Lotus Excel Quirky.

[Sanjeev Prakash]

QUIRKY It certainly is !!

 

Here comes one from the Lotus stable which is indeed quite aptly named. It is certainly a different look from the usually churned out ebonite pens from various Indian pen makers. The alternating bands of matte black and wood grain ebonite, partitioned with thin brass rings, has a distinct look to it. It does tend toward being quirky, showing a sense of humour and adventure by the designer.

 

The pen came in a nicely made box with the Lotus Logo, and a satisfactorily made felt like padding in white. The white, black and wood grain contrast, with the pen in place is pleasing too.

 

A nicely made, satiny, red cloth pouch, with a stringed mouth accompanied the pen, to be used for day to day carriage. Lotus has used the classical old world combination of red with black, wood and brass, to good effect here.

 

The pen itself has been well made with good finish to it. Very symmetrical design outline with the bands and rings, a solid feel on heft, has a look of pithy toughness to it. Tear drop shaped clip end has the Lotus logo engraved on it.

 

The original design, in all ebonite, was used vigorously by me for a week or so and, I found the barrel to be back heavy. It would get uncomfortable during prolonged writing sessions.

 

The section was changed to one made in brass. Though this increased the weight by 4 odd grams, it was at the section area. This changed the balance and weight distribution of the barrel assembly. The increase of 4 grams was totally worth it!! I am very satisfied with the handling over the last fortnight or so. The balance is now very conducive for long sessions.

The section diameter at 10.80 mm, narrowing down to 10.10 mm does feel just correct to grip.

 

The pen has to be used with the cap not posted because of the design itself.

 

Dimensions:-

Weight of the pen and cap 29 grams

Weight of barrel and nib assembly 18 grams

Weight of cap 11 grams

Length of capped pen 162 mm

Length nib tip to barrel end 140 mm

Cap and Barrel diameter 15 mm

Section diameter 10.80 mm tapering down to 10.10 mm

Section length 25 mm

 

Nib:-

The nib assembly is the standard #6 nib, compatible to a converter feeding arrangement. This pen came with a Broad point and performed smoothly, giving a decently wet line throughout. Ink delivery is in consonance with volume requirement for a Broad point is a delight.

 

Filling Mechanism:-

The pen came fitted with the standard K5 Schmidt converter which, living up to its name, has performed satisfactorily.

 

Conclusion:-

Full marks to Arun Singhi for taking feedback and more importantly, finding solutions and resolving the requirement expressed. Well done Sir.

This is a solid looking pen with a decent heft, which can be felt while, writing. Good finish to the ebonite and is pleasing to look at with a Quirky eye!!

 

Sanjeev Prakash