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  1. Dear FPN'ers, We are introducing our RANGA MODEL 5 (VARUNA GAJENDRA) with German JOWO/SCHMIDT Screw in Nib and Converter in Premium Ebonite in 10 Beautiful colours.We also introduce these Models in Eyedropper Models too.These can be used as (3 IN 1 FILLING MECHANISM). It is 18.75MM DIA thickness with seamless Cap and Body.The length of the capped pen is 7 Inches. The Pens are really huge and Giant in Size and Performance.It is Clipless beautiful Cigar shaped Pen. THE COLOURS ARE VERY UNIQUE AND RARE. These would be treat to Fountain pen lovers and Collectors. It is also a visual stunner.The available colours are 1.SOLID BLUE 2. YELLOW/BLACK, 3. BLUE/PINK, 4. SOLID GREEN,5. WHITE/BLUE, 6.RED OR PINK/ BLACK, 7. GREEN/ YELLOW 8. SOLID PINK,9. BLUE /GREEN /ORANGE, 10. SOLID ORANGE, All the pens are avaialble in Mirror finish or Bakul finish. All the Ranga Pens are completely handmade. We don't even use Lathes to make pens.This is in practice only in Japan now. NIB Options:------------------Jowo Nibs:---------------Gold Colour - Fine , Medium , Broad PointsTwo tone Colour - Extra Fine, Fine , Medium , Broad, Calligraphy PointsWhite Colour -Fine , Medium , Broad Points Schmidt Nibs:-----------------Gold Colour -Fine , Medium , Broad PointsWhite colour- -Fine , Medium , Broad Points Converter: ----------------Schmidt K5 Converter Price- 108$ 2. EYEDROPPER MODELS: We are introducing MODEL 5 (VARUNA GAJENDRA) in Eyedropper Models also.These pens comes with 35mm Ambitious Gold coloured Fine Mdeium nib.The nibs can be upgraded to 35mm White Bock in Medium /Broad nib with 9$ extra.PRICE : 70$ Thanks all for your continuous support. 1. RANGA MODEL 5 (VARUNA GAJENDRA)- Premium ebonite with German JOWO/SCHMIDT Screw in Nib and Converter Pen pictures. http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Ebonite%20Gajendra/DSC04753-1_zpsmxs9svz4.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Ebonite%20Gajendra/DSC04804-1_zps34n2beyd.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Ebonite%20Gajendra/DSC04801-1_zpsf5on8507.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Ebonite%20Gajendra/DSC04805-1_zps65yaek67.jpg http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Ebonite%20Gajendra/DSC04755-1_zpslkp14ruy.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Ebonite%20Gajendra/DSC04785-1_zpss8bn7xja.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Ebonite%20Gajendra/DSC04786-1_zpsf7werarc.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Ebonite%20Gajendra/DSC04787-1_zpsddgsymfo.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Ebonite%20Gajendra/DSC04788-1_zpsrivietab.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Ebonite%20Gajendra/DSC04789-1_zpswenqrxun.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Ebonite%20Gajendra/DSC04791-1_zpsxdxg1iw5.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Ebonite%20Gajendra/DSC04792-1_zpsflot2weo.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Ebonite%20Gajendra/DSC04794-1_zps3odcikqr.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Ebonite%20Gajendra/DSC04795-1_zpszah73erv.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Ebonite%20Gajendra/DSC04799-1_zpsw6yvwy39.jpg2. RANGA MODEL 5 (VARUNA GAJENDRA)- PREMIUM EBONITE - EYEDROPPER MODELhttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Ebonite%20Gajendra/DSC04760-1_zpst52jz0mt.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Ebonite%20Gajendra/DSC04783-1_zpszae6e6fm.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Ebonite%20Gajendra/DSC04758-1_zpspbtamxf9.jpg Regards, Kandan.M.P Ranga Pen Company
  2. Well me and the girl friend just finished up for the night on our handmade hardback journal. It utilizes coptic binding so that no matter what page you are writing on it lays flat, which has always bugged me about most journals and books I have purchased in the past. I have had a blast making this and look forward to making many more! *thanks to the tutorial in the DYI section!* So with out further adieu, The book block with 12 signatures and caramel colored flyleafs coming out to 192 pages http://i.imgur.com/RWYsEShh.jpg Here is the cover getting worked on http://i.imgur.com/Ffwjarwh.jpg The front cover http://i.imgur.com/fCTy6LGh.jpg The back cover http://i.imgur.com/fkjtBXFh.jpg Finally, the book open with matching bookmark ribbon http://i.imgur.com/2QmpE15h.jpg Still have to finish the spine up with black leather and black leather corners, then attach the book block to the cover and all done. For one night I think its looking pretty good!
