Why Buy A Mont Blanc?

[wspohn]

Please give me your best arguments about why this line of pens is worth the high price..

 

Because I can.

 

If I could afford an Italian sports car I'd buy one.

 

If I could afford a mansion I'd buy one.

 

To me it comes down to quality. The price may be comparably higher in price than other cheaper brands but when you consider what you are getting for the money, personally I do not think that the price is high.

 

 

Can't agree with your conclusion. There are many equally good pens for less money, so how can you say you receive value for your dollars?

 

Learn some restraint - people do not need to buy mansions and fancy cars just because they can afford them. I can afford lots of stuff I wouldn't be caught dead owning.

 

You buy something because it appeals to you and you feel that it is worth the money for you to acquire it, regardless of whether or not it represents value for dollar. Some like to show off, so a MB suits them. Some (like me) appreciate sterling silver pens, and so own a MB sterling or two. There are all sorts of reasons to buy any given pen, but thinking that the MB are a cut above all the others is simple self delusion.

 

(PS - in the interest of disclosure, I do have an Italian sports car, but the mansion is looking more than a bit tatty these days)

 

To the OP - be patient and you can find some bargain priced MB pens on Ebay. While you are waiting for just the right one, bone up on how to recognize a fraudulent copy!

[leod]

because they look cheap to me j/k

[mjchuang9]

The reasons for me to buy MB are 1. creative design 2.solid quality 3. wide ranges of nib choice 4.piston filling 5. good service 6. writing pleasure.

[BrandonA]

Please give me your best arguments about why this line of pens is worth the high price..

 

Because I can.

 

If I could afford an Italian sports car I'd buy one.

 

If I could afford a mansion I'd buy one.

 

To me it comes down to quality. The price may be comparably higher in price than other cheaper brands but when you consider what you are getting for the money, personally I do not think that the price is high.

 

 

Can't agree with your conclusion. There are many equally good pens for less money, so how can you say you receive value for your dollars?

 

Learn some restraint - people do not need to buy mansions and fancy cars just because they can afford them. I can afford lots of stuff I wouldn't be caught dead owning.

 

You buy something because it appeals to you and you feel that it is worth the money for you to acquire it, regardless of whether or not it represents value for dollar. Some like to show off, so a MB suits them. Some (like me) appreciate sterling silver pens, and so own a MB sterling or two. There are all sorts of reasons to buy any given pen, but thinking that the MB are a cut above all the others is simple self delusion.

 

(PS - in the interest of disclosure, I do have an Italian sports car, but the mansion is looking more than a bit tatty these days)

 

To the OP - be patient and you can find some bargain priced MB pens on Ebay. While you are waiting for just the right one, bone up on how to recognize a fraudulent copy!

 

I can't believe this thread has been dug up. The comments you are posting are:

a) over 2 years old

my comments were not meant to be taken seriously, just like this whole thread should not be. We always get the "MB are rubbish" threads and as a result I will always post something like this in it to wind up the haters.

 

You make the following two statements:

 

"There are many equally good pens for less money, so how can you say you receive value for your dollars?"

 

"you buy something because it appeals to you and you feel that it is worth the money for you to acquire it"

 

The second one answers the first so the first is pointless and the first is merely is a typical comment from someone looking for a rise from a MB buyer.

 

I personally like MB, no one I know cares for them so I merely buy them for my own enjoyment and not to impress others. Even if they did, I would not flaunt it but I'll discuss them if someone shows an interest.

 

You also state "Some like to show off, so a MB suits them". I don't think many people buy a pen to show off. Again this is another typical response to someone who does not like MB. This argument could be made both ways about so many goods (iphones, rolexes, good cars, designer clothes) but most people will buy a product because they like it (whatever the rationale). Not one person on this forum shows off about their MB pens.

 

MB actually make some very nice sterling silver pens. These are in fact the pens that get the most attention from others - due to design and not brand.

[BrandonA]

because they look cheap to me j/k

 

Why?

