Pilot Custom FK-700-R

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As part of the Pilot Custom range the FK-700R has a marked Size 4, 14 Karat gold nib that comes in Extra Fine to Broad sizes. The length of the barrel measures approximately 134mm (uncapped) and 12mm in width. The neck or grip at it's broadest measures 10mm but gradually reduces in thickness to about 7mm, before widening to 8mm. The FK-700R accepts either the Pilot Con-20 Converter or their proprietary cartridges (included).

Impressions 3/5

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Initial Impression is that the medium sized fountain pen is extremely light, weighing only thirteen grams due to the body's resin construction. Aesthetically the pen suffers as the black plastic resinous body and gold coloured trim makes the barrel appear comparatively cheap. Further economising can be seen with the minimal amount of alloy and the plain design used in the nib’s manufacture.

Nib Design / Performance 4/5

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The FK-700R fountain pen with it's Extra Fine 14 Karat gold nib writes very smoothly leaving a consistent ultra-thin (XX-Fine) line with Cross or Sailor Jentle ink on HP heavy duty Inkjet paper. The fine nib also has a slight tendency to flex when used.

Price 4/5

The FK-700R Fountain Pen is the cheapest of the Pilot Custom Range costing 7000 yen and is available from Ujuku website for $66.50 excluding postage.

Overall 4/5

As an entry level in the customisable market, the fountain pen suffers certain drawbacks but the FK-700R has many positive characteristics to recommend the pen. Overall delighted and satisfied with the purchase and would heartily recommend the Custom Pilot FK-700R to users who prefer an ultra light pen. Although if you can afford another $30 it might be advisable to look at the Pilot Grance, Custom 98 or Sailor Profit Standard (1911M) fountain pen.

Left - Pilot Grance and right Custom FK-700R
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A close up of the two pens.
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