I recently bought an Esterbrook J and two LJ's through the marketplace. Just like everyone has said: they're not flashy, but man I love these pens. And it's true, there's just something about them that makes you want more - it's somewhat unexplainable as I haven't felt the same urge with the other pens I have.

They're my first lever-fill pens, and as a mechanical engineering, I love that. The rippled plastic is so pleasing to the eye, and the light weight makes them very comfortable writers.

Now, I'm really interested in finding more and perhaps making an entrance into the world of pen restoration. Any thoughts on where to find them?

Well, Ebay is your logical first look especially if you intend to learn restoration techniques. I buy Esterbrooks to the tune of two a day on ebay for an average of $12 including shipping but you take a risk because most pens are in need of something. Now since it's an Esterbrook you can always swap the nib/feed, replace the sac, j-bar or section but bent clips are tougher and a badly scratched pen is just a loss.

I sell restored Esties but my prices are much higher than your average ebay listing because there is alot of time and energy in each pen. The advantage is that you know exactly what you are getting. The market place is actually your best bet but you have to be diligent to catch the deals.

Congrats on your new pen! I started with two and now I have four. I want to get all of the colors in the J series. They are great pens. I love how easy it is to switch out the nibs.