Platinum PK-500

[jonro]

First Impressions (4/5)

I saw this in an eBay auction: Platinum, NOS, fine nib. good looks, so I took chance. It arrived in the original Platinum gift box. When I opened the box, it was a little slimmer than I expected and a little longer. No problem there, the length made it comfortable to hold, sort of like a desk pen.

 

Appearance (4/5)

The forest green plastic body contrasts nicely with the gold plated cap. There is a small gold band near the end of the barrel, which has a concave gold “jewel” inset into the end of the barrel. The section and barrel thread together nearly seamlessly. The clip, which insets into the top of the cap has a ridge running down the center of the clip. It looks nice, makes a good impression. I think it has a bit of a modern, streamlined look from the ‘50s.

 

Design/Size/Weight (4/5)

This is a very light pen. I was surprised at how light the metal cap feels. The balance is excellent when posted. The construction of the metal cap feels a little flimsy to me, but is probably well made. It has a slip clutch which closes firmly when closed or posted. The pen is 5 3/4” long when closed and 6” long when posted.

 

Nib (4.5/5)

It has a 14K fine nib. The nib is not hooded, but is fairly small. This would be considered extra fine by Western standards. It’s not a wet writer, but isn’t dry either. The ink used could probably push it in either direction. It writes very smoothly and was exactly what I was hoping for from a Japanese fountain pen.

 

Filling System (3/5)

It came with a few Platinum cartridges and did not come with a converter. I don’t know whether finding a converter will be easy or not. There’s a steel ball in the cartridge which I can hear rolling around when I pick up the pen or turn it over.

 

Cost and Value (4.5/5)

This cost me $18 plus shipping in an eBay auction, so I think it was a pretty good deal considering its pedigree and the quality of its nib.

 

Conclusion (4/5)

I’m very pleased with this purchase. It’s a bit of modern history, looks nice and is an excellent writer for times when a very fine line is desired.

 

Top photo from http://www.platinumplace.tc/

Edited May 26, 2007 by jonro