 

Compared to what?

[leod]

because they look cheap to me j/k

 

Why?

 

Compared to what?

 

Brandon,

Sorry I wasn't clear, that was a way of expressing why I buy an expensive item and taken from Warren Buffet's. The original quote was: "I buy expensive suits, they look cheap on me"

[wspohn]

 

You also state "Some like to show off, so a MB suits them". I don't think many people buy a pen to show off. Again this is another typical response to someone who does not like MB. This argument could be made both ways about so many goods (iphones, rolexes, good cars, designer clothes) but most people will buy a product because they like it (whatever the rationale). Not one person on this forum shows off about their MB pens.

 

 

Are you serious? Seeking the admiration of their peers is the driving force in most consumer purchase choices. People buy pens, watches and car all the time because they think others will admire them, not because they read Consumer Reports or because they just think they like the look of them.

 

On a pen specialty site, I agree that there will be far more people buying for reasons other than prestige (and the ones that do buy for that will be reticent about admitting it), but many people I know who are not pen fanatics have bought pens for graduation gifts and are looking for precisely what I said. Montblanc is the most often bought pen and Rolex the most frequently bought watch for that sort of present or present to self, because they have the highest recognition factor and attract (at least in the minds of the buyers) the most possible attention.

 

You seem to think that I do not like MB. That is not true. I happen to own a dozen different MBs and one of them is one of my most frequently used pens. What I do not do is subscribe to the MB advertising campaign puffery about superiority.

[jar]

You also state "Some like to show off, so a MB suits them". I don't think many people buy a pen to show off. Again this is another typical response to someone who does not like MB. This argument could be made both ways about so many goods (iphones, rolexes, good cars, designer clothes) but most people will buy a product because they like it (whatever the rationale). Not one person on this forum shows off about their MB pens.

 

 

Are you serious? Seeking the admiration of their peers is the driving force in most consumer purchase choices.

 

How sad.

[wspohn]

How sad.

 

 

I would tend to agree, but that's what fuels a multi-billion dollar advertising industry. Do you think that all the people that buy trucks with huge tires ever go off road? Or that people that buy Hummers are off to invade a neighbouring country? No, they bought them because the car companies spent millions of dollars convincing them that they NEED an overweight gas burner to show that they are REAL MEN!

 

It isn't about need, it is about creating 'want'. Companies like Rolex and Montblanc are masters at that exercise.

Edited October 31, 2012 by wspohn

[mmahany]

How sad.

 

 

I would tend to agree, but that's what fuels a multi-billion dollar advertising industry. Do you think that all the people that buy trucks with huge tires ever go off road? Or that people that buy Hummers are off to invade a neighbouring country? No, they bought them because the car companies spent millions of dollars convincing them that they NEED an overweight gas burner to show that they are REAL MEN!

 

It isn't about need, it is about creating 'want'. Companies like Rolex and Montblanc are masters at that exercise.

It really is the truth. Exensive pens are most certainly a luxury item. Does a Hemingway fountain pen truly allow you to write more eloquently? Sure, a fountain pen has personality and it's arguable that your pemanship can be improved. However, is a $2000 pen going to write than much better than a $10 Chinese FP?

 

This is my simple version of how people move from a $1 package of BIC pens to a $2000 Writer's Edition:

1.) Function-you buy a $1 ballpoint because you need to write

2.) Enjoyment-you buy a $10 fountain pen instead of the $1 ballpoint because it's more fun to write with

3.) Quality-you buy a $25 fountain pen because it's made of metal instead of plastic

4.) Increased function- You buy a $100 pen because it has a softer nib and writes smoother

5.) Luxury-you buy a $400 MB 144 because people know what it is and the brand has history

6.) Increased Luxury/Satisfaction-you buy an $800 MB 149 because it's known as "The Diplomat" and some would argue that it's essential to a Mont Blanc collection

7.) Ultimate luxury/Satisfaction/Showoff- You buy a $2000 Hemingway FP because it's highly desired, it expresses your financial success, and to show off how fancy you are

 

Obviously, this is entirely my own opinion and the examples are a matter of perspective. Realize that my point is to say that after about $10, the cost doesn't outweigh the added benefits. When you get to the $100 range (and probably even less), you're really only paying for marketing, desireability and to show off.

