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Hi gang, It's getting to be that time again! Bonhams June 16th Fine Writing Instruments sale is just two months away, and I'd like to offer free catalogues to the first ten FPN members who send their requests to me at ivan.briggs@bonhams.com. Please include your first and last names in the email, as well as a postal address (we cannot deliver to PO Boxes). Bonhams pen catalogues are ordinarily $30 for American clients and $50 for international clients, and they are fully illustrated and intended to be useful reference works, so this is, I hope, an attractive offer. Once the catalogue is ready, in about five weeks, I will add a pdf link here. The sale will feature about 200 lots of modern and vintage pens. It will be of special interest to Montblanc fans, as it will include the biggest selection of rare Montblanc Ateliers Privés special editions ever offered in one sale, as well as some rare and wonderful vintage MB's. The sale will also showcase a spectacular selection of vintage and modern limited Dunhill-Namikis, including a pair of incredibly rare Dunhill-Namiki A-grade Emperor pens from the 1930s. Here is a list of the Montblanc Ateliers Privés pens in the sale: 75th Anniversary 18K Gold Skeleton, limited to 75 examples. Estimate: $40,000-60,000 Abraham Lincoln "Signatures for Freedom," limited to 50 examples. Estimate: $20,000-30,000 Albert Einstein 18K White Gold Skeleton, limited to 99 examples. Estimate: $20,000-30,000 Antoni Gaudi 18K Gold Skeleton, limited to 128 examples. Estimate: $15,000-25,000 Axis Mundi 18K Gold Skeleton, limited to 101 examples. Estimate: $18,000-24,000 Caspar David Friedrich 18K White Gold, limited to 65 examples. Estimate: $20,000-25,000 Charlie Chaplin 18K Gold Skeleton, limited to 88 examples. Estimate: $30,000-40,000 Cristobal Colon 18K Gold Toledo, limited to 92 examples. Estimate: $20,000-30,000 Diego Rivera 18K White Gold Skeleton, limited to 70 examples. Estimate: $18,000-24,000 Fortune 88 18K Rose Gold Skeleton, limited to 88 examples. Estimate: $20,000-25,000 Franklin D. Roosevelt "Signatures for Freedom," limited to 50 examples. Estimate: $20,000-30,000 Frida Kahlo 18K Gold Skeleton Cap, limited to 70 examples. Estimate: $18,000-24,000 Genghis Khan 18K Gold, limited to 88 examples. Estimate: 25,000-35,000 George Washington "Signatures for Freedom," limited to 50 examples. Estimate: $15,000-20,000 Heritage 2012 Titanium, limited to 333 examples. Estimate: $8000-12,000 James Madison "Signatures for Freedom," limited to 50 examples. Estimate: $20,000-30,000 Joan Miro Lacquer & 18K Gold, limited to 76 examples. Estimate: $15,000-25,000 Johannes Gutenberg 18K Gold, limited to 42 examples. Estimate: $12,000-16,000 John Lennon 18K Gold Skeleton, limited to 70 examples. Estimate: $30,000-50,000 Kong Zi [Confucius] 18K White Gold, limited to 88 examples. Estimate: 15,000-25,000 Leonardo da Vinci 18K Gold Skeleton, limited to 74 examples. Estimate; $12,000-18,000 Magical Black Widow 18K Gold Skeleton, limited to 88 examples. Estimate: $20,000-25,000 Max Reinhardt 2010 Edition, limited to 30 examples. Estimate: $8000-12,000 Musee du Louvre 18K White gold Skeleton, limited to 89 examples. Estimate: $12,000-18,000 Pablo Picasso 18K White Gold, limited to 39 examples. Estimate: $50,000-60,000 Pablo Picasso 18K Yellow Gold, limited to 91 examples. Estimate: $30,000-50,000 Paul Klee 18K Gold Skeleton, limited to 79 examples. Estimate: $25,000-35,000 Rouge et Noir 100th Anniversary, limited to 100 examples. Estimate: $4000-6000 Sir Winston Churchill 18K Gold, limited to 53 examples. Estimate: $25,000-35,000 Statue of Liberty 18K White Gold Captop, limited to 50 examples. Estimate: $15,000-25,000 Tchaikovsky 18K White gold Skeleton, limited to 130 examples. Estimate: $12,000-18,000 Cheers, Ivan

I need input on deciding between Fine vs. Extra Fine Nib for a Visconti Homo Sapien Silver I am new to FPN and relatively new to the world of fountain pens, but after exploring the various posts and various Online stores, have taken the plunge to get a Visconti HS. I had originally ordered a Visconti HS Silver MIDI online. After holding the pen for the first time on arrival, decided I would likely use the pen unposted as the cap is quite heavy and doesn't quite feel right posted to me. Unposted, however, the MIDI feel slightly small to me. Luckily the vendor was happy to offer an upgrade to the Visconti HS Silver (full size). The MIDI is en route to the vendor for upgrade exchange, but i am having doubts about my nib selection. I've read reviews on how the HS nips compare relative to Pelikan nibs, but I don't own a Pelikan (yet). My frame of reference for nib size are the pens I am currently using Pilot Namiki Metropolitan Medium Nib--Ideal size for mePilot Namiki Vanishing Point Fine Nib--slightly too fine (but has it's advantages for taking fine notes in a wallet sized notebook)Lamy Al-Star Fine Nib--slightly too "inky"--broader than the Namiki Metropolitan Medium--would prefer slightly finer and think the Lamy Extra Fine would have worked better for me Based on the above, Which Homo Sapien nib comes closest to a Namiki Medium Nib or Lamy Extra Fine Nib? Can't wait to hear input from this board. Much thanks in advance. Edwin

