"Selective and deliberate" is exactly how I chose pens and inks. I'm in the sport for four years now after a long hiatus, belonging to a generation that was lucky enough to use fountain pens in school. I have since never looked back and more in love with this type of writing instrument than ever before. I do not buy a pen just because it looks good, but because it hold a profound symbolism and appeal to my most subjective reasoning. I think a lot before buying a pen, usually high end, but when I do, it becomes a source of pride. At the beginning I looked upon the pen as something more functional, now they have profounder meaning. Some lie permanently on my desk in a lovely Bernardaud pen tray, even looking at them brings me joy.
After your recent video I commented that I loved your humanity in reviews. You leave your heart on your sleeve here, so to speak, and it's a wonderful video encouraging general enthusiasm for the hobby. We all need more of that in the world.
Excellent summation of your fountain pen experience, Mr. Brown. Thank you. Many of us have reached a similar point in our fountain pen journey where we begin to question the purpose of it all, whether it's because we have collected too many pens or inks and begin to realize there is simply no way to use them all in a normal lifetime. For example, I find myself with around 120 fountain pens and nearly 100 bottles of ink, most of which I've never even used, and I wonder what to do with all of it. Perhaps I can sell much of my stock on eBay.
I’ve economized by using a cheap pen with ink cartridges simply refilled by syringe. My savings have gone toward the desk of my dreams, an assortment of inks, an inventory of paper and notebooks, and a library of fiction - both modern and classics.
Stephen, Thank you for sharing your insights and experience about fountain pens and our hobby. One aspect that you neglected to mention in any detail is the people and experiences that we encounter (in person and online) as a result of our participation in this hobby. For me, the people such as yourself and several other YT reviewers and numerous other from my local pen community have become important and even close friends over the "many" years I have been a pen person. Yes, the hobby can be part of our Journey AND much of the pleasure and enjoyment that I, and I suspect many others, have had, is a result of the people we have met along our/their fountain pen travels. Thank you again... and again and...
I've used fountain pens since my school days, all the way through higher education and into employment. although I obviously enjoyed them, I only really ever saw a pen as a tool to do a job. yes I bought a Waterman Torsade because I liked the design, but it was still a means to an end. Then one day I saw someone using a really expensive looking Parker pen, so I bought the same model, and I became hooked. I bought some Lamy Safaris and TWSBIs to use in work and forever had to explain why my hands were dirty!! But the day I changed from a pen user to a pen fan came when I ventured down the stairs in a stationery shop in Hay on Wye, and saw cabinets full of beautiful Visconti and other pens, and it was the materials that drew me in. I then found this channel on UA-cam and that was it - hooked. I now have a small collection of inexpensive pens - I think my Van Gogh and SBREBrown pen are my most expensive. I yearn to own an ASC arco pen, and frankly could go online and buy one right now but won't do that. Mainly because I'm concerned I'd spend £1000-£1500 on a pen that wouldn't have the same effect on me as my VG or SBREB pens. Maybe it would, who knows. But I can't try one out beforehand to find out. What I'm trying, rather clumsily, to say is I agree with most of what you've just said. Buy what you love because you love it and not because someone on the internet told you that you should. I come from a photography background, and if you think pens are controversial, just wait until you see what camera reviewers can do for your (in)sanity!! Anyway, thank you Dr. B 🙂
The thing that surprised me about Nakaya was when I realized it was the same nib as a Platinum 3776. So, really, with a Nakaya, you're buying the art, not the nib. But the main thing is to love writing with the pens you have. Some truly disappear in my hands when I write. Others are enjoyable because they're unique. So far, my experience in this hobby has been positive, and I'd hate to see this hobby turn into what afflicts other hobbies. The only lesson I've learned is never to say anything negative about the Jinhao 159 or its various versions! And I realized I was at a good place this spring when I realized I didn't care if I bought the new piston-filling Kaweco. I own plenty of them: all older than I am. I'm good not trying the new one!
I completely agree. No one should be ashamed/apologetic of what pens they like to use, whether TWSBI, Pelikan, Montblanc, Parker, Safari, Edison, etc. After determining that I like a specific pen, and I start looking for that pen; my attitude, is if I am able to find the one I want (feels good in hand, writes smoothly, etc.), then great. If I can’t find one, or it’s too expensive and I decide not obtain it, not a big deal, life goes on, and-to your point-there will probably be another around the corner. “You do you, and I’ll do me”, as the saying goes. Thanks for another interesting vlog
The one thing that makes fountain pens so great for me is- without which they would not be so great for me - is that I write a lot, and I love to write! And writing is an essential part of what I do and am, fountain pens or not. Nevertheless, for me, the fountain pen enhances the act of writing - thinking on paper.
I’ve always liked everything about writing - pens, paper, electronic devices, words, letter, ink, and ideas. Fountain pens weren’t new to me because I’d used them since grade school. When I started purchasing pens as an adult, I limited myself to spending $60 or less. Most of the ones I bought were cost less than $30. Because the pens were less expensive, I gave myself the option of buying as many different nib widths as I could, including architect nibs, italic nibs, oblique nibs, and zoom nibs. I purchased a Lamy Safari in every width; same for Kaweco Sport. I realized that I liked nibs of all shapes and sizes. I like broad nibs as much as I like extra fine nibs. I also felt free to take pens apart and put them back together, grind the nibs and replace them, and to explore different filling methods. I tried lots of ink samples and found out what I like the best. My favorite ink color is black. Next comes colored ink so dark that it could be mistaken for black. And I love a punchy red. I like to see a few words written in turquoise ink, but a whole page of turquoise is too bright for me. After five years, I made the decision to purchase a more expensive pen. I’ve chosen the Lamy 2000, extra fine. It hasn’t arrived yet, but I’ve researched it to death and am pretty sure that I’ll like it. I also am considering purchasing the Kaweco Piston filler, which I’m sure that I’ll like. I am guessing that the pen I’d like the best would be the Pilot Custom Heritage 743 with soft fine nib; however, I’m not going to buy it until I try it. So, next year I’m going to the pen show in my city just to try this single pen. I’m looking forward to trying these more expensive pens, but I honestly think that I’ll never have as much with those pens as I have with my cheaper pens that I could afford to buy in all nib widths and take apart and tinker with. I prefer wearing jeans and t-shirts to suits and dresses. I prefer ordinary people to exclusive people. Along the same line, I think I will prefer basic pens that work well to fancy pens. I may have mentioned in another comment that I’m a writer. For me, the writing instrument must remain subservient to the writing, just as the language must be subservient to the ideas it communicates. I’ve found that the prose I write is just as effective when written with a Bic pen than it is when written with a gold-nibbled one.