  3. Dear All, We are introducing these Handmade Beautiful THIN and THICK Colour Acrylic Dip Pens in 26 colours. The designs are very unique and very rare to find. No two designs are same. Each pen will be unique. The colour pattern will differ from pen to pen. 1. THIN ACRYLIC DIP PENS (Price: 19$): Length: 6.5 inches Thickness: App 11mm Nib: Fine Feeder: Ebonite Colours Available: 1. Yellow With thin Red Swirl2. Saffron Orange with black3. Yellow with Multi Colour Rings4. Red with Dark Blue5. Blue with Pink Swirl6. Green with Green Swirl7. Sea Blue with Dark blue Swirl8. Red/Yellow/White9. Light Green with green Swirl10. Sea Blue with Red11. Yellow With Green Swirl12. Red with Pink swirl13. Purple with Dark Blue14. Dark Blue with Pink Swirl15. Bright Green with Green Swirl16. Sea Blue with Pink Swirl17. Orange with Black Swirl18. Light Green with Blue Swirl19. White with Black20. Purple with Blue and Green Swirl21. Yellow with Dark Green22. Red with White specs23. Pink/Purple/Dark blue24. Yellow with Chocolate Swirl25. Green/Pink/Black26. Blue/Whitehttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Acrylic%20Thin%20Dip%20Pens/DSC04637-1_zpsbegwp2d2.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Acrylic%20Thin%20Dip%20Pens/DSC04617-1_zpsw5cxuzdw.jpg http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Acrylic%20Thin%20Dip%20Pens/DSC04633-1_zpsmsqdpr8d.jpg2. THICK ACRYLIC DIP PENS (Price: 29$) Length: 6.5 inches Thickness: App 13mm Nib: 2 Toned Medium nib . (Gold coloured fine nib is also available) Feeder: Ebonite Colours Available: ------------------------ 1. Orange /Red/ Dark Green2. White/Black3. Red with black Swirl4. Purple with Dark Blue5. Blue with black Swirl6. Red with Dark Blue7. Bright Green with Dark Green8. Green/Pink/Black9. Orange with Dark blue10. Yellow with Green/red Swirl11. Bright Green with Green Swirl12. Purple/White13. Orange/Dark Green14. Sea Blue/Red15. Pink with Black Swirl16. Black/ Grey17. Light gren with Blue Swirl18. Orange with black Swirl19. Pink/Purple/Dark Blue20. Yellow with Dark Green http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Acrylic%20Thick%20Dip%20Pen/DSC04666-1_zps1r6t4wyk.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Acrylic%20Thick%20Dip%20Pen/DSC04648-1_zpszcnrhhbr.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CRod%20Acrylic%20Thick%20Dip%20Pen/DSC04654-1_zpsqj5muz18.jpg Payment & Shipping:-------------------------------Payment can be done to our paypal id mpkandan@gmail.comInternational Free shipping through Registered post (2-4 weeks for delivery) Thanks for looking and support. Regards,Kandan.M.PRanga Pen Company
  4. Dear All This is new group buy for the new model of ASApens named "Popsicles". Completely handmade. Popsicles is homage to classic design of Sailor King of Pens. Fitted with Schmidt #6 Nib in Chrome color. (Fine, Medium and Broad Available). Comes with Schmidt K5 Converter. This is made of premium thick acrylic and comes in following colors: Shiny Ivory Floral Rose Tangy Orange Pure White Pastel Green Sky Blue Coral Red You can pre order this pen here POPSICLES We are running a special Group Buy Offer for FPN members. The price mentioned here is the special group price of Rs.2000/- for Indian Customers and 49USD for international customers. Limited Period Offer. Normal Price is 65 USD for international shipments and 2500 for indian customers Offer expires on 31st August.
  5. Hi All I have reviewed a custom made pen from ASA Pens on my blog. Below is an excerpt of the same _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ One fine day we, a group of fountain pen enthusiasts Vaibhav, Tervinder, Rakshit, Sulagno, Pradeep, Prithwijit, Kapil and myself were engaged in discussions to design a pen. The design was going through numerous iterations and me and a fellow fountain pen lover Sulagno liked one of the design prototypes very much. We approached ASA pens with the design and asked for help to make the design a reality. ASA pens took up the task and also procured the last pieces of a vintage acrylic material to be used to create the pen. Thus the ASA royal was born. The pen is based on the evergreen and classy cigar shaped design. The barrel and section are flush with each other and follow a straight line which is only disturbed by the treads for the cap and a flare at the end of section to aid the grip. Apart from the exquisite design of gold coloured clip the pen has a very minimalistic design. It follows the philosophy "Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication" and this worked very well in the pen's design. The construction of the pen is top class and there are no imperfections in the pen. As a result the pen is sheer beauty to look at. The quality of the finish of the pen is awesome too. It’s polished very well and speaks well for the workmanship carried out on the pen. This is large a pen. It is 16cm 6.23") when capped, 14.5cm(5.71") uncapped and 18.8cm(7.4’’) when posted. For my relatively smaller sized hands (17cm from top of index finger to the base of hand) I prefer to use it unposted. The section has a diameter of 12mm and its is very comfortable to hold The weight distribution of the pen also spot on and it’s easy to use the pen for long writing sessions at a stretch. I chose for the pen to be fitted with a gold coloured Medium grind No. 6 Schmidt Steel Nib unit. The nib is a very smooth writer and writes line width of around 0.5mm. The nib though not a flex one has a bit of give under pressure and gives line width of 1mm. The nib lays down a wet medium line. Writing Sample: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Head over to my blog for a detailed review and more pictures. Link This is my first review for a pen so do let me know the feedback.
