Since yesterday’s review of the Pilot Explorer fountain pen, I’ve received a few comments and messages thanking me for spotlighting what many consider an underrated fountain pen that often goes overlooked in recommendation lists. That’s a big part of what I’m trying to do here, both on the blog and in the shop: curate a selection of writing instruments and stationery with a focus on those items that I feel don’t necessarily get the attention they deserve. It’s easy to get distracted by the FOMO of new releases, limited editions, etc. (and those can be fun), but if you’re looking for a pen that you can actually use to write reliably on a daily basis, don’t sleep on some of the more “standard” offerings.
Recent arrivals include the latest Kaweco Collection release, “Apricot Pearl,” as well as a new ballpoint from Tombow (the Zoom L105)!
Pilot Explorer Fountain Pens. While the Metropolitan is a nice pen in its own right, the Pilot Explorer should have broader appeal, given its light weight, rounded grip, and the same reliable nib. The colors also really pop, even if they’re technically more demure than some of the wilder Metro patterns. Check out the full review from yesterday.
Pilot Custom 74 Fountain Pens. Pilot still offers a relatively broad range of gold nib pen options at the sub-$200 price point, led by the Custom 74, which I would equate to a “higher end Explorer” because it generally takes on the same shape and feel in the hand, only with several steps up in build. Currently available in multiple transparent demonstrator colors and four nib options!
Lamy Studio Fountain Pens. The Lamy Studio (both the steel and 14k nib versions) are the unsung heroes of the Lamy lineup. Even if you don’t enjoy a rounded metal section, check out the “All Black” Studio, which sports a matte finish for added grip texture.
Lamy Pico Ballpoint Pens. It really surprised me at the Arkansas Pen Show how many people had never picked up a Lamy Pico ballpoint pen! These pocket ballpoints expand to a full-sized writing instrument with the press of a button.
Craighill Caro Pen. I carried a “wallet pen” for years, and the Caro Pen builds on the same idea only with EDC/keychain functionality. The slip cap attaches using a garter spring, so it’s quite secure, and to date I’ve not had any issues with this pen coming loose even with my keys in my pocket. More on how I use this pen here.
Kaweco Collection Fountain Pens. There are some excellent colors in the Kaweco Collection “Sport” line, especially the muted pastel blues. And of course, don’t forget the latest release in “Apricot Pearl”, which just hit the shop last week!
Caran d’Ache 849 Rollerball Pens. While I love the original Caran d’Ache 849 for its portability, the 849 Rollerball is probably more versatile due to the fact that it takes Parker-style refills. The Caran d’Ache Rollerball refill is exceptionally good, especially in the fine tip, but you can also swap in your ballpoint of choice if you’re one of those who feel that the standard Caran d’Ache 849 is too narrow.
Anterique Brass Ballpoints. Anterique has expanded the range of colors in the brass-barrel offerings. The brass lower barrel adds a nice weight/balance to this vintage-inspired click pen.
NJK Pencil Sharpeners. Japanese sharpener specialist NJK continues to release excellent pencil sharpeners at an insanely good value. I keep several of these in rotation, at each of my work stations.
Viarco Pencils. Portuguese pencil maker Viarco has been making pencils in their factory for generations, and it’s one of a handful of pencil factories remaining in Europe. We offer a range of their vintage-inspired pencils,
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