To be honest, for the price point, the gear you get, the filling systems, and the solid construction, TWSBI is one of the best pen companies out there. Thanks for the review!
Well, it took me two years, but I finally pulled the trigger on one of these. It's in my rotation this month, and I have it inked with Birmingham Pen Co. "Boiler Steam". I wish the section had a little more girth, but other than that, I'm liking it. That MB 149 is absolutely gorgeous!
Thanks! I started out as a slim pen lover (think Chalana or Grance). Now I’m kinda hooked on bigger pens like the custom Urushi , 149 and Wahl. I think I like the bigger sections too
I got this pen as my "I just got through probation at work and now I'm here to stay" reward and I adore it! Goulet Pens was amazing about the shipping, it shipped about two hours after my order was confirmed and arrived a day earlier than I estimated. My co-workers love it and I've been using it for everything lately. Mine is much blue-r in tone than yours, however, because the finishes are all so unique! The only problems I'm having is that the end cap feels "rough" when I turn it, like there's some kind of grit or something in the threads. I don't know what happened, as it's been like this since I purchased it and got it. I'm also just apparently a week noodle and can't seem to get the pen to come apart at all for cleaning! I got Schwarz Rose to put in it but the glitter clogged it up so badly it needed to be cleaned immediately, which was a disappointment. Now it's inked up with Organics Studios Nitrogen and the sheen matches the shine.
Congratulations on making it thru probation at work! That pen is a great reward! I don't know about the grittiness on the end cap--I would definitely reach out to Goulet Pens. They have always been stellar about solving pen issues. As for removing the nib, use a rubber "gripper" (I use cut up pieces of that open weave rubber stuff you line cabinets with.) Grab the nib and section (on the flat part of the section) and pull--I had to twist back and forth a bit for this one (just a bit). Once you have pulled it out, it comes in and out a lot easier. The Vac700 is great because you can take everything apart and clean it so easily. I use all kinds of ink in it as I know I can clean it easily.
@@InkyRocks Thanks so much for the advice on how to get the section out! I'll give it a try next time I need to fill my pen! I think I will reach out to Goulet Pens and ask if I need to reach out to TWSBI directly about the end-piece. I'm glad I found your channel!
I got two of these pens and I love the look of them and the feel of the pen body and the cap when its capped. Got some slight problems with the fine nib pen that i got but the problem was diagnosed and fixed so no problem anymore. I am super addicted that I might even try to get the EF nib too or Diamond580 iris one too. Promised myself not to get anymore pens/ink for at least 2 months so gotta chill a bit.
Hahaha definitely! Personally, even though I like TWSBI a LOT, I would save for some other pen as you already have an iridescent one. But in any case, they are awesome pens!
@@InkyRocks I get it, like trying new foods and having that varied experience. I am the type who keeps eating the same favorite food and only occasionally trying something new. Its rare that when I see a beatiful pen I want to get it in that moment ofc my logical side makes me check some reviews first.
@Inky.Rocks: Your Work is mesmerizingly inspirational. Thank you for your sublime artistry, impeccable detail, and inkyness! Blessed we are by your creations; So Say We All. The 700R Iris is a compelling fountain pen; since receiving it 4 days ago, I haven't stopped using. Though the plain 700R is great, IMHO the black piston end detracts from its total essence. it is truly the 'Iris-ness' [and crystal end) of this one, that makes it own-worthy.
Thank you so much for your lovely and kind comment! I totally agree that while the 700R is great, the Iris makes it extra special! Glad you are enjoying yours!
Aloha Alesa! A very beautiful pen and your review showed every aspect of it to it's fullest. I have had good success with TWSBI, but haven't gone beyond the Eco/Eco-T and GO models. The #6 nib does make it enticing .... thanks for your excellent review. Mahalo from Kauai, Hawaii. Thomas
Congrats to the winner and thank you for your generosity! And that TWSBI is a beautiful pen especially with that ink. I have an ECO and find even un-posted it feels heavy in my hand after writing with it for awhile. Which I found odd as it's mostly plastic but wondering if it's the screw end causing some weird balance for me. I'm curious if this would be the same as it looks heavier.