I’ve always liked everything about writing - pens, paper, electronic devices, words, letters, ink, and ideas. I remember how I felt the first time I printed the complete alphabet without my Mom giving me hints about the letters. Fountain pens weren’t new to me because I’d used them since grade school. When I started purchasing pens as an adult, I limited myself to spending $60 or less. I didn’t want to fall into the rabbit hole of an expensive hobby. Most of the ones I bought cost less than $30. Because the pens were less expensive, I gave myself the option of buying as many different nib widths as I could, including round nibs, architect nibs, italic nibs, oblique nibs, flex nibs, and zoom nibs. I purchased a Lamy Safari in every nib width; same for Kaweco Sport, TWSBI Eco, and Diamond 580. I realized that I liked nibs of all shapes and sizes. I like broad nibs as much as I like extra fine nibs. I also felt free to take pens apart and put them back together, grind the nibs and replace them, and to explore different filling methods. I tried lots of ink samples. My favorite ink color is black. Next comes colored ink so dark that it could be mistaken for black. And I love a punchy red. I like to see a few words written in turquoise ink, but a whole page of turquoise is too bright for me. After five years, I made the decision to purchase a more expensive pen. I’ve chosen the Lamy 2000, extra fine. It hasn’t arrived yet, but I’ve researched it to death and am pretty sure that I’ll like it. I also am considering purchasing the Kaweco Piston filler, which I’m sure that I’ll like. I am guessing that the expensive pen I’d like the best would be the Pilot Custom Heritage 743 with soft fine nib; however, I’m not going to buy it until I try it. So, next year I’m going to the pen show in my city just to try this single pen. I’m looking forward to trying these more expensive pens, but I honestly think that I’ll never have as much with them as I have with the cheaper pens I could explore and tinker with. I prefer wearing jeans and t-shirts to suits and dresses, ordinary people to exclusive people. Along the same line, I think I will prefer basic pens that work well to fancy pens. I may have mentioned in another comment that I’m a writer. For me, the writing instrument must remain subservient to the writing, just as the language must be subservient to the ideas it communicates. I’ve found that the prose I write is just as effective when written with a Bic pen than it is when written with a gold-nibbled one.
Thank you Dr. Brown for your comments and opinions. Having listened to you talk over the years, I've learned that your opinion means a lot to me. Not just because youre on UA-cam, but because I find your opinions to be honest and truthful. Plus I enjoy the fact that your videos do NOT have all the fuss and over production. I think the biggest thing I've learned is to listen to my gut and preferences and not try to get all the pretty new things.I've come to understand that it takes time to learn those preferences I spoke of. By the way, if you have a Rockster pen (What I like)that you want to get rid of, let me know. I know a guy. LOL Thank you for your time and thoughts.
Wow -- Doc Brown has thoughtful and thought-provoking comments in this one. Yes, I've had FOMO over a pen that very quickly sold out, and I did manage to recover (despite occasional lamentations) & pick up another pen. It's really hard to disagree with anything in this wonderful video.
I find your content very educative with a touch of humour and entertainment and I appreciate your views. It seems the "does it put a smile on your face" question can already tell the user a lot. Out of all my pens I use my Montblanc 146 (late 80's) the most and it puts a smile on my face every time. I made mistakes in the past in my learning process and eventually had to sell off pens that just did not do it for me but thought I needed to have (e.g. Pelikan M800, beautiful but I'm not feeling it). Now, I never immediately buy a pen based on a review. I always let my impressions and thoughts distill for a couple of weeks or months before deciding I actually never cared and forgot, or that I still think about it often, and for me that is a sign to make the purchase.
Very philosophical way of putting both about the pens and ink. I am very much like you. I will only buy something if its an item I like and I am very selective where I go to a brick and mortar shop and will test the pen and sample ink before making a decision on whether to purchase it or not. I've walked out of shops empty handed because I did not actually like writing with it. I do this with every expensive pen so I know I can walk out of the shop not feeling guilty for not buying it. I just love your video's Mr Brown and your philosophical way of putting things make sense and can hopefully help people feel like they haven't wasted money and can enjoy even the smallest collection because they have tested and enjoyed the process of picking and choosing pen they know they will use often and not have it sit in a draw deteriorating needing repair or if really bad join the landfill pens and other products create.
Your works, and writing activities are prime in your fountain pen journey because it allows you to express yourself at a particular time, place and mindspace. I have a good lot of pens, ink and paper. Mind you I still have a wishlist of pens, ink, and paper, but you are right, no need to have FOMO, and better to be deliberate in this hobby, and life, that you only have one of.
A well said and thought out video! Been on the fountain pen train for over 40 years. All your points I've been through. At this point, I'm still in love with my original brand and era fountain pens, the vintage Esterbrook ones. They have always "done it" for me, and I'm still, slowly but surely working on examples of all the colors and models, and even nibs, as I find them. And there's several others I have that I'll probably always like. But, there's those I'm well over. They didn't "do it" for me. Inks as well. I've went down the rabbit hole several times with inks. And discovered I don't like much with the latest fad "special properties." Give me a dozen or so basic ones. (Basically one for each month. 😉) And not expensive ink. I've had the spectrum from Parker Quink from the 1940s. And much as I despise washable "schoolboy blue," they're still colors I can use. Current? Waterman or Diamine suits me. Cheaper, well proven inks. And no gimmicky things. I have a select few outside these parameters. I have use for a permanent yet well behaved ink. I like iron gall inks. Just don't need laser resistance, or even sheening or shimmer. 😁 It's taken a few decades to figure out what I like, but I think I'm finally, basically there.
I’m not going to bash anyone about their pens. I collect Noodler’s Ahab, Konrad and Nib Creeper pens. I love them because they are cheap. I can tinker with them and not feel bad about doing it. I like the variety of colors they come in.