  6. http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kArqVhs6dsE/VaMcEMD5S8I/AAAAAAAACWc/YZ6ODk7tkpM/s1600/IMG_9263_R.jpg Greetings, FPN fellows!Today I wanted to share with you two books that I made for Esther, a member of this community.They were one of the last custom orders that I made from the first 2000 sheets that I bought of Tomoe River (and I wanted to thank the community, since it was a pretty big success and I run out of paper really quickly - but I will order some again on November ). Esther asked me to make two journals for her. They were both a present from her boyfriend for her birthday. The first one was a springback journal, a sturdy and durable binding. It was approximately 21 x 15 cm (A5 or half letter size) and it had 200 pages (400 counting both sides; normally would be 400 pages or 800 counting both sides, but I didn't have enough paper left) of that white Tomoe River paper that all of us love. I used a gorgeous purple leather. I really love the shades that the color acquires once I work on it. It goes from deep, royal purple to a subtle, pale violet. It has some sort of soul and character. That's one of the things that I love from working with leather. http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E5SM-gHUkEw/VaMcSXC7BfI/AAAAAAAACXQ/bE2GRmJL5kg/s1600/IMG_9269_R.jpg She chose paste paper that I handmade for her endpapers. http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4_GIxf7C0lc/VaMcSBZHmMI/AAAAAAAACXM/UA6DUeVOhpw/s1600/IMG_9267_R.jpg The headbands were also sewn by me. I tried to make the best combination possible to match the rest of the journal, so all makes a whole. http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y0p5jph1zjU/VaMcSKUFluI/AAAAAAAACXE/zikcNeeQY3U/s1600/IMG_9271_R.jpg She wanted to have her name "Esther Steele" blind tooled on the cover of the book. As you can see, the stamp goes deep, and adds texture to the cover. http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QiHg_yU98jo/VaMcNNxsipI/AAAAAAAACWo/XQb51zt9g3Q/s1600/IMG_9265_R.jpg Finally, she asked me to make a box for it. I used purple cloth for the outsides and white velvet for the inside. In this way, the journal will feel more like a present, but also will be protected so it can last a lifetime. http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fDtihXAI5V8/VaMcN9aI-QI/AAAAAAAACW0/ajH1Me3l95w/s1600/IMG_9259_R.jpg http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eh8FcXj-JgI/VaMcN95CPJI/AAAAAAAACW4/q_W0nqJY4WM/s1600/IMG_9262_R.jpg For the second journal, she chose a Ethiopian style. It also was approximately 21 x 15 cm and had 200 pages (400 counting both sides) of cream Tomoe River paper. http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--xvg7FXW5tI/VaMe-8GMuKI/AAAAAAAACX0/Vj3Om6tN-TI/s1600/IMG_9252_R.jpg She wanted a combination of brown leather with Bomoart paper, and hold together by a brown elastic band. The Bomoart paper that she chose is one of my favorites. It has some vintage, nostalgic feel to it. I think it goes wonderful with the brown orangish leather. http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6YvDiHTlNww/VaMfAVvWXiI/AAAAAAAACYE/eoD5HgZ8U_8/s1600/IMG_9255_R.jpg Here you can see the nerves on the spine of the journal. It feels great to stroke the leather and feel the bumps. http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MXyGhRm23cg/VaMforiOy6I/AAAAAAAACYI/IvttgX_DSt0/s1600/IMG_9257_R.jpg Since the cover was already quite full, I advised her to go for a simple endpaper. This is a Canson cardboard. http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QqTSDBXITOY/VaMfAWbQvkI/AAAAAAAACYA/zOA-szT_h9A/s1600/IMG_9253_R.jpg She also wanted a box to keep her journal safe. This one was made with beige cloth, brown velvet for the inside and some of the same Bomoart paper for the top. Again, the combination gives a sense of unity to the box and the journal. http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sabf22faSmw/VaMe726wVdI/AAAAAAAACXo/pTbiJbgyWwo/s1600/IMG_9248_R.jpg http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ePmA8PtwuME/VaMe8cIX8cI/AAAAAAAACXs/1h5ZOyBwCHc/s1600/IMG_9250_R.jpg http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U75UFjKB9vQ/VaMe6BpYBaI/AAAAAAAACXc/unWoXH4mgFM/s1600/IMG_9247_R.jpg Well, that was a long post, but I hope you enjoyed it. If you have any comments or questions, I will be happy to answer them. Thank you for reading. Have a nice week!! Anna
  7. 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
  8. 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
  9. ASA – Galactic Jumbo Demonstrator ASA – Galactic was my first demonstrator. I never liked the demonstrators but i decided to go ahead with the purchase and amazingly I was the first one to buy this. Following is my review of the pen. Design & Build: My first demonstrator is a jumbo sized pen which has a fogged finish. The pen looks like what it is named “Galactic” The real beauty comes out when you ink up this pen. Aaaaah so beautiful. I have suddenly started liking the demonstrators. The pen is beautifully engraved with company logo on the barrel and also my name is engraved on the cap (Special thanks to Mr. Subramaniam). Made out of acrylic the barrel is in fog finish with crystal clear bottom and screw in crystal top at the cap. Filled with ink. Uncapped Pen with my Name engraved on Cap The grip section is again made of acrylic resin and i love the way the it shows ink spread out unevenly. It has a big nib which complements the pen perfectly. Clear Crystal Top and Bottom Built wise i believe it needs certain care as this is a acrylic pen. For further details and handwritten samples and review please click ASA GALACTIC
  10. ASA – Galactic Jumbo Demonstrator ASA – Galactic was my first demonstrator. I never liked the demonstrators but i decided to go ahead with the purchase and amazingly I was the first one to buy this. Following is my review of the pen. Design & Build: My first demonstrator is a jumbo sized pen which has a fogged finish. The pen looks like what it is named “Galactic” The real beauty comes out when you ink up this pen. Aaaaah so beautiful. I have suddenly started liking the demonstrators. The pen is beautifully engraved with company logo on the barrel and also my name is engraved on the cap (Special thanks to Mr. Subramaniam). Made out of acrylic the barrel is in fog finish with crystal clear bottom and screw in crystal top at the cap. Filled with ink. Uncapped Pen with my Name engraved on Cap The grip section is again made of acrylic resin and i love the way the it shows ink spread out unevenly. It has a big nib which complements the pen perfectly. Clear Crystal Top and Bottom Built wise i believe it needs certain care as this is a acrylic pen. For further details and handwritten samples and review please click ASA GALACTIC
  11. OdinsMusings

    Fountain Pen Jewelry

    Not sure if this is the best place to put this, but I got super excited about this thing I made today: Of course I could have made them without the silly faces, but that's no fun. I will probably have multiple versions of more plain (and less glittery) ink. I may even be able to write on a favorite color on the label. I worked pretty hard on the teeny nib as well: I even put ridges on the feed: (like I said, I got too excited about it and I didn't let it dry before taking pictures, so I have to paint over it again in gold) What do you guys think? I am thinking about making a charm bracelet with using a bunch of colors of droplets, or even some paper, some even resembling some well known brands like rhodia.