Thank you! Should have another for Christmas! I'm not sure about the heaviness of the Eco, but it does have a bit of a strange end to the section. I'm wondering if some of the "heaviness" is your grip with the pen?
I don't own any vac fillers but I find their operation and design fascinating. This one is a real beauty. I listened to the Tokyo Inklings Podcast from the Tokyo Pen Show and they said you were there. I had an opportunity to go to the St Louis show last summer but I ended up skipping it...I won't do that again!
Once you get the hang of it, it's actually a pretty clean way to fill a pen, especially if you are not worried about filling it to the max (which I never am as i am always changing inks.) I was definitely there and have soooo many clips to go thru that it may take another week before I can get the video out. The only downside to going to a pen show is how light your wallet becomes. Christmas already came and went for me this year...
1.Beautifully colored pen, till you get to the nib, which turns the whole thing gaudy. 2. Thanks for including reverse writing, which I use sometimes. 3. As a fiddler, do you enjoy Noodler's pens?
I forget to add reverse writing and posting on a lot of my reviews as I don't do either. I don't like Noodler's at all. I've bought so many that have broken and one actually fell apart as I was writing. Don't get me started on their "flex".
Beautiful pen. It would be a whole new learning experience for me the TWSBI vac system. I really enjpyed seeing it up close with the gorgeous purple ink!!!!
Thank you Chris! After you get used to it, it's a pretty clean and quick filling system especially if you don't try to completely fill it, which I don't do as I change inks so often!
I ordered this pen last week from a local pen shop, (Vancouver Pen Shop). It's about an hour drive from here and then there's only paid parking in Vancouver. I figured shipping would be less expensive than driving in to pick it up. Hopefully it will be here by the weekend or shortly after it. I hope everyone is staying safe and not taking any unnecessary chances
If you are talking about filling the pen, I would not press down the nib into the bottom of the ink bottle, but it slightly touching should not be a problem.
Are you talking about vintage or used? You can get some vintage pens on eBay and sites like that. Here is my video talking about how you can buy used pens: ua-cam.com/video/5W5tiFErARI/v-deo.html
The vac R has long been on my wish list but I haven't quite got there. Was a little underwhelmed when I first saw this pen.....all that glitters.....But you may have just changed my mind. Thanks Inky.
hahaha! I don't want to be a big enabler! TWSBI seems to come out with cool colors--maybe they will do a Prussian Blue for the Vac R! I missed out on the 580 for that. So you may need to play the waiting game!
Oh, man, I wish they hadn't done that. A few weeks ago, I brought my 700R out of storage; I was in a TWSBI "recycling" mode, disassembled both my 580 ALR Prussian Blue and the 700R (had some Noodler's 54th Mass in the 580 -- which didn't care for that ink entirely) and just filled 'em with Diamine Midnight. I'd forgotten what decent writers they are so right when I'm fond of TWSBI they come out with this real looker! C'est las vie.
@@InkyRocks they still have the Prussian blue all over the place in the US. I Love my iris 700R. I use it to draw and only use De'Atramentis Archival black in it. I debated a long time about which ink to use - what "best" suited the pen, but then, I figured, as a watercolorist, the best way to go was the most used Ink I have so I could admire this pen the most often while using it.
Knowing TWSBI, that color coating will last a while. Almost all TWSBI pens come with a lifetime warranty as well so you can contact them if there's any issues and they will generally just make you pay the cost of shipping to send a replacement. I had a nib on my TWSBI Eco-T get misaligned and they sent me a new one within two weeks of me reaching out. Honestly the only delay was that I forgot to send them the Paypal payment for the shipping for a few days!
It appears to be anodized. A quick Google search and it looks like anodized colors don't chip off but can wear off--though it appears that is unusual. All the parts that have the rainbow color don't really come in contact that much with the user except the section collar, especially if you choke up on the section (which I sometimes do). My totally unprofessional opinion is that it looks like it will not chip off nor wear off easily. But if you are worried about it, I would use gentle inks and make sure I don't have any lotion, sunscreen etc on my hands while using it. As for me, I will feel comfortable using it as I do any other mid range pen except I won't get a specialty grind on the nib.
