Why I Still Love My Fountain Pen: A Journey Through My Writing Journals

For many years, fountain pens have been an integral part of my writing journey. Today, I primarily use them for signing and occasionally for personal notes. However, in my younger days, I used them extensively for schoolwork, notes, and even creative writing. As technology advances, I often find myself questioning whether I still hold a place for these classic writing tools in my daily life.

The Evolution of My Fountain Pen Collection

My collection of fountain pens has grown over the years. Nowadays, I own more than 200 pens, but I consistently rotate through a smaller set of favorite pens for my current writing projects. Despite this abundance, my daily ink rotations are surprisingly limited. Over the past two years, the pens that have seen the most use and ink include:

Pelikan M1000 with Fine Nib: This pen is a reliable workhorse, and it's my go-to for everyday writing. It's clean, smooth, and comes in at a manageable price point. Montblanc 149 with Medium Nib: This pen is ergonomic and comfortable to use, making it my choice for both extensive and light writing. It has always been a faithful companion. Pilot Custom Urushi with Medium Nib: I initially disliked the Fine Medium nib, but the Medium nib is perfect for my writing style. It's versatile and has a beautiful finish. Namiki Emperor with Fine Medium Nib: This pen has an incredible ink capacity and is easy to maintain. It's a joy to use and see it filled up only a few times a year. Pelikan Ductus with Medium Nib: This pen's combination of attractive looks and functionality makes it a perfect addition to my collection. It fits into my pocket without drawing attention. TWSBI Diamond 580 Red and Blue with Broad Nib Jowo: This pen was a gift, and I love it. It's versatile and comfortable to use, making it a part of my daily rotation. Diplomat Excellence with Medium Nib: It's a classic, and its 14c solid gold nib delivers a wet and smooth writing experience. It's always in my daily carry pen case. Ranga Giant 9B with Fine Nib Bock Titanium 8: This pen is a favorite for its wet and ergonomic design, making it perfect for both casual and heavy writing.

My Comfortable Writing Companion: The Montblanc 149

When it comes to my most comfortable writing pen, the Montblanc 149 stands out. Its ergonomic design is a standout feature, making it easy to hold and write with for extended periods. The pen's medium nib provides a balanced writing experience, making it ideal for both light and extensive writing.

I also regularly use the Pelikan M1000, which, while slightly messier, is a reliable option for signing and general use. The Namiki Emperor is another favorite, thanks to its large ink capacity and ease of maintenance.

No More Ballpoints: The Zen of Fountain Pens

Compared to ballpoint pens, fountain pens offer a significantly smoother writing experience. The friction from the ballpoint tip can create a more cumbersome writing experience, whereas the ink flow in a fountain pen makes it much easier and more natural to write. This is why I favor fountain pens over ballpoints for most of my writing.

For those instances where other pens are required, I keep a Fisher Space Pen handy. This is primarily for cases where a durable, water-resistant pen is necessary.

The Cheapest Pen Can Still Be a Gem: Faber Castell Basic Carbon

Among my pens, the Faber Castell Basic Carbon is a standout. Despite being the cheapest in my collection, it's surprisingly качествен и отлично писать. Its affordable price point makes it an excellent choice for those looking to start or expand their fountain pen collection. The nib quality is impressive, providing a comfortable and satisfying writing experience.

However, the rubber grip on this pen can become sticky over time, which is a minor inconvenience. Nevertheless, it's still a reliable and enjoyable writing tool.

Conclusion

For me, the use of fountain pens remains a cherished part of my daily routine. They offer a unique and enjoyable writing experience that ballpoints simply cannot match. Whether I'm using a premium Montblanc or a budget-friendly Faber Castell, the joy of writing with a fountain pen never diminishes. These pens have become more than just writing tools; they have become a symbol of appreciation for the art of writing.