 

With that said, here is why I personally buy Mont Blanc:

1.) They're investments to me. I have no trouble finding a 144 for $100. I know that I can turn it around and sell it fairly quickly for $175-200. I literally have a spreadsheet of all the common Mont Blanc pens, what their fair market value is, and at what exact dollar amount I should or shouldn't buy one.

2.) They make me happy. I love the excitement of having a USPS box delivered to me and I tear it open the first chance I get eager to try the pen out.

3.) I enjoy the compliments. I'm not going to sugar coat it, I really do like hearing someone say "Wow you have a beautiful collection" or "Wow, you really got it for that price?" You will never hear me brag about how much I paid for a pen, but rather how little I paid.

4.) In a sense, it's a treasure hunt to me. I love rummaging through boxes at estate sales hoping to find an old fountain pen. I even love the moment of seeing a pen on ebay, realizing that it's selling for half of what it's worth, and buying it.

 

In the end, it makes no difference to me why someone likes what they do. The only time I laugh is when someone buys more than they can afford just to make other people happy. In that instance, they've created a problem just to make other people happy rather than themselves. If buying a Prius makes you happy, do it. I personally wouldn't, but I don't think you're a fool for doing so.

[jar]

How sad.

 

 

I would tend to agree, but that's what fuels a multi-billion dollar advertising industry. Do you think that all the people that buy trucks with huge tires ever go off road? Or that people that buy Hummers are off to invade a neighbouring country? No, they bought them because the car companies spent millions of dollars convincing them that they NEED an overweight gas burner to show that they are REAL MEN!

 

It isn't about need, it is about creating 'want'. Companies like Rolex and Montblanc are masters at that exercise.

 

Even sadder.

[wspohn]

Even sadder.

 

Perhaps to you, but I assume that unless you were just released from a life time spent in a monastery, none of this comes as the slightest surprise, so I wonder that you even find it worthy of comment.

 

PS - if you are dismayed by these sorts of observations on human nature I suggest that you avoid viewing any of the 'Mad Men' shows (always assuming the monastery has electricity....)

[leod]

How sad.

 

 

I would tend to agree, but that's what fuels a multi-billion dollar advertising industry. Do you think that all the people that buy trucks with huge tires ever go off road? Or that people that buy Hummers are off to invade a neighbouring country? No, they bought them because the car companies spent millions of dollars convincing them that they NEED an overweight gas burner to show that they are REAL MEN!

 

It isn't about need, it is about creating 'want'. Companies like Rolex and Montblanc are masters at that exercise.

 

Even sadder.

 

every pen company is creating a 'want' not just MB, does anyone really need dozens of pens?

 

here we go again, grownups arguing about their toys :roflmho:

[jar]

Even sadder.

 

Perhaps to you, but I assume that unless you were just released from a life time spent in a monastery, none of this comes as the slightest surprise, so I wonder that you even find it worthy of comment.

 

PS - if you are dismayed by these sorts of observations on human nature I suggest that you avoid viewing any of the 'Mad Men' shows (always assuming the monastery has electricity....)

 

I've been lucky enough to avoid "Mad men".

 

What's sad is not the companies behavior but rather those sad people that are trying to impress others through their possessions.

Edited October 31, 2012 by jar

[Genius]

http://i843.photobucket.com/albums/zz352/loaloauk/DLP%20that%20never%20was/IgerLucas__121030233722.jpg

 

Because George Lucas uses one (Le Grand Rollerball)?

