What is your latest MB acquisition ?

[Cyril]

This is my resent add! ...I have bought,
A Classic " Le Grand 146 ( Fine Point )
A Classic Le Grand 149 ( M )
and an Unusual Mini Meiserstrük ( M point )

40511

[Chrissy]

Your "unusual mini Meisterstück" is a Mozart. The smallest one. That is my latest Montblanc acquisition but mine is bordeaux & gold. It had to go to Montblanc to have a couple of problems fixed, but it's now like new. :) I love it. :)

[Cyril]

Chrissy Thank you for your enlightenment on the Meisterstück Mini. When I bought it, I even didn't bother to get to know what it was. It did not have a Converter.
So I had a Kaweco piston converter and just tried to stick it in . So it worked but it is so long that the converter can't fill fully so the piston filler stay long. I tried to get the minimum ink filling so the barrel can screw back safely.
This is temporary until I find a converter for this pen. It is a lovely writer and very tiny in the hand. I can use it as if I use a Kaweco Sport in some flourishing type and drawing.

[azkid]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180629/419aa90a866db875a5807d6d3cb0f198.jpg

MB 221 school pen, arrived from Japan today. Inked with Pelikan black.

[BlkWhiteFilmPix]

Congratulations, Cyril, on your beautiful 146 and 149, and your Mozart.

[BlkWhiteFilmPix]

Montblanc 146 OBB in mint condition, purchased via this group.

[Cyril]

Montblanc 146 OBB in mint condition, purchased via this group.

Lovely writing:) and thank you.

[Cyril]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180629/419aa90a866db875a5807d6d3cb0f198.jpg

MB 221 school pen, arrived from Japan today. Inked with Pelikan black.

congrats AZKid on your new pen . I have one of those pens too on my wish list.:)

[azkid]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180629/419aa90a866db875a5807d6d3cb0f198.jpg

MB 221 school pen, arrived from Japan today. Inked with Pelikan black.

congrats AZKid on your new pen . I have one of those pens too on my wish list.:)Sadly the hood is cracked in two places -- didn't realize until ink leaked all over my fingers. :(

I would suggest caution in choosing that model-- or any similar design that would be prone to stress cracks like this. :/

I should have researched the model more -- all too easy to find threads about repairing cracked 221s. And similarly cracked examples on ebay.

[Analogriter]

This is my resent add! ...I have bought,
A Classic " Le Grand 146 ( Fine Point )
A Classic Le Grand 149 ( M )
and an Unusual Mini Meiserstrük ( M point )

40511

I really like your handwriting. Are you able to write better with a fine or medium?

[Analogriter]

I just discovered the Writer's Edition and got my first one.

41207

[Cyril]

Analogriter,Beautiful and congrats on your new pen. Enjoy!:)

[Analogriter]

Analogriter,Beautiful and congrats on your new pen. Enjoy!:)

Thanks.

[azkid]

I found an inexpensive replacement hood so my 221 is back to laying down ink on the page and not my fingers!

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180724/d0647232bc2e2687c4dff3358a247041.jpg

[Cyril]

Thank you Analougriter,
My usual nib is fine and Extra fine. I hardly use medium unless it is an Italic. But these Mbs are exclusive as they have a M and 146 is a fine which I love. I am trying to get used to m in writing here.

[penwash]

MB 244G. Juicy Medium, flexible. Sublime!

[penwash]

And now I have a picture and writing sample (sketch) made with the pen:

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1778/43144695335_5abc58129b_c.jpg

[Analogriter]

Just got my second WE. I'm really enjoying the balance on this pen. I wish MB would bring back this style pen as their regular lineup or as part of their heritage line.

41727

[jmccarty3]

My latest Montblanc is a Danish No. 6 coral flat-topped button filler, bought from Osman Sümer at the DC show.

[penwash]

My latest Montblanc is a Danish No. 6 coral flat-topped button filler, bought from Osman Sümer at the DC show.

Very cool, what kind of nib does it have?

[BlkWhiteFilmPix]

My latest Montblanc is a Danish No. 6 coral flat-topped button filler, bought from Osman Sümer at the DC show.


Glad to hear Osman Sümer is still helping Montblanc users

[ChrisC]

Got this recently restored by the great Francis Goosens. Montblanc Simplo Compressor #4 !

New clip from Tom Westerich, Sterling silver with green gem eyes.

Not the original nib, but a nice OM flex from a 344.41787

[pajaro]

Montblanc 144 extra fine in black.

[Analogriter]

Fedex just dropped this off.

41916

[penwash]

Which MB is that? ^

[da vinci]

Which MB is that? ^

I believe it to be the Tolstoy Writers Edition.

[Analogriter]

Which MB is that? ^

It is the 2015 Writer's Edition.

[RayCornett]

1990 Meisterstuck 149 with a lovely 14k f nib with a bit of flex.

[Jon Szanto]

10 years in of serious pen-dom, using fountain pens since 1966... I still have yet to purchase an MB writing instrument. A handful of inks and a couple of empty "boot" bottles to use for other inks, but no reason to buy one of the pens. Time will tell.

[Eddie Southgate]

A Generations with an OF nib a Classic with an OM nib and 2 256's , One M and one B . I really love the256's and think I now need one in each different nib option .

Eddie

[Eddie Southgate]

Almost forgot , got a like new Monte Rosa 034 with a F manifold nib and a 334 1/2 that needs a new seal .

[Titivillus]

I just got a UNICEF rollerball after buying and returning a Legrand rollerball from an ebay seller. The cap top is very nice and even the little blue stone doesn't make it gaudy. I also have a 146 at the repair facility for scratches on the barrel.

[ChrisC]

43291

#ohiopenshow2018

Got this Montblanc 134 with rare wartime engraved capband (first time for the triple cap band we know and love was hinted at ?)

[KBeezie]

Montblanc °14

https://i.imgur.com/LAxPxwP.jpg

[Eddie Southgate]

264 won on ebay last night . Hope I like it as well as I like my 256's .