I loved this pen! The iridescent colours are just beautiful 😍 On a completely unrelated note I was wondering if you could eventually do a video with all your light toned inks. This is of course just a suggestion, I don't want you to feel pressured or anything. It's just that I really would like to get one but I always feel scared that they won't be legible enough, especially the light pink or grey ones and at the moment I unfortunately don't have enough money to buy all the inks in the world and so I end up not buying them. 😅
Thank you so much! And please don't hesitate on suggestions for future videos! This is actually a great topic and I need to think about how to present it. In the mean time, I would not go for the really light ones unless you plan on using it with a very large nib (smallest would be a western M but stub would be better) or a good flex, both of which would allow the ink to pool--which makes it more legible. You may want to take a favorite color of ink and put some in a separate bottle or cup and add a little water to get an idea or basically the same effect. If adding the water makes it too dry, add just the tiniest bit of dish soap.
@@InkyRocks yes! One really fun way to jump Mark Bacas’ line is to just buy a twsbi mini and have him throw a grind on it. I had him do that with a broad ice mini and I looove it! As I settle into the 6th year of the hobby, I’ve calmed down a lot and a bigger pen is no longer the “better” pen. Sure, I have a 149, and I love it, but for actual control, especially when drawing, a small pen is better for me.
Such a pretty pen! I picked mine up on Monday and I’m sure pleased with it. I’m wondering about the interior of the barrel; is it textured? The ink seems to grab the surface and doesn’t smoothly slosh. I was thinking that I might try to clean it, but I see that yours was doing the same thing. I love your ink colour and will be on an adventure to find the perfect shade. Thanks for another wonderful review. :)
It really is! Thanks for your feedback on the interior of the pen. I noticed that too. For part of it, the ink is kind of that way in the bottle. But since you also experience it, I'm wondering if it's the silicone grease they may have coated it with before shipping? I think I will stick with purples for awhile, I like the way it looks with the rainbow iridescence.
I'm so torn. I love TWSBI pens, I have two (ECO and 580 AL). This is so beautiful, but I have a few "beginner" level pens. I only recently acquired my first "next level" pen (Pilot VP Decimo). Maybe I should be saving my money for that Sailor I've been eyeing. You've also turned me towards considering a Platinum 3776. I can't decide...
I love TWSBI pens too and this is a fun filling system. If the system isn't that intriguing for you, I would save for another pen. But this is probably the most inexpensive and reliable vacuum filler (compare it to the Pilot on price.) Also, since you love TWSBIs, I'm assuming you like their nibs. See if you can try someone's 3776 or Sailor to ensure you like those nibs before you lay down the money to buy one of them.
@@InkyRocks Thanks for the advice! You are correct I do like the TWSBI nibs (I have an M and an F), I like the flow on them and that they are not too scratchy, but once I got my Decimo and felt how smooth the writing experience was using my first gold nib, I was hooked. Unfortunately being so new to the pen hobby, I know no one in the pen community (for now) to ask if I could test drive their pens. Once COVID is over, I will definitely look for some pen meet ups.
Weird, I've never found the 700r heavy! I think even the loom feels heavier to me, or the HS and the 823. Without the cap a lot of the weight is gone. It must be a feeling though. Genuinely don't know. I wonder if I will purchase this one having already 2 700r with different nib sizes. I think it would match well with some particular ink. Food for thought....
I'm the same. It doesn't feel that heavy to me, especially without the cap. That is one of the reasons I rarely post the weights, as I don't pay attention to it on other videos and figure I can always google it if I need to know, instead of watching a whole video on it. I had put getting another VAC700 on a back burner until this color came out. I really like it as most of the TWSBI like looks pretty utilitarian.
I love my Vac700R, for several reasons -- I like the size, the larger nib and the way it allows me to see what's happening while I write, and I like the large ink capacity. The steel F nib writes very well. I would recommend it to anyone who wants a good, serviceable fountain pen. (I leave it to their judgment and wallet whether they ought to buy a 2nd one just for the alternate finish.)
The Diamond 580 and the Vac700R are slowly warming up on me from my "that's too much" days. Otherwise, I feel I'm just letting these neat colors whiz by, but I try to use my whole set of pens daily and that definitely seems more than enough. XD (Cleaning included.) Otherwise, is Edo-Murasaki anything like the infamous Dark Lilac? I've been getting wistful for anything close to Chesterfield Rose, and interestingly, I'm willing to scratch the purple itch, too, someday.