I started collecting pens, almost all rollerballs, somewhat by accident -- I bought a few pens I liked, then gifts followed and more of my own purchases and now I have almost 200 pens...time to catalogue them. Unfortunately I didn't know this would turn into a passion and didn't save all my paperwork. I am trying to identify this pen. It has gold trim with "Namiki" on the clip. The color didn't photograph well but it is a tortoise shell look in very dark purple and turquoise.

Hi all Any help or comments would be welcomed to identify the signature on this Namiki jewelry box. I think the signature may be KOHO Lida, but that is only through looking at blurry on-line images. I've never seen any reference to a Namiki jewelry box, or seen a piece by Namiki this large. The scene of the pheasants is quite spectacular. Here's a link with more details: http://www.theholygrail.com/Namiki.pdf http://theholygrail.com/images/Box-outer.jpg Thanks and best regards kiwipaul (Auckland, New Zealand)

Some of you may recall my posts in this forum a while back requesting help making a decision as to which Japanese pen to get.....that resulted in my getting a very nice Nakaya Piccolo (too small....guess that's why they call it piccolo....), then exchanging it for a very nice Nakaya Neo-Standard...(great pen, with wonderful nibwork by John Mottishaw....but too light....).... So, continuing my quest for the right Japanese pen, I was very taken by the recent posts and reviews regarding the handsome Namiki Yukari Royale pens.....only issue was which color to go for....be brave and go for the vermillion or be safe and for the black one.....after much anguish over the decision, I ordered a black one with M nib ground to a nice cursive italic M by the great Richard Binder.... Pen just arrived today and it's a beauty....such simple elegance to the shape and form of the pen...very zen-like I think....has some heft to it, but not too heavy....and nicely balanced when in the hand (don't post pens...and certainly not this one....) and writes effortlessly, with a tad bit of tooth as I requested..... As mkim (he of the great vermillion Yukari Royale review...) said to me, once you get one, you'll want the other one....ie, other color....and I think he's right (unfortunately, for my piggybank....)..... So, without further ado, I present the handsome black Yukari Royale and I quick writing sample I did today.....hope you enjoy it!..... [08-07-13] Posted a few more pics.... http://i473.photobucket.com/albums/rr100/ArchiMark/P1050794_zpse75e0c30.jpg http://i473.photobucket.com/albums/rr100/ArchiMark/P1050797_zps36d2cbb8.jpg http://i473.photobucket.com/albums/rr100/ArchiMark/P1050798_zpse8409d5b.jpg http://i473.photobucket.com/albums/rr100/ArchiMark/P1050799_zps6aa895d6.jpg http://i473.photobucket.com/albums/rr100/ArchiMark/P1050803_zpsf62a9799.jpg http://i473.photobucket.com/albums/rr100/ArchiMark/P1050801_zps2f197555.jpg

Hi all, It's time again for the Bonhams Fine Writing Instruments sale, to be held in San Francisco on December 15th. I think this is our best pen sale yet! There are 312 lots, with lots of great Montblanc, Namiki, Pelikan and other fine pens. The pens are overall in excellent condition, and estimates are very attractive relative to retail values. Of special interest are: * Many Special Limited Montblancs, including these models: Alfred Hitchcock, Axis Mundi, Frida Kahlo, Hundertwasser, Gutenberg, Gandhi, L'Aubrac, Sleleton 333, Musee du Louvre, White House, George Washington, Mozart 250, Statue of Liberty, five different versions of the Max Reinhardt, and others. * A vast collection of modern limited and rare vintage Dunhill-Namiki pens and pencils, including pre-Dunhill pens from the 1920s and a set of four bridge pencils in their original decorative box, as well as Namiki Thunder God Vs. Wind God, Setsugekka, Emperor Goldfish, Emperor Shishi Komainu 88th Anniversary, and many other examples. * The Seewoseter Collection of Fine Pelikans, consigned by Mr. Eckhard Seewoseter, a retired Pelikan executive who owned almost every significant pen made by Pelikan from the mid-1970s to 2005. * Several wonderful vintage pens, including a Parker Lucky Curve No. 38 "Snake", a Parker No. 60 Awanyu "Aztec" Gold-Filled fountain pen in its original box, and a lovely Watermans No. 514 Gold-Filled Chased Overlay pen in pristine condition. The catalogue is at the printer and ships soon. Interested parties can order copies of the print catalogue by calling Client Services at 1.800.223.2854, or you may peruse the catalogue by following this online link: http://www.bonhams.com/auctions/21816/?department=COL-PEN Or clicking this pdf link (recommended): http://images2.bonhams.com/original?src=Images/live/2014-11/24/S-21816-0-1.pdf Cheers, Ivan http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y31/teabagslim/decemberpensalecover_zps28314b76.jpg

