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http://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w143/nicholasyzh/StaedtlerInitiumLignum1.jpg Staedtler - a German brand synonymous with pencils and technical instruments in Europe - had launched its new "Staedtler Premium" range of fountain pens. Interestingly, the Staedtler Foundation owns all shares of the Staedtler Group since 1997. The Staedtler Foundation is "dedicated above all to the promotion of innovative ideas and the perpetuation of knowledge." and "promotes scientific research at national universities and polytechnics. It also supports cultural projects closely concerned with the subject of education." "Lumograph" pencils were standard issue way back in school, and one may still vividly remember the "Triplus" office set which contained a fineliner, ballpoint pen, mechanical pencil and highlighter. The all-in-one office set is still on sale today with the same ingenious packaging that functions both as a case and stand for the ergonomically designed triangular writing instruments. In the same light, Staedtler Premium's high quality writing implements and accessories are backed by the brand's technical expertise and inspired by the values that led to the founding of the Nuernberg based company by J.S. Staedtler in 1835. The Initium and J.S. Staedtler collections differ in that the former has an understated appearance while the latter offers sophisticated workmanship, exclusivity and design with a price to match. Make no mistake - the Staedtler Premium Initium collection is no compromise, as the following review will illustrate. INTRODUCTION: The Staedtler Initium Lignum is my first fountain pen from the German brand. It comes in a few editions named in Latin - Resina (resin) Lignum (wood) and Corium (leather). I opted for the wood version because I liked its earthy appearance, natural feel and admired the contrast between its natural wooden grain and matte chrome accents. Those who have read my previous reviews on The Fountain Pen Network would already know that I have a weakness for wooden pens and own quite a number of Japanese ones. The Initium Lignum comes in a cardboard box with an elastic closure. The box contains the pen wrapped in plastic and beneath it lies a small catalogue of the different models as well as care instructions and a guarantee booklet. Appearance & Design (8/10) – The Staedtler Initium Lignum, like most of the Initium collection, comes with minimalist German design. An exception would be the Corium Urbes line which is something like the Corium Simplex line, featuring metropolitan city skylines imprinted onto the pen's leather surface. There is even a Singapore themed pen that features a sketch of the Singapore Flyer and Marina Bay Sands. Like its name suggests, the Initium Lignum is constructed with a high quality wooden finish. Two colours are available - brownish Plum wood and beige Maple wood. Like any natural material, each piece has its own distinctive grain and no two are alike. As a personal preference, I finally chose the Plum wood over Maple. The Plum wood does have a wooden scent though the scent is not very apparent until to put your nose to it. The wood has a tactile surface and feels great to hold. It does indeed appear like a natural material. The Staedtler Mars logo appears on the top of the cap while the brand "STAEDTLER" is proudly engraved on the back. At the bottom of the cap, "MADE IN GERMANY" reminds us that the pen is constructed to the most exacting standards we have come to expect of German brands. Construction & Quality (10/10) – The Staedtler Premium Initium Lignum deserves top marks for construction and quality. The moment I picked up the pen, I could feel that there was no compromise in quality and construction, and the execution of minute details was not neglected. It didn't take more than one and a half twists to remove the cap, so making short notes will be manageable. Giving the pen barrel a light squeeze, the wood felt firmly attached to the barrel without any creaking sounds and was seamlessly integrated with the matte chrome metal parts - a testament to the technical superiority of the Staedtler brand. Everything was executed flawlessly - while removing the nib section, I could hear no screeching sounds and did not see rough edges on the inside. The nib is also well executed with an unassuming Staedtler logo and the nib size etched on it. I am thoroughly impressed by the construction quality of the Initium Lignum, given the price point. The pen is truly a tank, and will last for generations if used the way it was intended. Weight & Dimensions (8/10) – The Staedtler Initium Lignum is an extremely hefty pen, and understandably so because it is constructed of metal. It isn't extremely large or long so it would suit anyone. The cap on the Initium Lignum is particularly heavy so I feel that it does better left on the table. That being said, it is still possible to post the cap and write. I would not recommend posting it for fear of damaging the wood and due to the fact that the pen could become significantly more top heavy. The weight of a pen is often a matter of personal preference - some find heavier pens more effortless to write with while others say it causes fatigue. In my opinion, the weight and dimensions of the Initium Lignum make for pretty effortless writing. I find that with heavier pens one doesn't have to exert too much downward pressure when writing, and can glide the nib over paper. The considerable weight of the Initium Lignum does truly make a statement about Staedtler's dedication to creating serious value. Here are some technical specifications for those who’d like to know: Weight: 50 grams Length with cap closed: 10.37 cm Diameter: 1.25 cm Nib & Performance (7/10) – The Staedtler Initium Lignum is a pen that delivers in almost every department. However, it is my honest opinion that the steel nib has great potential for its out of the box performance to be further improved. In writing, I can feel slight feedback throughout the strokes, especially on lower quality copier paper. It is definitely pleasant on the smoother pages of my Japanese made Life Noble notebooks. I have observed that some fountain pen users actually do like this feedback and I am curious if the 18K gold nib on the J.S. Staedtler line is similar in feel. Visually, the Initium Lignum's steel nib is definitely well made - polished nicely and engraved with a Staedtler Mars logo. Examining it under a loupe, I can tell that there is no serious flaw or misaligned tines. I opted for the F nib because I like finer lines and have small handwriting. Ink flow is well controlled, so that compensates slightly for the feedback. The Initium Lignum steel nib is stiff, and like most of the other Steel nibs in this price range that is unsurprising. The nib isn't overly stiff though, and is still pleasant to write with. There is nothing stunning about the steel nib from Staedtler, and it would be unfair to demand a gold nib in this price range. I must say that my experiences with other German and Swiss made pens with steel nibs of similar size have been better, though some believe that steel nibs do improve after consistent use. Hopefully it will smoothen out over time. Filling System & Maintenance (8/10) – The filling system of a pen is one of the important aspects - akin to the fuel tank of a car. Fortunately, the Staedtler Initium Lignum utilises the standard European converter. One issue with some fountain pens is the tendency of the converter to rattle inside the barrel of the pen. Staedtler has ensured that the converter is firmly fitted and would not pose that issue. There isn't much else for me to say here except that it does a commendable job and has great capacity. The fact that a standard converter was used also means that maintenance is a breeze and replacements can be obtained easily and affordably. To reassure us of their commitment to quality, the Staedtler company guarantees that any defects or failure within a two year period will be repaired or replaced at no cost. Cost & Value (9/10) – The Staedtler Initium Lignum isn't a stunner but delivers compelling performance and great value for its price point. The weight of the pen together with its quality wooden finish and overall appearance do justify the cost. Being a fairly new product range, it is natural for people to make comparisons with competing brands. We should however judge each product for its own merits and give the brand a chance to show us what they have to offer. With a long history and great technical know how, I am sure that there is much more to come in the near future, and the exclusive J.S. Staedtler collection is definitely worth a look. The Staedtler Initium Lignum is priced at S$210 including tax, here in Singapore. That is approximately US$167, €130, or £102. Conclusion (Final score, 8/10) – It was pleasantly surprising to hear that Staedtler had launched a premium range of pens last year, because I never associated the brand with fountain pens but rather,pencils and technical instruments. Until Staedtler, there was from my knowledge probably only a singular German brand (which needs no mention) nearly unchallenged in its manufacture of premium range wood fountain pens. Staedtler is a welcome addition to the mix and I will be closely watching what they have to offer. The harmonious combination of wood and high quality matte chrome exudes both warmth and modernity, fitting my collection perfectly. I admire clean-cut designs with a sobering appearance. Staedtler's design is sensible and elegant - not too pretty to carry around, to be used. With timeless qualities that would never grow out of fashion, one would enjoy the pen tremendously in daily use, and for a long time to come. Background Information: You may be interested in the kinds of pens I like - I've long been an advocate of Japanese pens. I started out with my first pen, a Lamy Vista, many years ago. Eventually I progressed to the Lamy 2000 and a Sailor Professional Gear which I still write with daily today. I like wooden pens and demonstrator pens, and recently I started to appreciate Omas pens for their great nibs and construction quality. I acquired the Arte Italiana Art Deco and 360 in Vintage Turquoise, both of which are wonderful pens I am glad to have in my collection. I later also got myself the Omas 360 Lucens as it is a wonderful celluloid piece. This is my tenth review on FPN. You may have read my reviews of the Sailor Professional Gear here, Pilot Custom Heritage 92 here, Namiki Origami Crane here, Sailor Chizusugi Cedar Wood Sapporo here, Omas 360 Vintage Turquoise LE here, Pelikan Souveran M800 Tortoiseshell Brown here, Sailor 1911 Profit Hakone Yosegi-Zaiku here, Sailor Precious Wood of the World Sapporo pens here, Stipula Etruria Rainbow Yellow LE here, Omas Ogiva Vision Turquoise LE here. If you'd like to know more about my pens and collection you can find out more about me here at my profile. This review contains high-resolution photographs which you can view below the post. Till my next review, here are some photographs of this exceptional pen for your viewing pleasure! I’ve also included links to my previous reviews in the above paragraph for your convenience. http://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w143/nicholasyzh/StaedtlerInitiumLignum2.jpghttp://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w143/nicholasyzh/StaedtlerInitiumLignum3.jpghttp://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w143/nicholasyzh/StaedtlerInitiumLignum4.jpghttp://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w143/nicholasyzh/StaedtlerInitiumLignum5.jpghttp://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w143/nicholasyzh/StaedtlerInitiumLignum6.jpghttp://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w143/nicholasyzh/StaedtlerInitiumLignum7.jpghttp://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w143/nicholasyzh/StaedtlerInitiumLignum8.jpghttp://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w143/nicholasyzh/StaedtlerInitiumLignum9.jpghttp://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w143/nicholasyzh/StaedtlerInitiumLignum10.jpghttp://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w143/nicholasyzh/StaedtlerInitiumLignum11.jpghttp://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w143/nicholasyzh/StaedtlerInitiumLignum12.jpghttp://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w143/nicholasyzh/StaedtlerInitiumLignum13.jpghttp://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w143/nicholasyzh/StaedtlerInitiumLignum14.jpghttp://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w143/nicholasyzh/StaedtlerInitiumLignum15.jpghttp://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w143/nicholasyzh/StaedtlerInitiumLignum16.jpghttp://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w143/nicholasyzh/StaedtlerInitiumLignum17.jpghttp://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w143/nicholasyzh/StaedtlerInitiumLignum18.jpghttp://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w143/nicholasyzh/StaedtlerInitiumLignum19.jpghttp://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w143/nicholasyzh/StaedtlerInitiumLignum20.jpghttp://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w143/nicholasyzh/StaedtlerInitiumLignum22.jpg