If a pen seems like it's not "worth it", it does not belong in my lineup. I feel like if I'm is stressing about wether or not it was worth the price, it takes away from the enjoyment of the pen! I don't have Dark Lilac or Chesterfield Rose. You may want to check out Mountain of Ink--it seems like she has every color in the world swatched there!
Recently found your channel and I'm really enjoying it. I missed out on getting this pen, but I hear there may be a second release, so I'm hopeful. I wanted to ask you about the ink you're using. I'm unable to find that color here. How close it is to Murasaki-Shikibu?
I'm so glad--thanks so much! I've heard rumblings that they will come out with more. They certainly need to! I don't have Murasaki-Shikibu so I can't tell. It was a limited edition ink but we are still seeing it sold in some of the stores here. As a long shot, you could try Maruzen's website, but you may need a proxy to order.
When you started saying Francis, I thought... what me ? I won something ? This never happens... Then I realized you said Francis and not François... Things are back to normal... This pen is not that cheap... 80-90 euros... maybe I'll try it someday but I'm sticking to my Rangas for now... Would you consider expanding and review Sumi inks ? Or Kumano Fude brushes ? I'd love it !! :D
hahaha! Sorry to give you such a shock! I think the pen was a bit cheaper in the US but sold out very quickly. That's why I hope that they continue this color as so many people seem to like it. Do you mean real Sumi inks that you grind or like Sailor's? I don't have any fude brushes but I just got a wicked SM fude at the Tokyo Pen Show that I'll show in the video after next!
Beautiful photography as usual. I wish there was a way to get that ink in the United States; I like the Edo-Murasaki much better than the standard Iroshizuku Murasaki, which is a bit too bright for my tastes.
Thank you! You may want to ask Shigure Inks if they plan on carrying it. It was a limited edition, but I've seen it in several stores now so maybe, like many "limited editions," Pilot changed their minds. And I agree, it's a great color!
To be honest, for the price point, the gear you get, the filling systems, and the solid construction, TWSBI is one of the best pen companies out there. Thanks for the review!
I really agree. Thank you so much for watching and your input!
Great review and enjoyable.
Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks!
Well, it took me two years, but I finally pulled the trigger on one of these. It's in my rotation this month, and I have it inked with Birmingham Pen Co. "Boiler Steam". I wish the section had a little more girth, but other than that, I'm liking it. That MB 149 is absolutely gorgeous!
Thanks! I started out as a slim pen lover (think Chalana or Grance). Now I’m kinda hooked on bigger pens like the custom Urushi , 149 and Wahl. I think I like the bigger sections too
I got this pen as my "I just got through probation at work and now I'm here to stay" reward and I adore it! Goulet Pens was amazing about the shipping, it shipped about two hours after my order was confirmed and arrived a day earlier than I estimated. My co-workers love it and I've been using it for everything lately. Mine is much blue-r in tone than yours, however, because the finishes are all so unique!
The only problems I'm having is that the end cap feels "rough" when I turn it, like there's some kind of grit or something in the threads. I don't know what happened, as it's been like this since I purchased it and got it. I'm also just apparently a week noodle and can't seem to get the pen to come apart at all for cleaning! I got Schwarz Rose to put in it but the glitter clogged it up so badly it needed to be cleaned immediately, which was a disappointment. Now it's inked up with Organics Studios Nitrogen and the sheen matches the shine.
Congratulations on making it thru probation at work! That pen is a great reward! I don't know about the grittiness on the end cap--I would definitely reach out to Goulet Pens. They have always been stellar about solving pen issues. As for removing the nib, use a rubber "gripper" (I use cut up pieces of that open weave rubber stuff you line cabinets with.) Grab the nib and section (on the flat part of the section) and pull--I had to twist back and forth a bit for this one (just a bit). Once you have pulled it out, it comes in and out a lot easier. The Vac700 is great because you can take everything apart and clean it so easily. I use all kinds of ink in it as I know I can clean it easily.
@@InkyRocks Thanks so much for the advice on how to get the section out! I'll give it a try next time I need to fill my pen!
