Introduction and Input for Pilot Custom 845

[Brian3]

Good day, I’m a new member from Chicago and I have a fledgling collection.

 

The only Pilot I have is a basic metropolitan, yet now, I’m quite interested in a higher-end model like the Custom 845.

 

I’d like to ask you owners about your thoughts about the pen in terms of nib feel, proportion, materials, and value proposition. I love it stylistically. Also, are these Japanese nibs one size smaller than the Western counterparts as I’ve heard?

 

I found it odd that there are some fellows in Japan that have it at a steep discount, around $500, compared to the normal $900 retail here. Are those legitimate?

 

Thanks for your input and time.

Respectfully,

Brian

[PAKMAN]

Hello and Welcome to FPN!! So glad to have you as a member!!

[OCArt]

[northstar]

Hello and welcome to FPN.

[langere]

Welcome to FPN!

 

Yes, it is possible to buy directly from Japan and get better prices than in the U.S. 

 

The Pilot Custom 845 is a wonderful pen that is very reliable and has a great nib.  Part of the reasons why it so expensive is because it has a 18k gold nib and because the body surface is made from urushi, which takes a lot of time and effort. Its filling system is a converter.  I consider it Pilot's "flagship pen."

 

I suggest you not jump from the second-to-least expensive to the most expensive Pilot, but perhaps try a Custom 74 or a Custom 912 first.

 

Erick

[Brian3]

Gentlemen, thank you for the welcome. I appreciate your input, Erick, and yes the urushi really intrigues me as being a handcrafted natural glaze. I have been making a rather quick upward ascent in price unfortunately!

 

I first bought a Lamy Safari, then a Metropolitan, TWSBI 580 AL, TWSBI Kai, and finally a Sea Green Parker Duofold. I do like the Custom 912 and 743 which I will certainly consider. 

Brian

[Bisquitlips]

Welcome!  Glad you are amongst us!

[Wahl]