Thank you for such an outstanding video. You have given me a lot to think about. I have terrible FOMO. And I have far too many pens and bottles of ink. I have really been trying to stop buying new pens and rediscover those I own yet have not used in years.. If I do purchase a pen, I return it if it I find anything that disappoints me or even just doesn;t get me excited. I only watch your pen reviews anymore because you just present the pen, your thoughts about it and leave it up to me to decide. I also appreciate you don't get into trying to make the video look like a Hollywood production. If I want a better look, I will look up the pen on line. Thank you for all of your efforts to make informative pen review videos.
I also agree that the Lamy Safari is all you need to enjoy the hobby. It really is amazing on all levels. When I was young in Australia that was all we seemed to have and we cherished them. Now online retailers means we can get whatever we want from wherever and the poor Lamy Safari gets overlooked.
Clear and insightful commentary, Dr. Brown. Thank you. I often skip your reviews primarily because the pens, while they may well be lovely, well-machined, nicely balanced, etc, are far more costly than anything I am likely to buy or to crave. I now own one MontBlanc, only because it was a gift from Peter, a gentleman who sent it to me. A member of my regional pen club wants it, desires it, but I am unwilling to give, sell, or trade it simply because it was a gift from someone whom, though we have never met, I consider a friend. So I gave Reverend Jim a red, swirly pen made of celluloid, one of those materials that reportedly takes colors well but is prone to bursting into flame. The nib wraps around the feed. It's rather old. Jim seemed pleased, so fine. Limited edition pens, numbered pens, annual special pens? I find the concept irritating and an artificial appeal to an otherwise nonexistent appetite. That said, when I was confined to my house following heart surgery earlier this year and went overboard buying pens, several did turn out to be "limited edition" and to bear serial numbers. I don't care. Each of them would be no more and no less interesting to me without the serial number. Yes, I use fountain pens daily. I also hold them, admire them, consider them toys more than anything else. Some people collect old dolls, or buttons, or automobiles. It's fun. Again, thank you for your reason and your judgment. Thank you for your reviews. Please continue to record them.
I've only been into fountain pens for 3 or 4 years - a covid exploration that stuck....at first I just had the Amazon Basic....maybe a year later I discovered youtube fountain pen world!!! and entered the exploration phase! I think there is still a bit of exploration for me but certainly more refinement. I have started to explore repair of vintage pens...I think it is filling a hole from my childhood of model building..that for some reason I feel isn't appropriate for a man my age...but somehow fountain pen repair is??
Thanks Stephen. Interesting as always. Some great advice given. However, I think that some of that wisdom comes only through direct experience. What drove my purchasing initially, was curiosity and gaining experience. Suggestions/recommendations came from your and other pen reviews as well as social media. Over time, as I began to realise and understand my own preferences and tastes, I began purchasing more selectively. I also became far less influenced by popularity/hype as a reason to try another pen. One thing that could have led to less purchasing is the opportunity to try the pens. Either through a local pen meet-up or a local dealer, neither of which I had. On reflection, pen swaps would also be an interesting way to increase experience without purchasing.
As I do with my wardrobe, I only buy pens and inks I love and use. I have a disproportionate number of bottles of Iroshizuku Ebisu ink, because it creates magic on my page. The number of pens I own is limited to what I can display on my desk because I like to see them when I glance that way. What brings me joy is more important than the status of a particular pen.
I look forward to pen-knives being used again for their original purpose. Goose quills and reed pens dipped in ink made from oak galls. Retro is due a revival. If it was good enough for William Shakespeare, it'll do for me.
Great message. I focused on exploring FPs during C-19 and Trump PTSD and spent more time on videos and blogs dealing with inks, nibs, etc. I learned a lot but there is a consumerism that might be exacerbated by a bit of OCD… that lead me to buying more than I need. I’ve sold or given away some pens since then and feel much happier with a small collection I keep in use. Nice video.
Thank you for your very wise words, and especially important as we now approach the world wide Pelikan Hubs in September, where lots of both newcomers and pen afficionados meet, and it is easy to be blown away. Use what you like -it's ok, is my major takeaway from this video. Thank you for making it.
Stephen thanks for this video, yes the temptations are real. When I started in this hobby, the inks had to be sheeny / shiny, pens had to have flex nibs etc etc. Never go the hang of flex (nor do I have the talent), so managed to skip that. Sheeny inks got onboard with that, then discovered that they took ages to dry and being a lefty side writer that didn't work, luckily only bought one bottle🙂 And so it goes, as time goes on I have become more selective and intentional with my purchases.
This is an exremely important comment, that I usually also give to people, who become at least slightly interested in fountain pens. For writing, I own six pens (which are all constantly inked up). One of them landed very badly on the nip (and has done that before), I liked to write with it, but not as much as with other pens, so I have decided to retire this specific pen and only now I think about purchasing one of the pens, I have watched over the last maybe 10 years. As for inks, I give myself permission to buy a single non dark blue / black ink, which is my favourite dominant colour, every year. Do I buy more ink every year than I will use? Most likely yes. The ink I finally choose, must be something very special to me.
When I choose a pen, I tend to look at 'what size and system of nib' does it take? I tinker with my pens for calligraphy and for me it's about availability of all kinds of nibs to use. So I collect by expanding what nibs I can put in my pens. Do I need another that takes 5.5? Maybe, if I find myself swapping nibs often, but so far I've reserved myself to rather pick pens that lets me use nibs unavailable to me.
We started using fountain pens around the same time frame and your observations are spot on. I tend to choose pens based on aesthetics first then the nib. It's not the best way to go about it but it works for me. The pen that gets inked most is a Lamy CP-1 that I bought over 12 years ago. I bought a pen while on vacation from Fountain Pen Revolution. For me it was affordable but I'm very aware that for someone else, it may be a ridiculously high price to pay. Yesterday I inked up a Muji fountain pen and I just realized it has a similar aesthetic to the CP-1 and is an enjoyable writer. What's the point of owning a pen if you're not using it?
