A newbie's introduction

January 16, 2005

I've posted a couple of times now; however, I wanted to do a formal introduction. My name is Bryan Petersen and I live in Salt Lake City, a beautiful valley amongst the Rocky Mountains, in the state of Utah.

I started collecting fountain pens about six years ago. My interest was sparked when I was hired on as a Deputy Clerk for a District Court Judge. I was 21 years old, and up to that point I had only seen fountain pens in Bugs Bunny cartoons. When I first saw a Judge pull out a fountain pen and sign a documents, I was taken back by it's beauty. Then seeing that not only were the Judges using fountain pens, but many practicing attorneys were also, I had to go out and buy one.

I found my first pen at a local Office Depot. It was a Parker with a medium nib and brushed metal body. It was only after I had my own fountain pen that I became totally obsessed with them.

My collection grew quickly to about 30 fountain pens. But for some reason, I became frustrated with my collection. My collection had no continuity and I had no real feeling of pride with my current pens. They were all fairly cheep fountain pens, the most expensive being under $30.00. The more I thought about it, the more I wanted to get ride of my current collection, and start collecting nicer pens.

It wasn't long when I sold all of my collection, except my first Parker, on eBay. I then went out and purchased a Montblanc 149 75th Anniversary FP with a broad nib. I was scared to use it at first, but that soon pasted. I loved, and still love this pen. It was a great conversational piece at the court, and it was something I was very proud of.

So now my collection consisted of my Parker and MB 149. I wanted to continue collecting, however, I wanted to keep my collection consisting of only higher end pens. I began finding little ways of earning extra cash. (I have never spent any of my paycheck money of fountain pens, being a student with a car payment, I could never justify it). Once I had saved up a nice amount, I'd go out and buy another nice pen.

My collection is now up to 7 pens; Montblanc 149, Delta Special LE 20th anniversary FP, Stipula Eturia FP (1.3mm nib), ST Dupont LE Andalusia FP, Waterman blue Edson FP, Visconti Opera FP, and my latest purchase of a New/Old Stock Sheaffer Grande Connoisseur FP.

My collection grows slowly; however, I am now completely happy with my collection. I use all of my fountain pens and love them all. They all have a special display and their own place in my bedroom. I can't wait for my next purchase!!! I agree with anyone who says an expensive fountain pen doesn’t perform any better that a cheaper one. However, for me, the more expensive pens have made a world of difference in my collecting of fountain pens. To me, it is so much more exhilarating to save up my money and go out and spend the couple hundred, or in the case of the Andalusia, a thousand dollars, and buy a very nice pen. In my situation, this is what has made collecting fountain pens so enjoyable.

On a different note, I'm no longer working in the Judicial Field. I obtained a paralegal degree and had thought I had found my career. However, in addition to my passion for fountain pens, I have always loved music. After much thought and prayer, I've gone back to the University of Utah to obtain a Masters in Chorale Education. Life it to short to not do what you love and enjoy.

So as I once again hit the books at age 27, I am sure glad I have my fountain pens in hand to take me through this next step in my life.

I enjoy reading everyone’s posts.

Take care all,

-Bryan

Edited January 16, 2005 by Bryan

January 16, 2005

Wow! What determination and progress in all avenues of your life. It would be great to see a pic of your collection. Welcome to FPN, and the hobby/addiction of fountain pens!