Sunday Reading for February 20, 2022

February 20, 2022

Schon’s ‘Full Size’ Fountain Pens Have That Special Something (via UK Fountain Pens). One of my biggest regrets about missing the 2022 Philadelphia Pen Show last month was the fact that I didn’t get a chance to pick up one of Ian’s full-size metal pens. If you haven’t already, check out his latest model and set of finishes.
Wancher Bakelite Seven Treasures (via Dapprman). Wancher resurrected a vintage penmaking material, Bakelite, for this series, which could have been great, but to put it mildly, the results were not up to expectations.
Where the Day Meets the Night: Gioia Alleria Crepuscolo (via A Fleeting Ripple). Gioia Pens have not caught my interest, until now. Something about the material on this one and the more understated trim.
Shifting Towards Pens and Inks that Get Me Excited (via mnmlscholar). Inking up a new set of pens with inks that inspire me and/or that I haven’t used in a while is one of my favorite techniques for breaking myself out of a “pen funk”.
The Good and the Bad… But at Least They’re Not Ugly (via Quieter Elephant). A survey of several matte black pens currently on the market, none of which I’ve tried. As the title notes, some of these were good, some bad, but all look very nice.
Noodler’s Anti-Feather (X-Feather Blue) (via Fountain Pen Pharmacist). Noodler’s “X-Feather” or “Anti-Feather” series was designed to function on very poor quality office paper and other thin paper that can’t typically hold fountain pen ink. I’ve never tried it, since the color range has been limited to black, but this blue caught my eye.
Wearingeul Dr. Jekyll to Mr. Hyde (via Rants of the Archer). Ok, now that South Korean manufacturer has officially taken over my Instagram pen feed and my local pen club, I need to place an order.
Ti Click EDC Pen Orange Cerakote Review (via Writing at Large). I love Cerakote pens, and I’m happy to see BigiDesign (from my home state) issuing this Cerakote-Titanium beauty.
You Need a Platinum Preppy Wa. Or Six. (via UK Fountain Pens). This pen took a while to catch on, surprisingly, but once people found it, they flew off the shelves of the Curated Shop. I hope Platinum keeps doing things like this with the Preppy, or even the Plaisir, because the limited edition game at this price point can be a lot of fun.
In Praise of Ink Cartridges (via Well-Appointed Desk). As I’ve grown in this hobby, I’ve tossed aside the misconception that cartridges aren’t for “serious” fountain pen users. They definitely have their place, and Ana highlights some of the best brands here.

In Case You Missed It….

This week on the blog was a busy one! I (finally) released a review of the TWSBI Vac700R fountain pen, along with a piece comparing pen rolls vs. pen cases, including the advantages and disadvantages of one over the other. Finally, I updated the “Hierarchies of Fountain Pen Friendly Paper” resource that looks at different levels of compatibility with fountain pen ink.

New in the T.G.S. Curated Shop!

The big news this week was our launch of Lochby, a line of pen cases, notebook covers, and pen/tool rolls in waxed canvas. We also added additional reading accessories from WMS + Co, plus a batch of the Soumkine Universal Planners! Look for more great additions in the weeks and months to come!

Caran d'Ache

Lochby

Soumkine

TWSBI

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Pen Review: TWSBI Vac700R

February 19, 2022

Count me a fan of vacuum-filling fountain pens, from the luxurious Pilot Custom 823 to the inexpensive PenBBS 456, and now, the TWSBI Vac700R. The TWSBI Vac and I have had a somewhat tortured relationship over the years. While I’ve always loved the large ink capacity and convenience of the vacuum-filling system, the original Vac700 suffered from a design flaw involving the o-rings on the valve system, which had a tendency to inhibit ink flow and cause the pen to write extremely dry. I owned an original Vac700 fountain pen back in 2012/2013, when they were first released, but ultimately parted with the pen because I simply could not get it writing in a manner that I enjoyed. Fast-forward to a few years ago, when TWSBI announced the Vac700R, which incorporated a redesigned (hence the “R”) filling system that resolved the previous issues. Let me explain a bit further.

Vac700R Iris Finish and Trim — The Vac700R features a brushed trim, a faceted cap, and smooth barrel. (The “Iris” finish shown here is not standard.)

Vacuum-Filling Systems: Travel-Friendly Ink Tanks

A key attribute of vacuum-filling fountain pens is their ability to hold a large amount of ink while also incorporating a “shut off valve” similar to those found in Japanese-style eyedroppers like Opus 88 pens. This means that as long as you tighten the end cap, the filling system will seal off the ink supply from the nib, allowing you to carry this pen in your bag, on an airplane, or however you wish without any real risk of the ink burping or leaking into the nib.