So, I've been checking a lot of Raden pens recently, and found that I like the Yukari Nightline series very much due to the raden distribution and the sprinkled gold dust patterns. After much searching the net, the current version being marketed was not much to my taste due the ''black lines'' across the Raden which I felt detracted from the patterns, Picture from nibs.com I've been looking for this particular version, but I can't seem to find a name or model number per se, just that it's an older edition of the pen, which makes looking for it a bit hard. Pictures from http://ela123a.wordpress.com/2010/05/23/namiki-nightline-radean-fountain-pen/#comment-3 And there's even a nicer one here, on the right, which i'm told is from the 70s era ! Photo from Alfonso Mur https://www.facebook.com/amurbohigas?fref=photo So I was wondering if anyone knows a good resource to look up this particular line from Namiki-Pilot ? Help a fpn-er find a grail pen ! The 70s one really caught my eye...

Really contemplating on purchasing a Pilot/Namiki Falcon. Never owned a gold nib before and was wondering if you guys could help me out in selecting the right nib size. So long story short, the very first fountain pen I purchased was a Pilot DPN-70 Desk pen (almost similar to the platinum carbon desk pen). I really adore the line it lays down but it tends to be a little scratchy (i eventually smoothened it with mylar and it writes like a dream, but writes with a thicker and wetter line). I will be buying a namiki falcon but I have absolutely no idea as to which nib size I should buy, should I go for the soft fine or the soft extra fine? Is the soft extra fine nib on the namiki falcon scratchy when compared to the soft fine? I recently purchased mylar paper from goulet pens (no affiliation) and smoothened all your my nibs and I am loving how smooth they run with almost no feedback and i have got so used to it! However, I would not want to risk smoothening the nib on the falcon with mylar (if i do purchase it). I want it smooth out of the box. I write with almost light pressure (probably light to medium). So what would you suggest? Soft extra fine vs Soft fine? I have seen the writing samples on goulet pens and for me it just boils down to how comfortable the nib is, and in short it should glide across the paper with no pressure. Are there any owners of the Pilot/Namiki Falcon who own the pen in Soft extra fine or extra fine, and could share their experience with the pen in terms of: Scratchiness, feedback and smoothness? This would definitely help me in deciding on which nib size to go for! Thanks in advance!

Hello! I am searching for a second hand Namiki emperor or Yukari royale in vermillon lacquer or black lacquer. Does anyone of you have one he might want to sell? Thanks a lot. Jonas

Hi, I have a Pilot Vanishing Point / Capless which I left on my work desk. Upon returning I found that the top part (basically the clip) was broken. I have been trying to find a replacement for this part, but I can't find online. Could anyone help me? Thanks Karl

Hi! I don't have any Japanese pens yet, and I'd like to change that! I like shiny, blingy things, and the Pilot/Namiki Vanishing Point in the various Raden designs http://www.gouletpens.com/PN60590_p/pn60590.htm as well as the Platinum Galaxy Maki-e have all caught my eye http://nibs.com/PlatinumMakieGalaxy.html. The third pen I'm eying up is the Platinum Izumo Urushi (in Akatame red) http://nibs.com/Platinum-President-Izumo-Dark-Red.html (While not 'blingy', there is something about this pen that really grabs my attention. A subtle intensity I guess. I would love some input from those with experience with these models (or similar) who can tell me what they like/didn't like about these particular pens, what they would change etc etc. Some extra info: - I have never tried a Vanishing Point, so I don't know if I would like the feel of it, and I'm not sure if I'd like that clip right in the middle there. Does it impede your writing at all? I'm going to be honest, I'm totally going on looks here - I tend to favour big, wet writing Italian pens and I love a smoothy smooth (or at least mostly smooth LOL) with some nice spring in the nib. - I'm going to contact john Mottishaw and seeing what my customization options are for the Galaxy and the Izumo - I'd love to do a Spencerian mod on the Galaxy if that was possible. - I read somewhere that the Urushi coating changes after you have used it for a long time. Can anyone clarify/add to that? Many thanks for all of your help !

I just bought a Namiki Falcon pen from a retailer on Amazon. I think the nib should be touching the feed, but I could be wrong. Can anyone tell me if it is normal for this nib to be this far from the feed? (see the attached picture)

Welcome to Rich's Small Pad Pen Reviews, micro-reviews of fountain pens that happen to fall into my hands. These reviews are brief--all the print that will fit onto a small pad of paper. Pen: Namiki Vanishing Point Fermo Date Reviewed: May 20, 2014 LOVE * The silky-smooth nib that quickly adapts to my hand * The gloss-blue finish that looks gorgeous no matter how many times I drop the pen * The twist top that never opens in my pocket (my old Vanishing Point ruined several pairs of slacks and jackets) COULD BE BETTER * The miniscule converter capacity and difficulty getting much ink into it. (Best to use a cartridge if you do serious writing) OVERALL I like how the clip guides my fingers and the nib into just the right position for writing. (As a lefty, round-body pens can make this difficult.) This is my "everyday" pen that replaced my lost 12 year old carbon fiber Vanishing Point. I carry this pen everywhere and use it all the time. Once the nib settled in (didn't take long), the feel is lovely. Namiki customer service is as good as it gets. I dropped the pen on concrete and broke the twist mechanism. Namiki took the pen back, replaced the body, and touched up the nib. No cost.