  12. I finally succumbed and bought one for myself. A nice email exchange with Mr. Kandan (on behalf of his father), made it easy for me to order the Thin Bamboo pen in Bakul finish from Ranga Pens. Given that I am only beginning to use fountain pens again, he was really helpful in helping me understand the options available and the best option for me. Based on suggestions from members here and his own email I decided to have the standard Wality medium steel nib in the pen. So far, the nib has been smooth and works without any skipping. The pen itself is an eyedropper style pen with a large ink capacity. It is a light pen and I have been using the pen unposted. There seems to be silicon grease or some form of stopping material near the ink-tank and the section of the pen to help avoid ink spills. The nib itself seemed to have been misaligned a little from the feed, some gentle pressure helped sort it out. Call me a sucker, but I love the quaint packaging that it comes in. It has been a long time since I got any mail with a cloth package and wax seals. Here are a few pictures of the pen, http://blog.bharathpalavalli.com/images/100x180xSeals.jpg.pagespeed.ic.ioMH6-R8qx.jpg http://blog.bharathpalavalli.com/images/180x150xboxed.jpg.pagespeed.ic.gshuBGHIhp.jpg http://blog.bharathpalavalli.com/images/200x120xunboxed.jpg.pagespeed.ic.1j5B7bwpOf.jpg http://blog.bharathpalavalli.com/images/200x80xpenhorizontal.jpg.pagespeed.ic.Pd5gDr5pah.jpg http://blog.bharathpalavalli.com/images/100x180xpencontop.jpg.pagespeed.ic.63gb7im9N1.jpg http://blog.bharathpalavalli.com/images/200x125xlengthcomparison.jpg.pagespeed.ic.up9MSgxlNV.jpg http://blog.bharathpalavalli.com/images/150x125xuncapped.jpg.pagespeed.ic.2JaZ2T1-84.jpg http://blog.bharathpalavalli.com/images/150x100xfeeder.jpg.pagespeed.ic.wCt4HC4JY8.jpg http://blog.bharathpalavalli.com/images/200x110xrealigned.jpg.pagespeed.ic.0qBoRAlSq0.jpg Cross-posted on my blog. PS: This is not a review!
  13. mehandiratta

    Asa Spear Review

    HI FOLLOWING IS MY REVIEW OF ASA SPEAR.... THE NIB IS A VERY SMOOTH WRITER , INK FLOW IS WET. TOP OF THE CAP CAN HAVE LOGO ALSO.
  14. Spear is an Ebonite fountain pen by a Chennai(India) based company ASApens. I purchased it from their website.Like my two previous purchases of the same brand I am quite pleased with it. This is a review and not an eulogy, but all things said and done I really liked the pen. What I am going to do here is to review the pen and also compare it with Athlete side by side.Please pardon for the poor photographs. It is a German twin of Athlete, better educated, better trained and better skilled with almost the same height and personality. Hand crafted with Ebonite, the pen, like Athlete is a pleasure to hold with almost perfect balance, practical average sized section and nice length. The cap of both the pens flush in the Barrel and it is difficult to see the line where the cap and the barrel touch. The clip of both the pens is supported by top cap screwing in. The finger stopper is present on section in both pens. In looks they differ in two things. First the ASA engraving on the barrel is far more pronounced in Spear. Truly speaking it is visible but not aesthetically as pleasing as was in case of Athlete.Secondly in spear the pen takes a larger number of turns to come out. Which is something that I don't like. But it is a minor issue with an otherwise wonderful pen. You will pay 25$ for an Athlete and 35$ for the Spear. For this difference of 10$ you will get a qualitatively different nib and feed system. Athlete has simple IPG marked, Iridium tipped monotone steel nib. This nib was apparently made in Taiwan or somewhere near I guess.It has a fairly simple ebonite feed and an eyedropper filling system. A few FPN members had issues with the nib. Though most of them reported that the issues were easily resolved. Personally, I loved the nib and it has been my favorite for the sheer simplicity, efficiency and elegance. But, the Spear offers 10 breather hole German Jowo nib and a Jowo feed and Three in one filling system. The nib looks more like a space gadget with 10 holes than a spear. The nib attracts the attention of bloody everyone around. No one has seen such a thing. It looks sci fi. I don't know why Jowo thought it proper to use 10 holes and not our old favorite one hole but I am glad that they thought something like it. Man, it looks cool!!! Holding a fountain pen sometimes, in this age of Rollers and ballpoints looks antediluvian, having a pen with 10 breather holes always help. I have used this pen with the converter and as an Eyedropper. So the filling system pretty much works. Now, I will discuss the most important part. The writing experience. The Jowo nib is shorter to Athlete #6 nib. So you will have to hold the pen a little higher depending upon the hand stance you use. The nib is sturdy and has been very securely fit. It can not be removed with normal force. I hate using abnormal force. So I have not yet been able to disassemble the pen.The tines, like all Jowos have been so properly placed that the chances of their alignment getting disturbed are pretty low. Athlete has always proved to be a wonderful writer for me though the nib needed a little tweaking every now and then. Spear has its own advantages. It is smoother. Typical Jowo smoothness. The nib is M but with Pilot blue I use, it wrote more of a Lamy F and less thicker than Schmidt M. However what I found was, surprisingly, that the Athlete is a lot wetter than Spear. Thus if you try to draw a very fast straight line you will find no skipping in Athlete but in Spear you may find some skipping. Having said that, I conclude that the nib is superb. I loved writing with the pen given its great balance and superb smoothness. Would you prefer Spear or Athlete, the choice is yours to make. Personally, I liked the spear a lot, I mean for say 1200/-INR I got a lot. I have paid more and have been lesser satisfied. But, for me, its a personal opinion, the pen does not threaten to push the Athlete in oblivion. Perhaps someday I will fit a Bock/ Jowo Friction fit with my Athlete and it will become my dream pen. But till that day comes, Athlete is,for me, as precious as the Spear. Edited to add some better pics.