[KBeezie]

264 won on ebay last night . Hope I like it as well as I like my 256's .

First I heard of the 264, found this thread http://www.fountainpennetwork.com/forum/topic/234216-50s-montblanc-264/

Guess it was mainly a model that kept the open nib and screw cap alternative to the other 24x, less likely to end up with a cracked cap compared to the slip-cap options of the 50s.

[da vinci]

Went a bit beserk on cyber Monday ink purchases which included 2 bottof the latest Purdey ink. Hoping it turns out to be the next ‘Racing Green’! :)

[jodylud]

I currently do not own a Montblanc fountain pen... yet.

I was, however, lucky enough to obtain this MB bottle of 'Swan Illusion: Plume' ink to fill my Edison Beaumont.

43777

[KBeezie]

I currently do not own a Montblanc fountain pen... yet.

I was, however, lucky enough to obtain this MB bottle of 'Swan Illusion: Plume' ink to fill my Edison Beaumont.


Looks like a nice ink, limited edition? Seems to be like as very light taupe/champagne color that shades down to a nice off-white grey.

[grainweevil]

I currently do not own a Montblanc fountain pen... yet.

I was, however, lucky enough to obtain this MB bottle of 'Swan Illusion: Plume' ink to fill my Edison Beaumont.

43777

Looks like a potentially excellent ink/pen match. Enjoy!

My own recent MB acquisition was also ink - with many thanks to member asw - a bottle of discontinued Sepia. Not an ink I knew of at all, and despite my hopes still an ink I don't know because the weekend proved hopeless for inksperiment. Ah well, hope oft deferred and all that.

[Chrissy]

I currently do not own a Montblanc fountain pen... yet.

I was, however, lucky enough to obtain this MB bottle of 'Swan Illusion: Plume' ink to fill my Edison Beaumont.


Looks like a nice ink, limited edition? Seems to be like as very light taupe/champagne color that shades down to a nice off-white grey.
I've also bought a bottle of Swan Illusion Plume ink. I tried out the Monteverde Moonstone version first, but it's darker, so I waited until Black Friday and got 20% off of the bottle of Swan Illusion. It's an unusual shade. :)

[carlos.q]

I just received this Montblanc 144 in Bordeaux with a fine nib:

44086

[jmccarty3]

Thanks to Roy at Izod's in the UK, I recently bought a mint Agatha Christie with a fine nib. Quite a magnificent writer.

[Sagebrush64]

Montblanc 2444278

Sent from my SM-T380 using Tapatalk

[azkid]

Lovely cousin of my 221s. Nice acquisition.

[Cyril]

I bought a bottle of *Mystery Black ink * it looks very nice and Love the intensive saturation look.

[Cyril]

My montblanc 146 inked with this new Bottle. Very nice satuatared ink.

46226

[carlos.q]

A wee bottle of Ultra Black:

46429

[carlos.q]

I just received this Montblanc 144 in Bordeaux with a fine nib:

44086

Just a follow up on this post. I found the pen to be rather thin to my liking so I decided to give it to a good friend of mine who is a law professor. He almost choked when he saw the West Germany sticker!

[Cyril]

"I found the pen to be rather thin to my liking so I decided to give it to a good friend of mine who is a law professor. He almost choked when he saw the West Germany sticker!"[/QUOTE]



What a generous give away/ no doubt he had a heart attack. By the way ... was it the nib or the pen size was the matter ? This pen looks good.

[Cyril]

I have just added a Vintage Nobless to my Montblanc Pens set.:)

46434

[carlos.q]

"I found the pen to be rather thin to my liking so I decided to give it to a good friend of mine who is a law professor. He almost choked when he saw the West Germany sticker!"

....

What a generous give away/ no doubt he had a heart attack. By the way ... was it the nib or the pen size was the matter ? This pen looks good.

The nib was fine but the pen was too slim for my taste. Maybe it was my subconscious telling me I shouldn't keep the pen but rather give it to a good friend who deserves a nice writing instrument.

During the past years I have given pens away to people I believe will appreciate a fine writing instrument. Maybe we should start a new thread: What pens have you given away?

[AeroSatan]

New baby https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190609/3da6e0447470fec6a0a5e22ce0ce0f13.jpg

Sent from my SM-G975U using Tapatalk

[Sagebrush64]

Not a new pen, but a new cap since the original cap for this was broken beyond recognition....This is a 220 in makralon finish with a newly acquired 227 cap. Perfect fit and I think it looks pretty snazzy!:)

[ChrisC]

Just added a Montblanc 126PL!!

Never thought I'd get one of these.
475934759447595

[Paul-H]

This is my resent add! ...I have bought,
A Classic " Le Grand 146 ( Fine Point )
A Classic Le Grand 149 ( M )
and an Unusual Mini Meiserstrük ( M point )

40511

Going back to the Opening Post

The White Snow Cap on the Mozart looks a bit odd, it looks too pointed, could it be fake? Or do Montblanc have different shaped snow caps

Paul

[FredRydr]

...do Montblanc have different shaped snow caps[?]...
They sure do. Though it's two-dimensional, have a look at the cover of Collectible Stars:

https://proxy.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nibs.com%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2F files%2Fproduct_images%2Fother%2Fother_display%2Fc ollectible-stars-1946-1979.jpg&f=1

Across the modern Meisterstuck range, lesser girth makes for a more pointed star (e.g., 114), while greater girth results in a flatter star (e.g. 149).

[azkid]

Not a new pen, but a new cap since the original cap for this was broken beyond recognition....This is a 220 in makralon finish with a newly acquired 227 cap. Perfect fit and I think it looks pretty snazzy!:)

Glad that worked out! Looks great! (but then I am biased in favor of 220s) [emoji16]

[BlkWhiteFilmPix]

Added a Montblanc 145 (Chopin) with bold nib, and a MB 163 Rollerball. Got the last bold nib that FP Hospital had in stock.

