Friday from the 2023 Arkansas Pen Show is in the books! Given the relatively small size of the show, I was expecting (much) less activity on Friday, but the show ended up being quite lively at times. Towards the end of the day became particularly busy as people left work early. I spent the day between Vanness Pens and Jason Neil Penworks, across the aisle from Kenro and Jimmy Dolive, and just down the aisle from Matthew Chen! After hours, we visited the new Vanness Pens location and then headed to dinner. Some photos from the day’s adventures below. Enjoy!
Vanness Pens brought pens from The Good Blue Company, including their limited edition blue Cerakote collaboration (center). One of these came home with me.
My first day one acquisition. I couldn’t resist picking up this limited edition Montegrappa 007 Spymaster Duo set! It’s been a rough week so I figured I needed to treat myself.
JUST KIDDING. (If you hadn’t figure that out already.) Though it’s really cool (especially the refillable bullet ink cartridges), this thing is huge and heavy.
It’s an ink cartridge. Just don’t try to take it through airport security.
The 60th Anniversary Nib on the Spymaster Duo.
I always try to bring something different to each show. I was happy to send several people home with brand new Hightide Sandglasses! Interestingly, people are always asking me how I use these, and while I use mine primarily as work timers, I had a few people purchase the smaller 3-minute glasses to use with board games.
Shawn Newton of Newton Pens had an absolutely gorgeous array of pens available, including these Hale models.
Saturday will likely be even busier, so I’m off to set up the table and prep for a workshop I’m giving this morning. Stay tuned for additional photos and more fulsome reflections on the show.
The Gentleman Stationer is supported by purchases through the T.G.S. Curated Shop and pledges via the T.G.S. Patreon Program. Even though we’re attending the show, you can visit us online and all items featured at our show table are available for purchase in our shop. Many thanks for your support!