  15. Hi everyone, this is my first review. I'm doing it because I have purchased a pen that has a history and also has emotional significance for me because of where the material used to make it came from. Name: York Minster 13th Century Firewood Oak handmade fountain pen Price: £49.99 from www.yorkandbeyond.com (no affiliation) who also have an ebay store. The pen is also available from www.yorkminster.org Overall performance: quite smooth (fine nib) Video of my review at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=03Nf0kFbO48 The pen is made by a Yorkshire craftsman using 800 year old wood from York Minster that was reclaimed after the fire there in 1984. York and the Minster mean something to me and so that is what motivated my purchase. The pen came in a large white cardboard box embossed with the seal of the Archbishop of York. Inside the box was a book (and I mean book) about the Minster and the fire as well as a certificate of authenticity from the Dean of York Minster. The pen came with a standard international cartridge and a standard international converter, a velvet pen-slip and a spare nib (so I have a fine and a medium gold-plate iridium-point german nib for this pen). The pen is capped and posted via a screw mechanism (the capping process was a little stiff). There is a large polished black, pointed finial (stone or metal?) on the cap which also has a large cap ring with a thin piece of the same black material embossed on it (it may be 2 thinner cap rings separated by a thin piece of the black material. The section is gold-plate to match the rest of the trims (which are also available in chrome and gunmetal finishes) and is a lot thinner than the barrel and cap (but not as thin as on my Waterman Hemisphere 10 which I find to be too thin). I have compared the fine and medium nibs supplied with the pen. Both are fairly smooth. The fine nib offers a bit of feedback which I find helpful but felt a bit on the dry side when using Waterman Florida Blue. The medium nib is considerably smoother, wetter and a joy to use. It feels a privilege to be touching history every time I use this pen and it was purchased for its history and to pass on when I'm not here. The fact it is so pleasant to use is an added bonus. Friendly and fast service when buying this pen and which helped make a contribution to the ongoing restoration and upkeep of one of the UK's finest cathedrals (no affiliation). Best wishes James
  16. Dear FPN'ers, We are happy to announce our latest model of Ranga Pens called "ZEAL" . It is Ebonite & Clear Acrylic Demonstrator pen. It has German JOWO Screw in nib units and German Schmidt K5 converters. This is one of our High End Model Pens. The barrel and Cap dia are 16mm app. iT COMES IN TWO DESIGNS 1. Flat Top & Barrel End 2. Round Top and Rounded Barrel End. The ink level in the converter is clearly visible in the barrel. 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 available Ebonite colours for "ZEAL" is (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) "ZEAL" is available in Polished or Bakul Finish. Clip or Clipless version is available for this Model. http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03648-1_zps776e03a6.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03673-1_zpsee76eb91.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03672-1_zps0f202b77.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03658-1_zps88623756.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03651-1_zps444b755d.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03662-1_zps784c5e71.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03660-1_zps8f18972e.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03664-1_zps619f1972.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03668-1_zps6a180920.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03665-1_zps97af310f.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03667-1_zps8a644ef8.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/German%20Jowo%20Nib%20Pens/DSC03655-1_zps24792bd4.jpg Thanks, Kandan.M.P Ranga Pen Company
  17. Most pen brands can boast a rich history that covers more than a hundred years. “Manu Propria” is a remarkable new brand at the gate of a new era. Only one man, Martin Pauli, is responsible for crafting each single pen. His motto is: 'Handmade from scratch.' Pens with a powerful shape, handcrafted in ebonite, with exquisite urushi lacquer work and 18kt gold nibs. You will be the first to discover them in the Sakura Fountain Pen Gallery. Please welcome, admire and collect your own Manu Propria pens !
  18. Just finished this one up yesterday. Made from Snakewood. Really happy with how it turned out overall. Just wanted to share.
  19. So, after individually reviewing two of my three Hakases (buffalo horn and rosewood), my Romillo Nervión and my custom Nakaya, I feel it is time to draw together some disparate threads. For many, the prospect of a fully custom pen is both alluring and daunting. With so many options the process seems fraught with danger, and the reassurance of an off-the-peg alternative, liberally reviewed and photographed here on the forum, turns the 'maybe' into an eternal 'maybe next time'. So here I will attempt to remove the mystery from the process, to shine a light on these three well-known if enigmatic makers, and to give a holistic and subjective overview of the process and the final pens. Maybe then I will help push a few of you over the edge into the abyss. Romillo Nervión, custom Nakaya, Hakase Rosewood, Hakase Buffalo Horn Communication: A friendly and knowledgeable contact is crucial, both in easing anxiety and assuring that there are no misunderstandings along the (sometimes long) way. Yet, oddly, it is the experience with the most scope for error that has proven to be the most rewarding, and then by a large margin. Hakase is a tiny company located in Tottori, a middling city in the north of Honshu, Japan's main island. If I say that its locale is known only for its pears and a sand dune, perhaps you will understand how remote Hakase is. Mr. Ryo Yamamoto is the proprietor and, now that his father and patron has retired, also the maker of Hakase's pens. From what I understand, he speaks little-to-no English, and yet... My three experiences with Hakase have been absolutely without flaw. Mr. Yamamoto's infinite patience, his pride in his products, and his devotion to his customers, has shone through in every interaction, no matter how minor. Questions were answered almost instantaneously (via Google Translate but, miraculously, still comprehensible), often including comparative photos of great skill, as well as personal guidance and impressions of the options under consideration. The little questionnaire (filled out once and then kept on file for future reference) asked for certain writing specifics and preferences, as well as a writing sample, and was always mailed back anew upon receipt of an order with