I'm just about to buy my first MB pen. I own a Waterman Phileas and a Cross Aventura, but decided I wanted to get something a little more special. I'm undecided about the Meisterstuck model, but will likely tend to Le Grand.

I've read some obviously positive things about MBs in terms and design and writing comfort, but also some some negative reviews with respect to quality in the modern pens.

Do you folks have any experiences with the quality issues reported? I.e. cracking resin and leaking?

Hate to spend the $$ and be disappointed.

thanks

tw

The 146 LeGrand would probably be a good FP to start out with. They can be found occasionally on the sales page of this FPN. I've used a variety of 146s from the 1970s models to late 90s models. The two or three that I use frequently have been used roughly and don't look very good, but the nibs are still fantastic. I think you'll hear from users who have had problems with cracking and shattering on modern 146s, but I've never had that experience, and I've dropped mine several times.

The only leaking issue I had was a 146 that leaked thru the piston mechanism. Sent it in to MB for repairs and it came back good as new. I've never had one leak thru the section.

There are several posts in earlier pages of this forum that discuss some of the exact questions you have, and some topics are quite detailed.

Good luck with your future purchase.

Eric

I bought 2 new MB pens from the WE series and they are wonderful.
Every pen maker has his lemons,the problem with MB is that people like to scream out how unreliable they are simply because they dont like the brand.
If you post a reliability question about all new pens and all makers you will get many replies from people with different pens and not just Mb.

I cant tell you what to do but I can tell you what I would do-I have no problem buying a new MB pen,in a worst case scenario if you do get a lemon then thats what you got warrenty for just see to it you buy the pen from a MB authorised dealler.

From the Masterpiece I do have a 30 years old 146 and 149.
Never had any problem with my 149.As for the 146 it indeed leaked from the section.I sent the pen to my pen tech and he fixed it for free.Since then the pen is perfect.

Thanks folks. Your input helped quite a bit. I'll look over a couple different models and pick one based on how it feels.

I'm in Canada and am buying from a Birks, they're a Canadian jewelry chain that's an authorized MB dealer.

I'll let you know how it all goes. I'm pretty jazzed about getting a new MB.


I can tell this can be addictive...

tpaul

Birks? If you are in Toronto, mind as well go down to the boutique themselves. Its a very nice place and well worth the trip. I suggest you only buy your first MB at a brick and mortar (just to get a feel of MB pens in general) unless you are trying to form a good relation ship with the retailer, and get some perks. If you are comfortable buying online, it might serve you better in the long run (prices are MUCH lower). I find my MB to bet very reliable, and I've had no problems yet in little under a year of ownership. It was my first FP ever, so the impression was important. Needless to say, I was blown away. Better than what I expected. Not fussy, instant start, no leaks, pretty nib, classic lines. Purrrrrfect.

PRAG

owning 3 MB149s and 2 MB146s they are some of the most reliable pens I have and with the best nibs.

Like Georges, I have multiple 149's and 146's. They and my Pelikans are the most reliable FP's I own. Mine are all excellent writers. I take care of mine and I try not to test their durability to extremes.

If you get a chance to hold the pens in your hand, and even test write with them, you will find that no photo can convey the differences between a 146 and a 149. I will be interested in you opinion of the two and to see your final choice.

I bought my first MB last week and spent a fair amount of time at the boutique trying the Chopin, Le Grand, and the 149 before buying the Le Grand. I would recommend you go to your local boutique and try some. (The staff at the St. Louis-Plaza Frontenac boutique is very helpful and patient.) Being able to test my options and actually write with the pens allowed me to make a much better purchasing decision. Which pen you buy is going to depend on which one is most comfortable for you.

I have done a significant amount of writing with my Le Grand since last Thursday and am very happy with it. The quality of the fit and finish are excellent and the piston filling system works very smoothly. It's a pleasure to write with this pen - no leaking, no skipping. I don't think you'll go wrong with a Montblanc.

I talked to the Mont Blanc store manager for Charlotte, NC this last week. She inked up and showed me the newest Mont Blancs, with oblique nibs. Having owned a MB146 in the past, I feel they are the Cadillac of fountain pens. And I was pleased to see that the quality of today's MB's is as high as any I have seen in the past. So, go for it. I don't think you will go wrong no matter which pen you buy.

Only word of warning: Ulricke, the local store manager, said that Waterman ink is not recommended by Mont Blanc. All other current inks work well with the pens.

Best of luck,
Randal

For the record, I'll second zencowboy's comments about the fine staff at St. Louis-Plaza Frontenac MB Boutique. I stopped by there while on a business trip in STL and found the manager and a couple of the sales-persons on duty to be highly accomodating and knowledgeable.

Of course, I'm still very partial to the Charleston, SC MB Boutique. I lived in Charleston and was able to make regular ogling visits there.

Glad you llike your LeGrand zencowboy!

Eric

This is great input folks.

I called the store and they've brought in 3 models to look at: the 149, a Starwalker and a Chopin. I asked them to also bring in a 146 from one of the other store locations. That should be an interesting cross section to try out.

Can't wait. I'm cashing in air miles for Birks gift certificates and am just waiting to get the last certificates before I go in and try them out. So hopefully in a week I'll be able to let you know how it goes.

tpaul