The idea of a beautiful pen is a bewildering concept in the age of smartphones.
Old fashioned as it may be, the tradition is even more important now than it was before.
Keeping a proper pen connotes a sense of professionalism linked to the Old World, and is part of a tradition rooted in being a gentleman or lady. Aside from the sartorial elements, a high-quality pen is a pleasure to use, superior when it comes to smoothness and versatility.
Back in the day, the fountain pen was the standard writing instrument. Though it’s a reminder of the long-gone era of elegance, the nib-style pen is a relatively recent invention. The fountain pen had its start in the 10th century but it only began to be mass produced in the 1880s. The pen style carried on to be popular through the 1940s and 1950s, and continued to do so up until ballpoint mechanisms were perfected.
Many denounce the use of fountain pens as a pretentious nostalgic gimmick but it’s a great link to our past and has its benefits. The nib pen is a great workhorse as it requires no pressure when used. It essentially glides along the paper with ink flowing freely.
A high-quality pen does cost a pretty penny, but it’s a true investment. It’s built to last, completely refillable, and can be serviced, so a fountain pen is an environmental choice. And if you do decide to sell it in the future, there is a nice return for a fountain pen from an established brand.
Pens, like watches and haute couture, display a certain level of craftsmanship. As such, there are several details to look out for such as weight, balance, grip, nib, and overall appearance which all depend on personal preference.
Here are some of our picks:
Montblanc M Ultra Black Fountain Pen
The M Ultra Back is an evolved release of Montblanc’s M series. The Marc Newson-designed writing instrument is upgraded with a distinct texture and an ingenious magnetic mechanism. The AU585 gold nib is plated in two tones: rhodium and ruthenium.
Montegrappa Pirates Writing Instrument
Part of a limited series of just 499 pieces, this pirate pen is part of the ‘Cult Collection’, a series honouring individuals, artists and elements of popular culture. In this regard, it’s about the adventurer-come-privateers who traversed the Caribbean during the 16th to 19th centuries.
Montblanc Muses Marilyn Monroe Special Edition
Inspired by Marilyn Monroe, this fountain pen evokes iconic actress’s signature style, from the shape that’s borrowed from Monroe’s four-inch heels to the pen’s overall tone taken from the star’s red lipstick. A pearl adorns the pen’s clip as a reference to the screen icon’s prized pearls from Joe DiMaggio.