Dear Fellow FP Addicts We welcome you all to the Group-Buy of Ranga Majestic Model. Majestic is a new model of Ranga Pens. To Participate in this Group Buy. Please fill out the form in the below link and Reply to the thread with “Form Submitted” or just repost the choices in thread https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfgJyR0Qbttf8qfucTPTFaJydJDVFSaM1yqyFIBPqNYY-br6Q/viewform?c=0&w=1 MODEL: Ranga Majestic is a Handmade Giant Size pen and is available in various beautiful ebonite rod colors. The pen has a band around the cap and has black ebonite finials at the bottom and top. the pen is available in two versions: Round End Flat End It is approx 175 mm in length and the barrel dia of the pen is 17 mm and dia of the cap is 18.75mm. We have very limited number of pens. Pens would be shipped in 1 week from payment. So No waiting time . Enjoy the benefit of Group buy price with no waiting time The pen is available only in Gold colour finish clip along with gold colour trims. It would be EDC and Treasure for Giant Size Pen lovers .Though it is Giant , It is absolutely comfortable pen for long writing sessions. NIBS: Only Bock Nibs along with the Schmidt Converter is available for this Group Buy 1. #6 Steel Nib – Gold Monotone Finish: EF, F, M, B, 1.1, 1.5 2. #6 Steel Nib – Chrome Monotone Finish: EF, F, M, B, 1.1, 1.5 3. .#6 Steel Nib – Dual Tone Finish: EF, F, M, B 4. #6 Steel Nib – Black Finish: EF, F, M, B,1.1,1.5 5. #6 Gold 18K Nib – B (@ extra US$ 185) 6. Without Nib But Pen threaded to take Bock Nib (@ less US$ 14) MATERIAL & COLORS:For this Group Buy, Regular series and Special Series Ebonite are available in both Polished and Brushed Finish. Regular Ebonite: RE Series (Polished or Matte Finish) R1- Brown Ripple R2 – Green Ripple R3 – Olive Ripple R4 – Solid Black R5 – Mottled Brown R6 – Mottled Green Special Ebonite: SE Series (Has Black Specks) (Polished or Matte Finish) S1 – Solid Forest Green S2 – Forest Green – Black Ripple S6 – Forest Green – Teal Blue Ripple S12 – Rose Red – Black Ripple S16- Rose Red Bottle Green Ripple S17 – Rose Red – Mustard Yellow Ripple S18 – Brick Red – Khaki Ripple S20 – Teal Blue – Orange Ripple S21- Solid Bluish Green S22-Solid Red S23 – Solid Olive Green S24- Solid Golden Brown S25- Green Blue Ripple PRICE, PAYMENT & DELIVERY: The Price of the pen is US $ 77 including Registered shipping. The pen will be shipped within 1week once the order is confirmed. We have limited nos. of these pen in stock Payment to be done via Paypal only for international customers Paypal ID is: mpkandan@gmail.com We have limited nos. of these pens in stock and the pen will be shipped immediately after payment within 1 week. For shipping within India Kindly PM for the prices and how to make payment. To Participate in this Group Buy. Please fill out the form in the below link and Reply to the thread with “Form Submitted” or just repost the choices in thread https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfgJyR0Qbttf8qfucTPTFaJydJDVFSaM1yqyFIBPqNYY-br6Q/viewform?c=0&w=1 Regards, Kandan.M.P Ranga Pen Company

Trying to learn the origins of this pen. "Germany" is inscribed on the top edge of the clip where it bends to join the cap. I wondered if it was a Waldmann? Any information gratefully appreciated.