II recently received a Namiki limited edition seahorse pen described as " gently used " no papers, with wooden box. The box is correct, the pen is also. Unfortunately, there is a small scuff near the edge of the cap, not affecting the design, that can ( if one is looking ) be seen by the naked eye. More significantly, it appears the the end of the pen barrel has been damaged and somewhat poorly repaired. I am wondering how much this would effect the value. Also, do these types of issues fall under the " gently used " category? Your advice would be appreciated.

I have often commented about black inks in general but though it was time for a little comparison of the ones I actually own. Also, I've started using the Pelikan 4001 again and still quite enjoy it, I'm ashamed to say. However, the recent post on here about Aurora v Pelikan made me try the Aurora one out and I'm impressed. Along with the Aurora Blue, their Black is great in my Moleskines - I use F or EF/XF nibs generally - and they both make a nice change from my customary use of 'The Master' - Pelikan 4001 Blue Black. So here are my inks. All written on my usual Rhodia 80gsm pad using Lamy Safari pens, dipped, amd M nibs. The following soak tests are on the usual pads of (probably) 80 or 90gsm paper but the quality isn't very good. The 'wet' ones were soaked for 30 minutes or so and then given a final rinse before drying. I'm impressed with the Aurora and always knew that the Pelikan was going to be OK. Skrip has a good outcome too and the Namiki is pretty well-known for this quality. Lastly no real surprises from the Waterman and Parker. I shall await any comments with interest!

