The pice reflects the demand and willingness of folks to buy it. To me it is a classy, subdued, extremely enjoyable writer. Don’t own the Pilot 823, perhaps because folks indicate it is close but not quite as good as the MB. Fewer better pens is my approach and all are used rather than locked away. My 146 is about 40 years old now. I am getting my money’s worth. It was relatively expensive way back when I bought it.
Your comments echo my feelings about this pen. My parents gave me one when I was in grad school, I've always enjoyed writing with it, and because of the memories, it's special to me, but for the price, I want to feel like I've got more than a great writer. I've bought other pens in the $700-$1,400 price range of MB 146 and 149 pens that feel and look more special to me. The MB "precious resin" pens seem like something my lawyer or my accountant would use. They're serious, well-trained professionals, not at all exciting (and really, I prefer it that way), and neither are their pens. By the way, the German word "edel" means "precious", as in Edelstein, or "gemstone" ("precious stone"). But joined with other words, it can take on the meaning "high quality". "Edelstahl" is "stainless steel", and "Edelharz" is "high quality resin". "Precious resin" would be "edel Harz". On the MB website, it appears as "Edelharz", not "edel Harz". They aren't being as pretentious as American pen buyers often assume.
Probably the "precious resin" is just PMMA plastic, if you do the red glow test to Sailor or Platinum pens they also have it, and both say they use such plastic. My only Montblanc is exactly this same model that I got for a bargain second hand, to me it feels special for a lot of reasons but, truly, I would never pay the full price for a new one.
The "Edel-" part in "Edelstahl" also comes from it being used in the word "Edelmetalle" - precious metals. Those are obviously characterized by being especially inert and corrosion resistant, which stainless steel mimics. It also is used as a signifier of a high quality product, like you said, but in this case actually has another component to it. I would hazard a guess that this might have played a role in Montblanc naming their resin as "Edelharz", since it isn't having the same issues with ageing and discolouring like the previously used ebonite did.
I smiled while watching this review as what was said more or less expressed in the comments what I felt too. Perchance , a few weeks ago, I got out my 146 and my Duofold...for renewed use after a while of inactivity, and just to confirm how well they actually write . After that a Sailor1911. I have to admit that the feel of the 146 is quite unique, and I cannot really identify what it is , but it is certainly very harmonious. in all regards. The Duofold was also good, but obviously different.......and after that , the 1911 which gets exercised more often .........and which I find to be another outstanding pen . The 146 is some 20 years old, bought new at 1/2 of the current price and about the same as the Duofold some 17 years ago . The 1911 was substantially cheaper than either , bought in 2009 . The best value for money is, I think , the 1911.....but money is not really the issue . But then I also like writing with my Preppy and Kaweco Al Sport , such diverse approaches to pens that also have their unique and interesting properties. My compliments for your excellent and well thought out comments
I just bought one after trying out that, a Crystal Dream, and a Pelikan m800. And honestly, the 146 felt so natural to me. I'm sure I would've eventually gotten used to the others, but that Homo Sapiens' nib was too long for me. This is replacing my daily writer of 11 years and I love that it's just the classic look. One of those "Class whispers, not shout" pens. Super happy I'm getting it, but also get that people who at this price range wants a little more flair.
Thank you for this! I recently ordered a vintage 146 at a significant discount. And I've been a long-time fan of the Pilot 823. So you are my first taste of the 146. I'm looking forward to getting the actual pen in my hand, but you helped temper my excitement. On the other hand, I paid FAR less than the sticker price you listed. It will help get cost out of my evaluation, and, of course, since my pen is from the 1980s, it won't be quite the same pen as you shared. So, really, I'm just more excited to receive mine!
This is an exceptionally good review. I so agree with what you say about the Pilot 823. Something seems to happen with top tier pens like the 146. They just seem to sit in the hand a little nicer and just have that great writing experience. I chose the Pelikan 800 over the Monblanc 146, but it was a blind purchase as I had never used either. The Pelikan is very good indeed, but when I got an Onoto it was a complete step up as a pen and writing experience. So I think I understand what you are saying about the Montblanc. I would be very keen to see a video about your choice for quality and value instead of the 146. Thanks again for this very thoughtful and well produced review. Comparing the 823 gave it great perspective too.