[legume]

I'm not really that big a fan on Montblac. The 146 or 149 does nothing for me, and yes there are pens that write equally well for much less. With some of the special editions though, I have to say I'm glad they're out of my price range.

[NathanLow]

Good nib and elegant shape.

[stevesurf]

The reasons for me to buy MB are 1. creative design 2.solid quality 3. wide ranges of nib choice 4.piston filling 5. good service 6. writing pleasure.

 

 

Good nib and elegant shape.

 

Well said!

 

For me the #1 reason is the nib. Most of the time, you can get a MB nib that is wonderfully smooth out of the box, without needing tuning. Yes, I;ve had a few scratchy MB nibs, but by far they are a lower percentage than nibs of other pen manufacturers.

[Pen Nut]

I stumbled across this on the web. It made me smile that much I am now giving it a thread of its own !!

 

10 Reasons To Purchase a Mont Blanc Pen

A guide to the world's best pens

 

1.All pens are hand-crafted by master pen makers which carry on the craft from generation to generation since a hundred years. Each pen is a unique masterpiece made by hand and requires more than 150 different manipulations.

 

2.The platinum or golden nib of a Mont Blanc fountain pen is so well-adjusted that it takes on the writer's individual writing characteristics. It will adapt to the way YOU write and adjust to give you the smoothness and easiness of writing. With a Mont Blanc pen you surely write at your best!

 

3.If you choose for a ballpoint pen or fineliner you won't need to buy the two of them! When buying 1 you buy both because the cartridges are exchangeable!

 

4.The company Mont Blanc has been a long time supporter of UNICEF and has helped raise more than one million Euros in order to fight illiteracy in the world's poorest countries. Mont Blanc even released a special edition of its famous "Meisterstück" pen called "Signature for Good" in order to raise 1.5 million Euros for this cause.

 

5.Mont Blanc is one of the few high-end manufacturers that do not adapt its products for specific markets. Its appeal is universal. In Europe, China, Brazil or the United States Mont Blanc pens are appreciated across cultures and races.

 

6.A Mont Blanc pen is so solid that you can use it all your life, then pass it to your child, which in turn will pass it through for a hundred years! Collector pens from the 1920's function as well as the brand new models of 2009.

 

7.With a Mont Blanc pen you establish your status when you show it in public. You tell the world that you're a person who knows and likes the refined objects of the world. Everybody will recognize the pens; Mont Blanc has a very recognizable logo (the six-pointed white star).

 

8.The technicity and sophisticated fabrication process confer the Mont Blanc pen a perfect weight and ergonomy. Nothing is as pleasurable as to perfectly glide with your pen on the piece of paper. With Mont Blanc pens you will definitely NOT be disappointed.

 

9.Mont Blanc pens keep their value, meaning that if you want to resell your pen after a year or two you will be able to recuperate up to 80% of its initial buying price (provided the pen is in good state of course).

 

10.When one thinks of excellent pens Mont Blanc is for most the first brand that comes to mind. The brand is actually so popular and such a reference that even James Bond used one to kill an enemy in one of the movies. Other celebrities carrying this pen are Marilyn Monroe, Winston Churchill, Stanley Kubrick, Al Pacino and Michael Jackson.

[mdbrown]

I don't know about any of that... I like Montblancs because of the iconic design, consistently smooth nibs, and the simple fact that you never lose money buying a Montblanc. Too many people have a tendency to dismiss those products that are immensely popular due to great marketing. Among those are Rolex, Apple, BMW, and Bose along with Montblanc. Amongst all of those, only Bose is a truly subpar product and even it is suitable for the majority. The rest all produce a truly high quality product that is both well designed and well made with premium materials (precious resin notwithstanding.)

 

The reality is that I can find almost as many people that hate the above brands as like them due to the marketing hype. The common thread is that most of the haters have never owned or used the brand in question. In the end the only reason to justify the purchase of anything is that you want it. If you want it because of the BMW Roundel or the six pointed star that's just fine because, in the end, you are the only one who has to live with the purchase.