So its finally here! Namiki Royale, Vermilion Urushi Warning: Photo Heavy - I personally love when reviews have tons of photos so just returning the favor! This pen fulfilled so many of my most desirable traits in a pen, that I found myself in need of writing a review on FPN for others to see. I will try to restrain myself from praising the pen too much, as I have only had the pen for about a week now...but as of now all I can say is: "this pen is freaking awesome!" I will divide the review into the following: 1. Appearance: The aesthetics and feel of the pen, disregarding the write-ability of the pen for this portion. 2. Performance:The nib and writing experience. 3. Construction: Durability of its materials, construction method, and details. 4. Presentation: Small portion that describes packaging. 5. Value: What/how I may value the pen and its experience. Without further ado... 1. Appearance: The appearance of the pen is of elegance and of humble gesture... At first glance from a distance the pen doesn't look too special, but as you get closer the finer details and presence of the pen slowly reveals itself to be an object of human creation approaching the pinnacle of perfection. Yes those are big words, but this is a big pen with bold attitude and confidence, I feel comfortable many who held one would agree. http://i1251.photobucket.com/albums/hh558/Pammzer/IMG_6011_zps5238ba00.jpg The shape of the pen is a classic cigar shape, but utilizes some of the lines of the french curve. A "french curve" is a classical curve measurement or standard in which the beauty of its curvature is determined through proportion. It appears pleasing to the eye much like the "golden scale" many are more familiar with. There is no compromise here, the pen became all that it wanted to be along the barrel and the cap. http://i1251.photobucket.com/albums/hh558/Pammzer/IMG_6023_zps528c8108.jpg http://i1251.photobucket.com/albums/hh558/Pammzer/IMG_6043_zps5f59366f.jpg The only details on the pen that breaks the perfectly lacquered shape are the clip and the very thin trim along the bottom of the cap. The clip very mysteriously slips into a slot, showing no evidence to how it might have been made. This is very much like Japanese Architecture, components coming together in a matter that shows no sign of bolts, rivets, seams... Therefore in appearance creating a object that is - and not that is force to be. I've seen several people complain that the Namiki clip on their higher end pens look exactly like the ones on their more "affordable" pens. I don't have any other Pilot or Namiki pens and cannot compare but from pictures the Royale Urushi and Maki-E line as well as the Emperor line seems to have greater taper along the two sides of the clip. This makes sense since they are larger pens, and therefore can have a larger clip. http://i1251.photobucket.com/albums/hh558/Pammzer/IMG_6033_zps4840078c.jpg The very thin golden ring trim at the bottom of the cap protects to urushi from impact anytime the cap is put down. It is the only urushi edge that will come into constant contact with other surfaces. This design shows impeccable excellence in the care for their pen designs, combining beauty and purpose. The Form and the Function do not compete for attention, they create synergy and one cannot be separated without the other, much like what we see in nature's design. http://i1251.photobucket.com/albums/hh558/Pammzer/IMG_6055_zps28c09fb9.jpg To give you an idea as to the size of this pen, I compared it to well known German and Italian pens well regarded as "pen standard" in measurement. The Montblanc 149 to the left appears to be similar to the Namiki in its cigar shape, but in reality it is VERY different. The ends of the 149 do not follow the "french curve" and have a bit of a squashed look to it in comparison. The Namiki I would say is slightly larger in length and very slightly thinner in girth than the 149. For die-hard Italian fans I threw in the old-style Omas Paragon to size compare... the comparatively small yet nimble Paragon is much thinner and shorter in comparison. The Paragon I feel is the perfect size for on-the-field type of writing, I feel very comfortable whipping it out in any situation to write down something quick. The 149 and the Namiki are large pens, however they somehow mastered their utility and grip comfort despite their size. I feel equally as comfortable to bring them along anywhere I go. They will feel right at home in either the field for sketching or in the meeting room. I tried to cover the colour portion in this review but it is just so difficult for words to describe, it shifts drastically depending on lighting conditions. I can say that it is a very bold and deep red that your eyes cannot look away from. I will let you readers be the judge of the colour... In my opinion, a deep bold red paired with a sensual yet humble body is a killer combination. 2. Performance: The writing experience of this pen can be explained to you in one word: Zen This is where the review might get a bit controversial... Statistics show that this pen is in the "heavier" pen category. The weight of the pen is around 45gr. This is due to the un-assuming brass construction underneath the delicous vermilion urushi (that will be covered later on). In comparison the MB149 weighs 29gr and the Omas Paragon weights 20gr. Although the Namiki more than doubles the weight of the paragon, it is so well balanced that the weight does not detract from the writing experience. Like a well made sword or weapon, the weight distribution is perfect and the user feels no strain, while at the business end there is more "oomph". I absolutely love this well balanced weight, a humble looking pen, when held has that feel to it like - "hey I am a big deal"... is what really makes it a serious pen for me. Looking at a Namiki Royale and holding one is a completely different experience. http://i1251.photobucket.com/albums/hh558/Pammzer/IMG_6028_zps80101cfe.jpg http://i1251.photobucket.com/albums/hh558/Pammzer/IMG_6041_zps05844c2c.jpg The nib is gorgeous...Large gold thing that writes with a perfect combination of smoothness and control. Unlike many Japanese cars, the smoothness of the feel does not compromise the control of the vehicle. I can feel the "road" or paper in the perfect amount so that I may react accordingly. It feels much like a BMW, I am always in control and never left dry from feeling like I am the vehicle, not riding one. The nib writes pretty wet for a Japanese pen with a bit of give to create some line variation. This pen is a m nib and writes somewhere between an Italian M and a Japanese M. I cannot compliment in control more, I ask nib for more by applying a bit more pressure - and it provides by giving me thicker lines and a juicier flow. I ask for less and loosen my pressure and it gives me thin lines with drier ink flow. What more can you ask from your pen? 3. Construction: http://i1251.photobucket.com/albums/hh558/Pammzer/IMG_6059_zpsc66017c4.jpg I don't think I can comment much on its construction other then - it is made of brass...and lacquered with the most beautiful Vermilion I've ever seen. The inside of the cap barrel is lined with some sort of felt to protect the urushi pen placing the cap on. The inner treads are all brass and align perfectly to one another, giving confidence to the user that it is robust and not a fragile instrument. The outer threads above the grip section are lacquered in urushi, and very meticulously done to show no evidence that any human has ever touched it. The pen uses a converter, yes I know what your thinking...why make a big pen and stick a converter in it? But this is the Namiki CON-70 converter, don't be fooled... it is a big converter. I am a huge advocate of large pens must = large ink reservoir, and converter in a large pen like Sailor KOP is a big turn-off for me. But Namiki's CON-70 holds 1.9ml of ink, I can hardly say that is little considering Pelikan M800 holds just about the same ink! 4. Presentation: Just a short note on the packaging of the pen: it is neat! There is no unnecessary decorative features, well protected, yet still very sophisticated. No it did not come inside that large blue metal trunk that's my coffee table! http://i1251.photobucket.com/albums/hh558/Pammzer/IMG_6061_zps9f299049.jpg 5. Value: I think I will take this portion as a conclusion to my review. How would I rate this pen? It is well worth every penny for me. No other pen has performed so well in all aspects of performance, durability, style, elegance, and presence. The object evokes a pen that strives so close to perfection that it feels almost as if it is made from a superior machine with extremely precise assembly. However the real value of this pen is knowing that in fact it is meticulously hand made. How and what it took for someone to hand lacquer this pen is beyond me... In conclusion, it has satisfied every appetite I have for a pen both subjectively and objectively. Don't just look at this pen but hold it...and if the owner allows it please take some time to meditate on the feel of its writing experience. With each tier of experience with this pen, the appreciation of it grows ever so humbly. http://i1251.photobucket.com/albums/hh558/Pammzer/IMG_6032_zps74201db8.jpg Thank you for reading this review! I hope it was fun reading it as much as it was for me to review it! Please feel free to leave a comment on how I can improve my review skills as well as any comments you may have on the pen. Many more reviews to come, my other pens are very jealous in what I had to say about the Namiki, the newest arrival...and is begging me to give them some more attention that they surely do deserve. Cheers! Michael