Dear All, Today is Holi fesival in India. It is festival of colours. So Ranga Pens have decided to introduce more vibrant ebonite colours for this Holi festival to FPN Community Please reach us at mpkandan@yahoo.co.in for queries. We have limited quantities. This is not grop buy offer. All old colours that were in demand are available now. We have 14 colours in Premium Ebonite now for our Handmade pens 1. Solid Blue 2. Black / Yellow Swirl 3. Blue/Pink Swirl 4. Solid Pale Green 5. Blue/White Swirl 6. Black/Red Swirl 7. Green/Yellow Swirl 8. Solid Pink 9. Blue/ Green/ Orange Swirl 10 Solid Orange 11 Blue/White/Green/Orange Swirl 12 Black / Orange Swirl 13 Green/Pale Pink Swirl 14 Blue/Pink/Pale yellow The Pens are mutely polished .The mottled pattern are gloriously inconsistent from pen to pen. It varies drastically but beautifully. We also provide many Nib choices and many models for the above ebonites. Nib Choices for C/C: -------------------- German BOCK Screw in Nib -------------------- 1. #6 Steel Nib – Gold Monotone Finish: EF, F, M, B, 1.1, 1.5 2. #6 Steel Nib – Chrome Monotone Finish: EF, F, M, B, 1.1, 1.5 3. #6 Steel Nib – Dual Tone Finish: EF, F, M, B 4. #6 Steel Nib – Black: EF, F, M, B ,1.1,1.5 (@ more US$7) 5. #6 Gold 18K Nib – M,B (@ extra US$ 185) 6. Without Nib But Pen threaded to take Bock Nib (@ less US$ 14) German Jowo Screw in Nib ------------------- 1. #6 Steel Nib – Gold Monotone Finish: F, B 2. #6 Steel Nib – Chrome Monotone Finish: F, M, B 3. #6 Steel Nib – Dual Tone Finish: EF, F, M, B,1.1,1.5 4. #6 Steel Nib – Black: EF, F, M, B ,1.1,1.5 5. Without Nib But Pen threaded to take Bock Nib (@ less US$ 14) German Schmidt Screw in Nib ------------------- 1. #6 Steel Nib – Gold Monotone Finish: F,M,B 2. #6 Steel Nib – Chrome Monotone Finish: F, M, B Nib Choices for Eyedropper (#6 Nibs): --------------------------------------- 1. #6 Steel Nib – Gold Monotone Finish: F, M, B 2. #6 Steel Nib – Chrome Monotone Finish: F, M, B 3. #6 Steel Nib – Dual Tone Finish: F, M, B Models for Reference: --------------------------------- Model 3 (Eyedropper : 50USD , C/C: 88 USD) Model 3C(Eyedropper : 50USD , C/C: 88 USD) Model 4 (Eyedropper : 55USD , C/C: 93 USD) Model 4C (Eyedropper : 55USD , C/C: 93 USD) Model 5 (Eyedropper : 70USD , C/C: 108 USD) Model 8 (Eyedropper : 50USD , C/C: 88 USD) Designer (Eyedropper : 70USD , C/C: 108 USD) Bamboo (Eyedropper : 70USD , C/C: 108 USD) Thin Bamboo (Eyedropper : 60USD , C/C: 98 USD) Giant Bamboo (Eyedropper :85 USD , C/C: 125 USD) Zeal (Eyedropper : 55USD , C/C: 93 USD) Model 8B (Eyedropper : 55USD , C/C: 93 USD)- It is bigger version of Model 8 Clip Option: White Clip or Gold Coloured Clip or Clipless. Bamboo , Thin Bamboo , Giant Bamboo, Model 5 are available only in Clipless Finish : Polished Or Matte finish Making Time: 10-12Days Shipment: Worldwide free shipping with India Post Register Post (2-4 weeks delivery) Payment: Payment to paypal id mpkandan@gmail.com Regards, Kandan.M.P Ranga Pen Company

This morning's mail brought the first thing that I have ever bought through Massdrop. The package I got includes three colors: Atlantic (blue), Dublin (green) and Australia (red). So far I've just been trying out the Atlantic in my TWSBI Vac 700. It's a dull color; I can hardly decide if it's gray-blue or more of blue-gray. I knew when I ordered these that they were dull colors, and I'm fine with that. My taste has gravitated toward subdued colors recently. Label reads: Made in Germany by Rohrer & Klingner Leipzig-Co. Shake well before use! To prevent dry residues drain the writing instrument after use and rinse several times with water. Hmm, not sure I've ever got a bottle of fountain pen ink before with such explicit warnings. It does make me wonder why more ink makers haven't gotten into cellulose-reactive dyes, since Noodler's Ink has demonstrated how well they can work. When it comes to waterproof ink, Noodler's is the king and all the rest are the peasants. Anyhow, this Super5 ink is indeed waterproof (as indicated by a quick dunk), and it feels smooth on the page. Maybe I should give credit to the TWSBI or the Rhodia pad, but the ink is behaving Just Fine so far.