an exact to-scale picture of the expected pen. Ryo even allowed my second pen to jump the queue to ensure it arrived in time for my birthday... Aftercare has also been sublime: a new nib was ground for me to match my pen (as each pen is constructed entirely by hand, it was necessary to send it back in its entirety to ensure a clean marriage between section and barrel); turnaround from Israel to Japan and back again was barely three weeks. I have had less contact with Álvaro Romillo at Romillo, but so far the signs have been good. eMails were usually promptly serviced (with a few lapses), and answers have been friendly, open and comprehensive, though they lack the overwhelming thoroughness of Mr. Yamamoto at Hakase. So where does this leave Nakaya? Not very high, unfortunately. I have had several experiences with Nakaya, both personally and through Classic Fountain Pens in California. Whereas Hakase exemplifies that friendlier nature of the Japanese national personality, Nakaya inhabits the realms of the introverted side. Even as a repeat customer, several exploratory communications with the company in Tokyo were politely rebuffed; a request for more details about the urushi craftsmen in Wajima (a town I was to visit as my latest pen was being produced) was ignored. It is no coincidence, therefore, that upon undertaking a custom design, I chose CFP to act as middle-man. Romillo size 9, Nakaya ruthenium plated F, Hakase F, Hakase F Scope for Customisation: I suppose this is the most important issue, for what is the definition of a 'custom' pen? Of the three, only Romillo is entirely made by hand, the other two relying on certain parts sourced from other manufacturers. Needless to say, this limits their creative scope somewhat. On considering a Romillo, I asked Álvaro what existed within the realms of possibility. His answer: the daunting "anything". I am not sure this was meant literally (I doubt I could order a telescoping piston without footing the bill for the necessary R&D upfront), but in dimensions and furniture, it seems that anything goes. He was even open to custom end-buttons, clips and nib engravings too, although strangely not to any material bar ebonite. A celluloid model has just been added to Romillo's website, so perhaps that is about to change... Nib, feed and filling aside, Hakase have been more than willing to alter their signature pens. Mix-and-match details from their plethora of designs, as well as a (new) choice of 14k golds or sterling silver, all to create your pen, then have Mr. Yamamoto tailor the dimensions and details to suit your taste. Materials are limited to those traditionally utilised by Hakase, but the canvas proves vast: celluloid, ebonite, various exotic woods, buffalo horn and even turtle-shell for those more adventurous, and possessed of deep pockets. With Nakaya, alterations are limited to the surface: the garnish rather than the meat. One must first choose a basic design from those already offered by Nakaya (or, as in my case, allow them to suggest one), and then work from there. Even then, there are seemingly arbitrary limitations: a request to include western text on the pen was quietly refused, as was a second nib and section. Pedantic and pointless, especially when undertaking such a project at such an expense. 'Specialness': You can find my thoughts elsewhere, but it goes without saying that one orders a custom pen for something more than brand image. More, even, than objective attributes. A handmade pen should sing in an ineffable manner alien to an object spat out by machine. It should not necessarily be without flaw, but those flaws must be evidence of the divine fallibility of man rather than lax quality control or the inadequacy of design. It is here that the Nakaya absolutely fails. It is a beautiful pen, a fantastic pen even and, imbued with so much personal resonance, I love it dearly. But it is a (relatively) mass-produced product with very beautiful embellishments. I do not pick it up and feel it was made for me, that it embodies some indelible connection between the craftsman and I. I do with the other two. Even the nib: yes, it is a good nib. Great even. But it is the work of John Mottishaw and is comparable to any of the other Nakayas or Platinums that I own, all on off-the-shelf pens and no poorer for it. The Romillo is the complete antithesis. It would not exist were it not for me, and everything about it screams 'anachronism' in the manner of an heirloom film camera or a car with a manual transmission. It is the very definition of what a custom pen should be - not a single part outsourced or produced by robot, and that nib is quite simply a marvel of character and grace. How a cottage manufacturer on Europe's periphery can do what the big boys cannot is beyond me, and for many that nib and that nib alone will pronounce the Nervión the absolute and uncontested winner here. I would not argue with that conclusion... But it is not mine. In my humble eyes, Hakase is the master of the custom pen. Everything, from the communication to the ordering to the blissful agony of the wait is exactly what I want the experience to be. The choice of materials and styles is comprehensive, and the skill exhibited in the manufacture (the threads are cut by hand!) is peerless. Yes, for some Hakases will forever be hobbled by the Pilot nib, feed and filler, yet the proof is in the writing and Ryo Yamamoto has still succeeded in translating my desires into nib form (three times on three separate pens) better than any nibmeister, let alone manufacturer. Yes, other Pilots in my collection may share the 'same' size 15 nib, but none dream to compare upon the page. I am happy to own all three and would consider none a mistake. But were I to only have one, there would be absolutely no doubt: Mr Yamamoto and Hakase would be the one to receive my only order.
  20. mongrelnomad

    Romillo Nervión

    When we think of pen manufacturing in Europe, no doubt we tend to think of Germany, of Italy, perhaps - if your tastes tend towards the vintage, or you've been in this game for a while - the UK. The rest appears a wasteland, and yet from one of the unsung corners of the continent hails probably the most interesting manufacturer outside of Japan. As is the way, I came across Romillo through this fair madhouse of ours. A relative enigma, this Spanish brand was alluded to only occasionally, and even the few lines were seldom accompanied by as much as a photograph. Further research pointed to a series of pretty if plain ebonite pens, and the idea of them never really piqued my imagination. But then, new rumblings. This tiny cottage manufacturer was doing the unthinkable and ignoring decades of received wisdom: they were manufacturing their own nibs. As if that were not brazen enough in itself, these nibs were produced entirely by hand (other so-called 'handmade' nibs are only hand-finished). 