Fountain pens are much more than just beautiful, long lasting writing instruments – they also make great presents and are huge fun to collect. The fountain pen may be classic, but if you really enjoy good writing, or you have an acquaintance who does, it really is a good solution. Pick high quality paper, top quality ink, and a really good fountain pen, and you’ll see how smooth and tasteful the process of writing can truly be. There’s more weight and style to these pens than a gel pen, rollerball or ballpoint, and it seriously makes a difference. Let’s take a look at collectible fountain pens and all their benefits.
Although some people do prefer to collect limited edition or specialty pens, most people who choose to collect fountain pens stick to the vintage ones. The pen will fall into one of two categories – cartridge or pump action, no matter how old the pen. Most modern pens are cartridge pens, which are easier to refill and cause fewer inkblots. However, pump pens let you use a bottled ink, mix your own colors, and give you more choice in the quality of your ink. You can get the best of both worlds: it’s also possible to use a converter to turn a piston pen into a cartridge pen.
One of the superb things about fountain pens is that they’re a collectible that’s still practical. They don’t take up much space, are beautiful to look at and pleasant to handle, and they make writing fun again. Once you’ve experienced the smooth, classy handling of a high quality fountain pen, you won’t go back to everyday pens. Something that gives a fountain pen a real edge over a ballpoint, is that you can get special non-erasable inks for secure documents.
Hard rubber, or celluloid, or a very early form of plastic were used to make the very old pens. Gold, iridium, palladium or stainless steel were used to make the nibs. Gold is deemed one of the best metals for its resistance to rust and flexibility, but is usually tipped with a platinum nib to prevent wear. Montblanc, Sheaffer, Pelikan, Parker and Waterman are among the major manufacturers. Some of these companies still make fountain pens, ranging from low end cheap models (great gifts for those new to the fountain pen) to high end, collectible models that will last forever. One of the moderately priced choices available today, and still maintaining quality, is the fountain pen by Cross.
Fountain pens are a very effective choice for a present or the basis of a new collection, and are also a lot of fun. There are cheaper vintage pens available in antique shops and on eBay every day, so getting started can be relatively inexpensive. Take a little while to check out all your options – a fountain pen might be in your future. Fountain pens are an excellent choice, whether you’re seeking out fine antiques or a quality pen to do everyday writing.
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