FOMO, no I don't have that. A case in point, I have a few vintage Sailor pens, but only 2 modern ones, and have no intention to get any one of the other models. I've passed up many a pen that was desirable, but not enough to acquire. I have 5 times your collection & each and every pen was a deliberate purchase because they appealed to me. One thing I've learned in surviving almost 69 rotations on this third rock from the sun is that everything changes. You can try and resist it, but change will still happen around you and pass you by.
A couple comments. First, I think it's great that some countries start children out with fountain pens. I'm in NY, and when I was a child we were only given (ballpoint) pens after we had become proficient with cursive in 4th grade. Now, my children are in high school, and to this day they are only allowed to use a pen for the state final exams, and the shops Hage not taught them cursive. Second, I'm glad that you took the time to tell people to not be ashamed for buying what works for them and not bring ashamed if that means they have a collection that is either very small or inexpensive (or both), and I hope that those in the community who are being judgemental hear this and change their attitude. Thank you for your words of encouragement!
The problem I have. Is there is always. Something new to like. For me some are old and vintage. Some are new and shiny , they all are a forum of mediation and joy.
I own fountain pens that range from the Montblanc MEISTERSTÜCK SOLITAIRE Sterling Silver (the fountain and roller ball pens along with the pencil), a M1000 Pelikan all the way to Jinhao. What you say is "spot on". I was craving a Montblanc Grande 149 but that craving went the way of the DoDo bird. Next, I am going build my own pen using 3D printing and a standard nib, maybe a number 8 Bach BB. Who knows where that will lead. Another fine video and wise words. Is the SBRE Brown available? I have almost all colors except brown, sorry.
12:45 Oh boy, you are most certainly correct with those words. There was some drama going around PenTube regarding "fountain pen collection shaming" earlier this year. The responses from other UA-camrs definitely turned me off of the fountain pen community at large. It was a bummer.
After half a dozen years, circumstances conspired such that I now have a King of Pen. All further purchasing has stopped - why would I buy a pen that isn't a King? Luckily for me (thank you, Sailor), they are so ludicrously overpriced that I will be getting by with just the one. Now what am I supposed to do with my other 49 pens?
I always think 'horses for courses' I have numerous not particularly expensive pens in different nib sizes and geometries all with different inks in so I can use them for different purposes - writing small, writing big, writing wet, writing on awful paper, different coloured inks to denote different types of diary entries and some that are just favourite writing instruments for when I'm just writing for myself. I would really struggle using only one pen even if it was fantastic.
So true! I am aware I may go crazy, so I control my impulses by engaging into "small journeys". Is super-flex for me? I try the most flex nib available, and found it meh. I currently look at which black ink is the blackest. I "exploit" my pens and inks by trying different combinations of black inks and pens, and only when I completed that, will I consider if I need another black ink. This trap of buying because we think we should can affect us all, especially those with large financial means, who buy buy buy things they don't really like but that they feel someone with their wealth should own.
@sbrebrown Could you please put a list of the 40 pens you own. I’d like to google them and see them. I’d like to purchase a new fountain pen. And if you’ve already curated your collection. That means you must have an excellent assortment of 40. Thanks Man
The watch industry went through a cycle years ago when Swatch entered the market, perhaps the fountain pen industry needs this sort of cycle to break the current direction of ever increasing artistic price for bling as opposed to function.
That was more about quartz watches, generally, which were introduced by Seiko (in 1969). Swatch (started in 1983) is an effect, not the cause. But, to the bigger point: Fountain pens are already extremely niche, whereas wristwatches were quite mainstream when the Quartz Crisis occurred in the 1970s.
@@halfsourlizard9319 From my perspective I think we discuss two very different aspects, the Quartz Crisis is a technical revolution, if not "better" at least a different way to deliver time keeping. (We can debate if it's better or not, technically there is no debate, aesthetics is a different issue) Swatch brought the artistic element to the mainstream, prior to that it was about elite jewellery, rare gems and precious metals. I think if Fountain Pens stay that course they will go the way of automatic watches, there is already very little innovation, and there will be even less. It will force market rationalisation, we don't want to see that. Swatch is also diminished, excluding some minority collectors / interests.
Yes@@gregcooper8466, but not impossible =) Hopefully one day your idea will become a reality❤️ Not because it is easy, but because we know that we must!
We all buy flex nibs for the same reasons people buy $1000+ golf clubs. We all want to think we can buy better handwriting (or a golf swing) without having to practice. Whole industries are built around such delusions.
Thank you for the video - I agree so much on Monteverde Garnet. I originally tried to find an ink to replace Noodler's Ottoman Rose and Black Swan in Australian Roses (I have issues with the politics of the Noodler's guy but only learned about them after I'd bought some bottles). After using it for a bit, I much, much prefer Garnet. Another one that scratches a similar itch - and is my current love - is De Atramentis Cherry Blossom. It's a tiny bit more pinkish than Garnet, but I love it on the page and it behaves very well.
Choose a fountain pen you like and write with it. If your priority is collecting that is not what a fountain pen is meant for. Only collect pens you want to write with because you have something worthwhile or important to say.
"Selective and deliberate" is exactly how I chose pens and inks. I'm in the sport for four years now after a long hiatus, belonging to a generation that was lucky enough to use fountain pens in school. I have since never looked back and more in love with this type of writing instrument than ever before. I do not buy a pen just because it looks good, but because it hold a profound symbolism and appeal to my most subjective reasoning. I think a lot before buying a pen, usually high end, but when I do, it becomes a source of pride. At the beginning I looked upon the pen as something more functional, now they have profounder meaning. Some lie permanently on my desk in a lovely Bernardaud pen tray, even looking at them brings me joy.
After your recent video I commented that I loved your humanity in reviews. You leave your heart on your sleeve here, so to speak, and it's a wonderful video encouraging general enthusiasm for the hobby. We all need more of that in the world.
Excellent summation of your fountain pen experience, Mr. Brown. Thank you. Many of us have reached a similar point in our fountain pen journey where we begin to question the purpose of it all, whether it's because we have collected too many pens or inks and begin to realize there is simply no way to use them all in a normal lifetime. For example, I find myself with around 120 fountain pens and nearly 100 bottles of ink, most of which I've never even used, and I wonder what to do with all of it. Perhaps I can sell much of my stock on eBay.
If you're going to be needlessly formal, at least do it properly: Dr Brown.