@@seattlepenclub If it helps: The Souverin 800 / 805 is a lovely writer. The nib is very well finished. However it is very stiff with little flex. My experience is that they write and feel similar to the Parker Duofold Centenial Mk. II. Another great writer for me. I have a category of pens I think of as being Thor pens. I can hammer away with them all day and they are still comfortable and they write very well indeed. I have a group of pens which I think of as being 'Thor Pens'. They are well made, I can hammer away with them all day and they still behave exceptionally well, feel comfortable in my hand and write very nicely. Diplomat A2's fit into this category with their superb steel nibs. My Onoto should be in this category excepting the nice nib flex means I strike the letters onto the page rather than hammering them out. The Pilot 386 is another pen with which I like to stroke the letters onto the paper. Quite delightful. I do enjoy your videos. They are so very well crafted and your thoughtful words are a delight. Thank you.
Do you think there's really that much of a difference between the writing experience? I truly don't. I have owned a MB 149 and currently own a Sheaffer Balance Oversize from circa 1936-1938. I can't tell the difference between the P136 and that pen.
Very helpful. Trying to decide between a 146 and a Starwalker. It will be my first Montblanc. Starting to lean toward the Starwalker. I welcome thoughts.
I just won an eBay auction for a Starwalker, for a reasonable price…I’d never pay new retail for that or a 146/149, but was dying for a first Montblanc…hoping to love it (because is still wasn’t cheap)
The 146 is probably one of the best and most reliable piston fountain pens around if not hands down the best. I owned it for years as well as many other FPs. It looks as well as new after more than then years of which are now eight in tropical climate in Singapore. That’s important as other pens showed negative impact from the South East Asian climate to the metal decorations (Omas) or total disintegration (Visconti celluloid). It is not only a perfect shaped and functioning pen, but also very long lasting compared to its more fancy or precious competitors. So, while its pricing appears understandably inflated it has a good return. Regarding pistol filler competition it has quality wise (again SEA climate tested) one 1:1 competitor which is the Lamy 2000, which is not everybody‘s cup of coffee due to its none traditional design. Another alternative would be the similar to the 146 looking Aurora piston filler 88 with a very similar to the Montblanc “nice plastic feeling”. P.S.: Pilot/Namiki and Nakaya/Platinum fountain pens are also of extremely high and lasting quality. Sailor has some issues in my climate as well though. P.P.S.: Montblanc is like Rolex or Mercedes, a bit boring overpriced status symbols but that’s also for a reason. In all three cases it is mainly functionality, lasting quality and international repairability due their wide global distribution
Thanks. Very interesting video. I own several 146 pens (as I like the size and design), all bought in preference to the 149. They all write well. Price aside, the modern pen I bought from a boutique in 2019 (a fine) is well made and writes very well, but I have been particularly impressed by a second hand 1980s model with a B nib, clear ink window and monotone 14C nib, that I bought off E-bay for about €300 a few years back. The good thing about these pens is that there is no shortage of decent pens (some hardly used) on the second hand market. Buy from a reputable seller and you'll get a great pen at a discount. My favourite Montblanc is the 1980s 144 with the snap cap - probably too small for modern tasted, though.
the Montblanc 149 is the benchmark .. I have several pens from MB, Pelikan, Pilot, Parker, and Aurora and nothing writes like the higher end MB's .. even their limited edition's..
My 146 is my favorite writing instrument. I treated myself in 1996. I also have 2 MB rollerballs, and a MB Dumas fountain pen, a Parker Centenniel Duofold, but the 146 is the one.
I got mine in almost mint condition for 250€. I don't see any reason to buy these at retail price. Even if you buy a used one and then send it to Montblanc for repair it'll still be way cheaper than getting a new one.
I agree - that's a good way to buy one to use yourself. Montblanc service / repair prices are surprisingly reasonable (relative to the price of the pen). There are valid reasons to buy one new: 1. gifting it (like how I got mine) 2. Montblanc's nib swab service if you want a specific nib etc.
Same here. Got a vintage 80’s 146 off eBay from a seller in Japan for around $200. It has very minimal signs of wear due to usage and the fact it’s over 40 years old, but still writes very well. Just buy second hand Montblancs; they usually come at half the retail price.