There are no reviews of Otto Hutt fountain pens on FPN, and I found only one online (of a Design 06 model). Otto Hutt, we are told on various online pen store web pages, has been "delighting European hands since 1920." Well, they seem to have found a US distributor now, and so they are here, trying to delight American hands in 2017. I'd never heard of this manufacturer, but some searches on FPN did unearth brief, passing mentions of Otto Hutt in the context of Faber-Castell and Graf von Faber-Castell several years ago. Otto Hutt appears to be a small, family-owned company in Pforzheim, Germany, a center of jewelry making, so they could be considered the German S.T. Dupont. Like S.T. Dupont, Otto Hutt pens are all metal. They have 7 models, called Design 01 through Design 07 (no one in the family business went to marketing school, I guess), in increasing order of price. The Design 01 is a slim model, reminding me of the Montblanc slim line, Porsche Design slim line, and the Aurora Hastil. However, unlike those pens, whose selling point is their ultra-modern design, the Design 01 is advertised as having a "purist", "function-over-form", "Bauhaus" design. I think it just means that it has minimalist design which, if executed with high quality of materials, fit, and finish, should be enough of a statement to be successful on its own terms. On the other hand, the Design 04 looks a lot like a Graf von Faber-Castell Classic, except that all GvFC pens except for the Tamitio have gold nibs, whereas both the Design 01 and Design 04 are sold here in the US with steel nibs by default (one online store advertises upgrades to gold nibs). The advertising copy for Otto Hutt pens says that they are entirely manufactured in Germany, so I guess these steel nibs come from one of the usual suspects: JoWo, Schmidt, or Bock. However, these nibs then get the fancy treatment that even Faber-Castell doesn't give to its steel nibs, namely rhodium/palladium/platinum plating, and (in the case of the Design 04) gold plating as well (to get a two-tone appearance). With regard to barrel finishes, Otto Hutt has taken after S.T. Dupont (its jeweler DNA is showing) rather than Faber-Castell, in that the barrels are heavily lacquered with multiple layers of lacquer. My experience (call it prejudice if you wish) is that lacquered-metal-bodied pens look and feel cheap unless both the following hold: (a) barrel has high-quality lacquer, and (b )the fit and finish are absolutely impeccable. If either of the above does not hold, then that pen is competing against, and will lose out to, the Pilot Metropolitan (a $15 pen). Of course, S.T. Dupont more than satisfies both the above requirements, as we well know. Now, Otto Hutt pens have a list price about 40% lower than comparable S.T. Dupont pens (albeit, without the gold nibs that all Duponts except the Defi have, but the Defi isn't priced any lower than any gold-nibbed Dupont anyway). So, do they offer good value? The Design 01 has a nicely lacquered brass barrel. It's easy to see that the lacquer is of high quality. However, I have had slim Waterman pens (the Preface comes to mind) with barrels with similar quality of lacquer. What the Design 01 has to distinguish it is the sterling silver cap (snap-on type) and tassie (or whatever the piece at the end of the barrel is called). Fit and finish is of very high quality, comparable to a Graf von Faber-Castell (or an S.T. Dupont). According to one online store, the steel nib (Fine, in my case) is platinum-plated. It does feel a little different from "regular" steel nibs, and unlike its rivals from Germany and France, it writes a "true" and somewhat dry line. The filling system is pretty boring: just the usual cartridge/converter. The box for the pen includes the converter (shame on you, Waterman, for not doing so on some pens that cost about as much) and a polishing cloth (for the sterling silver bits). The Design 04 in "The Code" finish, which I have, overdoes the lacquer work, in my opinion. The barrel is coated in a black lacquer. Then the lacquer is cut away by laser in the random bar-code pattern you see (I wonder if it is different for each barrel, but it is not advertised as such anywhere). Then, the parts of the barrel exposed by the laser etching are plated in palladium. Finally, the entire barrel is coated with a few more layers of clear lacquer. Whew! This is a lot to go through in order to distinguish oneself from S.T. Dupont and their exquisite but more conventional-looking lacquerwork. As for the steel nib (Medium in my case) on the Design 04, it is also platinum-plated, but parts of it are also gold-plated to give the two-tone appearance. The cap (screw-on type) and grip section are also palladium-plated in my case, though it appears that other, more conventional finishes of the Design 04, with solid lacquered barrels, justify their price by platinum-plating the cap and grip section. Once more, the nib is excellent, but feels different from "regular" steel nibs (and is also "true" and somewhat dry). The filling system here is also cartridge/converter, and the box (identical to that of the Design 01) includes the converter and a polishing cloth (must be to keep the palladium plated parts shiny, since nothing on this pen is sterling silver). I've kept comparing the Otto Hutt pens against S.T. Dupont and Graf von Faber-Castell above. I think Otto Hutt can distinguish themselves from both these prestige marques in the case of the Design 04 at least: the barrel design is modern, like GvFC or Porsche Design, but lacquered like a Dupont, while the cap is similar to the GvFC cap that I like more than the cap on any Dupont model. The steel nib helps keep costs down (maybe), but gets a bit of "bling" by being platinum- and gold-plated. At $400 list, it's not much of a bargain versus a GvFC (which can usually be had with a gold nib), but is very good value relative to an S.T. Dupont. If you want a GvFC with Dupont-style (and Dupont-quality) lacquerwork, the Otto Hutt Design 04 may be for you (but you won't get a gold nib unless you pay quite a bit more for an upgrade). Fortunately, there are sellers offering the pen at a much more reasonable price online -- I bought it right here from the FPN Classifieds, brand new, at more than a 50% discount from list. The value proposition of the Design 01 is more dubious: it lists for $250, but the lacquerwork, though good, is not as superb as that on the Design 04, and the selling points are perhaps the sterling silver cap and barrel end-piece, and the platinum-plating on the steel nib. Neither S.T. Dupont nor Graf von Faber-Castell has a pen as slim as the Design 01, so the closest competition is Porsche Design's slim line (P3125), which does, however, come with a gold nib (but costs $400 or so). I have the latter, and I have to say that it is a better pen than the Design 01 with regard to both looks and construction. However, if you can get the Design 01 new for, say, $150 or lower (as I did), then it is tolerable value for money (though not a bargain). In summary, I'd give the Design 04 an overall score of 8 out of 10, and the Design 01 either a 6 or a 7 out of 10. The nibs on both, however, would rate a 9, at least when compared against other steel nibs, because they really are distinctive, both in construction and in the way they feel when used.

Bought this German USUS mechanical 4 colour pencil. Its a twist action pencil and is in pretty good working condition. The balance of the pencil is nice and the build is sturdy. Apart from these very general reflections the internet is not throwing up sufficient information about USUS. Desperately want to know its lead diameter (1.1 mm?) and where can I buy colour leads? Also how to clean broken leads from the holders which are quite narrow. Thanks in advance...

The Lamy Safari is 17 grams and 37 years of design excellence that’s been the beginner’s fountain pen of choice for almost all those years. Its design is one of the most strikingly simple yet modern in the pen world, yet it has proven to be as timeless as any of the classics. The Al-Star is its big brother. Made from aluminum instead of ABS plastic, the Al-Star weighs more and feels more solid in the hand, but is nearly identical to the Safari in every other way. They share the same nib, design, and internal functions. The Al-Star is a way to own the classic yet modern design in a sturdier and slightly heavier body, and it appeals to people who like the feeling of metal in their hand while writing. Each year, a unique color is released as a limited edition for both the Safari and the Al-Star. This year, the Al-Star came in Pacific Blue. The Pacific Blue Al-Star Along with a Regular Blue Safari and a Dark Lilac Safari Appearance and Design The Pacific Blue color of this year’s Al-Star is striking and vibrant, yet light enough to not be overly flashy. The silver coloring of the nib and clip match well with the blue, creating a look of warm ocean waters. One factor of the design to be aware of, if you don’t already know, is that both Lamy Safaris and Al-Stars have a triangle grip, so they can be uncomfortable for some people to hold. For most, though, the grip is perfectly comfortable. As someone who enjoys having slightly unique pens, this limited edition is a truly gorgeous one, and in my opinion Lamy really nailed it with their color choice this year. The Al-Star Alone Construction and Quality This is a solid pen. In preparation for writing this review I used this pen daily for a little over a month, and in the course of use I dropped it countless times on varying surfaces, none of them particularly soft. The pen has yet to get a scratch. (These were all with the cap on however; you may fare far worse if the pen is dropped nib first.) Safaris have a bit of a reputation for being indestructible, and the Al-Star is a Safari but stronger. If you get this pen, you won’t have to worry about breaking it. Additionally, the overall quality of the finish is excellent. Lamy’s quality control is famously excellent (every pen is tested with a bit of blue ink before being shipped) and their care is on display in their pens. The Al-Star Deconstructed Weight and Dimensions If you’ve ever seen a Safari, it’s that but slightly heavier. As someone with large hands, it fits nicely posted in my hand while writing. I asked a friend with much smaller hands to test the pen as well, and she had no issues, although she did prefer the pen unposted. The pen posts easily, and I haven’t had any issues with scratching on the back of the pen from the cap, as I occasionally do on other pens. Nib and Performance So here’s the thing. It’s a steel nail. A very boring steel nail. But is boring so bad? The nib comes smooth straight from the box, and is incredibly reliable and consistent. In short, there’s nothing exciting going on but it’s a real work horse, and it’ll be smooth and ready to go from the get go. The nib sizes on these pens do tend to run broad, so if you aren’t used to Lamy nib sizes (or German sizes in general), I’d get one size smaller than you would usually buy. A Writing Sample with the Al-Star Filling System and Maintenance The Al-Star is a Cartridge/Convertor pen. It fits proprietary Lamy cartridges or a Lamy convertor, which can be purchased for give or take five dollars from wherever you buy the pen. The accompanying ink for this Limited Edition, Lamy Pacific Blue, can be purchased in either cartridge or bottle form, and matches the color of the body of the pen nicely. Cost and Value An Al-Star will set you back just under $40. Is it worth it? That’s up to you. For the same cost, you could have a gold-nibbed Platinum PTL-5000a or most of a TWSBI Diamond 580, both definitively better, or at least more interesting, pens to write with. The Al-Stars price forces it to compete with pens outside the Safaris league when it’s essentially a Safari with fancy skin. For me, the pen was worth it for the color. As a big fan of limited edition Lamy’s, I loved the Pacific Blue. But if you aren’t that into the color, there are other, better options for the price.