I’ve economized by using a cheap pen with ink cartridges simply refilled by syringe. My savings have gone toward the desk of my dreams, an assortment of inks, an inventory of paper and notebooks, and a library of fiction - both modern and classics.
Stephen, Thank you for sharing your insights and experience about fountain pens and our hobby. One aspect that you neglected to mention in any detail is the people and experiences that we encounter (in person and online) as a result of our participation in this hobby. For me, the people such as yourself and several other YT reviewers and numerous other from my local pen community have become important and even close friends over the "many" years I have been a pen person. Yes, the hobby can be part of our Journey AND much of the pleasure and enjoyment that I, and I suspect many others, have had, is a result of the people we have met along our/their fountain pen travels. Thank you again... and again and...
Regarding inks I‘m back at Pelikan 4001 Royal Blue. Back to the very first ink we all had in our school supplied pens.
Lovely calm-on-the-waters video. I’ve enjoyed your channel for many years. Continue!
I've used fountain pens since my school days, all the way through higher education and into employment. although I obviously enjoyed them, I only really ever saw a pen as a tool to do a job. yes I bought a Waterman Torsade because I liked the design, but it was still a means to an end. Then one day I saw someone using a really expensive looking Parker pen, so I bought the same model, and I became hooked. I bought some Lamy Safaris and TWSBIs to use in work and forever had to explain why my hands were dirty!!
But the day I changed from a pen user to a pen fan came when I ventured down the stairs in a stationery shop in Hay on Wye, and saw cabinets full of beautiful Visconti and other pens, and it was the materials that drew me in. I then found this channel on UA-cam and that was it - hooked.
I now have a small collection of inexpensive pens - I think my Van Gogh and SBREBrown pen are my most expensive.
I yearn to own an ASC arco pen, and frankly could go online and buy one right now but won't do that. Mainly because I'm concerned I'd spend £1000-£1500 on a pen that wouldn't have the same effect on me as my VG or SBREB pens. Maybe it would, who knows. But I can't try one out beforehand to find out.
What I'm trying, rather clumsily, to say is I agree with most of what you've just said. Buy what you love because you love it and not because someone on the internet told you that you should. I come from a photography background, and if you think pens are controversial, just wait until you see what camera reviewers can do for your (in)sanity!!
Anyway, thank you Dr. B 🙂
The thing that surprised me about Nakaya was when I realized it was the same nib as a Platinum 3776. So, really, with a Nakaya, you're buying the art, not the nib.
But the main thing is to love writing with the pens you have. Some truly disappear in my hands when I write. Others are enjoyable because they're unique. So far, my experience in this hobby has been positive, and I'd hate to see this hobby turn into what afflicts other hobbies. The only lesson I've learned is never to say anything negative about the Jinhao 159 or its various versions!
And I realized I was at a good place this spring when I realized I didn't care if I bought the new piston-filling Kaweco. I own plenty of them: all older than I am. I'm good not trying the new one!
Good comment. Nice to see you here, too!
100% agreed. Sincere greetings from Belgium. 🙂
I feel so much better, lol. I think I own fewer bottles of ink than you do. But I'd do enjoy the sampling of inks. Thanks for that!
Loved the video.
I completely agree. No one should be ashamed/apologetic of what pens they like to use, whether TWSBI, Pelikan, Montblanc, Parker, Safari, Edison, etc. After determining that I like a specific pen, and I start looking for that pen; my attitude, is if I am able to find the one I want (feels good in hand, writes smoothly, etc.), then great. If I can’t find one, or it’s too expensive and I decide not obtain it, not a big deal, life goes on, and-to your point-there will probably be another around the corner. “You do you, and I’ll do me”, as the saying goes. Thanks for another interesting vlog
Great video with wonderful insight! Thank you for this video.
The one thing that makes fountain pens so great for me is- without which they would not be so great for me - is that I write a lot, and I love to write! And writing is an essential part of what I do and am, fountain pens or not. Nevertheless, for me, the fountain pen enhances the act of writing - thinking on paper.
Of the few pens that I have my Lamy Safari gets the most use. It puts ink on the paper and I like the way it writes.
Excellent insights! I agree on all counts. This was your best presentation yet.
I can't agree more with you, Stephen.
I’ve always liked everything about writing - pens, paper, electronic devices, words, letter, ink, and ideas. Fountain pens weren’t new to me because I’d used them since grade school. When I started purchasing pens as an adult, I limited myself to spending $60 or less. Most of the ones I bought were cost less than $30. Because the pens were less expensive, I gave myself the option of buying as many different nib widths as I could, including architect nibs, italic nibs, oblique nibs, and zoom nibs. I purchased a Lamy Safari in every width; same for Kaweco Sport. I realized that I liked nibs of all shapes and sizes. I like broad nibs as much as I like extra fine nibs. I also felt free to take pens apart and put them back together, grind the nibs and replace them, and to explore different filling methods.
I tried lots of ink samples and found out what I like the best. My favorite ink color is black. Next comes colored ink so dark that it could be mistaken for black. And I love a punchy red. I like to see a few words written in turquoise ink, but a whole page of turquoise is too bright for me.
After five years, I made the decision to purchase a more expensive pen. I’ve chosen the Lamy 2000, extra fine. It hasn’t arrived yet, but I’ve researched it to death and am pretty sure that I’ll like it. I also am considering purchasing the Kaweco Piston filler, which I’m sure that I’ll like. I am guessing that the pen I’d like the best would be the Pilot Custom Heritage 743 with soft fine nib; however, I’m not going to buy it until I try it. So, next year I’m going to the pen show in my city just to try this single pen.
I’m looking forward to trying these more expensive pens, but I honestly think that I’ll never have as much with those pens as I have with my cheaper pens that I could afford to buy in all nib widths and take apart and tinker with. I prefer wearing jeans and t-shirts to suits and dresses. I prefer ordinary people to exclusive people. Along the same line, I think I will prefer basic pens that work well to fancy pens.
I may have mentioned in another comment that I’m a writer. For me, the writing instrument must remain subservient to the writing, just as the language must be subservient to the ideas it communicates. I’ve found that the prose I write is just as effective when written with a Bic pen than it is when written with a gold-nibbled one.