I fully agree with your comparison btwn the 146 & 823. I own a 146 (Med) & 2 823’s (Fine & Med.) I use my 823’s as daily writers, reserving my 146 as my Signature pen. I was extremely fortunate to obtain my Mont Blanc “set” (146 FP, Ballpoint, & Mech. pencil) unexpectedly in the 1990’s each at 40% off (!) at the closing of a stationer’s store. However, while I also concur that the 146 does not have the “feel” one expects in a $799 pen, it’s undoubtedly an iconic/grail FP for good reason… and one every serious FP aficionado simply must own.
What do you think about the LeGrand Solitaire, all metal fountain pen? Would it feel special with that weight and the beautiful designs they have on the Solitaire pens?
My wife bought me a 146 in 1992 or '93. For the life of me I can't determine whether it is a M or F nib or F. Where can I find that information if you know. Thanks.
Nice review . I have the 146 in various metal bodies and they write beautifully and better than my 149. That being said, I have a hard time getting excited by this model
I liked your video and agreed with your assessment of the MB 146 until the part about it not being special. You seem to be looking for some sort of fairytale specialness that I don't see. I have enjoyed mine for years for the very reasons you stated. It does everything that I want from a pen, and does it very well. I love mine.
Fair enough! For me personally, I find other pens in the price range feel more like an occasion when I use them, which is what I meant by specialness. Nothing to complain about regarding the function of the 146 though
8th video I looked at about this pen. Is nobody to talk about how to fill it? Mine has an slim empty body inside with a piston that can only be moved from within, with a tooth pick like stick. Refill with a needle and syringe?
Must be something about MB's marketing; my first "real" FP (over 30 years ago) was a MB Classique as a gift from my wife. I treasure it for that reason but was never crazy about it as a pen per se. I finally broke down and bought a 146 ~ 2 years ago when I found one (old new stock) for ~ $340. Now that I have one and have used it since, I can see the +'s you mention and others extol but yeah, it's just not exciting and not at all worth full retail. I feel like I got a lot more (style, piston , nib etc) from my Santini Italia at full retail well below that of MB.
I looked up the price of one of these marvelous pens. Gosh, I'd have to take out a mortgage in order to purchase one. I guess I'll have to settle for my bic.
So, is the difference in the writing experience really worth spending the extra $400+? I know pens are an individual experience, but I'm wondering if there's much of a difference? I have owned a MB 149 and I really can't tell the difference. I can with a Jinhao and say a $100 Parker, but not with this pen. I know the nib won't last as long, and neither will the piston. Also, is the experience discernable if I replaced the nib with a Jowo?
my 2 cents: retail price is about the same but street price of the Parker is much less. Size and weight are similar. Duofold has a larger 18k nib vs. the 14k on the Montblanc. Also converter vs. piston if that matters to you. However, tuning and overall fit and finish are much better on the Montblanc. To me, it seems fair that the Duofold costs less
I am stuck between the 146 and the 149. I have written with both and the decision is difficult, price aside. I believe that the price for these pens is driven by reputation. Yes, build quality is great but there are other pens that are comparable at at a lower price point. Decisions, decisions.
I bought the 146 and I was also having a question like this. I like 146 more than pelikan m800 bc of the cigar shape, as for 149 I would suggest you to consider it if you wanna use it with O3B nib.
146 sits better in hand. Even larger hand like mine [see my writing samples]. However, if you find a 1980s 149 with fine nib for around $450 [and you can find one], there is no comparison. That pen is quite flawless. Do not buy it for retail, of course.
I was gifted one of these as well, and I must say, I’ve never been impressed. The original one had to go back, as it would NOT write with ANY ink. Even the replacement was simply unreliable. For that kind of dough I expect perfection: I pick it up, it works flawlessly (as yours appears to). Instead, I pick up any of my Pilots, Platinums or Pelicans.
Thanks! I do like the 845 but a bit put off by the price and I don't currently own one. I had a black version a couple years ago but sold it after a few weeks of ownership. I understand Urushi is expensive and it's a #15 18k nib vs 14k in the 743/823. That said, I can't really tell the difference between the the 18k and 14k nib of the same size from Pilot.
@@seattlepenclub I don’t have a 845 to compare with the 743s I have. I do have a couple of Custom Urushi….you have to try those #30 nib 😍 feels like a soft metal brush. I don’t think gold content really matters cause my 21k Sailor nibs are STIFF.