I recently picked up my first fountain pen. Actually, it is my second, but my first was nearly 4 years ago, and I never used it to its full potential. I'm trying to adapt to a Faber Castell WRITink with a B nib. The papers I am writing with however, seem to have a decent amount of feathering. I currently live in Aachen Germany, and as germans usually have a german equivalent of everything non german, I was wondering if anyone had any ideas for good quality paper of all price ranges (all I care about is quality) the price I will decide on. I know 32lb hp premium choice paper is a constant recommendation, what would be the german equivalent of this? I know many german companies are hesitant to sell online or ship oversees, but are available through domestic distributors, any advice would be great. I'm running blind!

Hello, I'm am new to this forum. I bought a Tintenkuli and would like some information on it. I have read a post from this website about the history of the pen, but would like to find some instructions. So far I have seen some pictures of the original instructions on eBay but they are in German. I am sure it is a piston driven pen becaus there is a twist knob at the end of the pen. How does that work? Where the ink go in through? The tip or just behind the tip? Any info would help. Please point me in the rite direction. I would appreciate it. Thank you

Rohrer & Klingner operates since 1892. At the moment it's the fifth generation of the family that manages the company. I guess that after 122 years they know what they are doing. R&K inks offer amazing quality for amazing price. In my country a bnottle of R&K ink costs 5-6 $. I know it's a bit more expensive in America, yet I believe the price is still reasonable. I find it interesting that Rohrer & Klingner seems to focus mainly on the content and not on the bottles. Inks come in industrial looking bottle taht is quite handy but there's just nothing fancy about it. It's surprising. http://www.rohrer-klingner.de/fileadmin/_migrated/pics/schreibtinte_top_03.jpg Anyway they offer eighteen colors, some stunning, some boring but all have good qualities and are easy to clean. http://imageshack.com/a/img742/3085/WHCjxM.jpg Alt-bordeaux Alt-Goldgrun Blu Mare Blue Permanent Cassia Fernambuc Helianthus Leipziger-Schwarz Magenta Morinda Royal Blue Salix Scabiosa Sepia Smaragdgrun Solferino Verdigris Verdura It's time to re-review this inks. Cassia is rather bright and quite delightful purple ink. Recently I'm in purple faze and I use purple inks extensively. While Cassia isn't as rich as Lamy's Dark Lilac I still think it looks stunning, especially in broader nibs. The dry time is medium length, reaching 20 seconds when the ink is used in wet nib on paper like Rhodia. It lacks water resistance but cleans nicely from the pen. The shading is quite nice but not massive. On the other hand in Kaweco double broad nib it's significant. It flows nicely, towards the wet side. Some feathering may be experienced on crappy paper (Moleskine and alikes). Drops of ink on kitchen towel Software ID Color range Tomoe River, Kaweco Skyline Sport, double broad Leuchtturm1917, Kaweco Skyline Sport, double broad Maruman, Kaweco Skyline Sport, double broad Water resistance

Rohrer & Klingner operates since 1892. At the moment it's the fifth generation of the family that manages the company. I guess that after 122 years they know what they are doing. R&K inks offer amazing quality for amazing price. In my country a bnottle of R&K ink costs 5-6 $. I know it's a bit more expensive in America, yet I believe the price is still reasonable. I find it interesting that Rohrer & Klingner seems to focus mainly on the content and not on the bottles. Inks come in industrial looking bottle taht is quite handy but there's just nothing fancy about it. It's surprising. http://www.rohrer-klingner.de/fileadmin/_migrated/pics/schreibtinte_top_03.jpg Anyway they offer eighteen colors, some stunning, some boring but all have good qualities and are easy to clean. http://imageshack.com/a/img742/3085/WHCjxM.jpg Alt-bordeaux Alt-Goldgrun Blu Mare Blue Permanent Cassia Fernambuc Helianthus Leipziger-Schwarz Magenta Morinda Royal Blue Salix Scabiosa Sepia Smaragdgrun Solferino Verdigris Verdura It's time to re-review this inks. Blu Mare is bright, cheerful colour that pops right off the page. It shades even in finer nibs going from a cerulean blue to a light shade bright blue-green. It shifts between a greener or bluer turquoise depending on the paper and nib you tend to use. The ink feels fairly lubricated and can be described as wet. The dry time is medium length, reaching 15 seconds when the ink is used in wet nib on paper like Rhodia. It lacks water resistance but cleans nicely from the pen. Some feathering may be experienced on crappy paper (Moleskine and alikes). Drops of ink on kitchen towel Software ID Color range Tomoe River, Caran d'Ache Varius, broad nib Leuchtturm1917, Kaweco Skyline Sport, double broad Maruman, Kaweco Skyline Sport, broad

Pictures at bottom..... Just wondering if anyone can identify or give any information.....I've misplaced my loupe and have had a bad eye infection, so am not great at looking closely. I don't think it's of any value, and can't even remember where or when I got it; eBay, I think, for not much, but it's such a lovely smooth writer, never any trouble starting even when not used for a while.mi got it because it has an ink window, which I love. Any information gratefully received. Alex.