Did not expect to buy another cartridge filler, but I preferred the simplicity of replacing a cartridge over bottled ink and checking a bottle of ink in luggage.

Bought the 163 used, to "match" the 145. It does a nice job on postcards and other items that don't take to fountain pen ink.

The 145's bold nib and J. Herbin Éclat de Saphir ink did well in a teNeues Paris notebook purchased at Melodies Graphiques (http://tresorparisien.com/2013/10/melodies-graphiques/) years ago.


47608

[Cyril]

I have added four Pens but this time they are Ballpoint pens.
2 Starwalker ballpoints
1 Starwalker Rollerball
1 Rare ballpoint with a lever mechanism which is a slimline pen. :)

[Cyril]

I currently do not own a Montblanc fountain pen... yet.

I was, however, lucky enough to obtain this MB bottle of 'Swan Illusion: Plume' ink to fill my Edison Beaumont.

43777

Very nice matching combination.
I am sure this is another beautiful ink. The gray inks are my favorites too.

[Linger]

Heritage Rouge et Nour Tropic Brown! I really like the color combination of the brown resin with the champagne gold metal parts.

Apparently, Hamburg had three pens left on stock, so we ordered one, and MB will re-grind a Fine nib into my desired Extra Fine nib - to suit well this slim design.

And about that: comments by all reviewers that the pen is soooo slim. But I find it fairly comparable to my Sheaffer Targa from the early 1990s. Is everybody is now used to the bigger/girthier pens to consider an older normal size as too small?

[Hawker800]

Writers Edition Honoré de Balzac set.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200816/e7c6799d446d0b833c1729025429f5d6.jpg

[NumberSix]

Just placed two ink orders, one with Dromgoole's and one with Anderson:

Dromgoole's

Royal Blue
James Purdey and Sons Single Malt



Anderson

Midnight Blue
Mystery Black



Three "proper" business daily inks and one "fun" ink I have been meaning to get for awhile now. I could have gotten them all from Dromgoole's, but both orders put me into free shipping. Why not spread the business around?

[Cyril]

Writers Edition Honoré de Balzac set.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200816/e7c6799d446d0b833c1729025429f5d6.jpg

Beautiful set and it is a really complete series!

[NumberSix]

My first 146. :rockon:

I doubt I will keep the James Purdey Single Malt in here for long. It's a lovely burnt orange - reminds me of University of Texas colors. But I am going to want to run a black or blue-black in here for a while, as a daily driver. I suspect the whiskey ink is going to be nicer in a broader nib as an occasional writer. (and yes, it does smell like whiskey)

Anyone run ESS Registrars Ink in their piston-filler MBs? Any anticipated issues, as long as I flush now and then and use the pen daily?

55730

[guyy]

MB piston fillers are just about ideal for iron gall ink. There’s no metal in contact with the ink, no corrodible section trim ring to worry about. Mine get mostly IG ink.

[Chrissy]

MB piston fillers are just about ideal for iron gall ink. There’s no metal in contact with the ink, no corrodible section trim ring to worry about. Mine get mostly IG ink.
Does the ink window become permanently stained?

[FredRydr]

My '70s 146 is always filled with old-style MB blue/black iron gall ink, and it never poses a problem.

[guyy]

MB piston fillers are just about ideal for iron gall ink. There’s no metal in contact with the ink, no corrodible section trim ring to worry about. Mine get mostly IG ink.
Does the ink window become permanently stained?

No, at least not with my inks.

[NumberSix]

Well, I tried some ESSRI in my 146 tonight, and I wasn't crazy about how dry it was. The color started out too faint and didn't darken much except to a kind of grey. It might have worked better if I had let it sit overnight to saturate the feed. But whatever.

Truthfully, the only pens I have enjoyed ESSRI in were the $10 Parker Vector I bought from ESS when I ordered the ink and my Vac 51 (but I didn't leave it in that pen for more than a few weeks of daily use because I was nervous about the diaphragm getting corroded). I have put it in a number of other pens, and I didn't like any of them with it. Oh, well. It's an inexpensive ink per ml, and I will find a use for it one day. Or not.

146 is drying now after I flushed it. Tomorrow, I think I will load it with Take-sumi. People seem to enjoy the combination of Iroshizuku inks and MB pens, and that's a black ink I enjoy.

[Chrissy]

Do Mb still make their Permanent blue and black inks that were quite popular after they stopped making their old IG blue and black?

[silverlifter]

Do Mb still make their Permanent blue and black inks that were quite popular after they stopped making their old IG blue and black?

Yep (https://www.cultpens.com/i/q/MB72828/montblanc-ink-bottle-permanent-60ml).

[peace]

Awesome !

[peace]

Writers Edition Honoré de Balzac set.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200816/e7c6799d446d0b833c1729025429f5d6.jpg

Balzac set : simply AWESOME !!!

[TFarnon]

I don't know what my latest MB acquisition is, because it's also my first, and I just shot off an email to petespenshop with a list of pens in order of preference. At this point I have no idea which pen he will offer or recommend, just that I'm buying one. Pretty much I know it will be a "regular" MB, with a gold nib in a cigar shape. How new or how vintage I don't know. It will probably be black, although with silver-colored (platinum/rhodium/chrome) or gold trim I don't know. I'll report back as things progress.

Update: I have nooooooo patience! I ended up buying a 344 from a vendor on ebay because petespenshop hadn't gotten back to me. Not to worry--there was an entire list of things I liked at petespenshop, MB and other. More to come when the 344 arrives.

Update 9/6/20: It arrived yesterday. It's quite lovely. I am pleased.

[Hellbent]

I just did get another 149 with the Calligraphy nib. I really love this pen and wanted one extra in case they stop making them.

[guyy]

I just did get another 149 with the Calligraphy nib. I really love this pen and wanted one extra in case they stop making them.

Still waiting on mine to arrive. 4 months and counting...

