I have been playing with the idea of picking up a VP. Unfortunately, there is no place local to check out pens. I rely on the wisdom of the forum.

Was looking at VPs and noticed the Decimo. Is there a significant difference? Does anyone have both and could post a picture?

Where can I order a Decimo from?

Thanks in advance from an isolated FP lover.

From Ujuku, a japanese seller, reliable: http://ujuku.jpn.ph/KAIMONO/pen/FCT-15SR-FRAME.htm

I think the biggest differences are the size and the weight. Decimo's diameter at the fattest part of the barrel is 11mm, and the weight is 21g. Regular VP's are 14 mm and 29.7g. I think decimo is made of aluminium, and the VP is brass. Here are my decimo and Regluar VP/Capless:

The other significant difference, I think, is the clip. While the photo may not show a great difference, the difference in shape is significant with regard to one's grip. The Decimo's clip is thinner across, thinner in the thickness of the clip itself, and lies flatter against the barrel of the pen than does the clip of the regular Capless.

The most consistent complaint about the Capless/VP is that the position and shape of the clip interferes with one's grip in writing. That's not the case for me, but I do suspect that if this is a problem for someone, it will be less a problem with a Decimo. The clip on the Decimo is more like the clip of the 1980s plastic faceted VPs in that it is not as obstrusive.

Great pens! Thanks to Taki's help, I am about to round out my little collection with the new Fermo, so I will have a 1967 Capless, an 1980s, a new Capless, a Decimo, and the new twist action Fermo--can't wait!

best, Dan

Dan - do a review on the Fermo when you get it. The original Pilot capless pens had a knob on the end (Andy Lambrou's book). I'm glad that they're reviving the idea.

In particular, I'm curious whether or not they keep the metal barrel and cap threads. Those plastic threads on the barrel with the metal threads on the cap were the big weak point of the plastic VP pens.

Will do, Ron, and I'll get some close-up photos of the areas you mention.

I meant to mention Carmen Rivera's VP/Capless website in my previous post; I hope everyone who is interested in the Capless/Vanishing Point line knows about this great website:

http://www.riverapens.com/vanishing_point.htm

Click on the history link to see past models, probably the most comprehensive list that exists--in English, anyway! Carmen last updated it in June and mentions the new slate grey Capless and the Decimo, but not the newest blue or Fermo. But check out the Turquoise Capless--wow! And note that this is the third major version of a twist Capless to be released since the original in 1963.

best, Dan

You guys are fantastic. Appreciate the pictures and information.

I have generally purchased smaller lighter pens (Pelican 150) but have been leaning towards something with a bit more heft. Not sure if the jump to the VP is wise or the decimo is better.

What is the general cost of the decimo?

From Ujuku Shop decimo is US$129.75 plus shipping. Shipping will be ablut US$15 via EMS (International express mail) and usually gets U.S. less than a week. Not sure how long it would take to Canada, but I would think it should be about the same. I know it is more expensive than regular VP but it comes with 18K gold nib. I know Ujuku's owner and he is very reliable.

Also I think one UK seller posted int The Marketplace recently that he sells decimo for $100, but I don't have any experience with him so probably others can comment.

Taki, What color is that regular VP? I don't think I have seen that color before.

Bob

hi,

i ordered the fermo from www.cyberpens.co.uk for $150.00, this included shipping. i should receive the pen next week. will let you know how it goes. he has the decimo for $100.00. i don't know if shipping is included.



9 9 9 9

That is orange, a limited color sold in Japan last year

thanks everyone.

Great comparison pic, thanks!