I have two of those (146) one 145, and a 149. First of all, resin is NOT the same as plastic. Resin is very often a natural product, but plastic is not. The other thing is, we don't really know the "recipe" of Montblac's resin, so I am pretty sure it is totally wrong to call it "plastic" Moreover so if we know, plastic takes its name from the plasticity of the material which is more a property than a kind of product. About the quality of the pen, I do concur 100% with you. I have some Pilot Custom Urushi, and a couple Sailor KOP the ones I love the most are Pelikan M800 and M1000.
@@DrexelGregoryAbsolutely right, in fact I believe the so-called precious resin is just PMMA plastic, the red glow test gives exactly the same result on Sailor or Platinum pens which are known to use it. I have a trio of a 146, a 1911 L and a #3776 all in black with yellow golden hardware and the plastic of the 3 look and feel almost the same including the red glow. But obviously the nibs are 3 totally different beasts.
Oh... I found another Pilot fanboy, nice to meet you! On the subject. I too have a LeGrand, she's in rotation at the moment and lies on my desk. She's 11 years old, black-white, I just don't like gold on black. I had a choice when I had been buying - her or 149. 149 was too big to my hands. I completely agree with all you say about this pen. She's next to perfect, she's a status item. I feel like I'm blaspheming but I compare her with Lamy 2000. Two perfections, only on opposite parts of the spectrum. One is a jewel, another is a tool, both look great, both write great, both practical. I own both. But love a Pilot Falcon. That one in metal that many say is ugly. Go figure.
That fountain pen was stolen from me in the university library, it was terrible, because it was a gift from my father, the people who steal it know how expensive and exclusive they are, and then they resell it on Ebay.
I would say it is a very "ink-sensitive" pen, so far I love it with GvFC Moss Green but even from other colors of GvFC did not feel the same for me. I suggest anyone who has this pen to try inks to find their special one.
Same with my 146. It takes a while to find an ink that the pen likes. Somehow Montblanc inks always work in it though, I guess they aren't kidding when they say you should use their ink.
I agree with you regarding the 146. I was gifted one about 35 years ago and used it daily for everything while I was in practice, (chiropractor). I never thought much about it, it just worked flawlessly. After I retired, 12 years ago, I bought a Pelikan M805 in blue color, and love everything about it. The "art deco" design, the feel, the nib (medium that I ground to a cursive italic in my basement workshop), everything. I hardly used the MB 146 since. It's just to boring to look at. I also recently bought an Aurora Optima in Rosso Red with a Fine nib. It too is beautiful to look at and use, so I guess the MB 146 will continue to just lay around. BTW, at the time I got the 146, the price was $200. Maybe I should sell it.
It’s funny how every reviewer has to imply MB’s precious resin is is just plastic. Why can’t people just say precious resin without a smirk or implication of it being a cheap quality pen?
No, in fact that's your own assumption, I've never heard any reviewer say or imply it's cheap quality as you say. I personally think that it's PMMA plastic and the "precious resin" is just a marketing thing. But I'm no scientist and can't prove it other than the red glow looks exactly the same in a MB as in PMMA plastic (Sailor and Platinum in my test).
The pice reflects the demand and willingness of folks to buy it. To me it is a classy, subdued, extremely enjoyable writer. Don’t own the Pilot 823, perhaps because folks indicate it is close but not quite as good as the MB. Fewer better pens is my approach and all are used rather than locked away. My 146 is about 40 years old now. I am getting my money’s worth. It was relatively expensive way back when I bought it.
Your comments echo my feelings about this pen. My parents gave me one when I was in grad school, I've always enjoyed writing with it, and because of the memories, it's special to me, but for the price, I want to feel like I've got more than a great writer. I've bought other pens in the $700-$1,400 price range of MB 146 and 149 pens that feel and look more special to me. The MB "precious resin" pens seem like something my lawyer or my accountant would use. They're serious, well-trained professionals, not at all exciting (and really, I prefer it that way), and neither are their pens.
By the way, the German word "edel" means "precious", as in Edelstein, or "gemstone" ("precious stone"). But joined with other words, it can take on the meaning "high quality". "Edelstahl" is "stainless steel", and "Edelharz" is "high quality resin". "Precious resin" would be "edel Harz". On the MB website, it appears as "Edelharz", not "edel Harz". They aren't being as pretentious as American pen buyers often assume.
Thanks for the insights about the branding - it does sound much more pretentious in the English translation ;)
Probably the "precious resin" is just PMMA plastic, if you do the red glow test to Sailor or Platinum pens they also have it, and both say they use such plastic.