18k gold and available in sizes 7 and 9, the latter was even larger than the hallowed nib on Montblanc's 149. It had to be done. An eMail was sent to Álvaro, patron and namesake to Romillo. After a brief discussion, I settled upon the Nervión, the company's largest pen and, of course, blessed with its largest nib. Hand lathed from ebonite stock, it is available in black, terracotta, wood-grain, and my own personal choice: blue-black ripple. The nib choice was more difficult. Being hand-made, the usual rigid constraints disappear. Oblique triple-broad flexible cursive-italic? Nah. I'm boring, and so I chose and Extra Fine, though I could not decide between a 'rigid' or 'semi-flex' example. I'm not a fan of esoteric and overly-exotic nibs (I find they tend to be quickly relegated to the drawer), and I've had bad experiences with too-flexible nibs in the past, so I opted for the 'rigid' nib. More on this choice later... Money paid, approximately one month later: the pen arrived in Tel-Aviv. I usually don't comment on the packaging of pens, finding it at best pretty frivolity, and at worst, lipstick on a pig. But in Romillo's case I will make an exception. The pen itself came wrapped in a black felt wrap laid within a beautifully manufactured wooden box. The slide-out top is held in place with cord that nestles in its own carved channel: just enough space for storing the pen and its eyedropper. Yes, Romillo makes their pens either cartridge-converter or eyedropper-filler. Form an orderly queue please. Also packaged within the parcel was a gargantuan gold and black pen kimono - perhaps inspired by Nakaya - a completely unnecessary addition. An odd mis-step considering the perfectly judged nature of the rest. So, to the main event: the pen. I'm not the biggest fan of ebonite as a material with which to manufacture an entire pen. It can be dull and lifeless, inhabiting that weird neighbourhood of not-quite-glossy-not-quite-matt. I recently disposed of a Conway Stewart (RIP) Marlborough Vintage LE for exactly this reason. Ebonite is not without it appeal though: its tactility is its strength. It is soft and warm, and I am a huge fan of manufacturers that use it exclusively for the 'touch points' of their pens (yes, like Hakase), or the hidden structure beneath. And that ebonite smell is beguiling... pungent and welcoming and completely unlike anything else. Somehow, and in-spite of my misgivings, the Nervión manages to pull it off. Unadorned by jewellery (apart from the sold gold nipple roll-stopper), the cleans lines make the material work. and seems to recast the ebonite's simple idiosyncrasy upon its own terms. The only other embellishment is the sold gold emblem embedded in the barrel's tail. It is this detail alone (other than minor adjustments in length and girth) that separates the Nervión from the very similar Eo, and while I was initially worried that its weight would throw off what otherwise promised to be a very light pen, I needn't have worried. Not only is it a beautiful detail and, in my opinion, one of the defining features of the pen, it doesn't throw off the pen's lovely balance, as so much of the weight is up by the nib. Compared to the 149 and M800. I know the pen is completely hand-made, but that does not mean it is flawless. Where the barrel swells and narrows there are surprisingly visible scratches from the lathe, and the number stamped on the rear (I assume this is the serial number) is unexpectedly rudimentary. Nothing deal-breaking, but disappointing, still. The lathe-marks. But you care nothing for my disappointments. I care nothing for my disappointments. They fade to nothingness when in the presence of that nib. It is... astounding. In my time, buying, using, pseudo-collecting, I have never seen anything like it this side of a Namiki Imperial. It is simply breathtaking, so long and slender and tapering with such delicate tines and elegant curves, so daintily engraved. But a nib is nothing if it can't write... Nib size compared to M800 and 149. Yes it does, like no nib manufactured in the last fifty years. I said earlier that I requested a 'firm' EF, but the lexicon of this nib does not adhere to our modern vocabulary. It is soft, springy, more flexible even than any modern flexible nib I use or have owned, but without that snappy, violent recoil to which we have grown accustomed. This is no wet-noodle, but the feel, the spirit, reminds me of my pink Waterman 7. Yes, I am saying that of a pen manufactured in 2014. it is broader than I would have liked (a European Fine at normal angle and normal pressure) and I have yet to truly master its angles and sensitivity. These are my personal issues, though, and nothing to do with the nib itself. I have contacted Álvaro regarding grinding the nib to a finer point and he has said he would be happy to do so, and can create any width desired on receipt of a writing sample. No doubt this is something I will have to try. But no mind my failings; this pen is doubtless the single most unique writing experience at the sharp end that I've ever had. The feed - also handsome and handmade - has had no problems keeping up with the (rather gorgeous Romillo blue) ink, even when the tines are fully spread under heavy pressure. Although I have emptied the pen entirely of its capacity through use, I have never had a problem with ink blobbing as I write, a problem common to eyedroppers. That isn't to say that the filling mechanism has been problem free. This is my first eyedropper without a shut-off valve, but I was assured by Álvaro that there was no danger of... upsets in normal use. The ink reservoir is secured by an o-ring that meets the beautifully machined brass, but that has not avoided two unfortunate ejaculations of ink. Thankfully, neither leak escaped the cap, and one was the result of rather extreme barometric conditions (a quick decent from the hills of Jerusalem to the Dead Sea). Worryingly, though, the other occurred after no more than a simple bounce around Tel-Aviv in my backpack. Again, hardly damning, but disappointing. The O-ring. No, my experience with the Nervión has not been perfect, and I have not bonded with it in quite the same way as I have with my Hakases, but it is a pen I would not hesitate for an instant to recommend or to purchase again. Romillo is such a unique prospect, its pens are so different, and its nibs so without precedent or peer, that the question of price ceases to be a good representation of value. The two most unique aspects of this pen - that nib, that filling system - can also be had with the company's Essential 9 model (local VAT included) for the price of a new Writer's Edition from Montblanc. Which would you prefer to have? For me, that is a decision with a simple answer. Thank you for reading. Following requests, I have conducted a separate comparative review of Nakaya, Romillo and Hakase in order to provide an overview of the daunting task of commissioning a custom pen. If you are interested, it can be found here.