I just received my Namiki Falcon with the John Mottishaw Spencerian customization. I thought I would share my initial thoughts and how this FP compares to my Serwex MB with flex nib that I've had for a few weeks. Right out of the box both pens worked very well, but have very different feels in relation to flex pressure. Both have comparable line variations, but the Falcon goes a little further each way. Line Variation The biggest difference is the Falcon has much better thin line definition. The Falcon can produce thinner lines that are crisper that allow for extremely small loops or counter forms without lines bleeding into each other. The Serwex looks very close in the picture, but in reality the Falcon is much better at line definition - note the smallest loops and how the Falcon stays tight and clear. Another difference worth mentioning is how much sooner the Falcon can produce the thick lines. Because the nib on the Falcon flexes so easily and fast you can transition quicker and smoother. The Serwex requires a little "getting up to speed" stroke meaning the thicker lines don't always happen at the top of a stroke whereas the the Falcon can produce thick as soon as you turn on a dime. I also noticed how much easier it is to create wedge shapes with the Flacon. Because the nib snaps back faster you can sit at the start or end of a thick line for a split second and that will create the crisp wedge shape rather than tapered strokes like the Serwex. Ink Flow The second biggest difference is ink flow. The Spencerian customization includes an increase in ink flow to the feed. This REALLY shows. The Falcon just won't railroad for me. The increased ink coupled with the thinner line definition just screams quality. How John Mottishaw is able to achieve both is a mystery - I'd think one would counter the other, but they work together perfectly. Even the thinnest lines from the Falcon can produce some shading if you look closely. The Serwex railroads constantly and typically the fix is to unscrew the barrel and push a little ink up the converter into the feed. Feel/Feedback The Serwex is definitely smoother because it feels like a nail compared to the Falcon. The Falcon Spencerian tip is scratchy, but not nearly as scratchy as I anticipated, and if you have a VERY light touch it will glide. People seem to freak out in some threads about the nib grind. I find it requires a soft touch, but it's not difficult if you have experience with a fine paint brush or creating small details. The Falcon's tip is so fine that the thinnest lines require a soft yet confident quick stroke. Basically you need to know where you are going and be confident with that stroke - you can't move slowly, plotting your way around or the thin lines of the Falcon will look shaky because the nib will hit every bump in the paper grain. Move fast and soft like a ninja! If you want to move slower you need a steady and VERY light hand for the thinnest of lines or you can add a tiny amount of flex to lubricate the line a little more. You get OPTIONS!! The sound is sort of cool. Just like in the famous youtube Falcon video. SWOOSH, scraaaaaaaatch, SWOOSH, scraaaaaaatch... It's a very artsy sound. The nib bounce/rebound is very different. It surprised me just how easily the Falcon flexes. I'm use to the Serwex which requires IMO double the force. The Falcon also rebounds faster and stays right on top of the feed immediately ready to flex again. The Serwex requires a slower hand or the nib railroads. Also, because the Serwex requires more pressure and a slower hand it is a little more tiring to use, and creating smooth transitions from thin curves to thick curves is actually pretty hard compared to the Namiki. The Serwex requires so much pressure that thin to thick transitions can be abrupt and lack a smooth form. Transitions with the Falcon are easier to produce and look more natural. Customer service I'd also like to add both companies that sold me the pens were very good to deal with. I purchased the Serwex MB with a flex nib from Fountain Pen Revolution. There was no contact, and none was needed. They did included an additional Serwex eyedropper pen listed for $5 and an additional non flex nib for free. Delivery time was around 5 business days. I purchased the Namiki Falcon with the famous John Mottishaw custom Spencerian grind from Nibs.com. I asked them a few questions via email and they replied within minutes. I was actually shocked with their speed. Once I was ready to order they answered a few more questions, sent the invoice with detailed descriptions of the pen and grind and ink flow work to be done. John worked on the pen either that day or the next morning as it was ready to go in about 24 hours. I asked if they had this grind already done and in stock as the turn around time was so fast. They said no that John grinds them as the order for this pen comes in. The pen was in the mail that day (Thursday) and I received the pen on Monday! THEY ARE FAST! The pen shipped with the new redesigned Pilot box which looks a little smaller from front to back and it has a really cool, solid window in the lid. They also included an extra blue cartridge of ink and blotter paper along with the standard cartridge and standard converter. Other Thoughts When the Serwex cap is posted it spins freely which feels sort of cheap. It locks on very well, but I wish it didn't spin. That would improve the overall experience IMO. Also, the FPR flex nib could use some visual enhancements. It would be great if it was high polished and a different FPR font and orientation imprint was used. Add some scroll work and it would be a huge improvement. The Falcon's gold furniture is MUCH richer looking in person. I've looked at every picture and video on the internet of the Falcon, and the gold clip and band look even better in person - darker, richer in color. Conclusion Having both pens I love the Falcon w/Spencerian much better, but for $20 the Serwex MB flex probably can't be beat. I recommend both and would suggest to decide based on budget. The Serwex makes a better everyday writer because the nib is harder, less scratchy and cost makes this pen a tool and not an heirloom. The Falcon is more enjoyable to use IMO and screams quality. If what you desire is a great Spencerian style or thick and thin line variation then the Namiki is by far better. Fabriano paper with Noodler's Eel Turquoise and Apache Sunset.

