Omas Galileo Galilei

January 23, 2013

Omas Galileo Galilei

Omas released the Galileo Galilei model in 1993 in commemoration of the 650th anniversary of the University of Pisa. It was a limited edition of 4692 pens. I was fortunate to be able recently to acquire number 1924 of this series.

This pen was “dedicated” to the great Italian scientist, Galileo Galilei. He was born in Pisa, but it was also in 1992, the year before this pen was released, that he was finally declared innocent by the inquisition of heresy for his support of Copernicus' radical ideas regarding the solar system. It took only 460 years.

Why an edition of 4692 pens? This number is the year of Galileo's birth multiplied by three, this because Galileo's telescope had 3X magnification. Well, that's what the brochure provided by Omas says.

The Galileo Galilei edition is based on the 12-sided, Paragon model which was first produced in 1932. It is a celluloid pen, which is notable since Omas had only resumed production of celluloid in 1991 after a lapse of some years. The celluloid pattern was, as far as I can determine, Omas' first use of the “Wild” pattern of white on black. It is piston filled. The nib is a rather stiff 18 K gold with a two tone effect provided by a platinum mask. The Greek key-patterned band is in rolled white gold.

The packaging of the pen is in a paper box containing a heavy plastic “lens” which opens to reveal the pen, cradled in a groove.

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Appearance & Design (10) – A striking, attractive and (now) classic design  The proportions of the pen and every feature are visually stunning yet tasteful. The “Wild” pattern is attention-getting, but compatible with formal attire.

Construction & Quality (10) – Flawless construction I cannot find anything negative in the quality of this pen. However, the celluloid does have a distinct aroma, most noticeable after the pen has been enclosed in a box in a warm environment. I find the feel of the celluloid remarkably sensuous, similar to that of urushi.

Weight & Dimensions (10) - Full-sized and lightweight  The Galileo model is between the Pelikan M600 and M800 in length and in weight. However, subjectively, it is lighter in the hand than on the scale. For me, this about the perfect size. The very light weight of the celluloid means (for me) there is very little difference in the writing experience with the pen posted or un-posted.

Nib & Performance (10)

– Moderate ink flow and very smooth writing  The nib materials are described above. This pen came with a broad nib. It is visually attractive. I loaded it with Shaeffer Black ink. Ink flow is moderate, but the appearance of the writing varies greatly, depending on the paper. On very smooth (Rhodia) paper, it performs more like a European medium nib, in my estimation. On generally fountain pen friendly general-purpose paper, it writes a true broad line. I am considering having this nib custom-ground to a crisp cursive italic, since I write mostly in italic script. For “regular” cursive writing, I generally prefer a finer nib than this, but I cannot fault its perfomance.

Filling System & Maintenance (10) - Classic Omas piston filler  This is my first Omas piston filler. I have just filled the pen once so far. I found no fault with the filling mechanism.

Cost & Value (8.5) – Good price for an expensive pen  Omas pens are expensive, and this is a limited edition of a more expensive model in the more expensive celluloid material. The specimen I purchased was in mint condition with all the packaging and enclosures intact and in good shape. I was able to acquire it for substantially less than the prices for which I have seen it sell. Even at this “good price,” it is among the most expensive pens I have bought. Is it worth what I paid? I think so because of its history and the qualities described above. It is not a better writer than pens costing a fraction of its cost.

Conclusion (Final score: 9.75) – The Omas Galileo Galilei is a gorgeous, superbly constructed pen. It is a pleasure to regard and a pleasure to write with. I appreciate possessing it and expect to find joy in writing with it often.