[TFarnon]

A Meisterstuck 146 in black/gold from Endless Pens. They had it at the right price, just when I was thinking about buying. So I did.

[Hellbent]

I just did get another 149 with the Calligraphy nib. I really love this pen and wanted one extra in case they stop making them.

Still waiting on mine to arrive. 4 months and counting...

Ouch! I think I waited 6 weeks for mine. It will be worth it once you get yours though. It's truly a lovely pen.

[mrenvy]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201118/61f65c185b5cbcc8b222127349078165.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Zdenek]

Ink...., and glowing logo.

[Cyril]

I love this ink and it is on my list!!

[guyy]

The 149 Calligraphy came in May after 11 months of waiting. Why this pen? I don't know. I have vintage flex nibs that flex a more or flex easier or have better snapback/responsiveness. All the same, i enjoy this pen quite a bit. Maybe it's the 149 form factor, or maybe it's because it's smoother than most flex nib pens.

I had been looking for a 147 to take with me on trips for a few years. I even bought the case when i saw one on sale at a bargain price. I could never find a 147 with a nib that interested me. This one does: it has what looks to be a cursive italic grind, but is nonetheless fairly smooth. I had to wait for a cartridges to arrive in the mail before i could use it because it turns out that i had cartridges of every sort except the standard international ones . Had it arrived a little later, i could have just gone to Fountain Pen Hospital, but they were still closed to walk-ins at the time.

https://i.imgur.com/z5W2PCS.jpg

[Cyril]

@guyy :)
I haven't tried this nib yet. But I am sure it is a promising nib. ( when it was introduced I went to the Montblanc main store in London. They did not have it and they were expecting it receive it. That was last year...)
I also avoid getting any more modern pens but But.... one day.. well, One day I am going to add a "vintage Montblanc with a flex nib" It is far more flex and smoothness I am expecting from a Montblanc.
Good luck and CONGRATULATIONS WITH THIS BEAUTY and enjoy the new experience of Montblanc modern. Flex !!!!

[guyy]

@guyy :)
I haven't try this nib yet. But I am sure it is a promising nib.
I also avoid getting any more modern pens but But.... one day.. well, One day I am going to add a "vintage Montblanc with a flex nib" It is far more flex and smoothness I am expecting from a Montblanc.
Good luck and CONGRATULATIONS WITH IS THIS BEAUTY and enjoy the new experience of Montblanc modern. Flex !!!!

Thanks Cyril. I am definitely enjoying it.

Like you, i usually prefer vintage pens because the nibs are so much more interesting. I even have a few vintage flexy MBs also, but as you can see it didn’t stop me from getting the 149 Calligraphy.

[Cyril]

@ guyy!!
GAS is every where.
Some times it is good but it never works on AMASSING MONEY :noidea: GAS It completely going the opposite the way to drain money.
So that is why some people are using the term... I am investing on..pens, jewels instruments etc.

I am glad You have invested on you MB Flex pen. By the way I have seen the most beautiful work using that pen.
It is really worth looking at those work done by this Pen ( Honestly the Nib )

https://www.fountainpennetwork.com/forum/uploads/imgs/fpn_1593097393__montblanc_meisterstck_149_calligra phy_exercises_1_fp.jpg

https://www.fountainpennetwork.com/forum/uploads/imgs/fpn_1594484649__evil_will_not_prevail_fp.jpg

Very inspiring nib and it will be a deadly "weapon of mass- achvement "

[DrPenfection]

I have been very fortunate to acquire two MB 146s - both are from the early 1990s. On is an OM and the other just an M. What lovely writers they are.

I must make a confession that I have become very spoiled by Montblancs - so much so that I have no interest in acquiring other pens.

While I am generally not a person who acquires vintage pens, I am considering a vintage MB with a more flex nib. But for this purchase I will need to find someone who knows these pens and can help me make the right choice. Not sure who that is yet.

[guyy]

I have been very fortunate to acquire two MB 146s - both are from the early 1990s. On is an OM and the other just an M. What lovely writers they are.

I must make a confession that I have become very spoiled by Montblancs - so much so that I have no interest in acquiring other pens.

While I am generally not a person who acquires vintage pens, I am considering a vintage MB with a more flex nib. But for this purchase I will need to find someone who knows these pens and can help me make the right choice. Not sure who that is yet.


I’m sure there are plenty of folks here who could advise you.

My advice would be to avoid considering vintage MB nibs as “flex” nibs. They flex but they weren’t designed with copperplate calligraphy in mind. If you want to write copperplate get an old Waterman or something. However, if you think you’d like a softer feel, and maybe a little added flourish from time to time, a vintage MB is worth a try.

[adhoc]

I would also like to add that I've been enjoying my 149 calligraphy nib tremendously. It's an amazing nib and I would recommend it to everyone that has the patience to learn writing with it and has the means to overcome the barrier of entry, which is the price.

[Cyril]

I have been very fortunate to acquire two MB 146s - both are from the early 1990s. On is an OM and the other just an M. What lovely writers they are.

I must make a confession that I have become very spoiled by Montblancs - so much so that I have no interest in acquiring other pens.

While I am generally not a person who acquires vintage pens, I am considering a vintage MB with a more flex nib. But for this purchase I will need to find someone who knows these pens and can help me make the right choice. Not sure who that is yet.


I’m sure there are plenty of folks here who could advise you.

My advice would be to avoid considering vintage MB nibs as “flex” nibs. They flex but they weren’t designed with copperplate calligraphy in mind. If you want to write copperplate get an old Waterman or something. However, if you think you’d like a softer feel, and maybe a little added flourish from time to time, a vintage MB is worth a try.