I think I will reach out to Goulet Pens and ask if I need to reach out to TWSBI directly about the end-piece. I'm glad I found your channel!
@@PunemySported awesome! Good luck!
Congratulations to the winner 👍☺️
Thank you! Will run another for Christmas!
That's my Dream Pen✒️ 😍
I am rapidly becoming a TWSBI fanboy. Thanks for this review! :)
I'm definitely already there! Thank you for watching!
I got two of these pens and I love the look of them and the feel of the pen body and the cap when its capped. Got some slight problems with the fine nib pen that i got but the problem was diagnosed and fixed so no problem anymore. I am super addicted that I might even try to get the EF nib too or Diamond580 iris one too. Promised myself not to get anymore pens/ink for at least 2 months so gotta chill a bit.
Hahaha definitely! Personally, even though I like TWSBI a LOT, I would save for some other pen as you already have an iridescent one. But in any case, they are awesome pens!
@@InkyRocks I get it, like trying new foods and having that varied experience. I am the type who keeps eating the same favorite food and only occasionally trying something new. Its rare that when I see a beatiful pen I want to get it in that moment ofc my logical side makes me check some reviews first.
Congrats for the winner! Loved this pen.... thinking on buying another TWSBI
This pen made me remember how much I love TWSBIs!
Great video! I’m waiting for mine to arrive later today. I’ve never had a vac filler and appreciate your patient how to video! Such a pretty pen!
I'm excited for you! You will love it!
Ahhh. It's so shiny. This is really tempting me to get another TWISBI pen.... Lovely video. I appreciate you demonstrating the filling technique!
hahah! It IS so shiny and purty! I'm enjoying it! Thanks!
What a beautiful pen! And congratulations to the winner!!
Thank you! Should have another at Christmas!
@Inky.Rocks: Your Work is mesmerizingly inspirational.
Thank you for your sublime artistry, impeccable detail, and inkyness!
Blessed we are by your creations; So Say We All.
The 700R Iris is a compelling fountain pen; since receiving it 4 days ago, I haven't stopped using.
Though the plain 700R is great, IMHO the black piston end detracts from its total essence.
it is truly the 'Iris-ness' [and crystal end) of this one, that makes it own-worthy.
Thank you so much for your lovely and kind comment! I totally agree that while the 700R is great, the Iris makes it extra special! Glad you are enjoying yours!
Aloha Alesa! A very beautiful pen and your review showed every aspect of it to it's fullest. I have had good success with TWSBI, but haven't gone beyond the Eco/Eco-T and GO models. The #6 nib does make it enticing .... thanks for your excellent review. Mahalo from Kauai, Hawaii. Thomas
Hey Thomas! Thank you so much! The number 6 nib IS nice! Take care!
Congrats to the winner and thank you for your generosity! And that TWSBI is a beautiful pen especially with that ink. I have an ECO and find even un-posted it feels heavy in my hand after writing with it for awhile. Which I found odd as it's mostly plastic but wondering if it's the screw end causing some weird balance for me. I'm curious if this would be the same as it looks heavier.
Thank you! Should have another for Christmas! I'm not sure about the heaviness of the Eco, but it does have a bit of a strange end to the section. I'm wondering if some of the "heaviness" is your grip with the pen?
I don't own any vac fillers but I find their operation and design fascinating. This one is a real beauty. I listened to the Tokyo Inklings Podcast from the Tokyo Pen Show and they said you were there. I had an opportunity to go to the St Louis show last summer but I ended up skipping it...I won't do that again!
Once you get the hang of it, it's actually a pretty clean way to fill a pen, especially if you are not worried about filling it to the max (which I never am as i am always changing inks.) I was definitely there and have soooo many clips to go thru that it may take another week before I can get the video out. The only downside to going to a pen show is how light your wallet becomes. Christmas already came and went for me this year...
1.Beautifully colored pen, till you get to the nib, which turns the whole thing gaudy.
2. Thanks for including reverse writing, which I use sometimes.
3. As a fiddler, do you enjoy Noodler's pens?
I forget to add reverse writing and posting on a lot of my reviews as I don't do either. I don't like Noodler's at all. I've bought so many that have broken and one actually fell apart as I was writing. Don't get me started on their "flex".