Goldfink is yet another, relatively obscure German brand know for making high quality products. In my opinion, Goldfink was the Matador of 4-5 years ago. Penboard.de has repository of nice specimens if one is interested in learning about their models. Here is a two page leaflet showing their diverse portfolio (images belong to eBayer watermarked). I dont think it shows their complete line of pens but it has their rarer models like Transparent and Long-short safety pens. It is believed that their products were contract manufactured by various makers around Berlin. http://i.imgur.com/EcdxQfs.jpg http://i.imgur.com/ksIHtT0.jpg Goldfink is better know for their Wonderfüller which is a hybrid of twist and button filler. I had one in a #2 size but am regretting selling it. I had a few Goldfinks but one latest acquisition prompted this thread. It is the top pen in the pic below. I think it is the Preisschlager (economy) model per the leaflet above. Cosmetically it is in very good condition and has an amazing #6 flex nib. Their nib denomination runs smaller than typical and perhaps #6 is more like a #4 or #5. The faceted captop design is very attractive and one of my favorite feature of this brand. Other pens below are a #6 stylograph safety, MB142 and MB146 sized piston fillers. If you have any please share details and your experience with them. http://i.imgur.com/rB19g62.jpg http://i.imgur.com/tjAIN5c.jpg http://i.imgur.com/J7OyV8j.jpg?1 http://i.imgur.com/4Jl85E0.jpg?1 http://i.imgur.com/E3aEzah.jpg?1 http://i.imgur.com/gdziASM.jpg?1

I preset you a German exercise book for kids to facilitate their handwriting. I thought this might be useful for some folks. http://www.hjmedia.de/K2/Schulausgangsschrift.pdf

Hi there, I am needing your expertise to help identify a German pen I purchased at the Dallas Pen Show. The pen, in the box with directions in German, is a wonderfully flexy, smooth writer, but that's as far as I know! I do know it's a Fine Feather Quill with Ink Control...(Bottom pen above it's box.) It looks similar to early Pelikans and to early Kawecos, but I can't seem to find any hints! The writing on the cap is even hard to decipher. Any ideas? I did take a photo of the directions (all in German), but i've not uploaded yet. Help...please....

Short version: Do any of you fine ladies or gentlemen know how to safely remove the piston assembly of a mid-50s (I'm guessing) Tropen Scholar? Unscrew? Friction fit? Sealed for all eternity and I'm all out of luck? Longer version: This is asked more in hope than expectation - searches found a couple of threads where this was asked and not answered, but hey, third time lucky... I have recently acquired a Tropen Scholar piston filler, and despite early happiness that the thing was taking up ink like a thirsty camel at an oasis, my Serenity Blue thumb and forefinger have established that it is, in fact, leaking ink behind the piston and, joy, into the blind cap. Now it may well be that I can't acquire or adapt a solution to solve this, but I'm pretty sure I can't get anywhere unless I can remove the piston assembly to actually get at it. It looks like it must be screwed in, but some gentle application of heat and a suitably padded Bionic Wrench didn't seem to be getting anywhere, and obviously I'm reluctant to push it when I don't even know if that's actually how it's fitted. Any help would be very much appreciated. Cheers, Al

Dear FPN'ers, We are introducing our RANGA Acrylic Model 4CS Pens with German Schmidt Screw in nibs and Converters. in 20 Beautiful colours. These are Eyedropper Pens. These pens are completely handmade and Visual mesmerizers. Please see our handmade Pen making Video Which is very unique in the world and needs Extensive skills https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08pUuLREZR4&feature=youtu.be The length of the capped pen is 5.75 inches. The thickness is 13.5mm Dia app. Flat shape (Both ends), Rounded shapes(Both ends) are available. Nib: The Pen uses German White Schmidt Screw in (FH341) nib . It is available in Fine / Medium/ Broad points. It comes with German Schmidt K5 Converter. The pen is 3 in 1 Filling Mechanism. Clip: Both Thin clip and Broad clips are available in Gold colour and White colour. Clipless Option is also available. The colours are 1. Grey/ White 2. Purple/Pink/Dark blue 3. Yellow/ Orange /Dark Green 4. Purple with Black 5. Bright Green With Thin Green Swirl 6. Orange With Black Swirl 7. White with Black 8. Pink With Black Swirl 9. Sea Blue With Red 10. Red with Black Swirl 11. Orange With Dark Blue 12. Blue with Black Swirl 13. Yellow with Dark Green/Red/Black 14. Pink With Dark Blue 15. Yellow with Dark Green 16. Purple with Dark Blue 17. Light Green with Blue Swirl 18. Orange With Blackish Green 19. Bright Green with Green Swirl 20. Pink/Green/Black Price: 50$ Shipping: Free worldwide Registered Post shipping Payment can be done to my paypal id mpkandan@gmail.com http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Ebonite%20Gajendra/C%20Rod%20Acrylic%20Model%204CS/DSC04750-1_zps0i2di68w.jpg http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Ebonite%20Gajendra/C%20Rod%20Acrylic%20Model%204CS/DSC04675-1_zpsjpgvehqv.jpg http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Ebonite%20Gajendra/C%20Rod%20Acrylic%20Model%204CS/DSC04714-1_zpszfqpp6nq.jpg http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Ebonite%20Gajendra/C%20Rod%20Acrylic%20Model%204CS/DSC04672-1_zpsaitglvsv.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Ebonite%20Gajendra/C%20Rod%20Acrylic%20Model%204CS/DSC04676-1_zpshq567geg.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Ebonite%20Gajendra/C%20Rod%20Acrylic%20Model%204CS/DSC04713-1_zpss4kmqc1r.jpg http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Acrylic%20Model%204CS%20Converter/DSC05121-1_zpskubcq6ka.jpg http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Acrylic%20Model%204CS%20Converter/DSC05113-1_zpsw1cubfdm.jpg http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Acrylic%20Model%204CS%20Converter/DSC05115-1_zpsupzoyxs3.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Acrylic%20Model%204CS%20Converter/DSC05111-1_zpsn4ztdubf.jpg http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Acrylic%20Model%204CS%20Converter/DSC05108-1_zpspfa3lhhi.jpg http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Acrylic%20Model%204CS%20Converter/DSC05106-1_zpskpzmwodj.jpg http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Acrylic%20Model%204CS%20Converter/DSC05122-1_zpsvsn9wkyd.jpg Thanks for viewing and support Regards, Kandan.M.P Ranga Pen Company

I enjoy this forum for its diversity on why people participate and generally all points of view are accepted. Pens for vintage reasons, business aspects of why or why not an ink still exists, the elegance of the nib in the hand of an amateur or steady operator, and to me the interplay between paper>nib>feed>art/print/cursive>operators skill/hand and the pleasure achieved by that interplay are reasons to participate. While ink is not the most expensive part of the hobby (on a one-by-one basis) [not talking about those with armoires for their collection] finishing the final mls of the bottle express the same elements as when your mother told you to "finish the food on your plate" [a universal axiom and my family are Germanic]. A terrific ink bottle shape survey was conducted by AndreaDuni in 2007 https://www.fountainpennetwork.com/forum/topic/28435-ink-bottle-shapes/ and its results are fascinating as the conical reservoir of Lamy hidden cone, MB shoe, Skrip well, and +++ were well appreciated for their Maxwell house "good to the last drop" characteristics. I recently bought three empty vintage Skrip bottles (1-118ml and 2-59ml) just to put 4.5 oz. dregs from a popular pasta ink. The bottles on ebay, empty + shipping cost the same as a new bottle with a free pen. Yet, I had to have them for economy of - well I don't know. Then I found an unusual bottle on ebay from Germany. While labeled refill, I think it's for refilling and the "ing" didn't make the cut. It has a conical bottom in the upright position for normal filling. It also has cones in the front and back for tipped filling for the last drops! This MB refill bottle in plastic is the first I have seen on the WWW and found nowhere on FPN. First comment from me is: Plastic blow molding allows this shape and current plastic formulations are highly impermeable to staining and transpiration as well as cap design and seal. I have borrowed the images from the ebay listing and can replace them with my own when the bottle arrives if the image owner objects. I look forward to your comments. http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/ODAwWDEyMDA=/z/N9gAAOSwyQtV3clV/$_57.JPG http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/ODAwWDEyMDA=/z/CNkAAOSw3ydV3clV/$_57.JPG