I use the term FLEX on fountain pens to understand the state of character of a nib, and how it writes.
I never try on F/Pens " calligraphy flexing pressure' to stress them. learning calligraphy is mostly leaning how to have a light hand in drawing your letters in variation of Pressure.
Dip pen nibs also has lot of line variation and some has none.
Although there are modern pens hold post nibs which is marked Soft/flex they are only springy and has limited line veriations.
They have different characteristic quality on writing on different quality PEN/INK/paper combination.
Most of the vintage pens have this advantage of achieving easy line variation . All the old pens are having these soft ( some call it flex ) characteristic effect .
Palikan and Mont Blanc family also has those Soft Nibs and people used call then Flex pens. They are actually not meant to use as Calligraphy dip pens.

[DrPenfection]

Thank you for your great advice.

Perhaps I mis-stated. I am interested in a MB vintage simply because I have heard they have a softer nib with a bit more spring for some line variation. I did not mean to allude that I was interested in a "flex" for calligraphy. I do not have the time, at this point in time, to learn proper calligraphy, so a "flex" nib would be a bit of a waste for me.

Interestingly, one of my MB 146's (circa early 1990s) has a softer nib than does my other MB 146 (circa late 1990's).

[FredRydr]

I have been very fortunate to acquire two MB 146s - both are from the early 1990s. On is an OM and the other just an M. What lovely writers they are.

I must make a confession that I have become very spoiled by Montblancs - so much so that I have no interest in acquiring other pens.

While I am generally not a person who acquires vintage pens, I am considering a vintage MB with a more flex nib. But for this purchase I will need to find someone who knows these pens and can help me make the right choice. Not sure who that is yet.


I’m sure there are plenty of folks here who could advise you.

My advice would be to avoid considering vintage MB nibs as “flex” nibs. They flex but they weren’t designed with copperplate calligraphy in mind. If you want to write copperplate get an old Waterman or something. However, if you think you’d like a softer feel, and maybe a little added flourish from time to time, a vintage MB is worth a try.

I use the term FLEX on fountain pens to understand the state of character of a nib, and how it writes.
I never try on F/Pens " calligraphy flexing pressure' to stress them. learning calligraphy is mostly leaning how to have a light hand in drawing your letters in variation of Pressure.
Dip pen nibs also has lot of line variation and some has none.
Although there are modern pens hold post nibs which is marked Soft/flex they are only springy and has limited line veriations.
They have different characteristic quality on writing on different quality PEN/INK/paper combination.
Most of the vintage pens have this advantage of achieving easy line variation . All the old pens are having these soft ( some call it flex ) characteristic effect .
Palikan and Mont Blanc family also has those Soft Nibs and people used call then Flex pens. They are actually not meant to use as Calligraphy dip pens.

Are you trying to redefine the terms “flexible” and “flex” in the context of fountain pens and nibs?

[Jon Szanto]

Perhaps I mis-stated. I am interested in a MB vintage simply because I have heard they have a softer nib with a bit more spring for some line variation. I did not mean to allude that I was interested in a "flex" for calligraphy. I do not have the time, at this point in time, to learn proper calligraphy, so a "flex" nib would be a bit of a waste for me.

Oh, I don't think you misstated anything. The nibs on a fountain pen, over many decades of manufacture, exhibit a wide range of tactile responses and it is a continuum, not an exact and precise condition. Nibs range from exceedingly stiff tines that don't move apart at all (often referred to as nails) all the way to the vaunted wet noodles of the great days of pens in the earlier part of last century. The important point is that there are nibs all along the spectrum between those two characteristics.

One example, similar to your search: I enjoy Pelikan nibs of the 30s-50s that have a soft, flexible feel to them; not all of the nibs they made are like this. You can see charts from the time that show all the different varieties, but I am just talking about finding an old nib that does This Thing: it can write a very standard, consistent line of ink if I write without pressure, but if I lean into the nib just a bit, I can add width and flow for emphasis in my writing. I am more than well-versed enough to know that I am not over-stressing the nib and the pressure is minimal, but the nib responds. It is flexible to a slight degree, and it makes the nib a very expressive thing to use without ever thinking that I could pull off Spencerian flourishes.

There ARE many vintage nibs that exhibit this flexibility and are worth seeking out. I don't ever feel the need to label particular nibs one way or another or be ridiculously fussy with terminology. I also am aware that MB nibs of various earlier years exhibit similar characteristics, and I hope you continue to seek them out!

[Cyril]

I have been very fortunate to acquire two MB 146s - both are from the early 1990s. On is an OM and the other just an M. What lovely writers they are.

I must make a confession that I have become very spoiled by Montblancs - so much so that I have no interest in acquiring other pens.

While I am generally not a person who acquires vintage pens, I am considering a vintage MB with a more flex nib. But for this purchase I will need to find someone who knows these pens and can help me make the right choice. Not sure who that is yet.


I’m sure there are plenty of folks here who could advise you.

My advice would be to avoid considering vintage MB nibs as “flex” nibs. They flex but they weren’t designed with copperplate calligraphy in mind. If you want to write copperplate get an old Waterman or something. However, if you think you’d like a softer feel, and maybe a little added flourish from time to time, a vintage MB is worth a try.

I use the term FLEX on fountain pens to understand the state of character of a nib, and how it writes.
I never try on F/Pens " calligraphy flexing pressure' to stress them. learning calligraphy is mostly leaning how to have a light hand in drawing your letters in variation of Pressure.
Dip pen nibs also has lot of line variation and some has none.
Although there are modern pens hold post nibs which is marked Soft/flex they are only springy and has limited line veriations.
They have different characteristic quality on writing on different quality PEN/INK/paper combination.
Most of the vintage pens have this advantage of achieving easy line variation . All the old pens are having these soft ( some call it flex ) characteristic effect .
Palikan and Mont Blanc family also has those Soft Nibs and people used call then Flex pens. They are actually not meant to use as Calligraphy dip pens.

Are you trying to redefine the terms “flexible” and “flex” in the context of fountain pens and nibs?

