Looking for suggestions for a ‘professional’ looking fountain pen for work

[40calFlintlock]

I’ve been using fountain pens for over four years. I’m starting a new position and would like to get a nice, professional-looking fountain pen, preferably black (shiny or matte) screw cap (preferred, but snap is ok), and replaceable nibs, with a price point between $50 - $100. It will be used on the production floor (heavy industrial), departmental, and corporate meetings.

My LAMY’s, or Pilot Metropolitan are great writing instruments, but not classy enough for my new position at work.

So I’m asking this community your recommendations.

Thank you!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Pterodactylus]

Hi Flintlock,

Pelikan M200 (gold trim), M205 (silver trim) are excellent classy pistons fillers (also available in black) which meet all your requirements (about 80€ )

I don’t own one in black but this is one of mine (Blue):

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/863/40508425355_4998db64e4_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24HAgyP)
Quote 021 (https://flic.kr/p/24HAgyP) by Ptero Pterodactylus (https://www.flickr.com/photos/117783735@N07/), auf Flickr


https://farm1.staticflickr.com/895/40734585334_67a3a8eddf_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/254zp3N)
Quote 022 (https://flic.kr/p/254zp3N) by Ptero Pterodactylus (https://www.flickr.com/photos/117783735@N07/), auf Flickr


https://farm1.staticflickr.com/810/41406319742_01b78ff1d0_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/265Wdhw)
Quote 023 (https://flic.kr/p/265Wdhw) by Ptero Pterodactylus (https://www.flickr.com/photos/117783735@N07/), auf Flickr

(Pelikan M205 Blue-Marbled - B EMF ..... Mystery ink #16 provided by Scooby 921)



BTW, you posted in the Sheaffer subforum........but I had not the impression that you looked in particular for a Sheaffer recommendation.

[Yazeh]

You cannot go wrong with a Pelikan....

Here is a list on Goulet's (https://www.gouletpens.com/collections/all-fountain-pens?filters%5Bcolor%5D%5B0%5D=Black&filters%5Bcustom_fields.cap_type%5D%5B0%5D=Screw-cap&filters%5Bprice%5D%5B0%5D%5Bfrom%5D=50&filters%5Bprice%5D%5B0%5D%5Bto%5D=100&offset=24)
Black, between 50-100$. You can adjust your search for whatever you want.... Alternatively you can buy a black Lamy Safari ;)

[Yazeh]

and here's another list from Pen Chalet (https://www.penchalet.com/category.aspx?cid=2&mid=0&hue=1&sid=0&price=100&nmid=0&tid=0&ftid=0&keyword=)

[carlos.q]

A Pelikan M205 meets all your criteria:
nice, professional-looking fountain pen - check
preferably black - check
screw cap - check
replaceable nibs - check
between $50 - $100 - check

57797

[Yazeh]

I couldn't find a Pelikan for that price....
However, Lamy Studio might do the job... And if you want to go over budget, Lamy Studio All Black (https://www.jetpens.com/LAMY-Studio-Lx-Fountain-Pen-All-Black-Medium/pd/27836#index=0) at 108$ ;) :D

[carlos.q]

I couldn't find a Pelikan for that price....


Take a look at Endless Pens that sells the M205 on pre-order for $90.90: https://endlesspens.com/collections/new-products/products/pelikan-classic-m205-fountain-pen?variant=21023453151332
Cult Pens has the M200 (gold trims) for 72.92 pounds that comes out to $96.44 at todays rate: https://www.cultpens.com/i/q/PK17379/pelikan-traditional-m200-fountain-pen-black

[Pterodactylus]

I couldn't find a Pelikan for that price....


