I'm thinking about getting a new pen. My favorite pens are my Pelikans. I have an M400 and 4 M200s (different color inks) that I use all the time. I also have a Vanishing Point but the clip bugs me on that one and a Moneverde Regatta (too heavy). I also have an assortment of less expensive pens: Pelikano Jrs., Pelikanos, Stypen Saturn, Lamy Safaris, Retro 51 Tornados. Out of those, I like the Safaris best, except the place where you grip them is smaller than I would like.

I was considering a Sailor 1911M or a Lamy 2000. I saw and liked the Visconti Crystal, but that was a bit out of my price range. I wanted to spend around $100.

So what pens do you folks who love Pelikans also like?

Thanks for your help!

Sharon

Hi Sharon,

I love Pelikan pens, and I've had a number of different models from a GO to an m805 and everything in between, but there are definitely other great brands out there.

The Lamy 2000 is a wonderful pen that really does feel indestructible yet pretty light at the same time. The 2000 would be closer to a Pel than the Sailor due to its piston filler, and it sports a smooth and slightly springy nib that is very smooth. The 1911m is a small pen (think m200), so if you're not a fan of the Safari's section for being to thin, you may not love the feel of the Sailor. However, I've also owned a blue 1911m, and the nib was the very smoothest I've ever used - just amazing!

You also may want to check out Signum Oriones - I just recently sold mine, but they are great, reliable Italian pens. I think they are pretty close to your price range as well. Also Swisher Pens (www.swisherpens.com) has a limited edition Sailor pen for a great price (just a little over your budget). Other than those, I always recommend Filcao pens. I have two Atlanticas (one in my avatar), and I adore them both. They are button fillers, which makes them pretty unique for modern pens. Check out Richard's Pens (www.richardspens.com).


Best of luck finding a new pen. I'm sure you'll find something nice!

disclaimer: I'm not affiliated with either retailer, but I am a happy customer of both.

Hi Sharon,

Whilst I am not anti new pens, I find that vintage pens have so much more in the way of character.

Have you considered a vintage pen perchance?

Whilst I will always drift towards a Parker and a "51", there are lots more to choose from. Just another option for you to consider.

Regards,

Jim

PS if you wanted modern and fancied a hooded nib, the Parker 100 is an interesting choice.

Vintage sounds interesting. I have some older pens that I interited. I'm not sure what models they all are. One of them is a Shaeffer. It's sterling silver with a diamond pattern all over it. You fill it by squeezing the converter (don't know if that's the right word) on the inside. The other options suggested (Filcao and Signum Orione) sound intriguing as well. Maybe I should wait until the LA Pen Show. Then I can see things in person.

For the price range you're in (<$100), two great ones are the Sailor 1911M and the Signum Orione.

On the 1911M you can get Sailor's wonderful music nib if you want and their nibs in general are among the very best. The 1911M is a very crisp design and very reliable.

The Orione will give you the Italian flair. The resin is simply beautiful with a depth that, IMHO, is typically only seen in celluloid. Their nibs are also wonderfully smooth and trouble free.

HTH, and let us know what you decide upon.

(Another option - watch the Marketplace and PT Green Board to get a good deal in your price range on a more expensive pen.)

Columbus Academia: Ahh smell the camphor and enjoy a fine Japanese nib!