My only Montblanc is exactly this same model that I got for a bargain second hand, to me it feels special for a lot of reasons but, truly, I would never pay the full price for a new one.
The "Edel-" part in "Edelstahl" also comes from it being used in the word "Edelmetalle" - precious metals. Those are obviously characterized by being especially inert and corrosion resistant, which stainless steel mimics. It also is used as a signifier of a high quality product, like you said, but in this case actually has another component to it. I would hazard a guess that this might have played a role in Montblanc naming their resin as "Edelharz", since it isn't having the same issues with ageing and discolouring like the previously used ebonite did.
I smiled while watching this review as what was said more or less expressed in the comments what I felt too. Perchance , a few weeks ago, I got out my 146 and my Duofold...for renewed use after a while of inactivity, and just to confirm how well they actually write . After that a Sailor1911. I have to admit that the feel of the 146 is quite unique, and I cannot really identify what it is , but it is certainly very harmonious. in all regards. The Duofold was also good, but obviously different.......and after that , the 1911 which gets exercised more often .........and which I find to be another outstanding pen . The 146 is some 20 years old, bought new at 1/2 of the current price and about the same as the Duofold some 17 years ago . The 1911 was substantially cheaper than either , bought in 2009 . The best value for money is, I think , the 1911.....but money is not really the issue . But then I also like writing with my Preppy and Kaweco Al Sport , such diverse approaches to pens that also have their unique and interesting properties. My compliments for your excellent and well thought out comments
Always love your unique insight. By far the most interesting fountain pen UA-camr!
I just bought one after trying out that, a Crystal Dream, and a Pelikan m800. And honestly, the 146 felt so natural to me. I'm sure I would've eventually gotten used to the others, but that Homo Sapiens' nib was too long for me. This is replacing my daily writer of 11 years and I love that it's just the classic look. One of those "Class whispers, not shout" pens. Super happy I'm getting it, but also get that people who at this price range wants a little more flair.
Thank you for this! I recently ordered a vintage 146 at a significant discount. And I've been a long-time fan of the Pilot 823. So you are my first taste of the 146. I'm looking forward to getting the actual pen in my hand, but you helped temper my excitement. On the other hand, I paid FAR less than the sticker price you listed. It will help get cost out of my evaluation, and, of course, since my pen is from the 1980s, it won't be quite the same pen as you shared. So, really, I'm just more excited to receive mine!
Hope you like the 146! Far less than sticker sounds like a great deal haha
This is an exceptionally good review.
I so agree with what you say about the Pilot 823.
Something seems to happen with top tier pens like the 146. They just seem to sit in the hand a little nicer and just have that great writing experience.
I chose the Pelikan 800 over the Monblanc 146, but it was a blind purchase as I had never used either. The Pelikan is very good indeed, but when I got an Onoto it was a complete step up as a pen and writing experience. So I think I understand what you are saying about the Montblanc.
I would be very keen to see a video about your choice for quality and value instead of the 146.
Thanks again for this very thoughtful and well produced review. Comparing the 823 gave it great perspective too.
Thanks so much for the kind words. Interesting about the M800 - that is the one I'm most curious about in the Pelikan line
@@seattlepenclub
If it helps:
The Souverin 800 / 805 is a lovely writer. The nib is very well finished. However it is very stiff with little flex. My experience is that they write and feel similar to the Parker Duofold Centenial Mk. II. Another great writer for me.
I have a category of pens I think of as being Thor pens. I can hammer away with them all day and they are still comfortable and they write very well indeed.
I have a group of pens which I think of as being 'Thor Pens'. They are well made, I can hammer away with them all day and they still behave exceptionally well, feel comfortable in my hand and write very nicely. Diplomat A2's fit into this category with their superb steel nibs.
My Onoto should be in this category excepting the nice nib flex means I strike the letters onto the page rather than hammering them out. The Pilot 386 is another pen with which I like to stroke the letters onto the paper. Quite delightful.
I do enjoy your videos. They are so very well crafted and your thoughtful words are a delight.
Thank you.
Simply beautiful pen. If one doesn’t value the status symbol aspect of it, then it is overpriced.
Do you think there's really that much of a difference between the writing experience? I truly don't. I have owned a MB 149 and currently own a Sheaffer Balance Oversize from circa 1936-1938. I can't tell the difference between the P136 and that pen.