I was not redefine the term here Fred, But I was just getting to explain how it seems to me as I understand it. I think in the century old pen industry there had been so many terms or technical aspects to explain this flexibility of the pen.
In true writing whether it is in fountain pens or dip pens the flexibility was to distingush producing variable lines. In the history of century writing way before the fountain pens came to exist, the need of the Mono line pens had a demand in a certain period.
It seems during that period Spencerian was widely used as writing form in penmanship and skills.
Then Palmer method of BUSINESS WRITING WAS INTRODUCED and was to write faster without line variations. There had been many monoline pens marked as Manifold Hard nibs. I think later on most of the fountain pens were produced by based on these two characteristic of writing. I think some of us are caught into mis concept of Flex pen and expect a nib to be a brush pen and get it destroy easily. There are so many Japanese pens named after Flex. This is what I think of a flexpen as a soft pen. Between a Hard nailed/needle pen and gushy broad liner as flexy or nick named as wet-noodle.
If I was wrong please correct me. I know you I am here to learn and not to teach any thing to any body.
I was trying to say Flex = FLEXIBILITY OF WRITING WITH MONO LINES TO variable lines with pressure was introduced into pen nibs. Commercially in the pen industry for many more century historic time this term "Flex' was used in many ways.

[Cyril]

I have added one MB Rollerball and 3 MB Ballpoints.
Is it crazy?? No it is not... ( That's my subconscious talking Don't listen to him!!!!!)
I like pencils and ball points as well I have few Cross pens and they are smooth writers. So I like MontBlanc too.

[Bisquitlips]

This one!

Montblanc 149 with Ariel Kullock Texas overlay.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50969291933_c66f392c91_c.jpg

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50969292103_ba25e69f8f_c.jpg

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50970098922_7632eec92f_c.jpg

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50970099112_e5ec4ab5e7_c.jpg

[HerrFlik]

a pack of Pacific blue Fineliner refills.

[Linger]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210826/37b15858de4a5ab93b41a06bbf188f72.jpg

[BlkWhiteFilmPix]

I have been very fortunate to acquire two MB 146s - both are from the early 1990s. On is an OM and the other just an M. What lovely writers they are.

I must make a confession that I have become very spoiled by Montblancs - so much so that I have no interest in acquiring other pens.

While I am generally not a person who acquires vintage pens, I am considering a vintage MB with a more flex nib. But for this purchase I will need to find someone who knows these pens and can help me make the right choice. Not sure who that is yet.


I’m sure there are plenty of folks here who could advise you.

My advice would be to avoid considering vintage MB nibs as “flex” nibs. They flex but they weren’t designed with copperplate calligraphy in mind. If you want to write copperplate get an old Waterman or something. However, if you think you’d like a softer feel, and maybe a little added flourish from time to time, a vintage MB is worth a try.


As guyy said, the vintage MB nibs aren't really flex nibs. Several years ago I bought a 146 with a soft nib. Not much line variation (https://www.bobsoltys.net/musings/2021/8/26/to-flex-or-not-to-flex). Nothing like that in the letter, which the author said he wrote with a 1930's Weidlich.

The 149 Calligraphy got a nice review from Gourmet Pens, so I'll join the lists of those waiting for it, and for the Pilot 912 with its notched FA nib.

[kulnet]

I just purchased a Montblanc memo pad as well as .5mm lead from Vanness.

[Cyril]

63724I have just aded 4 pens ( two ball points and two roller ball pens ) for my MB collection.

63723

[richmadeknives]

Last week I added the Fyodor Dostoevsky to my collection on my quest to acquire all of the Writers Edition series.

https://i.ibb.co/pQQbd9w/IMG-0898.jpg

[vdiantonio]

Wow! Beautiful!

[Chrissy]

I really like my Dostoevsky too. :) It looks so classy. Sold my Verne ages ago though. Too heavy - never used it.

[Cyril]

Last week I added the Fyodor Dostoevsky to my collection on my quest to acquire all of the Writers Edition series.

https://i.ibb.co/pQQbd9w/IMG-0898.jpg

This is an amazing collection.
This Fyodor Dostoevsky pen get me back to my child hood about reading his master piece ..."THE CRIME AND THE PUNISHMENT " He is a terrific writer.
This is why I like Mont Blanc writing tools. They are great in keeping the great history as living classic with their limited editions pens.

[BoBo Olson]

A pre'23 Simplo nibbed MB Safety Pen with a Weak Kneed Wet Noodle nib.
It's off getting repaired. New cork, snowflake, perhaps blackened a bit.

The only other Weak Kneed Wet Noodle I'd run into was on another but prettier MB Safety pen at a viewing for a live auction...with tipping broken off on one tine. It went for E-360.
https://i.imgur.com/P8vt3DH.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/4i318Pa.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/DrSCTlI.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/Xb1HjNs.jpg
My wife bought something and probably advised some guy with a table in front of his house in a street flea market. She asked him if he had any fountain pens or ink wells. He said he only had a broken one that he couldn't get the nib out of. My wife said she'd take it for spare parts. He gave it to her for free.
I had ...'experience'** with a Safety Pen so knew what to do....and it worked. Didn't waste ink in such and old pen, with a dead cork....100 year old cork is mummified.

**In I'd won a Fendomatic, a Safety Pen made in Milan....and was so !@#$%^ someone not only sole the nib, but the feed too....until the woman I'll never play poker with, twisted the back and the nib and feed appeared out of nothing.
My pen is the same except for slight chasing differences. Picture with permission of Penboard.de.
Francis fixed this one too, besides re-corking it. some one had superglued the spindle together so Francis made me a new spindle.
https://i.imgur.com/UPQpECd.jpg

[BoBo Olson]

Picked up a late '80's -very early '90's W. Germany 149 in a live auction win.

""""1990 Meisterstuck 149 with a lovely 14k f nib with a bit of flex.""

