Workhorse Pens: Vanishing Point or Decimo for a Capless Fountain Pen?

A handful of iconic fountain pens appear on everyone’s “you-need-to-try-it-at-least-once” list. The Pilot Vanishing Point is one of those pens. Not only has it been around since the 1960s, making the original design approximately the same vintage as the Lamy 2000, but after all these years it remains the default option for a retractable nib fountain pen.

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I did a review of the Pilot Decimo several years ago, so I won’t go into the nuts-and-bolts details again. I will, however, spend today’s post talking about 5 specific things to understand about the Vanishing Point and Decimo, including what I consider to be key differences between the classic VP and the slimmer Decimo, and how those differences have impacted the pens’ functionality for me over the years. The purpose here isn’t to say that one is better than the other - it’s purely a matter of preference and what will work for you based on how you hold and intend to use the pen. Both pens are the same price, after all, so it’s not a question of saving money by going for one as opposed to the other.

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No, this “Harvest Green/Yellow” color isn’t available anymore. And no, my pen is not for sale. :)

Vanishing Point vs. Decimo: 5 Considerations

• Both Pens Use the Same Nib, Cartridge, and Converter. Since the Pilot Vanishing Point and the Pilot Decimo use the same nib units, ink cartridge, and converter system, you can experiment with both pens without worrying that your parts and accessories will only fit one or the other. This also means that you can easily move nib units between pens, and purchase additional nib units for more versatility without accumulating additional pens that you won’t use. As an aside, you can check out this short video showing how to install a cartridge in both pens. (They work the same way.)

• The Decimo is Slimmer. The Decimo is lighter weight and slimmer than the Vanishing Point, which means that it will fit many people’s hands better. This is purely a matter of personal preference, since the pens otherwise function in the same manner and use identical components, as noted above.

• Both Pens Feature the Same Clip (But Consider…). One “controversial” aspect of both the Pilot Vanishing Point and Decimo is the clip placement. The clip necessarily has to sit on the nib end, since the pen must be carried nib-up, but some find that it interferes with their grip due to finger placement. This is yet another matter of personal preference, but I tend to find the Decimo more comfortable because the slimmer barrel alters how the clip fits in my grip. (And, yes, you can remove the clip entirely, but understand that it will void your warranty.)

• The Decimo Fits More “Pen Loops,” Including on Plotters. One reason I absolutely love the Decimo is that it fits my Plotter pen loop and in most other planners. The extra-fine nib writes well on most papers, regardless of quality. This makes it a perfect “planner pen” for me.

• The Vanishing Point Comes in a Wider Range of Colors. If you’re looking for matte black trim or the iridescent “carbonesque” finishes, you’ll be limited to the Vanishing Point model. That said, Pilot periodically releases Japan-only Decimos in gradients and other unique finishes, though you may have to pay a premium.

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A comparison between Vanishing Point/Decimo nibs (top) and the E95s nib (bottom).

TLDR Version: Pilot’s retractable nib Vanishing Point and Decimo Capless fountain pens are the best version of the “Retractable Nib Fountain Pens” product segment. Over the years, I’ve gravitated towards the Decimo, since a slimmer pen better fits how I use retractable fountain pens, but I do own and use both. As you can see from the photos, I’m also experimenting with the E95s, which is not retractable but highly portable, and which also features an excellent inlaid nib that’s the spiritual successor to the Pilot Myu.

We currently carry select models of the Pilot Vanishing Point (Matte-Black Trim and Carbonesque) and Decimo, with most nib sizes available in pens and as separate nib units. If you enjoy our content, we are entirely self-supported through our online shop and physical store, as well as the T.G.S. Patreon Program.

Yes, Micarta for me! I finally got my hands on Some Micarta Pens, Plus My Own Special Edition

So right off the bat, for those who may not have been with me back in 2015, the title of today’s post is a throwback reference to my one guest appearance on Episode #161 of the Pen Addict: No Micarta for You, in which I lamented my inability to get my hands on one of the rare TWSBI Micarta pens. Though I haven’t listened to this episode in a while, it offers some insight into the origins of T.G.S., how it began, and how my interests have evolved over time. And, no, I never did get my hands on one of the TWSBI Micarta pens, from either of the two releases, but I may have something better to discuss today: More micarta!

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A Leonardo Momento Zero fountain pen in brown canvas Micarta, which was an exclusive to Stilo e Stile and is no longer available, unfortunately.

What the heck is “micarta”, and why do people like it?

Micarta is a lightweight, durable material used to make anything from pool cues to guitar nuts to knife handles, in addition to smaller “everyday carry” items such as pens. Micarta’s cloth-like texture is due to the fact that it’s actually made by compressing fiber (cloth, canvas, paper), infusing it with resin and curing it under heat and pressure into blocks or rods that can be machined. The resulting material lends a tactile feel to fountain pens and will patina nicely over time. (Especially if you don’t baby it and worry about ink splatters.) In the decade since the Pen Addict podcast episode was originally recorded, I’ve accumulated a few different “micarta” fountain pens, as well as handful of other micarta products such as pocket knives.

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Two fountain pens made of canvas micarta: A Skogsy pen (top) and the Leonardo. Note that the Leonardo paired metal threads with a plastic-lined inner cap for increased durability, though I’ve not had issues with the Skogsy threads wearing and they remain functional two years in.