Very helpful. Trying to decide between a 146 and a Starwalker. It will be my first Montblanc. Starting to lean toward the Starwalker. I welcome thoughts.
I just won an eBay auction for a Starwalker, for a reasonable price…I’d never pay new retail for that or a 146/149, but was dying for a first Montblanc…hoping to love it (because is still wasn’t cheap)
The 146 is probably one of the best and most reliable piston fountain pens around if not hands down the best. I owned it for years as well as many other FPs. It looks as well as new after more than then years of which are now eight in tropical climate in Singapore. That’s important as other pens showed negative impact from the South East Asian climate to the metal decorations (Omas) or total disintegration (Visconti celluloid). It is not only a perfect shaped and functioning pen, but also very long lasting compared to its more fancy or precious competitors. So, while its pricing appears understandably inflated it has a good return. Regarding pistol filler competition it has quality wise (again SEA climate tested) one 1:1 competitor which is the Lamy 2000, which is not everybody‘s cup of coffee due to its none traditional design. Another alternative would be the similar to the 146 looking Aurora piston filler 88 with a very similar to the Montblanc “nice plastic feeling”.
P.S.: Pilot/Namiki and Nakaya/Platinum fountain pens are also of extremely high and lasting quality. Sailor has some issues in my climate as well though.
P.P.S.: Montblanc is like Rolex or Mercedes, a bit boring overpriced status symbols but that’s also for a reason. In all three cases it is mainly functionality, lasting quality and international repairability due their wide global distribution
Thanks. Very interesting video. I own several 146 pens (as I like the size and design), all bought in preference to the 149. They all write well. Price aside, the modern pen I bought from a boutique in 2019 (a fine) is well made and writes very well, but I have been particularly impressed by a second hand 1980s model with a B nib, clear ink window and monotone 14C nib, that I bought off E-bay for about €300 a few years back. The good thing about these pens is that there is no shortage of decent pens (some hardly used) on the second hand market. Buy from a reputable seller and you'll get a great pen at a discount. My favourite Montblanc is the 1980s 144 with the snap cap - probably too small for modern tasted, though.
the Montblanc 149 is the benchmark .. I have several pens from MB, Pelikan, Pilot, Parker, and Aurora and nothing writes like the higher end MB's .. even their limited edition's..
My 146 is my favorite writing instrument. I treated myself in 1996. I also have 2 MB rollerballs, and a MB Dumas fountain pen, a Parker Centenniel Duofold, but the 146 is the one.
I got mine in almost mint condition for 250€. I don't see any reason to buy these at retail price. Even if you buy a used one and then send it to Montblanc for repair it'll still be way cheaper than getting a new one.
I agree - that's a good way to buy one to use yourself. Montblanc service / repair prices are surprisingly reasonable (relative to the price of the pen). There are valid reasons to buy one new: 1. gifting it (like how I got mine) 2. Montblanc's nib swab service if you want a specific nib etc.
Same here. Got a vintage 80’s 146 off eBay from a seller in Japan for around $200. It has very minimal signs of wear due to usage and the fact it’s over 40 years old, but still writes very well.
Just buy second hand Montblancs; they usually come at half the retail price.
I fully agree with your comparison btwn the 146 & 823.
I own a 146 (Med) & 2 823’s (Fine & Med.) I use my 823’s as daily writers, reserving my 146 as my Signature pen. I was extremely fortunate to obtain my Mont Blanc “set” (146 FP, Ballpoint, & Mech. pencil) unexpectedly in the 1990’s each at 40% off (!) at the closing of a stationer’s store. However, while I also concur that the 146 does not have the “feel” one expects in a $799 pen, it’s undoubtedly an iconic/grail FP for good reason… and one every serious FP aficionado simply must own.
What do you think about the LeGrand Solitaire, all metal fountain pen? Would it feel special with that weight and the beautiful designs they have on the Solitaire pens?
Thanks. I have one of those Mont Blanc pens. A really well done video. RS. Canada
My wife bought me a 146 in 1992 or '93. For the life of me I can't determine whether it is a M or F nib or F. Where can I find that information if you know. Thanks.
"Precious resin"
Just simply the best marketing ploy to make people feel like 800 bucks for a pen is worth it.