  21. I ordered this pen at a very difficult time. My darling best friend, Sufi – a mongrel my wife rescued from a building site at the turn of the millennium – was dying of a long, debilitating illness. On the eve of what would prove to be her last stay in veterinary hospital, I decided that, already wounded and seething, I would need something to remember her by when the inevitable happened. I’ve previously ordered both from Nakaya directly and from Classic Fountain Pens (CFP) and considering past experience, decided once more to approach John and his troupe in California. Dealing with Nakaya is not necessarily an unpleasant experience, but the culture and language barrier, combined with the inevitable google translate, can cause ambiguity in communication where – for this project especially – I required absolute clarity. CFP did not disappoint: a few days of email to-and-fro-ing led to a series of pictures being sent, and the conclusion of a design aesthetic: “Sufi and Chloe chasing away a crow”, both a poignant (to me) symbol of the immutability of memory, and a literal representation of one of their favorite pass-times. A maximum budget was also proposed (be clear: in the world of custom works, the maximum budget is the final cost). The brief was passed to Nakaya, and a few weeks later a sketch was delivered. It was perfect bar the order of the dogs (Sufi always took the lead; Chloe followed) – a minute on photoshop and the design was approved. By this point, Sufi was gone; euthanised as I held her (so thin, so broken) in my arms, buried in a shady spot beneath a tree. And so the wait began, and with it the process of acceptance that feels so much like forgetting. Almost a year after the process began, I got an email to say the pen had arrived, and within a week, I was opening the box in Tel-Aviv. There is a moment of recalibration with every custom pen that comes the first time the finished article is unpacked and held, the details taken in. Unlike pens mass-produced on a conveyor belt, the end result is a complete unknown. Things that are usually taken for granted (tactility, finish, texture) are question-marks, and over the course of deciding, of tweaking, of ordering, a platonic ideal builds and grows and exists in the commissioner’s mind – the pen that is expected, the pen that is desired. Then, when the actual real physical object is something different – less, or more; different – the break occurs and the new, real relationship begins. With most pens, this reappraisal process is purely physical; here, the primary disappointment was emotional. I unpacked the pen, felt its weight, the perfectly smooth black urushi, the delicately layered maki-e – silver and gold for Sufi, silver for Chloe – the stark simplicity of the design echoing the unadorned curves of the shape . And then I repacked it and put it away. I think I cried a bit too. Sufi I had been giddy with excitement, for somehow, foolishly, I must have believed that having a pen in her likeness would bring Sufi back. But a pen is a pen and my best friend is dead; I was a fool to think otherwise. Chloe A few weeks later, I was able to start again. I was able to appreciate the fine detail of the artist, the flawlessness of the work, the eerie perfect luster of the black urushi gloss. I noticed too the shape of the paw-adorned section (slightly more grooved than the one on decapod, and slightly less comfortable for it), and how the usual irritation of the four-thread cap not lining up was not an issue in this design. I felt how the rhodium plating turned the usually soft and supple 14k gold Platinum nib into a Sailor 21k mimicking nail, and decided the the XF nib was too fine and scratchy for me, even after John Mottishaw’s fettling (it would soon be replaced by a similarly rigid rhodium F). Slowly but surely, I began to use it. First it found its way into my tertiary Sage Brown case and then into my secondary. Now, finally, after six months I feel it has been sufficiently decontaminated of that initial flush of emotional impotence, to the point where it is what it should always have been (and all it could ever have been): a beautiful momento of a passed time and a missed friend; one that happens to also be an exceptionally good pen. Thank you for reading. Following requests, I have conducted a separate comparative review of Nakaya, Romillo and Hakase in order to provide an overview of the daunting task of commissioning a custom pen. If you are interested, it can be found here.
  22. 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
  23. I think it is about time to do my first review (way overdue). I've always liked the looks and feel of leather notebooks but either the paper was not what I wanted or I was to scared to spoil them with my scribbles. So I opted to go for a nice leather cover. I searched a while to find a nice leather cover that could fit the notebooks I like. Most covers out there seem to be made for Moleskin and that's, well lets just say not my cup of tea. Not to long ago I came across a Dutch website www.writersplaza.nl were they sell handmade leather notebooks and covers by an Englishman named Paul Francis. Just when I was about to order the reddish one I noticed the dark brown one. I could not choose so there was only one option left I ordered both Both are just awesome. They fit about any A5 notebook I think. So far I have tried them with my favourite at the moment the Leuchtturm (currently in the brown one) and the Rhodia (web) and the thicker softcover Rhodia (shown in the reddish one). The reddish one has an extra flap where you can store businesscards, creditcard, etc. The extra flap also protects the notebook more when carried in a backpack or sorts. You can put the flap over or under the front cover. They both are pretty soft leather and lie as flat as the notebook allows. As a bonus the are made environmentally save. (http://www.writersplaza.nl/c-1443210/paul-francis-how-your-book-was-made/) They can stain a bit at the beginning. Needless to say I'm extremely happy with them and they put a smile on my face every time I see them or pick them up to start writing. After some googling I think I found his ebayshop http://stores.ebay.co.uk/The-Diary-Shop No more words let's show some pictures Some very nice diamondshape stiching
  24. riccardodebole

    New Autograph Ghibli Fountain Pen

    From January 2014 our distribution strategy is based by selling directly to the final consumer, no other intermediary like a distributor or a shop is involved. Our workshop is located close Venice, in the Brenta Canal area, well known throughout the world for its beautiful locations and for the beauty of the venetian villas with their parks. Our handmade objects are the resulting product of the story of our land, our passion, our quality, everithing that “Made in Italy” means. We like think that our works are unique, as every our customer is a unique person. GHIBLI presents “AUTOGRAPH” the new series of fountain pens. These pens can use your very own signature as the photos onboard. This GHIBLI fountain pen will be one of the most special pen you will ever own. Much like the fingerprint , your signature is completely your own, no one else has it. We hope a large success for these personalized fountain pens ! Kind regards, Riccardo http://www.ghiblistudio.it
  25. Dear All, My Father M.S.Pandurangan has crafted this Ebonite pen on last week This is Model 5 Pen with Customer supplied Nib and converter. We are introducing this new Ebonite colour Yellowished Olive with Pink Ripple. This is similar to old waterman pen colours. The capped length is 7 inches and the dia is 18.75mm I'm sharing it for All FPN'ers. Comments are welcome Thanks, Kandan.M.P Ranga Pen Company http://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CUSTOM%20PENS-2014/DSC02366-1_zps6ad31feb.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CUSTOM%20PENS-2014/DSC02394-1_zps6678c3a6.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CUSTOM%20PENS-2014/DSC02392-1_zpsf262c217.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CUSTOM%20PENS-2014/DSC02378-1_zps16543cfd.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CUSTOM%20PENS-2014/DSC02385-1_zps51bdaca4.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CUSTOM%20PENS-2014/DSC02374-1_zps28560d4e.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CUSTOM%20PENS-2014/DSC02377-1_zpsc1d4f71c.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CUSTOM%20PENS-2014/DSC02388-1_zps56a50e93.jpghttp://i1189.photobucket.com/albums/z437/mpkandan/CUSTOM%20PENS-2014/DSC02391-1_zps432429d8.jpg





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