Take a look at Endless Pens that sells the M205 on pre-order for $90.90: https://endlesspens.com/collections/new-products/products/pelikan-classic-m205-fountain-pen?variant=21023453151332
Cult Pens has the M200 (gold trims) for 72.92 pounds that comes out to $96.44 at todays rate: https://www.cultpens.com/i/q/PK17379/pelikan-traditional-m200-fountain-pen-black

The black ones are always cheaper than others (they seem always to be the least favorited color variation.....and I kind of agree, personally I would not take a black one.... the only Color I dislike more is the Taupe one (even being a special edition))

On German Amazon:

Black M200 (81,5 €):
https://www.amazon.de/Pelikan-983064-Kolbenf%C3%BCllhalter-Edelstahlfeder-Federbreite/dp/B000KT7HU2/ref=sr_1_2?__mk_de_DE=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3 %91&dchild=1&keywords=M200+Pelikan&qid=1607793336&sr=8-2

Or even cheaper the brown marbled one (72,4 €)
https://www.amazon.de/Pelikan-808811-Kolbenf%C3%BCllhalter-Braun-marmoriert-Faltschachtel/dp/B0777TP3JK/ref=sr_1_3?__mk_de_DE=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3 %91&dchild=1&keywords=M200+Pelikan&qid=1607793587&sr=8-3

[Chuck Naill]

I’ve been using fountain pens for over four years. I’m starting a new position and would like to get a nice, professional-looking fountain pen, preferably black (shiny or matte) screw cap (preferred, but snap is ok), and replaceable nibs, with a price point between $50 - $100. It will be used on the production floor (heavy industrial), departmental, and corporate meetings.

My LAMY’s, or Pilot Metropolitan are great writing instruments, but not classy enough for my new position at work.

So I’m asking this community your recommendations.

Thank you!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

The Lamy Al Star, IMHO, is the quintessential professional pen in the true Bauhaus tradition given that it is functional for daily use, durable, and easily maintained.

The Parker 51 and some Sheaffer models were and can still be a tool for daily, professional use.

The Wing Sung 601 is very well made, attractive, and durable, especially the new "flighter" model.

I personally do not consider the MB 149 a professional tool. I had on in the early '90's. I now consider them pocket jewelry and while quite beautiful, not something I would consider professional.

[guyy]

I think the Lamy 2000 is a better deal than a Pelikan m200, though it usually sells for a bit more. On occasion you can get the Lamy 2000 for close to $100, for example during Endless Pens’ recent sale.

I have never enjoyed using a m200. The nibs are dull blob-tipped affairs, like those on any other modern Pelikan. I never noticed any particular “springiness “ to the nib. To me the m200 seemed expensive for a pen that was so meh.

I do use and enjoy the L2K, whose nibs still give some line variation in the broader widths. I also like the looks: not too flashy, just functional.

[Turquoise]

If you’re looking for something inexpensive but with a quality build, you might want to consider the Monteverde Ritma in black and gunmetal. It’s retail cost is $45 and, with holiday sales, might be available for less. The barrel is black and the cap/trim is a dark gunmetal gray; the nib is black. The cap is magnetic snap; I imagine it would be very satisfying to click and unclick in boring meetings, LOL. The pen also has a solid weight to it (metal rather than plastic). I’ve tried a 1.1 stub and it’s a really quite a nice writer.

[Pterodactylus]

I think the Lamy 2000 is a better deal than a Pelikan m200, though it usually sells for a bit more. On occasion you can get the Lamy 2000 for close to $100, for example during Endless Pens’ recent sale.

I have never enjoyed using a m200. The nibs are dull blob-tipped affairs, like those on any other modern Pelikan. I never noticed any particular “springiness “ to the nib. To me the m200 seemed expensive for a pen that was so meh.

I do use and enjoy the L2K, whose nibs still give some line variation in the broader widths. I also like the looks: not too flashy, just functional.

Never had a problem with a M20x (even prefer the M20x springy steel nib e.g. over the M600 gold nail nib) but preferences are different, the Lamy 2000 has a classical design and is for sure also a good pen.

But at least in Germany, Austria it starts at about 145 € (never saw it for less than 130€)

So if you can get a new one for 100$ which equals today 82,5€ today than this is more than a bargain.
For 82€ I would consider buying one myself (even I‘m not a fan of it‘s classical Bauhaus design).

[Jon Szanto]

I would suggest the L2K as well. It's a shame, because just 2 weeks ago Endless had their annual $99 sale on those. No matter, a good search will find one near that and it is worth the price. Only caveat is you won't be swapping nibs, though this pen's duty doesn't seem to warrant it. The pen will be a bit more substantial than the M200. The other big point of the Lamy is that they are very sturdy pens. Happy shopping.