I bought my Namiki Maki-e Pine Tree Bonsai fountain pen from Classic Fountain Pens. It was among their "previously owned" pens, and I snatched it up after being very disappointed by the Pilot Falcon Resin I had bought a few weeks before.
 This Namiki came with a medium 14K nib that I had reground into an italic stub. Obviously, a Japanese medium isn't going to turn into a big italic with lots of line variation, but I definitely love the line I'm getting. My writing always benefits from an italic nib no matter what the size.
 The pen itself is gorgeous, with a gleaming black surface adorned with the Maki-e decoration. You can feel the Maki-e with your fingers, and the pine tree bonsai motif is beautiful yet subtle. The pen is comfortable in the hand and just the right weight for me (14mm x 142mm; 18 grams).
 The Namiki comes with the Pilot Con-70 converter which holds a good amount of ink (1 ml). I was disappointed with the tiny amount the Pilot Falcon held. With the Namiki converter, you can pump a sufficient amount of ink into the pen to last for days. And it is a pump converter, which I discovered only after several futile attempts at twisting the knob! I had to do a Google search and watch a video to learn that I was doing it wrong. Sigh.
 I have nothing negative to say about this pen. It writes beautifully thanks to the nib work done by Classic Pens. It sits perfectly in the hand and is neither too heavy nor too light. It exudes quality (unlike the Falcon)—it doesn't feel plasticky at all, but substantial. And it is gorgeous. It is on the costly side (you can find this particular design on eBay, but Namiki apparently no longer carries it). I personally never buy anything from eBay, and I probably paid more because I bought it from Classic Fountain Pens. But I trust them and know that I'm getting the real deal.
 I love my German Pelikans, but Japanese pens (Nakaya, Namiki, Platinum) are quickly out-numbering all my other fountain pens. Something about the quality and aesthetic draws me to these pens.
 Fountain Pen Network Rating System: Appearance and Design: 10 Construction and Quality: 10 Weight and Dimensions: 10 Nib and Performance: 10 (I don't know what the nib would be like right out of the box since I had my nib reground). Filling System and Maintenance: 10 (Once I figured it out!) Cost and Value: 10 Conclusion: 60/60

Hi everyone, I am looking to buy a Namiki Emperor Red Vermillion Urushi Fountain pen, Anyone help? Please recommand any on line shop and personal seller is fine. Thank you for your help!

On my last thread where I can be seen having a struggle choosing between pens, the Pilot Custom 74 was brought up. Up until this point, I had believed that it only came in demonstrator models... Until I actually googled it. I see LOTS of reviews showing the pen in a Non Demo design. But I can not find one seller that actually sells a non demo model (Except amazon sadly) Has anyone found any sellers or personally own a non demo 74? ~Phil

I was wondering if you guys knew about a pen, vintage or modern, that was under around 80 dollars that had a soft or semi flex nib? I wanted to get a good everyday writer before jumping to a Lamy 2000, Namiki Falcon, or any other flagship model.