Rotring generally doesn't seem to get a lot of love in FPN. Engineers and architects swear by their clutch pencils like Tikky and Isograph. Their design philosophy is minimalistic and somehow Rotring's writing instruments bring out their "germanness" better than Lamy IMO. The present model I got is a NOS Rotring Esprit in M nib. I had got this from ebay.in. Rotring calls this colour- "Tourmaline Green". It has a nice sleek design. This is a thin pen and grip section is ribbed for better gripping. The whole pen is made up of metal(probably aluminium) and is very light Some approximate measurements: Pen Length(capped):140mmPen Length(uncapped):126mmPen Length(posted):172mmBarrel diameter:11mm The nib is very plain looking and has M written on the side of the nib and the feed is also plain looking. The nib puts down a wet M line and writes as hard as a nail. The pen comes with a standard international short cartridge filled with blue ink. I am using it with a spare jinhao converter which fits very nicely with this pen. This pen is a no fuss pen which can be used for long writing sessions. Some people might be put off due to its slender nature. Caveat Emptor: In India, this pen is seeing a revival of sorts. I believe a lot of NOS Rotrings were brought by Indian sellers and is now sold by many Indian sellers on ebay. I had brought this from Indian ebay for the lowest possible cost available and some people mentioned that even with lowest price available on ebay, I had overpaid by almost twice as much. The only saving grace is that the pen performs very well. So, as a word of caution for FPNers, while looking for this pen, keep in mind that most probably the prices are jacked up by unscruplous sellers.

Dear FPN'ers We are introducing Our COLOUR ACRYLIC JAPANESE STYLE BAMBOO PENS in 6 COLOURS and Model 3C Premium Ebonite with German Jowo/Schmidt Screw in Nib unit and Schmidt K5 converter. These can also be used as Eyedroppers. Only Eyedropper Version is also available. ACRYLIC BAMBOO'S-Colours Available: ---------------------------------------------------------- 1. Blue with Black, 2. White With Red, 3. Green With Yellow, 4. Orange With Light Violet, 5. Green With Pink and Black, 6. Red With Blue Model 3C-Colours Available: ----------------------------------------- 1. SOLID ORANGE, 2. SOLID GREEN, 3. SOLID PINK,4. SOLID BLUE, 5. BLUE/PINK, 6. WHITE/BLUE,7. BLUE /GREEN /ORANGE, 8.YELLOW/BLACK, 9. RED OR PINK/ BLACK, 10. GREEN/ YELLOW NIB Options: ------------------ Jowo Nibs: --------------- Gold Colour - Fine , Medium , Broad Points Two tone Colour - Extra Fine, Fine , Medium , Broad, Calligraphy Points White Colour -Fine , Medium , Broad Points Schmidt Nibs: ----------------- Gold Colour -Fine , Medium , Broad Points Converter: Schmidt K5 All these Pens are available in Polished or Matt finish. Clipless or Clip version is available(Gold coloured Clip and White Clip) Paypal id: mpkandan@gmail.com Sharing it for FPN'ers. Comments are welcome. 1. RANGA COLOUR ACRYLIC BAMBOO PENS with German Jowo/ Schmidt Screw in Nibs: (Capped Length app 6 inches, Cap and Barrel dia :16mm) Price- 98$ http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Acrylic%20Bamboo/DSC04455-1_zpshlwdkd1m.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Acrylic%20Bamboo/DSC04452-1_zpsfvf48qih.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Acrylic%20Bamboo/DSC04456-1_zpsjtjoakx5.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Acrylic%20Bamboo/DSC04459-1_zpsrriga58h.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Acrylic%20Bamboo/DSC04464-1_zpsd83qaly4.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Acrylic%20Bamboo/DSC04465-1_zps0fh0wvls.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Acrylic%20Bamboo/DSC04468-1_zpseenujzng.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Acrylic%20Bamboo/DSC04472-1_zpsm4bclyne.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Acrylic%20Bamboo/DSC04475-1_zpsf3sfkfbr.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Acrylic%20Bamboo/DSC04477-1_zpsn6vgwfcv.jpg 2. RANGA COLOUR ACRYLIC BAMBOO PENS -Eyedropper Model: (Capped Length app 6 inches, Cap and Barrel dia :16mm) Price- 60$ http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Acrylic%20Bamboo/DSC04479-1_zpsyazwrew0.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Acrylic%20Bamboo/DSC04480-1_zpsbru1yrxd.jpg 3. Model 3C with German Jowo/ Schmidt Screw in Nibs: (Capped Length app 6 inches, Cap Dia: 16mm and Barrel dia :14mm) Price- 93$ http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04331-1_zpsqacqz5in.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04330-1_zpsysg7feys.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04445-1_zpsdgaeukz2.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04355-1_zpsik7wtpow.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04358-1_zpszdgzurrx.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04357-1_zps4qmbepgw.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04356-1_zpsmbbgi4dm.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04362-1_zpsbnlnsm9z.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04360-1_zpsjxmktcg4.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04364-1_zpsowhzjyfu.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04365-1_zpsdjycmo6x.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04367-1_zpsdz0uwnyo.jpg http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04369-1_zpsqjugmmwt.jpg 4. Model 3C Eyedropper Models (Capped Length app 6 inches, Cap Dia: 16mm and Barrel dia :14mm) Price- 55$ http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04338-1_zpsf2pcvar6.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04335-1_zpsslh59a9n.jpg Thanks for looking. Regards, Kandan.M.P Ranga Pen Company

Dear All, We are introducing Our Model 4C and Model 3 (Duofold Model) in 10 Beautiful colours in Premium Ebonite with German Jowo/Schmidt Screw in Nib unit and Schmidt K5 converter. Colours Available: ----------------------- 1. SOLID ORANGE, 2. SOLID GREEN, 3. SOLID PINK,4. SOLID BLUE, 5. BLUE/PINK, 6. WHITE/BLUE,7. BLUE /GREEN /ORANGE, 8.YELLOW/BLACK, 9. RED OR PINK/ BLACK, 10. GREEN/ YELLOW NIB Options: ------------------ Jowo Nibs: --------------- Gold Colour - Fine , Medium , Broad Points Two tone Colour - Extra Fine, Fine , Medium , Broad, Calligraphy Points White Colour -Fine , Medium , Broad Points Schmidt Nibs: ----------------- Gold Colour -Fine , Medium , Broad Points Converter: Schmidt K5 We also introduce these Premium ebonite Model 4C pens in Eyedropper Models . All these Pens are available in Polished or Matt finish. Clipless or Clip version is available(Gold coloured Clip and White Clip) Paypal id: mpkandan@gmail.com Sharing it for FPN'ers. Comments are welcome. 1. Model 4C with German Jowo/ Schmidt Screw in Nibs: (Capped Length app 6 inches, Cap and Barrel dia :16mm) Price- 93$ http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04278-1_zps44xqeopj.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04280-1_zpsbiyyuikg.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04420-1_zpseu7awcmt.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04414-1_zpsfh6kfiky.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04419-1_zpsf6warzra.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04422-1_zpsxy4uwxiy.jpg 2. Model 4C Eyedropper: Price -55$ http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04288-1_zpscb7uprqg.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04287-1_zpskpw2kbjz.jpg 3. Model 3 (Duofold Model) with German Jowo/Schmidt Screw in Nib unit and Schmidt K5 Converter: (Capped Length : app 6 Inches, Cap Dia -16mm, Barrel Dia 14mm)- Price-88$ http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04372-1_zps76muwnbs.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04370-1_zpsjqoipfqw.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04373-1_zpsdkeyevg1.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04431-1_zpslp1zx1lt.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04424-1_zpszqhvv9nz.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04441-1_zpsttkzsa2u.jpg 4. Model 3 (Duofold ) Eyedropper: Price -50$ http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04378-1_zpspt1f9etj.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04379-1_zpsf1j1lmas.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/C%20Rod%20Pens%203C-4C-Duofold/DSC04374-1_zpskwsdylnh.jpg Regards, Kandan.M.P Ranga Pen Company