[An old bloke]

Mont Blanc and Pelikan are prestigious and professional looking. Diplomat would be a good choice if you want something less expensive and won't hurt if it is 'lost'.

[Pterodactylus]

Other good piston filler options in the price range would be TWSBI pens, obviously less prestigious but really good pens.

The only completely black pen they have is the classic, but I would prefer a 580, Mini , VAC700 or VAC Mini.

[An old bloke]

A Pelikan M205 meets all your criteria:
nice, professional-looking fountain pen - check
preferably black - check
screw cap - check
replaceable nibs - check
between $50 - $100 - check

57797

Yes.

[CrayonAngelss]

Pelikan.

I already have a black with gold trim M200 that Ptero suggested. It's my favorite! I'm now on the endlesspens website getting that lovely blue marbled Ptero also showed.

[grainweevil]

Pelikan M2xx certainly ticks most of the boxes. I'd be slightly concerned about "used on the production floor (heavy industrial)" and whether it was robust enough. Hard to say and one for the OP to judge. Also size and weight, or rather lack thereof, might also tell against it, as some people just can't get along with them for that reason.

Also, fwiw, I notice that Lamy Safaris turn up in the hands of professionals more than you might imagine, at least here in the UK. I've seen both doctors and politicians wielding them. In an industrial setting it would, to me, give a definite vibe of getting the job done, rather than showing off how much you spent. But workplaces is wyrd. :D

[Pterodactylus]

Pelikan M2xx certainly ticks most of the boxes. I'd be slightly concerned about "used on the production floor (heavy industrial)" and whether it was robust enough. Hard to say and one for the OP to judge. Also size and weight, or rather lack thereof, might also tell against it, as some people just can't get along with them for that reason.

Good input weevil.

For heavy duty use cases a Schrade tactical might be the better option, and you would be prepared even for the zombie apocalypse (if you get additional to the pen also a decent amount of toilet paper). :haha:

https://pics.knifecenter.com/knifecenter/schrade/images/SCHPEN7BKn.jpg


Unfortunately these pens are discontinued,.... but who knows in these times it might get a revival. :bolt:

[Yazeh]

If it's unbreakable the OP's looking for then there's always Pineider Avatar (https://www.gouletpens.com/products/pineider-avatar-fountain-pen-graphene-black)with ultra resin...supposedly you can drive on it and it won't break... :D

[Chrissy]

It's a tough choice between a Lamy 2000 and a Pelikan M2xx series. I'm not even sure I would like to choose between them. If you definitely can't have both then I would go for the Pelikan. :)

[silverlifter]

Parker 51 (aerometric). Slip cap, hooded nib that won't dry out, tough as nails, looks professional. Within budget.

[Yazeh]

It's a tough choice between a Lamy 2000 and a Pelikan M2xx series. I'm not even sure I would like to choose between them. If you definitely can't have both then I would go for the Pelikan. :)

It would be more Lamy Studio, Chrissy. Lamy 2000 is not in the price bracket :)

[Yazeh]

Parker 51 (aerometric). Slip cap, hooded nib that won't dry out, tough as nails, looks professional. Within budget.

The OP wanted to be able to swap nib... Plus I'd be curious where you can find one below $100? :)

[silverlifter]

Well, it is easy enough to source replacement nibs for the 51 (in either gold or octanium). Black aerometrics (with lustraloy caps) regularly show up on reddit for 80-90 USD.

[40calFlintlock]

To everyone who responded:

My heartfelt thanks for your help. I work in a forging plant. Graphite permeates everything. In my first week, I’ve ruined two gel pens by handling them with dirty, grimy hands or gloves.

I’ve reconsidered taking any fountain pen out on the production floor. I’m going to use pencils instead.

However, I was given some excellent information to consider for a new fountain pen for my growing collection.

Thank you again everyone for your help.

P.S. The Ritman is on my Christmas wish list :)


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[carlos.q]

I’ve reconsidered taking any fountain pen out on the production floor. I’m going to use pencils instead.




Given your workplace circumstances a pencil is a good choice. But are you going to settle for a plain wood pencil or will you begin your search for a nice mechanical pencil? :wink:

[Pterodactylus]

May I place also a recommendation for a pencil.