http://www.iguanasell-pics.com/photos/logos/fpn_logo_45_45.png See all our items @ FPN Pilot Namiki Falcon Fountain Pen with Flexible Nib - Burgundy 60673Brand New in Box - Warranty by authorised Dealer - Free Shipping CHARACTERISTICS: Brand Namiki Description Pilot Fountain pen Nib 14K/585 solid gold nib- rhodium treated flexible nib Finish Laquer and chrome trims Closure System Screw-on Filling System Vacuum converter / cartridge filling system Dimensions (capped/uncapped) 13,8 cm (5.4") /12,7cm (5") Line Pilot Falcon Reference 60673 Retail Price 315€ / $410 / £270 Special features: The Pilot Namiki Falcon fountain pen has a highly flexible nib in the form of a falcon's beak.This nib provides a great variety of line widths, and can even draw two separate lines!The barrel is finished in lacquer over a metal structure that makes it more resistant than the Namiki Falcon pen.The pen comes in a fine leather Pilot presentation box and inclueds Namiki cinverter and cartridge.The special Pilot Vacuum converter works by pressing down the end rather than turning it as in usual converters.A great option for calligraphy. A completely new writing experience. CONDITIONS:The item is brand new in original box and comes with all papers and warranty stamped at the moment of the purchase by authorised dealerPrice: 250€ / $325 Payment Methods: PayPalCredit cardGoogle CheckoutMoney Order (We have Bank accounts in the US as well as in Europe)Cash on Delivery (Euro Countries) Free Expedited Shipping (UPS or Fedex) to the US, Canada and European Union. Other countries, $18 (shared shipping costs) ABOUT US: We are an international company with more than three (3) years of experience in e-commerce, duly registered in the US and Europe. We are present on the most important Marketplaces such as eBay and Amazon, ecommerce sites: shopping.com, yahoo shopping... and our own website You can take a look at our eBay feedback here or read the opinions of other forum members: 1 , 2, or 3 CONTACT:To contact us, just write us a pm, orsend us an email to info@iguanasell.com http://iguanasell-pics.com/photos/D453/Pilot-Namiki-Falcon-Fountain-Pen-with-Flexible-Nib-Burgundy-60673-60673-1.jpg http://iguanasell-pics.com/photos/D453/Pilot-Namiki-Falcon-Fountain-Pen-with-Flexible-Nib-Burgundy-60673-60673-2.jpg http://iguanasell-pics.com/photos/D453/Pilot-Namiki-Falcon-Fountain-Pen-with-Flexible-Nib-Burgundy-60673-60673-3.jpg http://iguanasell-pics.com/photos/D453/Pilot-Namiki-Falcon-Fountain-Pen-with-Flexible-Nib-Burgundy-60673-60673-4.jpg http://iguanasell-pics.com/photos/D453/Pilot-Namiki-Falcon-Fountain-Pen-with-Flexible-Nib-Burgundy-60673-60673-5.jpg http://iguanasell-pics.com/photos/D453/Pilot-Namiki-Falcon-Fountain-Pen-with-Flexible-Nib-Burgundy-60673-60673-6.jpg http://iguanasell-pics.com/photos/D453/Pilot-Namiki-Falcon-Fountain-Pen-with-Flexible-Nib-Burgundy-60673-60673-7.jpg http://iguanasell-pics.com/photos/D453/Pilot-Namiki-Falcon-Fountain-Pen-with-Flexible-Nib-Burgundy-60673-60673-8.jpg CONDITIONS:The item is brand new in original box and comes with all papers and warranty stamped at the moment of the purchase by authorised dealerPrice: 250€ / $325 Payment Methods: PayPalCredit cardGoogle CheckoutMoney Order (We have Bank accounts in the US as well as in Europe)Cash on Delivery (Euro Countries)Free Expedited Shipping (UPS or Fedex) to the US, Canada and European Union. Other countries, $18 (shared shipping costs) ABOUT US: We are an international company with more than three (3) years of experience in e-commerce, duly registered in the US and Europe. We are present on the most important Marketplaces such as eBay and Amazon, ecommerce sites: shopping.com, yahoo shopping... and our own website You can take a look at our eBay feedback here or read the opinions of other forum members: 1 , 2, or 3 CONTACT:To contact us, just write us a pm, orsend us an email to info@iguanasell.com More Namiki pens on our website Thanks for looking!----------------------------- Website: www.iguanasell.comJoin our newsletter for special promotions and news http://static.anuncios.ebay.es/images/dailydeals/dm/icon_facebook_24.png Follow us on Facebookhttp://static.anuncios.ebay.es/images/dailydeals/dm/icon_twitter_24.png Follow us on Twitter: @Iguana_sell

I am looking for some help regarding Pilot replacement nibs. I have a 742 custom I got with the FA #10 nib. I really liked the nib and I was going to have it sent off to grind it down to a finer point. I left it wrapped up on my desk ready to box up and ship out after work. But before I go back home someone apparently mistook it for trash and out with the garbage it went. I have been trying to find out if it is possible to buy a replacement nib only or not. So far it seems I would have to buy a whole new pen. Any info would be great, or anyone that might have an FA nib they care to sell. Thanks.

Greetings from the Bay Area! I have now been living in the Bay Area for three years, relocating from my home town of Seattle. I became an enthusiast of fountain pens (and writing instruments in general) through the study of graphic design. I learned about the tools of the trade; the fountain pen was one of them. Several of my peers had used fountain pens and technical pens for illustrations, and I slowly became interested in them. I procured inexpensive Rotring models to start off and learned how to use them. Later, as I progressed into Graphic Design, I found work at a family owned stationery store, Sab-Tec Stationers- owned by Sabah and Liesel Al-Haddad, that let me grow in my knowledge in fine writing instruments. I started selling art supplies and office products, but began to gravitate towards the Fine Writing Instruments. Soon I became extensively knowledgeable on all the writing instruments and became one of the top sales associates of fine pens in the store. I presented all the pens we had with enthusiasm- Cross, Parker, Waterman, Sheaffer, Namiki, Visconti, Lamy, Rotring, Aurora, and Recife- and many other brands and models. I purchased my own, as well as was rewarded with well-regarded fountain pens. When I left to advance my career and education, my interest in fountain pens did not wane. I had inherited my father's and grandfather's pens, which were tucked away with their belongings. For a brief time, I drew with my father's Parker 51, but after a while, I decided to get my own pens to draw with for my own personal satisfaction. Thus my collecting resume. I bought an assortment of inexpensive and expensive fountain pens through the years, each being used for various projects and writing. Parker, Pilot/Namiki, and Sheaffer pens can usually be found on my person or on my desk, along with the many, many pens that I have accumulated from vendors and suppliers- roller balls, ball-points, mechanical pencils, etc. I joined this network to touch base with the community and glean knowledge about products, opinions, and to fill in the gaps of my knowledge on fountain pen lore. I want to expand my knowledge on ink, paper, handwriting, calligraphy, and techniques. I would like to learn a bit on maintenance and repair as well. I hope to share the bits of knowledge I have on Fine Writing Instruments as well. Thank you all for letting me be part of the forum!

Hi, This is the link to the Maiko Green ink review Cheers,