Vac700R Filling System — You can see the shut-off valve at the top of the barrel right below the section. Unscrew the end cap (pictured below) to release more ink; tighten it back up when you’re done writing or need to travel.

Practically speaking, this means that when you write with a vacuum-filling fountain pen, you will eventually have to unscrew the valve at the back of the pen to allow additional ink to flow to the nib, as you do with the Pilot Custom 823 and Opus 88s. Following the redesign, I have experienced zero ink-flow issues with either the Vac700R or its smaller sibling, the TWSBI Vac Mini. My Vac700R sports a medium nib that’s a touch on the narrow side but is a fairly wet writer - just about perfect for me.

TWSBI Vac700R End Cap Filling System — The end cap open in writing position. This also gives you a good idea of how much ink the pen holds (a lot).

What about filling the pen? Well, I would describe it as “easy with the possibility of getting a bit messy if you’re not careful.” To fill the pen, you first extend the plunger and retract the valve/seal all the way to the back of the barrel. Submerge the nib and section into your ink bottle of choice, and depress the plunger. The key to filling a pen like this mess-free is (1) waiting a few seconds for the pen to fill completely - very cool to watch; and (2) making sure your ink bottle isn’t overly full, as the pen will expel some air on the downstroke.

Note: If you want to fill your Vac700 or Vac700R with as much ink as possible, consider using a specially designed TWSBI Vac20A Ink Bottle. DO NOT USE A VISCONTI TRAVELING INKWELL, as the Vac700R doesn’t seal completely on this device and you will end up with a mess like the idiot shown here.

Design Functionality and Aesthetics of the Vac700R

Those who appreciate TWSBI’s overall aesthetic should enjoy the Vac700R. At one point, I steered away from the Vac700R towards the Vac Mini due to the latter’s ability to post, but since I’ve found myself expanding my repertoire to enjoy larger, “unpostable” fountain pens in recent years, I’ve also grown to appreciate the Vac700R’s design. The pen has a long, rounded section that’s comfortable to hold, as well as a good length and balance unposted. While you can technically post the Vac700R, in the sense that the cap will fit over the end cap (even when it’s open in “writing position”), posting makes the pen very long and, in my opinion, unwieldy.

TWSBI Vac700R Writing Sample — This particular pen might have one of the nicest TWSBI medium nibs in my current collection.

Takeaways and Where to Buy

The TWSBI Vac700R is a great example of why the pen community loves TWSBI - they iterate on their designs in response to user feedback, constantly seeking to improve their pens in order to offer a better writing experience. Their ability to do this while keeping the price point below $100 continues to amaze me.

Nearly all TWSBI retailers stock the Vac700R, making it one of the easier vacuum-filler pens to find at retail. The pen sells for $65-$85, depending on finish and nib choice. The version shown here is the recently released Vac700R “Iris” finish, which incorporates this holograph-like anodized finish on the nib and metal trim. I have a small number of Vac700R Iris pens available for purchase in the T.G.S. Curated Shop, and as always would appreciate your support. (We also sell the TWSBI Vac Mini, which due to the same shut-off valve technology used in the Vac700R, makes a nice “pocket ink tank”.)

The T.G.S. Curated Shop is an authorized retailer of TWSBI and other brands we stock. By shopping with us directly, you are supporting original content, pen reviews, pen show events, etc. from The Gentleman Stationer. If you would like to support us even further, please consider checking out the T.G.S. Patreon Program, which offers access to online meetups, exclusive discounts and pre-orders, and more!

Fountain Pen Friendly Paper (Updated Resource)

February 18, 2022

As part of my recent site reorganization/maintenance, I’ve updated the “Hierarchies of Fountain Pen Friendly Paper” post to reflect not only reader suggestions from the comments, but my own discoveries in the year since I initially wrote the article. The comments section on this post is extensive, and contains many recommendations beyond what I’ve been able to verify and incorporate into the list, especially on the lower-end of the price spectrum. Be sure to give the comments a read, and feel free to leave your own feedback and recommendations!

You can check out other informational resources under the “Resources” and “Archives” tabs, including the comprehensive fountain pen review archive I’ve assembled over the years. Keep an eye on the site for more educational/informational content as the year goes on, as expanding this type of content will be one of my main goals for 2022!

Soumkine-Universal-Planner-Agenda-Mustard — Paris, France-based Soumkine is now available in the shop! Not only do we have the gorgeous Mustard notebook with the vintage styling, but the notebook also comes in a plain charcoal or rose-colored cover.