@@InkyRocks Sorry to hear that. Luckily there are other choices.
Thanks for the vac explanation with the excellent photography. May have to get one! Stay safe.
Thank you so much! Take care!
Beautiful pen. It would be a whole new learning experience for me the TWSBI vac system. I really enjpyed seeing it up close with the gorgeous purple ink!!!!
Thank you Chris! After you get used to it, it's a pretty clean and quick filling system especially if you don't try to completely fill it, which I don't do as I change inks so often!
I ordered this pen last week from a local pen shop, (Vancouver Pen Shop). It's about an hour drive from here and then there's only paid parking in Vancouver. I figured shipping would be less expensive than driving in to pick it up. Hopefully it will be here by the weekend or shortly after it. I hope everyone is staying safe and not taking any unnecessary chances
I'm sure you will love it! I would love to check out the Vancouver Pen Shop one day! Take care Helen!
At first I was dubious about the rainbow color but seems to me like it looks better in person than in photos. Hope I can still get one.
You may have to look at several on-line shops. Good luck!
That’s some of my favorite ink, looks fabulous in that pen!!!
Yes, I love it! Thank you!
Twisbi limited edition colors always seem to hit the mark! So pretty!
They really do! I missed the Prussia Blue!
Thanks, I enjoyed your video. Just ordered this pen and look forward to getting it.
That's awesome! You'll love it!
Ink matches so well! 😍😍
Thank you! I think I'll stick with purples for awhile!
do you push the piston down while making the nib touch the glass?
would that maybe bend/damage the nib from pressure?
If you are talking about filling the pen, I would not press down the nib into the bottom of the ink bottle, but it slightly touching should not be a problem.
@@InkyRocks thanks!
How can i get old pens ?
Are you talking about vintage or used? You can get some vintage pens on eBay and sites like that. Here is my video talking about how you can buy used pens: ua-cam.com/video/5W5tiFErARI/v-deo.html
The vac R has long been on my wish list but I haven't quite got there. Was a little underwhelmed when I first saw this pen.....all that glitters.....But you may have just changed my mind. Thanks Inky.
hahaha! I don't want to be a big enabler! TWSBI seems to come out with cool colors--maybe they will do a Prussian Blue for the Vac R! I missed out on the 580 for that. So you may need to play the waiting game!
did you just call an Eco an Echo?
Yes?
What color is that ink? I want it.
Iroshizuku special edition Edo Murasaki (Old Tokyo Purple)
I’m glad you got to replace yours with such a nice one. 🥰
Thanks! I've moved 3 times since I got it, so it's probably stashed in some box somewhere...
Oh, man, I wish they hadn't done that. A few weeks ago, I brought my 700R out of storage; I was in a TWSBI "recycling" mode, disassembled both my 580 ALR Prussian Blue and the 700R (had some Noodler's 54th Mass in the 580 -- which didn't care for that ink entirely) and just filled 'em with Diamine Midnight. I'd forgotten what decent writers they are so right when I'm fond of TWSBI they come out with this real looker! C'est las vie.
hahaha! I think they are great pens and value! I missed out on the Prussian Blue--it is such a lovely color!
@@InkyRocks they still have the Prussian blue all over the place in the US. I Love my iris 700R. I use it to draw and only use De'Atramentis Archival black in it. I debated a long time about which ink to use - what "best" suited the pen, but then, I figured, as a watercolorist, the best way to go was the most used Ink I have so I could admire this pen the most often while using it.
How durable is the color? I wonder. Does it seem like the color is going to last? Does it seem as if it was cheaply colored?
Knowing TWSBI, that color coating will last a while. Almost all TWSBI pens come with a lifetime warranty as well so you can contact them if there's any issues and they will generally just make you pay the cost of shipping to send a replacement. I had a nib on my TWSBI Eco-T get misaligned and they sent me a new one within two weeks of me reaching out. Honestly the only delay was that I forgot to send them the Paypal payment for the shipping for a few days!
@@PunemySported that's very true. Their CS is exceptional.
@@raphael52 Absolutely. I'm blown away by their dedication to customer service every day.
