Okay, I have an M200 and I'm happy with it, but my brain tells me, you GOTTA get the M400 (top of the line). Is the fit and finish that much nicer on the M400? My plated hard ware on my M200 is all mismatched (my clip almost looks chrome). Plus the "marble" just doesn't look "correct" to me.

I'm told the plating on the m400s is better/thicker than the m200s, so I'd guess it'll hold up better than your m200. In my opinion, the finishes of the m400 series are a bit more attractive, but this is a personal preference thing - the marbled 200s are nice, to be sure. The two-tone 14k Pelikan nibs are also very nice.

That all said, I've never been tempted by the m400 because it doesn't offer enough beyond the m200 to justify the large increase in price.

Pam Braun does have a great deal on the white/tortoise m400 right now, though. That would definitely be worth the price if you like the color.

Personally I looked at the differences and said it'd have to be an M600 to make enough of a difference.

Now that I actually have the M600 size I'd REALLY say the 400 isn't enough of a change.

I had a 200 and loved everything but the size, too small for my hands. I ended up w/ an M800, perfect!

I understand the other comments and from an entirely logical POV, I agree.

But who cares about logic when you're talking pens?

I will admit that I love my 200s. I love the marbling and the "great pen for the price" feeling I get. And the nibs are just as satisfying to use.

But - my 400s do get more attention these days and they do feel different in my hand ("warmer"? More substantial?) than the 200s. Is it worth it from a purely logical POV? Nah. Both levels are good writers, hold the same amount of ink and only have minor cosmetic differences. From an aesthetic and very subjective POV, it is worth it. My first 400 was a second-hand blue stripe for a ridiculously good price. I was happy with that for a long time though I didn't use it as often because it felt too special compared to the 200s. I only have one other 400 (would have more if I could) and that's the Honey/White Tortoise and she is just as special but I've long gotten past my "too special to use" problem.

If you think you'd prefer the 600 size and want to hold off, you'll be just happier with that. But if you just really want to see what a 400 is like and like the 200 size, then I think you'll be pleased you made the leap. You'll still admire your 200 - they're special in their own right. Especially if you can get some of the pre-'97 pens. But to me, there is a difference and it's enough to have me interested in other 400s. Just that I've got no pen budget at the moment. Or I should say, my budget is a goose egg.

I happen to be in the same boat. I got my first M200 just over a month ago and within days I wanted something more. Not because it was a bad pen but because the brand totally bowled me over with its quality. It's not as flashy as a Mont Blanc but I like the understated appearance and the heft of it in my hand.

I got an M400 soon after that and I'm definitely eyeing the M600 next. The M1000 is unlikely to be practical due to the size.

Oh yeah... the 400-series is sweeeeeeeet:

And those particular models are seriously yummy.

I believe the only "rule" is - more is better.

I do not have a 200 and cannot remember trying one. I have a 400 and a 600. The nibs are simply splendid. If it is aesthetics that you are after (not that there is anything wrong with that!) a 400 may satisfy your itch. If it is writing quality, only you can say whether your 200 is a keeper or whether you need to move on. I do like the writing feel of my 400 Fine Nib. The Extra Fine on my 600 is not quite right but it has never been off enough for me to bother having it serviced. However, it is improving with use.

It is all about the nib and only you know what you like.

regards,
- Jan

I'm basically just un happy because no 2 trim pieces on mine match in gold tone

That would make me unhappy too. I have one M200 -- amber. My trim matches. The trim should definitely match. If it's not too late I'd complain to the seller and ask for a swap. Unless you bought it used for really cheap in which case it just falls into the "Oh well" category.

Doug