Take a look at the Staedtler Mars Technico Leadholder which uses 2mm leads.

https://www.staedtler.us/en/products/pencils-accessories/leadholders/mars-technico-780-leadholder/#id=20041&tx_solr%5Bq%5D=mars%20technico

This is a sturdy robust pen which can also withstand rough conditions.
Using 2mm leads instead of the fine ones make it much more robust (mechanical and tip)
I own several of them for drawing/writing purposes (mainly drawing, many artists use those).
They are nice balanced with a metal front.
A sharpener is included in the back of the pen.
I like them a lot.

They are also available in black, not expensive so if you loose or crush one not much is lost.

[An old bloke]

May I place also a recommendation for a pencil.

Take a look at the Staedtler Mars Technico Leadholder which uses 2mm leads.

https://www.staedtler.us/en/products/pencils-accessories/leadholders/mars-technico-780-leadholder/#id=20041&tx_solr%5Bq%5D=mars%20technico

This is a sturdy robust pen which can also withstand rough conditions.
Using 2mm leads instead of the fine ones make it much more robust (mechanical and tip)
I own several of them for drawing/writing purposes (mainly drawing, many artists use those).
They are nice balanced with a metal front.
A sharpener is included in the back of the pen.
I like them a lot.

They are also available in black, not expensive so if you loose or crush one not much is lost.

That's a good choice.

[pajaro]

If you were looking for a Sheaffer, a Touchdown Imperial, a Prelude, or a Legacy, depending on how much you want to spend.

Pelikan is OK. I have had some unusual issues with M400, section came off, US rep wouldn't fix it, and had to ask for help and fix it myself. I have used and owned M200, M600, M800 and M1000. They are OK, easier to fill than most C/C pens, but eventually I realized I wasn't so keen about the style. I have a couple of M400s and a few M200s left. White tortoise, blue stripe etc.

I like the Sheaffer Imperials better, particularly Touchdown fillers, and Parker 51s above all.

[TSherbs]

My Pilot Decimo in royal blue finish is the professional pen for me. The clicking, however, might be a bit gauche for a formal business meeting. One has to control one's fidgeting.

[Dreck]

I’ve been using fountain pens for over four years. I’m starting a new position and would like to get a nice, professional-looking fountain pen, preferably black (shiny or matte) screw cap (preferred, but snap is ok), and replaceable nibs, with a price point between $50 - $100. It will be used on the production floor (heavy industrial), departmental, and corporate meetings.

My LAMY’s, or Pilot Metropolitan are great writing instruments, but not classy enough for my new position at work.

So I’m asking this community your recommendations.

Thank you!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Like so many threads, this one has degenerated into a cavalcade of personal favorites independent of your original question and purpose. A fountain pen "classy enough" for meeting with people in production, departmental, & corporate?

Get one you like & are comfortable writing with, and stop worrying about how others will perceive you. The first thing anyone will notice is a poseur who is obsessed with image. Production won't care (or will be thoroughly entertained at your bringing something so impractical to the floor), departmental will think it's ostentatious power-tripping, and chances are the corporate folk will only seem to care if they're sycophants. If they're genuinely interested, they'll ask later after the business is done.
I've met with corporate leaders in my role as an OCM consultant, with parents at the school where I teach, with the president of the university where I work as a Content Expert, and with the governor of my state/ his Cabinet. No matter what fountain pen I have with me (anything from a Noodler's Ahab or Neponset to my Waterman Ideal 55), the response (if any) is the same as what I got at my optometrist's office today: some variation of, "Ooh! you have a *fancy* pen!"
One of the worst things you can ever do is care about how much your writing instruments are impressing other people. Have you ever been to a nice, high-society garden party (https://youtu.be/Th_LYyRhRlE)?
I think your decision to go with a pencil is sound. Get a decent, plain wooden one that you can sharpen with your teeth, keys, or a penknife. Practicality is a virtue.

[Yazeh]

THE OP has decided to not to go with a FP (https://fpgeeks.com/forum/showthread.php/33131-Looking-for-suggestions-for-a-‘professional’-looking-fountain-pen-for-work?p=312887&viewfull=1#post312887)