German pens of that era had regular flex nibs....nice springy nibs....that if one is not familiar with regular flex, could be called a bit of flex....it does have as much 'flex' as Japanese pens but is not so mushy.
Regular flex use to be regular normal issue also in America. In the '50's some Sheaffer pens, their sub brand Crest, some Esterbrook nibs, & Wearever also. The '82-97 Pelikan nibs all had springy regular flex nibs.
https://i.imgur.com/DaYPoQV.jpg
Diplomat is the woodly looking one on top. The black ones are a W.Germany Pelikan 800, Waterman Mann 200, a 149. Across from the black pens is a green and silver Pelikan Hunter Toledo from '93...all of them have 18 k nice springy regular flex nibs.
The other two, the MB Nobiesse and C'dA have 18k nails.

[BoBo Olson]

"""""I have vintage flex nibs that flex a more or flex easier or have better snapback/responsiveness. All the same, i enjoy this pen quite a bit. Maybe it's the 149 form factor, or maybe it's because it's smoother than most flex nib pens.""""

I wasn't going to get that pen as is, but am glad to know my '50-60 MB's have better nibs.

Some 11-12 years ago, I went to a live auction going for a 400nn my second semi-flex pen, and there was this ugly MB in the lot. (Before I got Lambrou's book...I only knew the 146/9 not the 139 or such. The 234 1/2 Deluxe (52-54 only) did as I feared drive up the price of the lot. I was going to sell that ugly MB and the Pelikan BP&MP to get some money back.
Too lazy to sell...The nib was just fine. KOB semi-flex.

Some years later when I was a 20 pen noobie, I did a balance test. That standard sized slightly thick girthed and back weighted MB 234 1/2 came in 1st.:jaw::jaw:
Second was a semi-flex Geha thin medium long 725, third was a silver P-75, and 4th was that 400nn maxi-semi-flex OF.
https://i.imgur.com/bYWN5De.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/S6TQikY.jpg

Lambrou said, it was a refined version of the 139...and a number of the Writer's editions have it as an ancestor.
I have a rolled gold standard sized heavy MB 742, with a nib half way between semi-flex and maxi-semi-flex....couldn't let a dealer get that nib at the live auction, could I?

Auction houses are not what they use to be...just me vs a single collector and or a couple dealers. Mostly me vs dealers, where I could get a good price in he had to sell it for 2/3's to 1/2 more..........now due to telephones and computers all the idiots from Ebay found out how to ruin my day.

I have the Good 146...the '50-60 medium large one...one half cm smaller in cap and body and a tad thinner than the Large 146....Great Balance.......and a maxi-semi-flex nib.
It was part of a live auction lot, and was missing the two gold plated cap bands and needed to be re-corked. Francis is taking care of it. Brass bands will do just fine. It's not a pen that will be sold by me....it's too great a pen. Great nib, fantastic balance.

I chase pens with balance....and that early 146 has it.
The latter Large 146 have adequate balance if compared to a Pelikan 800....IMO, not more.

I do have two Large 146's a 'late 70s? and or '90's. Close enough for government work in the nib is a 'normal' springy regular flex.
The great nibs were semi-flex or better were before '70.

I was ever so happy to get that MB maxi-semi-flex nib, in I'd chased at Basset Hound pace looking for one in an affordable MB with such a nib.
And I was so happy with that medium-large 146's balance.

I have some 35 semi-flex and 15 maxi-semi-flex pens, living in Germany at the lip of the well.
I had been a bit stubborn...at least in persisting in looking, wanting an MB to join my Pelikan, Geha, and Omsia's maxi-semi-flex nibs.
I had heard of them, knew they existed.

One can not be sure of getting a maxi-semi-flex, even with Osmia.
Deguassa made the gold nib wheels....and made semi-flex and maxi-semi-flex gold wheels for Osmia/Osmia-Faber-Castel.
Osmia has mostly semi-flex with the small diamond nibs and mostly maxi-semi-flex nib with the large diamond or the Supra nibs.

I think, that when the other companies ordered a gold ribbon wheel from Degussa they took which ever wheel was closest be it semi or maxi.

Which is why no other company that Degussa who took Osmia's nib factory for debt in '32, differentiated between semi & maxi. Only Osmia....mostly. A couple with more of them than me...told me it was only mostly.
The only explanation why IMO 1 nib out of five semi-flex is a maxi.

Any way, it gives you something else to look for on your '50-60 MB 146 or '50-70 149. :dirol:

[guyy]

I much prefer the 146 in any version to the m800 in any version. The 146 has better balance and better nibs in a greater variety. What’s more, the 146 has a cleaner, more sensible design with no stupid section bling ring.

However, when it comes to 1950s MB pens, i prefer either the 144 or the 149 over the 146. The 149 distributes its greater weight over a fatter & longer pen and that feels better in my hand. The 146 seems heavier even if it isn’t. The 144 is almost the same length as the 146, just thinner, and lighter in the hand.

Latest MB:

https://i.imgur.com/f9cJfKU.jpg

[pajaro]

The 146 is a pen I like better than any Pelikan. Latest purchase is another 144, in black and extra fine. I find it stingy with ink, which should be expected. My only black 144.

[BoBo Olson]

I don't have a 144, nor am I much interested in cartridge pens.
I do like the modern 600's with a vintage nib on it. I ran mine with a semi-flex B on it for a while until I had that fat and blobby modern nib stubbed by Francis.

I like many standard sized pens and their vintage semi-flex nibs.

My second best balanced pen, back when I did a test of my 20 pens was a Geha 725, a thin sleek medium-long pen. Also right up there for best looking of my 90 pens. Rolled Gold Trim, the Pen Geha beat MB with.

Cost then DM 360 or $90, when my silver P-75 cost $22 silver backed dollars in '71. @ 1965-72. Deutche Mark was set then at 4 to 1 $.
Picture of the nib with permission of Penboard.de
https://i.imgur.com/WNJEM93.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/3IrbiNa.jpg
The couple of slightly curved lines on the clip give it such class.
https://i.imgur.com/hZrR3oq.jpg

Well with 90 pens I'm sure I have 15 top five balanced pens, 35 top 10.:thumb:

[pajaro]

I don't have any of those either, thanks for your comment about the 144.