It's easy to find comments about the rOtring 600 mechanical pencil, but not nearly as much is out there regarding the fountain pen. The 600 is discontinued and reincarnated in a similar design as the generally-acknowledged-as-inferior Newton. The 600 was available in two matte colors, black or silver, fitted with either a steel or gold nib. I was looking for the increasingly-elusive EF gold nib, so I snatched this pen up when I spotted it for sale. I find the utilitarian design of the 600 aesthetically pleasing, with its hexagonally faceted barrel/cap and the flat, folded clip precisely the width of one of the facets. The clip is the removable spring-grip type. According to the accounts I've read, the "early style" 600 has a knurled section, present on mine. It's a gentle, comfortable texturing of the surface (Princess-and-the-pea or death-gripper complaints notwithstanding), 2" long to accommodate a range of grip habits. The knurling is repeated in a band above the clip, with a window that displays the nib size for quick identification; the band can be rotated to display other sizes to match nib changes. The very top of the cap is a thin disk of gold and between it and the knurling, the trademark red ring. Knurling is once again repeated in a band at the top of the barrel, just above a rubber O-ring that's there for secure posting - if an unbalanced, absurdly long (6 3/4") pen is your thing. At 5" unposted, it's a substantial (but not heavy) extension of the hand, round at the fingertips and round where it rests between index finger and thumb. There is no breather hole in the inflexible, plain nib; "18K 750" is engraved on its face, "rOtring" on one side, and the nib size on the other side of the square fold. Performance is just magical. With an EF nib, I was resigned to some scratchiness, but somehow the Germans made this sharp-pointed pen write as slick as snot on a glass doorknob. The concentrated lubricants in the old, half-evaporated cartridge that came with the pen may partially be the reason, but this is a glorious instrument. When capping, one must line up the facets of cap and barrel or it won't close, an odd annoyance in an otherwise brilliantly-conceived pen. Presumably the professional draftsman would be engaged for extended periods of time, the ritual of capping accompanied by a leisurely glance at the clock; time for lunch. This is a tool that's more at home on a slanted drawing table than a polished mahogany desk, but equally superb in performance, for its purpose, to any luxury pen. With an EF nib this good, I'm tempted to track down a B.

Dear All, We are introducing Handmade Ranga Ebonite Ruler Dual Bamboo Pens with German Jowo Screw in nib and Schmidt K5 Converter. These are unique pens. This takes of lot of time to craft it. The thickness is 14mm dia. The length is 13 inches. The price is 180$ including worldwide economical shipping. My paypal id is mpkandan@gmail.com The colours available are Brown Ripple, Green Ripple,Olive Ripple ,Parrot Green Ripple,Blue Ripple,Yellow Ripple, Mottled brown, Mottled Olive. Solid Back Pens are available in Polished or Bakul finish. Thanks for looking. http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/Ruler%20Bamboo/DSC04151-1_zpsqoyu7rr2.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/Ruler%20Bamboo/DSC04153-1_zpstf4zetu4.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/Ruler%20Bamboo/DSC04159-1_zpsa32dm8nt.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/Ruler%20Bamboo/DSC04165-1_zpsyj6hhn5e.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/Ruler%20Bamboo/DSC04161-1_zpsuq7hia1c.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/Ruler%20Bamboo/DSC04166-1_zpsrqxcmfg2.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/Ruler%20Bamboo/DSC04162-1_zpsyzeaixwx.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/Ruler%20Bamboo/DSC04162-1_zpsyzeaixwx.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/Ruler%20Bamboo/DSC04158-1_zpspuvuzfwj.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/Ruler%20Bamboo/DSC04156-1_zps25ka0rvt.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/Ruler%20Bamboo/DSC04157-1_zpso3kcytyh.jpg Regards, Kandan.M.P Ranga Pen Company

Dear FPN'ers, We are happy to announce our new line of Ranga Pens which has German JOWO Screw in nib units and German Schmidt K5 converters. This is our High End Model Pens. The nibs available are Fine, Medium and Broad Points (Gold Coloured Medium Point, Gold Coloured Broad Point nibs,Two Tone Fine Point, Two Tone Medium Point, Two Tone Broad Point, White Polished Fine Point, White Polished Broad Point nibs). The JOWO nib and Schmidt K5 converter model is available for all of our Models ( MODEL 3 (DUOFOLD), 4B (BAMBOO MODEL), MODEL 4 ,3C, 4C, 5 ,8,4A,3A,5A,5AA,4AA,4CS, RANGA HANDCARVED SPL PRECIOUS EBONITE RIPPLE DESIGNER FOUNTAIN PENS)and all Ebonite colours (1. Blue Ripple 2. Pink Ripple 3. Red Ripple 4. Yellow Ripple 5. Brown Ripple 6. Green Ripple 7. Olive Ripple 8. Solid Black 9. Parrot (Bright) Green Ripple 10. Light Brown Ripple 11.Olive with Pink Ripple 12. Green-Yellow-Black Ripple 13. Mottled Brown 14. Mottled Green 15. Mottled Olive Brown 16. Solid Orange17. Solid Blue 18 Solid Pink 19. Blue/Pink 20. Blue/Green/Orange 21. Blue/Pink/Pale Yellow) All Pens are available in Polished or Bakul Finish. Clip or Clipless version is available for all Models. Thanks, Kandan.M.P Ranga Pen Company https://www.flickr.com/photos/126373317@N08/sets/72157647294100872/ http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03249-1_zps3f2f938f.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03244-1_zps7571ad48.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03251-1_zpsb7e43639.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03254-1_zps83915988.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03316-1_zps6bd21d8e.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03313-1_zps9c8a27a3.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03266-1_zpsfc6e4b7d.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03271-1_zps8ce8875b.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03273-1_zps370aa476.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03282-1_zpsa5c73fc3.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03285-1_zps93b0c07a.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03290-1_zpsc97a3bf7.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03304-1_zps09b57036.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03297-1_zps0f82d565.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03305-1_zps6b50f1fa.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03308-1_zps928c3e5c.jpg Thanks, Kandan.M.P Ranga Pen Company