I’ve always liked everything about writing - pens, paper, electronic devices, words, letters, ink, and ideas. I remember how I felt the first time I printed the complete alphabet without my Mom giving me hints about the letters. Fountain pens weren’t new to me because I’d used them since grade school.
When I started purchasing pens as an adult, I limited myself to spending $60 or less. I didn’t want to fall into the rabbit hole of an expensive hobby. Most of the ones I bought cost less than $30. Because the pens were less expensive, I gave myself the option of buying as many different nib widths as I could, including round nibs, architect nibs, italic nibs, oblique nibs, flex nibs, and zoom nibs. I purchased a Lamy Safari in every nib width; same for Kaweco Sport, TWSBI Eco, and Diamond 580. I realized that I liked nibs of all shapes and sizes. I like broad nibs as much as I like extra fine nibs. I also felt free to take pens apart and put them back together, grind the nibs and replace them, and to explore different filling methods.
I tried lots of ink samples. My favorite ink color is black. Next comes colored ink so dark that it could be mistaken for black. And I love a punchy red. I like to see a few words written in turquoise ink, but a whole page of turquoise is too bright for me.
After five years, I made the decision to purchase a more expensive pen. I’ve chosen the Lamy 2000, extra fine. It hasn’t arrived yet, but I’ve researched it to death and am pretty sure that I’ll like it. I also am considering purchasing the Kaweco Piston filler, which I’m sure that I’ll like. I am guessing that the expensive pen I’d like the best would be the Pilot Custom Heritage 743 with soft fine nib; however, I’m not going to buy it until I try it. So, next year I’m going to the pen show in my city just to try this single pen.
I’m looking forward to trying these more expensive pens, but I honestly think that I’ll never have as much with them as I have with the cheaper pens I could explore and tinker with. I prefer wearing jeans and t-shirts to suits and dresses, ordinary people to exclusive people. Along the same line, I think I will prefer basic pens that work well to fancy pens.
I may have mentioned in another comment that I’m a writer. For me, the writing instrument must remain subservient to the writing, just as the language must be subservient to the ideas it communicates. I’ve found that the prose I write is just as effective when written with a Bic pen than it is when written with a gold-nibbled one.
Thank you Dr. Brown for your comments and opinions. Having listened to you talk over the years, I've learned that your opinion means a lot to me. Not just because youre on UA-cam, but because I find your opinions to be honest and truthful. Plus I enjoy the fact that your videos do NOT have all the fuss and over production. I think the biggest thing I've learned is to listen to my gut and preferences and not try to get all the pretty new things.I've come to understand that it takes time to learn those preferences I spoke of. By the way, if you have a Rockster pen (What I like)that you want to get rid of, let me know. I know a guy. LOL Thank you for your time and thoughts.
Really enjoyed this
Probably the most helpful insights for a less experienced fountain pen lover like myself
Wow -- Doc Brown has thoughtful and thought-provoking comments in this one. Yes, I've had FOMO over a pen that very quickly sold out, and I did manage to recover (despite occasional lamentations) & pick up another pen. It's really hard to disagree with anything in this wonderful video.
Stephen, as always, AMAZING!!
It seems like a crossover video from Pen- and Stoicism-Stephen!!
I find your content very educative with a touch of humour and entertainment and I appreciate your views. It seems the "does it put a smile on your face" question can already tell the user a lot. Out of all my pens I use my Montblanc 146 (late 80's) the most and it puts a smile on my face every time. I made mistakes in the past in my learning process and eventually had to sell off pens that just did not do it for me but thought I needed to have (e.g. Pelikan M800, beautiful but I'm not feeling it). Now, I never immediately buy a pen based on a review. I always let my impressions and thoughts distill for a couple of weeks or months before deciding I actually never cared and forgot, or that I still think about it often, and for me that is a sign to make the purchase.
Very philosophical way of putting both about the pens and ink. I am very much like you. I will only buy something if its an item I like and I am very selective where I go to a brick and mortar shop and will test the pen and sample ink before making a decision on whether to purchase it or not. I've walked out of shops empty handed because I did not actually like writing with it. I do this with every expensive pen so I know I can walk out of the shop not feeling guilty for not buying it.
I just love your video's Mr Brown and your philosophical way of putting things make sense and can hopefully help people feel like they haven't wasted money and can enjoy even the smallest collection because they have tested and enjoyed the process of picking and choosing pen they know they will use often and not have it sit in a draw deteriorating needing repair or if really bad join the landfill pens and other products create.
Your works, and writing activities are prime in your fountain pen journey because it allows you to express yourself at a particular time, place and mindspace. I have a good lot of pens, ink and paper. Mind you I still have a wishlist of pens, ink, and paper, but you are right, no need to have FOMO, and better to be deliberate in this hobby, and life, that you only have one of.
A well said and thought out video!
Been on the fountain pen train for over 40 years. All your points I've been through.
At this point, I'm still in love with my original brand and era fountain pens, the vintage Esterbrook ones. They have always "done it" for me, and I'm still, slowly but surely working on examples of all the colors and models, and even nibs, as I find them.
And there's several others I have that I'll probably always like. But, there's those I'm well over. They didn't "do it" for me.
Inks as well. I've went down the rabbit hole several times with inks. And discovered I don't like much with the latest fad "special properties." Give me a dozen or so basic ones. (Basically one for each month. 😉)
And not expensive ink. I've had the spectrum from Parker Quink from the 1940s. And much as I despise washable "schoolboy blue," they're still colors I can use. Current? Waterman or Diamine suits me. Cheaper, well proven inks. And no gimmicky things.
I have a select few outside these parameters. I have use for a permanent yet well behaved ink. I like iron gall inks. Just don't need laser resistance, or even sheening or shimmer. 😁
It's taken a few decades to figure out what I like, but I think I'm finally, basically there.
I’m not going to bash anyone about their pens. I collect Noodler’s Ahab, Konrad and Nib Creeper pens. I love them because they are cheap. I can tinker with them and not feel bad about doing it. I like the variety of colors they come in.