It appears to be anodized. A quick Google search and it looks like anodized colors don't chip off but can wear off--though it appears that is unusual. All the parts that have the rainbow color don't really come in contact that much with the user except the section collar, especially if you choke up on the section (which I sometimes do). My totally unprofessional opinion is that it looks like it will not chip off nor wear off easily. But if you are worried about it, I would use gentle inks and make sure I don't have any lotion, sunscreen etc on my hands while using it. As for me, I will feel comfortable using it as I do any other mid range pen except I won't get a specialty grind on the nib.
Do you know any site ? I am from India.
I think I may have answered your question on your other comment.
I loved this pen! The iridescent colours are just beautiful 😍
On a completely unrelated note I was wondering if you could eventually do a video with all your light toned inks. This is of course just a suggestion, I don't want you to feel pressured or anything. It's just that I really would like to get one but I always feel scared that they won't be legible enough, especially the light pink or grey ones and at the moment I unfortunately don't have enough money to buy all the inks in the world and so I end up not buying them. 😅
Thank you so much! And please don't hesitate on suggestions for future videos! This is actually a great topic and I need to think about how to present it. In the mean time, I would not go for the really light ones unless you plan on using it with a very large nib (smallest would be a western M but stub would be better) or a good flex, both of which would allow the ink to pool--which makes it more legible. You may want to take a favorite color of ink and put some in a separate bottle or cup and add a little water to get an idea or basically the same effect. If adding the water makes it too dry, add just the tiniest bit of dish soap.
@@InkyRocks Oooh those are excellent ideas! I already have a bottle of Noodler's Ottoman Rose so I'll start testing with that one (๑•̀ㅂ•́)و✧
Thanks for the video - I love the TWSBI Iris and am fond of my OPUS88 pens too. Taiwan is a great source of excellent pens.
Thank you! It really is. If we can get the virus under control and can travel this year, the Taiwan Pen Show in Tainen is at the top of my list.
@@InkyRocks I envy you living in such an interesting part of the world.
Congratulations to the winner.
Thank you! I'll be running another one for Christmas!
I wish the full size TWSBI’s were a little shorter. I’m still a big fan of the mini’s.
I think that is one of the reasons I like the 3776 so much--just a bit shorter than the full size TWSBIs. I love th minis too.
@@InkyRocks yes! One really fun way to jump Mark Bacas’ line is to just buy a twsbi mini and have him throw a grind on it. I had him do that with a broad ice mini and I looove it! As I settle into the 6th year of the hobby, I’ve calmed down a lot and a bigger pen is no longer the “better” pen. Sure, I have a 149, and I love it, but for actual control, especially when drawing, a small pen is better for me.
@@billcrabtree8700 I think their is a lot of truth in that. Thanks for the tip on Mark Bacas hahaha!
Such a pretty pen! I picked mine up on Monday and I’m sure pleased with it. I’m wondering about the interior of the barrel; is it textured? The ink seems to grab the surface and doesn’t smoothly slosh. I was thinking that I might try to clean it, but I see that yours was doing the same thing. I love your ink colour and will be on an adventure to find the perfect shade. Thanks for another wonderful review. :)
It really is! Thanks for your feedback on the interior of the pen. I noticed that too. For part of it, the ink is kind of that way in the bottle. But since you also experience it, I'm wondering if it's the silicone grease they may have coated it with before shipping? I think I will stick with purples for awhile, I like the way it looks with the rainbow iridescence.
I'm so torn. I love TWSBI pens, I have two (ECO and 580 AL). This is so beautiful, but I have a few "beginner" level pens. I only recently acquired my first "next level" pen (Pilot VP Decimo). Maybe I should be saving my money for that Sailor I've been eyeing. You've also turned me towards considering a Platinum 3776. I can't decide...
I love TWSBI pens too and this is a fun filling system. If the system isn't that intriguing for you, I would save for another pen. But this is probably the most inexpensive and reliable vacuum filler (compare it to the Pilot on price.) Also, since you love TWSBIs, I'm assuming you like their nibs. See if you can try someone's 3776 or Sailor to ensure you like those nibs before you lay down the money to buy one of them.
