Monteverde Artista Crystal Vs. Twsbi 580

[mikhasan]

Two demonstrators in roughly the same price range. Clearly, the 580 has the larger ink capacity, but how do they compare in terms of build, QC, and nib performance? Thanks!

[CAG_1787]

To my mind, the TWSBI feels much more substantial and well-built, plus you get a piston-fill. The Artista feels a bit too gaudy and delicate and - well - feminine. It's a no brainer for me, but it's a matter of taste.

[inotrym]

Indeed, the twsbi seems to be a "true fountain pen", but the Monteverde has that sexy transparent feed!

 

I know, I wasn't of any help, but heck, I had to say this...

[studiohead]

There are major differences. I do own a Monteverde Artista Crystal and a TWSBI 540. Both are made in Taiwan. The Artista is a Cartridge / Converter while the TWSBI 580 is a Piston filler. The Artista has a Metal section verse the 580 has a plastic section. As mention above, the feed is transparent on the Artista while black on the 580. Both uses a 5mm or #5 nib. But the Artista only comes in Medium while the 580 has a range of options. The Artista is actually cheaper then the 580 if you look around by a lot. Currently I carry my Artista in my pocket but I change the nib to a Bock Titanium Nib. I left the 540 unfilled as there can be accidents involving the piston if you are not too careful. The 580 holds more ink then the Artista.

 

Nib wise, nothing special between the 2 except of course the 580 comes in a range of nibs.

[hot cocoa]

The Artista posts securely, while the TWSBI 580 isn't designed with posting in mind. I'd classify it more on the mid-weight end of the scale for a plastic pen (it's certainly heftier than a Prera or a Preppy) Only compared to the TWSBI would it seem lighter, but not radically so.

[Newjelan]

I prefer to use the TWSBI 540, because I really like the nib, the larger ink capacity and the way it feels in my hand. However, the Artista is mor sturdy and better made. (Both my TWSBI's have cracked in the main part of the barrel, while the Artista is as good as new even though it's had more use.)

[CAG_1787]

I prefer to use the TWSBI 540, because I really like the nib, the larger ink capacity and the way it feels in my hand. However, the Artista is mor sturdy and better made. (Both my TWSBI's have cracked in the main part of the barrel, while the Artista is as good as new even though it's had more use.)

 

The OP was asking about the 580, which has (hopefully) eliminated the cracking issues with its metal-bound additions. I haven't had even an indication of cracking in mine. YMMV

[Jimmy Joe]

But the Artista only comes in Medium while the 580 has a range of options. The Artista is actually cheaper then the 580 if you look around by a lot. Currently I carry my Artista in my pocket but I change the nib to a Bock Titanium Nib.

I wish I could find a good source for EF #5, ungilded nibs. I like the body and feed of the Artista, but the medium nib is just too broad for my tastes. I prefer western extra-fines or Japanese fines, generally.

[studiohead]

I wish I could find a good source for EF #5, ungilded nibs. I like the body and feed of the Artista, but the medium nib is just too broad for my tastes. I prefer western extra-fines or Japanese fines, generally.

 

You can ask Linda from Indy Pen Dance as she sells Bock #5 nibs. (http://www.indy-pen-dance.com/nibs/) Otherwise you can always get a TWSBI 580 EF Nib Unit which are #5 as well. The more expensive option is of course find a Pilot Custom 91 Nib Unit. (These are gold)

 

Note I am a associate, normal disclaimer applies.

[Jimmy Joe]

 

The more expensive option is of course find a Pilot Custom 91 Nib Unit. (These are gold)

In which case, I would just use the 91. I've been eyeing those recently.

[rhodialover]

The Artista is a tad on the gaudy side of the pen design spectrum. Plus it only comes in the medium nib size.

[terminal]

Well, just to agree with everyone else is saying... I have a 540 and a Artista, and even with the cracking on the 540 I really don't think I can imagine picking the Artista. I know they seem similar on paper.... but the 540 (580) feels like it should be twice the price.

[notimetoulouse]

Thanks for these posts everyone - once again FPN members help me make a choice....

[Houston]

Not going to add anything here, but I agree with everyone else.

 

I have both pens. I enjoy writing with both pens. But I would toss the Arista under a bus in a heartbeat in favour of the TWSBI.

 

Despite its price point, the TWSBI makes the cut into my "serious pen" category. The Arista doesn't come close.

[Mishka5050]

Let's be honest, we will get them both sooner or later...