Wonderful insight into the world of personal commitment to fountain pens . Thank you! PfD
Always enjoy your thoughts and insights Stephen.. thank you! Frank in Colorado
Thank you for such an outstanding video. You have given me a lot to think about. I have terrible FOMO. And I have far too many pens and bottles of ink. I have really been trying to stop buying new pens and rediscover those I own yet have not used in years.. If I do purchase a pen, I return it if it I find anything that disappoints me or even just doesn;t get me excited. I only watch your pen reviews anymore because you just present the pen, your thoughts about it and leave it up to me to decide. I also appreciate you don't get into trying to make the video look like a Hollywood production. If I want a better look, I will look up the pen on line.
Thank you for all of your efforts to make informative pen review videos.
I love what you do, Dr. You’re so thoughtful.
I also agree that the Lamy Safari is all you need to enjoy the hobby. It really is amazing on all levels. When I was young in Australia that was all we seemed to have and we cherished them. Now online retailers means we can get whatever we want from wherever and the poor Lamy Safari gets overlooked.
Clear and insightful commentary, Dr. Brown. Thank you. I often skip your reviews primarily because the pens, while they may well be lovely, well-machined, nicely balanced, etc, are far more costly than anything I am likely to buy or to crave. I now own one MontBlanc, only because it was a gift from Peter, a gentleman who sent it to me. A member of my regional pen club wants it, desires it, but I am unwilling to give, sell, or trade it simply because it was a gift from someone whom, though we have never met, I consider a friend. So I gave Reverend Jim a red, swirly pen made of celluloid, one of those materials that reportedly takes colors well but is prone to bursting into flame. The nib wraps around the feed. It's rather old. Jim seemed pleased, so fine. Limited edition pens, numbered pens, annual special pens? I find the concept irritating and an artificial appeal to an otherwise nonexistent appetite. That said, when I was confined to my house following heart surgery earlier this year and went overboard buying pens, several did turn out to be "limited edition" and to bear serial numbers. I don't care. Each of them would be no more and no less interesting to me without the serial number. Yes, I use fountain pens daily. I also hold them, admire them, consider them toys more than anything else. Some people collect old dolls, or buttons, or automobiles. It's fun. Again, thank you for your reason and your judgment. Thank you for your reviews. Please continue to record them.
I hope your health is as good as it can be. Please take care, and enjoy your collection❤
I've only been into fountain pens for 3 or 4 years - a covid exploration that stuck....at first I just had the Amazon Basic....maybe a year later I discovered youtube fountain pen world!!! and entered the exploration phase! I think there is still a bit of exploration for me but certainly more refinement. I have started to explore repair of vintage pens...I think it is filling a hole from my childhood of model building..that for some reason I feel isn't appropriate for a man my age...but somehow fountain pen repair is??
Thanks Stephen. Interesting as always. Some great advice given. However, I think that some of that wisdom comes only through direct experience.
What drove my purchasing initially, was curiosity and gaining experience. Suggestions/recommendations came from your and other pen reviews as well as social media.
Over time, as I began to realise and understand my own preferences and tastes, I began purchasing more selectively. I also became far less influenced by popularity/hype as a reason to try another pen.
One thing that could have led to less purchasing is the opportunity to try the pens. Either through a local pen meet-up or a local dealer, neither of which I had. On reflection, pen swaps would also be an interesting way to increase experience without purchasing.
As I do with my wardrobe, I only buy pens and inks I love and use. I have a disproportionate number of bottles of Iroshizuku Ebisu ink, because it creates magic on my page. The number of pens I own is limited to what I can display on my desk because I like to see them when I glance that way. What brings me joy is more important than the status of a particular pen.
I look forward to pen-knives being used again for their original purpose. Goose quills and reed pens dipped in ink made from oak galls. Retro is due a revival. If it was good enough for William Shakespeare, it'll do for me.
Poe's Law is alive and well.
Great message. I focused on exploring FPs during C-19 and Trump PTSD and spent more time on videos and blogs dealing with inks, nibs, etc. I learned a lot but there is a consumerism that might be exacerbated by a bit of OCD… that lead me to buying more than I need. I’ve sold or given away some pens since then and feel much happier with a small collection I keep in use. Nice video.
Thank you for your very wise words, and especially important as we now approach the world wide Pelikan Hubs in September, where lots of both newcomers and pen afficionados meet, and it is easy to be blown away. Use what you like -it's ok, is my major takeaway from this video. Thank you for making it.
Pretty Heideggarian of a conclusion. I like it.
Good job please keep making
Stephen thanks for this video, yes the temptations are real. When I started in this hobby, the inks had to be sheeny / shiny, pens had to have flex nibs etc etc. Never go the hang of flex (nor do I have the talent), so managed to skip that. Sheeny inks got onboard with that, then discovered that they took ages to dry and being a lefty side writer that didn't work, luckily only bought one bottle🙂 And so it goes, as time goes on I have become more selective and intentional with my purchases.
This is an exremely important comment, that I usually also give to people, who become at least slightly interested in fountain pens. For writing, I own six pens (which are all constantly inked up). One of them landed very badly on the nip (and has done that before), I liked to write with it, but not as much as with other pens, so I have decided to retire this specific pen and only now I think about purchasing one of the pens, I have watched over the last maybe 10 years. As for inks, I give myself permission to buy a single non dark blue / black ink, which is my favourite dominant colour, every year. Do I buy more ink every year than I will use? Most likely yes. The ink I finally choose, must be something very special to me.
Agree !
When I choose a pen, I tend to look at 'what size and system of nib' does it take?
I tinker with my pens for calligraphy and for me it's about availability of all kinds of nibs to use.
So I collect by expanding what nibs I can put in my pens.
Do I need another that takes 5.5? Maybe, if I find myself swapping nibs often, but so far I've reserved myself to rather pick pens that lets me use nibs unavailable to me.
We started using fountain pens around the same time frame and your observations are spot on. I tend to choose pens based on aesthetics first then the nib. It's not the best way to go about it but it works for me. The pen that gets inked most is a Lamy CP-1 that I bought over 12 years ago. I bought a pen while on vacation from Fountain Pen Revolution. For me it was affordable but I'm very aware that for someone else, it may be a ridiculously high price to pay. Yesterday I inked up a Muji fountain pen and I just realized it has a similar aesthetic to the CP-1 and is an enjoyable writer. What's the point of owning a pen if you're not using it?