I’ve managed to add many of these brands to the shop, so you can purchase good paper directly, but where necessary I’ve linked to other trusted retailers and/or manufacturers who sell directly. None of these third-party links are paid affiliate links. If you would like to support T.G.S. even further, please consider checking out the T.G.S. Patreon Program, which offers access to online meetups, exclusive discounts and pre-orders, and more!

Thursday Drops: New Reading Accessories from WMS + Co.!

February 17, 2022

This past week we updated the T.G.S. Curated Shop’s main page in a way that I hope makes it easier to navigate while also creating room to grow our various categories, including our selection of curated desk and reading accessories! This week we’re pleased to offer a selection of high-end bookmarks from WMS + Co., in your choice of sterling silver, bronze, and copper. All of these make exceptional gifts, whether it’s a mid-winter pick-me-up for yourself or a gift for someone else. In addition to the official “Reading and Desk Accessories”, many of our writing instruments and notebook systems offer products that pull double duty,

In my humble opinion, everybody needs their own “ex libris” stamp.

Editor’s Note: Reading Accessories strike me as a neglected product category across the board. I’m not aware of many stores that stock items of interest to readers of physical books, and it’s one of the areas of the shop I’d like to grow. If you have favorite products that are hard for you to find and would like me to look into, I’d appreciate it if you’d drop me a comment or an e-mail through the Contact link.

The T.G.S. Curated Shop is an authorized retailer of WMS + Co. and other brands we stock. By shopping with us directly, you are supporting original content, pen reviews, pen show events, etc. from The Gentleman Stationer. If you would like to support us even further, please consider checking out the T.G.S. Patreon Program, which offers access to online meetups, exclusive discounts and pre-orders, and more!

WMS + Co. Corner Page Markers. These bronze and copper corner bookmarks are surprisingly light, slipping easily over the corner of your page to mark your spot in your novel or journal. Currently available in both bronze and copper, with sterling silver on the way.
WMS + Co. Sterling Silver Page Points. We personally use all of the products that we stock in our Desk and Reading Accessories section (it’s how we curate, after all), and this set of three Sterling Silver Page Points is one of a handful of products that sees use every day. I keep two of them in the devotional books I read every morning, and a third in my current book-in-progress.
WMS + Co. Sterling Silver Page Markers. Looking for a slightly larger, more traditional bookmark? These Sterling Page Markers ship as a set of two.
WMS + Co. Bronze Octagonal Rubber Stamp. All of WMS + Co’s high-end rubber stamps come with a voucher that allows you to order your customization for no additional charge. While many people might opt for a letterhead stamp or professional credential, I chose a custom personal library stamp. (Because who actually gets rid of their books, right?) This heavy bronze stamp is cast from an antique version.
WMS + Co. “Philosophical” Hand Stamps. Jazz up your journals and written correspondence with your favorite quote. (Some are more work-friendly than others.) We also sell re-inkable stamp pads, which are not included.
Hightide Co. Folding Metal Book Stand. One of the original products that started the Curated Shop, and still a best seller. (Seriously, some people order like four of these at a time, and I get it, because you can use these in various places around your home, whether on your desk as a book, notebook, or pad holder, in the kitchen as a cookbook holder, or even as a stand to display larger artwork or photographs.
Caran d’Ache Editing Pencils in Red/Graphite and Highlighter/Graphite. A personal favorite that’s never far from my side when I’m working or reading, these Caran d’Ache double-ended pencils are infinitely practical. Sold individually or by the dozen.
Traveler’s Company Brass Ruler and Brass Template Bookmarks. The Traveler’s Company Brass Ruler and template bookmarks are best sellers, whether you use them as a straightedge or just a handy bookmark that can pull double-duty when necessary.
Traveler’s Company Brass Number Clips. Mark multiple places in your research volume, or turn your notebook into a multi-subject by creating sections with these brass clips from Traveler’s Company.
Traveler’s Company Brass Clip. Another “daily user” for me, which can serve double duty as a clip to hold open your Traveler’s Notebook or other journal while you write, or a book while you read.

Pen Roll vs. Pen Case: Why Consider One Over The Other?

February 16, 2022

I’m in the process of cleaning up/cleaning out my office here at “T.G.S. HQ,” in advance of some work we’re having done on the house, and part of the process has been taking an inventory of everything I have in my personal collection as well as items for the review queue that have never made their way onto the blog. One surprising find includes a large number of pen wraps and pen rolls, something I don’t believe I’ve ever written about at length. Pen rolls have grown in popularity to the point where most major brands have at least one in their lineup, and like pen cases, pen rolls come in a variety of designs and materials across a wide range of price points. I thought it might be helpful to offer my thoughts on pen rolls and why you might want to choose (or not choose) this type of carry over a traditional case.