I think it's a translation from German issue ... the more appropriate translation is "proprietary resin" imo
@@seattlepenclub "secret sauce plastic" might be a more loyal translation to the grift ha
Nice review . I have the 146 in various metal bodies and they write beautifully and better than my 149. That being said, I have a hard time getting excited by this model
I liked your video and agreed with your assessment of the MB 146 until the part about it not being special. You seem to be looking for some sort of fairytale specialness that I don't see. I have enjoyed mine for years for the very reasons you stated. It does everything that I want from a pen, and does it very well. I love mine.
Fair enough! For me personally, I find other pens in the price range feel more like an occasion when I use them, which is what I meant by specialness. Nothing to complain about regarding the function of the 146 though
8th video I looked at about this pen. Is nobody to talk about how to fill it? Mine has an slim empty body inside with a piston that can only be moved from within, with a tooth pick like stick. Refill with a needle and syringe?
Thank you for this video, many valid points.
Must be something about MB's marketing; my first "real" FP (over 30 years ago) was a MB Classique as a gift from my wife. I treasure it for that reason but was never crazy about it as a pen per se. I finally broke down and bought a 146 ~ 2 years ago when I found one (old new stock) for ~ $340. Now that I have one and have used it since, I can see the +'s you mention and others extol but yeah, it's just not exciting and not at all worth full retail. I feel like I got a lot more (style, piston , nib etc) from my Santini Italia at full retail well below that of MB.
I have a 146 which I bought in the early 1980’s.
I looked up the price of one of these marvelous pens. Gosh, I'd have to take out a mortgage in order to purchase one. I guess I'll have to settle for my bic.
So, is the difference in the writing experience really worth spending the extra $400+? I know pens are an individual experience, but I'm wondering if there's much of a difference? I have owned a MB 149 and I really can't tell the difference. I can with a Jinhao and say a $100 Parker, but not with this pen. I know the nib won't last as long, and neither will the piston. Also, is the experience discernable if I replaced the nib with a Jowo?
If money were no object, how would you compare the MB 146 and the Pilot 823? Just by the feel in your hand, a blind test . . .
How does the 146 compares to the Parker Duofold?
Thanks for the great review
my 2 cents: retail price is about the same but street price of the Parker is much less. Size and weight are similar. Duofold has a larger 18k nib vs. the 14k on the Montblanc. Also converter vs. piston if that matters to you. However, tuning and overall fit and finish are much better on the Montblanc. To me, it seems fair that the Duofold costs less
My 145 Medium nib is a joy. I prefer it to my 146 and 149 Medium nibs.
I have a sterling silver 146 that I bought back in the 90's and still use it everyday!
Beautiful pen. I wish i could afford one😢
I am stuck between the 146 and the 149. I have written with both and the decision is difficult, price aside.
I believe that the price for these pens is driven by reputation. Yes, build quality is great but there are other pens that are comparable at at a lower price point.
Decisions, decisions.
Hard to go wrong between those 2....but definitely expensive!
I bought the 146 and I was also having a question like this. I like 146 more than pelikan m800 bc of the cigar shape, as for 149 I would suggest you to consider it if you wanna use it with O3B nib.
Get 149. Bigger nib.
@@llanbull more expensive, too.
146 sits better in hand. Even larger hand like mine [see my writing samples]. However, if you find a 1980s 149 with fine nib for around $450 [and you can find one], there is no comparison. That pen is quite flawless. Do not buy it for retail, of course.
I was gifted one of these as well, and I must say, I’ve never been impressed. The original one had to go back, as it would NOT write with ANY ink. Even the replacement was simply unreliable. For that kind of dough I expect perfection: I pick it up, it works flawlessly (as yours appears to). Instead, I pick up any of my Pilots, Platinums or Pelicans.
Excellent video - thoughtful and intelligent.
Is your pen a Fine or Medium Nib ? Appreciate your review
I have a feeling you might like the custom 845 more as a total package.
Thanks! I do like the 845 but a bit put off by the price and I don't currently own one. I had a black version a couple years ago but sold it after a few weeks of ownership. I understand Urushi is expensive and it's a #15 18k nib vs 14k in the 743/823. That said, I can't really tell the difference between the the 18k and 14k nib of the same size from Pilot.
@@seattlepenclub I don’t have a 845 to compare with the 743s I have. I do have a couple of Custom Urushi….you have to try those #30 nib 😍 feels like a soft metal brush. I don’t think gold content really matters cause my 21k Sailor nibs are STIFF.
You got the pen from your in laws when you first met them? That is sooo cool.
That is the greatest pen
In that price range I would go for a King of Pen.