Great video.
Just watched your very first video again "CHOTKI KNOTTING" , my how times have changed 😁
Whatever pens I buy, I always go back to my old Aurora 88s, no better pen made for me ever, I still buy a pen occasionally
FOMO, no I don't have that. A case in point, I have a few vintage Sailor pens, but only 2 modern ones, and have no intention to get any one of the other models. I've passed up many a pen that was desirable, but not enough to acquire. I have 5 times your collection & each and every pen was a deliberate purchase because they appealed to me. One thing I've learned in surviving almost 69 rotations on this third rock from the sun is that everything changes. You can try and resist it, but change will still happen around you and pass you by.
A couple comments. First, I think it's great that some countries start children out with fountain pens. I'm in NY, and when I was a child we were only given (ballpoint) pens after we had become proficient with cursive in 4th grade. Now, my children are in high school, and to this day they are only allowed to use a pen for the state final exams, and the shops Hage not taught them cursive. Second, I'm glad that you took the time to tell people to not be ashamed for buying what works for them and not bring ashamed if that means they have a collection that is either very small or inexpensive (or both), and I hope that those in the community who are being judgemental hear this and change their attitude. Thank you for your words of encouragement!
The problem I have. Is there is always. Something new to like. For me some are old and vintage. Some are new and shiny , they all are a forum of mediation and joy.
I thoroughly enjoy my Cross Bailey as well as my Jinhao 9016. What people think is irrelevant. its my journey and my experience.
I own fountain pens that range from the Montblanc MEISTERSTÜCK SOLITAIRE Sterling Silver (the fountain and roller ball pens along with the pencil), a M1000 Pelikan all the way to Jinhao. What you say is "spot on". I was craving a Montblanc Grande 149 but that craving went the way of the DoDo bird. Next, I am going build my own pen using 3D printing and a standard nib, maybe a number 8 Bach BB. Who knows where that will lead. Another fine video and wise words. Is the SBRE Brown available? I have almost all colors except brown, sorry.
12:45 Oh boy, you are most certainly correct with those words. There was some drama going around PenTube regarding "fountain pen collection shaming" earlier this year. The responses from other UA-camrs definitely turned me off of the fountain pen community at large. It was a bummer.
After half a dozen years, circumstances conspired such that I now have a King of Pen. All further purchasing has stopped - why would I buy a pen that isn't a King? Luckily for me (thank you, Sailor), they are so ludicrously overpriced that I will be getting by with just the one. Now what am I supposed to do with my other 49 pens?
I always think 'horses for courses' I have numerous not particularly expensive pens in different nib sizes and geometries all with different inks in so I can use them for different purposes - writing small, writing big, writing wet, writing on awful paper, different coloured inks to denote different types of diary entries and some that are just favourite writing instruments for when I'm just writing for myself. I would really struggle using only one pen even if it was fantastic.
So true!
I am aware I may go crazy, so I control my impulses by engaging into "small journeys". Is super-flex for me? I try the most flex nib available, and found it meh. I currently look at which black ink is the blackest. I "exploit" my pens and inks by trying different combinations of black inks and pens, and only when I completed that, will I consider if I need another black ink.
This trap of buying because we think we should can affect us all, especially those with large financial means, who buy buy buy things they don't really like but that they feel someone with their wealth should own.
@sbrebrown Could you please put a list of the 40 pens you own. I’d like to google them and see them. I’d like to purchase a new fountain pen. And if you’ve already curated your collection. That means you must have an excellent assortment of 40. Thanks Man
The watch industry went through a cycle years ago when Swatch entered the market, perhaps the fountain pen industry needs this sort of cycle to break the current direction of ever increasing artistic price for bling as opposed to function.
That was more about quartz watches, generally, which were introduced by Seiko (in 1969). Swatch (started in 1983) is an effect, not the cause. But, to the bigger point: Fountain pens are already extremely niche, whereas wristwatches were quite mainstream when the Quartz Crisis occurred in the 1970s.
@@halfsourlizard9319 From my perspective I think we discuss two very different aspects, the Quartz Crisis is a technical revolution, if not "better" at least a different way to deliver time keeping. (We can debate if it's better or not, technically there is no debate, aesthetics is a different issue) Swatch brought the artistic element to the mainstream, prior to that it was about elite jewellery, rare gems and precious metals. I think if Fountain Pens stay that course they will go the way of automatic watches, there is already very little innovation, and there will be even less. It will force market rationalisation, we don't want to see that. Swatch is also diminished, excluding some minority collectors / interests.
My next fountain pen will have Bluetooth and/or wifi that will link to an AI server somewhere in the cloud and will write for me.
I envy you immensely: I have a rather larger collection, and I wish that I had ... whatever personality trait allows you to cull the set periodically.
It's too bad there isn't Network where one can borrow/rent pens if various types, so one can know if a pen is worth having, "for me".
I fear, such a system would cause carnage to many souls, as it would inevitably be infiltrated by those with bad intentions.
@@TrueReal-de6ee true, it would be hard to execute.
Yes@@gregcooper8466, but not impossible =) Hopefully one day your idea will become a reality❤️ Not because it is easy, but because we know that we must!
Many people never write anything with their pens.
We all buy flex nibs for the same reasons people buy $1000+ golf clubs. We all want to think we can buy better handwriting (or a golf swing) without having to practice. Whole industries are built around such delusions.
Sad but true. It does improve it a bit and they are fun to do 'special' writing such as Xmas and birthday cards.
Thank you for the video - I agree so much on Monteverde Garnet. I originally tried to find an ink to replace Noodler's Ottoman Rose and Black Swan in Australian Roses (I have issues with the politics of the Noodler's guy but only learned about them after I'd bought some bottles). After using it for a bit, I much, much prefer Garnet. Another one that scratches a similar itch - and is my current love - is De Atramentis Cherry Blossom. It's a tiny bit more pinkish than Garnet, but I love it on the page and it behaves very well.
Choose a fountain pen you like and write with it. If your priority is collecting that is not what a fountain pen is meant for.
Only collect pens you want to write with because you have something worthwhile or important to say.
Be careful what fountain pens you use in public as they are a reflection of their owners and their owners' parents.
Good job please keep making
Great video.