@@InkyRocks Thanks for the advice! You are correct I do like the TWSBI nibs (I have an M and an F), I like the flow on them and that they are not too scratchy, but once I got my Decimo and felt how smooth the writing experience was using my first gold nib, I was hooked. Unfortunately being so new to the pen hobby, I know no one in the pen community (for now) to ask if I could test drive their pens. Once COVID is over, I will definitely look for some pen meet ups.
I love the finish on this TWSBI.
I know! It really upgrades the pen!
Weird, I've never found the 700r heavy! I think even the loom feels heavier to me, or the HS and the 823. Without the cap a lot of the weight is gone. It must be a feeling though. Genuinely don't know. I wonder if I will purchase this one having already 2 700r with different nib sizes. I think it would match well with some particular ink. Food for thought....
I'm the same. It doesn't feel that heavy to me, especially without the cap. That is one of the reasons I rarely post the weights, as I don't pay attention to it on other videos and figure I can always google it if I need to know, instead of watching a whole video on it. I had put getting another VAC700 on a back burner until this color came out. I really like it as most of the TWSBI like looks pretty utilitarian.
I love my Vac700R, for several reasons -- I like the size, the larger nib and the way it allows me to see what's happening while I write, and I like the large ink capacity. The steel F nib writes very well. I would recommend it to anyone who wants a good, serviceable fountain pen. (I leave it to their judgment and wallet whether they ought to buy a 2nd one just for the alternate finish.)
Awesome summary of why this pen is so great! I agree with every point you made hahaha!
The Diamond 580 and the Vac700R are slowly warming up on me from my "that's too much" days.
Otherwise, I feel I'm just letting these neat colors whiz by, but I try to use my whole set of pens daily and that definitely seems more than enough. XD (Cleaning included.)
Otherwise, is Edo-Murasaki anything like the infamous Dark Lilac? I've been getting wistful for anything close to Chesterfield Rose, and interestingly, I'm willing to scratch the purple itch, too, someday.
If a pen seems like it's not "worth it", it does not belong in my lineup. I feel like if I'm is stressing about wether or not it was worth the price, it takes away from the enjoyment of the pen! I don't have Dark Lilac or Chesterfield Rose. You may want to check out Mountain of Ink--it seems like she has every color in the world swatched there!
Great video.
Thank you so much!
Recently found your channel and I'm really enjoying it. I missed out on getting this pen, but I hear there may be a second release, so I'm hopeful. I wanted to ask you about the ink you're using. I'm unable to find that color here. How close it is to Murasaki-Shikibu?
I'm so glad--thanks so much! I've heard rumblings that they will come out with more. They certainly need to! I don't have Murasaki-Shikibu so I can't tell. It was a limited edition ink but we are still seeing it sold in some of the stores here. As a long shot, you could try Maruzen's website, but you may need a proxy to order.
When you started saying Francis, I thought... what me ? I won something ? This never happens... Then I realized you said Francis and not François... Things are back to normal...
This pen is not that cheap... 80-90 euros... maybe I'll try it someday but I'm sticking to my Rangas for now...
Would you consider expanding and review Sumi inks ? Or Kumano Fude brushes ? I'd love it !! :D
hahaha! Sorry to give you such a shock! I think the pen was a bit cheaper in the US but sold out very quickly. That's why I hope that they continue this color as so many people seem to like it. Do you mean real Sumi inks that you grind or like Sailor's? I don't have any fude brushes but I just got a wicked SM fude at the Tokyo Pen Show that I'll show in the video after next!
@@InkyRocks Real Sumi inks, to grind or in liquid form for calligraphy or painting :)
@@docfrayon I don't think so. I have enough on my plate right now!
Nice review! But, Alesa, since you spilled some of that Edo-murasaki you're gonna end up on a most-wanted list 😂
hahaha! I think they are still selling it here in Tokyo! I'm already solidly on that list...probably at the top...in bold.
Beautiful photography as usual. I wish there was a way to get that ink in the United States; I like the Edo-Murasaki much better than the standard Iroshizuku Murasaki, which is a bit too bright for my tastes.
Thank you! You may want to ask Shigure Inks if they plan on carrying it. It was a limited edition, but I've seen it in several stores now so maybe, like many "limited editions," Pilot changed their minds. And I agree, it's a great color!