Hard to argue with that...the KOP isn't as good of a daily writer but if it were my money, I'd buy the KOP as well.
I have two of those (146) one 145, and a 149. First of all, resin is NOT the same as plastic. Resin is very often a natural product, but plastic is not. The other thing is, we don't really know the "recipe" of Montblac's resin, so I am pretty sure it is totally wrong to call it "plastic" Moreover so if we know, plastic takes its name from the plasticity of the material which is more a property than a kind of product.
About the quality of the pen, I do concur 100% with you. I have some Pilot Custom Urushi, and a couple Sailor KOP the ones I love the most are Pelikan M800 and M1000.
Plastic is synthetic resin. Unless Montblanc calls its pens “natural resin” or something similar, we can’t rule out that they’re plastic.
@@DrexelGregoryAbsolutely right, in fact I believe the so-called precious resin is just PMMA plastic, the red glow test gives exactly the same result on Sailor or Platinum pens which are known to use it. I have a trio of a 146, a 1911 L and a #3776 all in black with yellow golden hardware and the plastic of the 3 look and feel almost the same including the red glow. But obviously the nibs are 3 totally different beasts.
Does Montblanc nib has greater quality than Pelikan
Oh... I found another Pilot fanboy, nice to meet you!
On the subject. I too have a LeGrand, she's in rotation at the moment and lies on my desk. She's 11 years old, black-white, I just don't like gold on black. I had a choice when I had been buying - her or 149. 149 was too big to my hands. I completely agree with all you say about this pen. She's next to perfect, she's a status item.
I feel like I'm blaspheming but I compare her with Lamy 2000. Two perfections, only on opposite parts of the spectrum. One is a jewel, another is a tool, both look great, both write great, both practical. I own both. But love a Pilot Falcon. That one in metal that many say is ugly. Go figure.
The metal Falcon is one of my favorites!
That fountain pen was stolen from me in the university library, it was terrible, because it was a gift from my father, the people who steal it know how expensive and exclusive they are, and then they resell it on Ebay.
I would say it is a very "ink-sensitive" pen, so far I love it with GvFC Moss Green but even from other colors of GvFC did not feel the same for me. I suggest anyone who has this pen to try inks to find their special one.
Same with my 146. It takes a while to find an ink that the pen likes. Somehow Montblanc inks always work in it though, I guess they aren't kidding when they say you should use their ink.
I disagree with both of you, mine works with whatever ink I put in it, but it's true that it kind of likes Sailor Shikiori Yonaga the most 😅
The Majohn P136 writes just as good
The P136 is nice but it doesn't write like a 146. I compared the 2 here: ua-cam.com/video/6dJUz9t4qZE/v-deo.html
I agree with you regarding the 146. I was gifted one about 35 years ago and used it daily for everything while I was in practice, (chiropractor). I never thought much about it, it just worked flawlessly. After I retired, 12 years ago, I bought a Pelikan M805 in blue color, and love everything about it. The "art deco" design, the feel, the nib (medium that I ground to a cursive italic in my basement workshop), everything. I hardly used the MB 146 since. It's just to boring to look at. I also recently bought an Aurora Optima in Rosso Red with a Fine nib. It too is beautiful to look at and use, so I guess the MB 146 will continue to just lay around. BTW, at the time I got the 146, the price was $200. Maybe I should sell it.
I'm very curious about the M800/805. I'd love to own one of those someday. Glad to hear you like yours!
😍😍😍😍😍😍
The rich man's pen.
It's cost?
Just get a 149 and be happy.
It’s funny how every reviewer has to imply MB’s precious resin is is just plastic. Why can’t people just say precious resin without a smirk or implication of it being a cheap quality pen?
The more appropriate translation from German is "proprietary resin" but somehow precious resin is what Montblanc went with haha
My collegue's fountain pen cap broke when it fell on the carpet. Resin must get fragile over time.
No, in fact that's your own assumption, I've never heard any reviewer say or imply it's cheap quality as you say.
I personally think that it's PMMA plastic and the "precious resin" is just a marketing thing. But I'm no scientist and can't prove it other than the red glow looks exactly the same in a MB as in PMMA plastic (Sailor and Platinum in my test).
A total vacui opinion totally absurd with all due respect. Overpriced as all Armies are… or not
Never ever a new one so prices that you are critics about are, as your voice and opinions absurds