The main advantage of a pen roll, for me, is the combination of capacity and compact size in your bag. Both the Lochby Tool Roll (top) and the Superior Labor Leather Pen Roll (bottom) can hold a LOT of writing instruments, especially if you double (or quintuple) up. The Lochby also has pockets behind the elastic loops, so you can really cram it full if you need to.

Advantages of a Pen Roll Over a Pen Case

Compact Size without Sacrificing Capacity. For me, the main advantage of a pen roll over a traditional zippered, sleeve-style, or hard case is the ability to carry a larger number of pens without having the case completely take over your bag. For example, I love my 12-pen Galen Leather Hard Case, but if I need to carry a large volume of pens in my briefcase or another bag where space is at a premium, I’m probably going to opt for something like the Superior Labor Leather Pen Roll or the Lochby Tool Roll (or both - see below). If you’re well-organized, you can fit two dozen pens into two pen rolls and still take up less space in your bag than a single larger 12-pen case (a huge advantage for traveling to pen shows).

Superior Labor Pen Roll with Longer Pens — Pen rolls lie flat when open on your desk, yet roll up to a compact size for storage.

Versatility. While most pen cases are sized for pens, pen rolls can be repurposed to carry other things, whether it’s other writing instruments such as mechanical pencils, ruling pens, or Pilot Parallels (shown above on the right), or even things like pen repair equipment, crafting knives, wrenches, and/or bike tools. Many pen rolls also fit a wide range of pen sizes (in terms of both length and diameter), and if you’re not squeamish about your pens touching, you can often double the stated capacity of the pen roll by sticking multiple pens in a single slot, especially with more slender writing instruments like ballpoints and gel pens.

Disadvantages of a Pen Roll (or Why You Might Prefer a Pen Case)

Security. While some pen rolls come with straps and secure closures, others need to be tied or rely on elastics, which are arguably less secure in the sense that it’s easier for them to fall open inadvertently. Some designs that don’t have a flap across the top leave your pens at risk of falling out. If you carry expensive pens, be sure to evaluate the security of a pen roll before you invest. (As an aside, items like the now-discontinued Nock Co. “Brasstown” drew on elements of both the pen roll and the pen case, allowing you to tuck a six-pen roll into a compact outer zippered case.) Likewise, if you’re going to be transporting pens inside checked luggage or another situation where they might be crushed, a pen roll might not be the best choice over a case with more structure.

If you value protection over all else, then a pen case is the way to go. Both the Galen Leather “Magnum Opus” 12 Pen Hard Case (bottom) and the Franklin-Christoph Covered Pen Tray (top) are excellent.

Scratch Protection. If you’re one of “those people” who freak out at the slightest prospect of your pens rubbing together or touching, pen rolls are probably not for you. While many designs incorporate flaps to minimize contact, it’s hard to avoid entirely and somewhat inherent in how pen rolls are designed. For this reason, I’d recommend pen rolls for those who use their pens regularly on the go, aren’t overly concerned with wear and tear, and who are mainly looking for a compact way to tote around a larger volume of “daily writers”, as opposed to rare collectibles. (I will say that in all the years I’ve been using pen cases and pen wraps, I’ve not experienced any damage to my pens from daily carry beyond micro-scratches. I’ll also say that if you’re NOT squeamish about pens touching, a pen wrap will generally offer more protection than overstuffing a traditional pen case or pen pouch.)

The two pen rolls contain the same number of pens (24) as the two hard pen cases. I mainly use my pen rolls for transportation, while I use the larger pen cases for long-term storage and organization at home.

Takeaways

There’s no categorical recommendation here - I regularly carry both traditional pen cases and pen rolls, depending on where I’m going and what I’m doing. That said, for situations where I want to carry a larger number of pens with me in a smaller bag, such as a pen show or a local pen club meetup, I’m going with a pen roll (or “rolls,” plural) more often than not. Two current favorites, shown here in photos, are the Superior Labor Leather Pen Roll and the Lochby Tool Roll, which I just added to the T.G.S. Curated Shop. Other great options, which I’ve reviewed in the past, are the Nock Co. Brasstown if you can find one on the secondary market, as well as options from Rickshaw Bagworks. Also, many smaller makers craft their own pen wraps and rolls, and these make excellent pen show souvenirs, especially if you can snag one in a one-off material or fabric!

This post does not contain paid third-party affiliate links, though the T.G.S. Curated Shop is an authorized retailer of Lochby and other brands we stock. By shopping with us directly, you are supporting original content, pen reviews, pen show events, etc. from The Gentleman Stationer. If you would like to support us even further, please consider checking out the T.G.S. Patreon Program, which offers access to online meetups, exclusive discounts and pre-orders, and more!