[BoBo Olson]

That Safety pen after Francis built a new snowflake...bit smaller than original, but that's ok and polished and a O ring.
https://i.imgur.com/lnHrQjX.jpg
A before picture.
https://i.imgur.com/Xb1HjNs.jpg
Francis did one hell of a job. He liked the nib too.

[lonelyboy888]

Montblanc 149 Calligraphy!

64428

64429

64430

64431

64432

[pajaro]

That Safety pen after Francis built a new snowflake...bit smaller than original, but that's ok and polished and a O ring.
https://i.imgur.com/lnHrQjX.jpg
A before picture.
https://i.imgur.com/Xb1HjNs.jpg
Francis did one hell of a job. He liked the nib too.

How does work like affect the value? Improve it?

[Cyril]

This pen needs a good overall cleaning !!!

[BoBo Olson]

"""""How does work like affect the value? Improve it? """""

More than likely ... but that wasn't the real reason I had it repaired. In the top is no longer original, I don't think of having a pen worth thousands; I have seen of similar Safety Pens in good to better condition....they too were restored.

Sale is down the road; before the old folks prison or after daisy time.

I didn't expect a snowflake, even if not the original. Was willing to take a beheaded top of the top, as long as it wasn't red, in I didn't want to confuse anyone...green, blue, but Francis was able to make a new top for the top.

What I needed was a new gasket.....so I could write with it.
I'd heard that the old browned black hard rubber could be re-newed, and that took a lot of work. As you can see from the original condition.
I'm happy it looks good now. That it was a perfect fitting O ring surprised me, in normally he re-corks my pens.

It's in the mail back to me (along with the other three pens..all needing at least new gaskets, two with more problems), and now I have to find the best ink for a weak kneed wet noodle..............some sort of non-dip pen ink, that does well with dip pens, in that nib flexes to the middle of dip pen range.

Francis was impressed by that nib too.

[junglejim]

Bo Bo Olson, welcome to fpgeeks! May I suggest an ink that was used during the era your Montblanc was built and tested at the factory with, such as Pelikan 4001 series or perhaps Montblanc Mystery Black? Francis did a beautiful job on the restoration of your pen.

All the Best.

[Cyril]

I just got this Vintage Montblanc CLUTCH BALL POINT PEN.

I am not sure how to find the Refill cartridges as the one with the pen seems a generic type cartridge and no name.
at the same time it is a short size one for a particular pen brand. Anyone have any idea or knowledge of this pen????

Anyone know any "ball point refill adapter's" for particular cartridges?? I have heard something similar for refills and if this can be used for this pen and what refill and adapter I must use???

73377


73378

Thank you for your advice and knowledge in advance !!!

[Zdenek]

...

[Cyril]

Today I just bought FEW MONTblanc. I am attaching a sneak-peak photo here,
Those pens includes this Pure silver Pen ( which I wonder "1448 Solitaire" series ) plus two Other pens ( one roller ball and a "Brio" = ball point pen )
They are not yet ready to throw through my "door-mail' :shocked: but on their way to me to be delivered soon next week.

78227

[Cyril]

Also I have got this Pen . MONTBLANC Meisterstuck 146 Classic le grande with a oblique stub nib. This is with a ink window with with stripes and I guess it is later version of vintage 1970 -1988 It is my guess.
This pen is missing it's clip and the finial logo screw top which I am looking for to replace and complete the pen .

If ever you have any resourceful info for where I should look into please leave a comment and thank you !!


78228

[Cyril]

Just added a pencil to my collection. It is a small pen but beautiful writer.

78831

[Bisquitlips]

Egyptomania Doue!

Nicer than I anticipated. It's well thought out and I am considering getting the all-resin model.




https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53324312570_fcd0a4c7a2_c.jpg

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53324089818_f647e7b1d5_c.jpg

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53324313565_d09a6f9625_c.jpg


https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53322983592_8a739903c7_c.jpg

[Cyril]

Just bought and aded another MB a " classic 221 MB" to my Montblanc Collection. It is on my way and I'll add the photo when I get art.

[Cyril]

Just added a pencil to my collection. It is a small pen but beautiful writer.

78831


Just bought and aded another MB a " classic 221 MB" to my Montblanc Collection. It is on my way and I'll add the photo when I get art.
I'll post my photos soon when I get my pen.

[Doggy Daddy]

Just received this Ultra Black LeGrand from a dealer in Japan. New old stock & no sign of having ever been inked. I have wanted one for a long time and was happy to find it.

[MarcoA64]

@cyril, I don't know if it can be of any help, but check this website: https://www.mspens.de/start-en/

[MarcoA64]

I got a, 1980-1985 production, 146 with split ebonite feed and single colour gold nib.

[BlkWhiteFilmPix]

Montblanc 146 Flex Nib calligraphy pen, from Handelshaus Rheinländer in Germany. Last one they had. It's going to take some time to master a new way of writing as I return to the analog antidote to the technology arms race and AI. (https://www.bobsoltys.net/musings/rejectingaiandthetechnologyarmsrace)

[BoBo Olson]

1948-60 medium-large 146, with a maxi-semi-flex nib and great balance.
Better than the Large 146's.
I don't have a picture of it's original missing cap rings, matt dull, beater. Crooked cap. I sent it off with intentions if not repairable, to send off a large 146 and have the vintage MB maxi nib put on the newer larger 146.
https://i.imgur.com/TsG9M4r.jpg
The MB Safety pen is also new to me. # 6 Simplo nib that is a Weak Kneed Wet Noodle, a term invented by the English nib grinder, John Sorowka....a wet noodle's wet noodle.
https://i.imgur.com/YkRbOpt.jpg
The jeweler made 950 Parisian silver snake has emerald eyes. https://i.imgur.com/xmJgzxP.jpg
Both pens repaired and really polished up by Francis Goossen.