappa to be great for traditionalists & Kaweico or Pilot for those who like modern clean-lined designs.

If you’re buying for someone who knows a bit about pens and is more about build quality than just a name, Pelican and Platinum have some outstanding offerings of every price range and draw/cartridge/piston style.

Then of course you can always look up homage series of different companies in case that person has a hobby/affinity that truly represents them. I once bought an MB Mozart for a close friend who was a pianist & a Kaweco for a friend who had just landed his first big job at an architecture firm.

If all ideas lead to a blank, you can’t go wrong with an MB. :)


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[MichaelFlash]

I would go with Pelikan. Classic and not the same ol' Montblanc. That being said, a more budget friendly pick would be a Visconti. Look at coloradopen.com, great selection.

[Burlington]

Originally Posted by MrEleven

What is the difference between a rollerball and ball point ? Had a quick google and it said one is thicker ink, i am guessing theres more to it than that ?

In terms of writing experience it’s about how much pressure is required on the paper.

FP < RB < BP

Fountain pens just flow ink with zero pressure, ball points need to be pressed against the paper for the more viscous ink to flow and rollerball is a great compromise in between.

RB has wetter ink and less pressure needed, the writing looks better on the page than ballpoint and feels nicer to write with - but ballpoint refills will last (much) longer, which I believe is common across all brands.

Fountain pens need a bit of TLC to use, fill (unless cartridge refills used) and keep maintained but do offer a superbly connected write on the page.

So really take your pick from joyous and involved to perfunctory and easy. RB sits happily in the middle so is a good choice.

[Flyinghunter]

Originally Posted by Burlington

In terms of writing experience it’s about how much pressure is required on the paper.

FP < RB < BP

Fountain pens just flow ink with zero pressure, ball points need to be pressed against the paper for the more viscous ink to flow and rollerball is a great compromise in between.

RB has wetter ink and less pressure needed, the writing looks better on the page than ballpoint and feels nicer to write with - but ballpoint refills will last (much) longer, which I believe is common across all brands.

Fountain pens need a bit of TLC to use, fill (unless cartridge refills used) and keep maintained but do offer a superbly connected write on the page.

So really take your pick from joyous and involved to perfunctory and easy. RB sits happily in the middle so is a good choice.

This post was most helpful. Thank you.

[Headshrinker]

I’ve used my Mont Blanc for over thirty years now.

[jsavoie88]

I agree with those who are recommending a Montblanc. In my opinion, a Montblanc is a safe bet for a pen. The recipient will likely have heard of Montblanc and the brand has a good reputation for quality.

One thing I have not heard mentioned yet, is the fineliner, which is almost like a felt tip pen. If you get a rollerball, you can use both rollerball and fineliner refills. If you go the ballpoint route, then you’re limited to ballpoint.

So, my vote would be a MB Meisterstuck in rollerball/fineliner. They should have a nice gift set that includes a card holder.

[OmegaJJH]

Originally Posted by MrEleven

What is the difference between a rollerball and ball point ? Had a quick google and it said one is thicker ink, i am guessing theres more to it than that ?

Apologies, I’ve been away for a few days. Other members have given excellent answers above to the query.

For me, rollerball simply feels/looks more ‘premium’ on the page over ball point.


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[andromeda160]

Originally Posted by Beo3

I have a Monte Blanc Meisterstuck and have Bic handwriting. It sits in my briefcase and gets zero use.

I also have a Colibri rollerball from thirty years ago which I also really like.

I have 2 MBs a Meisterstuck and a starwalker, they're there for show, Bics write better/ just as well

[Burlington]

Originally Posted by andromeda160

I have 2 MBs a Meisterstuck and a starwalker, they're there for show, Bics write better/ just as well

This is the advantage of rollerball or FP over ballpoint. Although there are also many disposable rollerball pens which will write as well as a $5 refill from a luxury pen brand.

Ultimately with these two options it’s primarily the pen case housing one is paying for.

[pickettt]

Originally Posted by andromeda160

I have 2 MBs a Meisterstuck and a starwalker, they're there for show, Bics write better/ just as well

Such are all luxury items.

[Watchflair]

Just got two new Montblancs - both roller-balls - a Legrand and an M. They are spectacular! Really happy with the purchases and quality. Both have amazing presence in the hand. Pics:

https://www.rolexforums.com/showthre...t=21556&page=3

[encarter13]

I am a fan of the Zebra G-301. I buy the black version, but use the blue ink refills.

It is not a flashy, fancy, or expensive pen. However, I have been using the same exact one for 6-7 years.

[Kliminator]

I know you're looking for something more luxurious as a gift but I purchased a pilot metropolitan in the past and was very impressed. It feels heavy and of quality construction but the price point is awesome.

Uses same ink as the pilot g2 pens which are my favorite. Just feels more premium in the hand

Only $15


https://www.amazon.com/Pilot-Metropo.../dp/B009X9Z2DY

[pickettt]

Originally Posted by Kliminator

I know you're looking for something more luxurious as a gift but I purchased a pilot metropolitan in the past and was very impressed. It feels heavy and of quality construction but the price point is awesome.

Uses same ink as the pilot g2 pens which are my favorite. Just feels more premium in the hand

Only $15


https://www.amazon.com/Pilot-Metropo.../dp/B009X9Z2DY

So true. It's a great pen.