I haven’t purchased a new pen for my own collection in a while, and I finally gave in, ordering one I couldn’t pass up: the Esterbrook Estie “Rocky Top” featuring Diamondcast Alumilite from McKenzie Penworks. Gotta show that Tennessee pride! “Rocky Top” contains swirls of Tennessee orange, silver, gold, and white that show off the depth of the material and the real reclaimed diamond dust mixed in. Read more about Diamondcast here.
As I’ve mentioned before, I love the shape of the Estie, and the standard pen has such excellent weight and balance that I’ve never had a reason to go to the oversized model (though they’re now available in nearly all materials). What’s new about this particular pen is that I added a “Journaler” nib, developed by Gena Salorino from Custom Nib Studio in collaboration with Esterbrook and offered as an add-on at select Esterbrook retailers. While I haven’t had much time with this nib, I’m liking it so far, and I would say that it writes like a soft cursive italic, with medium width.
I could’ve gone with an orange ink, but instead I decided to try Scribo Classico Seppia, and earthy brown ink that works just as well.
Journaler Nib Writing Sample, on Midori MD Cotton Paper.
Vanness Pens still has Diamondcast Esties in stock, in both “Rocky Top” and “Peacock” finishes, as well as Journaler nibs. Diamondcast pens are bit more expensive than standard Esterbrooks, given the makeup of the material, and retail for $280 for the standard version and $316 for oversized. The Journaler nib adds $50 to the price. Through December, if you order an Esterbrook from Vanness, you will also receive an Esterbrook rubber stamp (while supplies last)!
I’d share a sample of the rubber stamp but I don’t have an ink pad, unfortunately! The packaging on Rocky Top is top-notch, btw.
Disclaimer: Vanness Pens is a paid sponsor of this blog. While I purchased this pen with my own funds, for my own collection, I did receive a discount.