A note on terminology: Micarta has been around for a century or more. When capitalized, “Micarta” typically refers to the trade name of the original product. The lower-case “micarta” more generally refers to the broader category of resin-infused fabric materials that share the same general properties but each of which may have its own unique look and feel. I enjoy micarta in the same way I enjoy other tactile materials such as waxed canvas and wood. As the products age, they will take on their own character, and generally will darken due to exposure to things like ink and hand oil. Because micarta is durable, it’s unlikely to break, though you may get some stray threads and minor fraying over time. All of my personal pens shown here have held up well.

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Another shot of my Skogsy Cholla in black canvas Micarta. If you look hard enough, you will see that the section and cap have an awesome greenish hue (due to me filling them with green ink). :)

Despite its popularity, micarta pens still remain relatively uncommon. Because the material can be hard on tooling and difficult to work with, some penmakers can’t or won’t use it, and the pens end up being relatively expensive as a result. Also, as I referenced above, because it’s a fiber-based material, micarta can absorb ink if you dip the section into an ink bottle or have a spill/inksplosion into the cap. This tendency to “stain” drives away some consumers, but I personally think of it as more of a feature. I dip my micarta pens into ink bottles all the time (especially the black ones), and over time the pens develop a unique patina as a result. If you’re someone who loves the look of aged/worn leather or canvas, consider adding a micarta pen to your collection.

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No matter how careful you are, you will get a drop of ink somewhere on the pen. This red splotch was either transfer from my desk or the result of posting the pen.

Where can you get micarta pens today?

While the TWSBI Micarta was a bit of a unicorn at the time, as more penmakers gain familiarity with the material, you have started to see micarta pens released in small batches by smaller specialty makers. Leonardo did the micarta Momento Zero collaboration with Italian retailer Stilo e Stile, and Skogsy Pens and Hinze Pens actually sub-specialize in micarta pens (though you may have to visit a pen show to get the best ones). In addition to traditional “canvas micarta”, suppliers such as CrazyFiber are now making micarta-style materials in a variety of colors and even some wild patterns. I have three micarta fountain pens in my collection: a Skogsy Cholla in black canvas micarta, one of the Leonardos, and two Hinze Taschenstift prototypes from the development of our latest exclusive release.

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A better shot of the green-toned section on my black Skogsy.

to Conclude, a Shamless Plug for the latest TGS x Hinze RElease

Given my history, I felt like I had to do a micarta pen as one of our special editions. For our latest collaboration, we worked with Hinze Pens on a pocket-sized fountain pen in a dark purple and black CrazyFiber material they call “Violet Tendencies.” This particular design features a cap that friction-posts, as opposed to the threaded barrel that Hinze typically uses. In my experience, CrazyFiber isn’t quite as absorbent as the canvas-style micarta, but given that this pen includes a metal section, those of you who might be squeamish about staining your pens won’t have to worry about this one. Especially if you use purple ink. I hope to do more with micarta in the future, including adding some full-sized pens to the shop.

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We went all-in on the purple as something different. Believe me, it’s purple.

The Gentleman Stationer is supported entirely by purchases from the T.G.S. Curated Shop and pledges via the T.G.S. Patreon Program. You can also swing by our brick and mortar location and see this pen and more in person!

Pen Review: The Kaweco Perkeo, On Its Own Merits

Today’s review looks at a lower-priced pen that seems to be growing in popularity as a sleeper workhorse: the Kaweco Perkeo. I sometimes see the Perkeo dismissed as Kaweco’s “other inexpensive pen,” for those who feel the Kaweco Sport is too small, or as a “first fountain pen”. I’ve tried the Perkeo many times over the years, but have never fully reviewed the pen until now. It tends to fall off my radar because other pens in this price bracket receive more attention and publicity, like the Pilot Kakuno and Platinum Prefounte/Preppy/Plaisir. As you’ll see, I think this sort of oversight is unwarranted, as the Perkeo is quite a nice pen for the money and stands on its own merits.

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First, the Perkeo has a distinct look and arguably more “style” than other offerings at the sub-$20 price point. You can rarely say that an inexpensive fountain pen looks distinctive, but the Perkeo does, with the faceted design lending it a classical look, reminiscent of architectural columns. The cap includes the signature Kaweco medallion on the finial, and the nib bears Kaweco’s signature engraving.

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Kaweco’s signature finial medallion is one of my favorite design touches, across all their product lines.

Second, I found the writing experience excellent, and the Perkeo to be a functional, if no-frills, daily driver. It’s an extremely lightweight pen, but long enough and adequately balanced so that it doesn’t feel flimsy in the hand. The facets on the cap keep the pen from rolling off your desk, and the even narrower facets on the barrel give the pen a comfortable, “grippy” feel in your hand. Like the TWSBI ECO-T and the Lamy Safari, the triangular grip section will be something that either works for you or not, but I personally don’t really notice it.

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Those who enjoy the light weight of the Sport line, but wish it were longer, even posted, should give the Perkeo a try. The Perkeo posts easily, and I think it feels most balanced with the cap posted on the back.

In my experience, standard Kaweco nibs write best in the fine and medium widths, and the Perkeo is no exception. Actually, the Perkeo is only available in a fine or medium, and this medium I chose for review is an excellent writer, with a moderately wet, classic medium line. Perkeo nibs are slightly larger than Sport nibs (Bock No. 5s, I believe), and have a smooth-but-still-tactile writing feel that I enjoy. The model that I’ve chosen for review is the “All-Black”, which has a matching black-plated nib. Clips are also available, and the Perkeo also takes a full-size international converter, with both sold separately.

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The black plating has almost a “steel blue” cast to it.

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Takeaways and Where to Buy

I’ve been quite surprised at how much I’ve enjoyed the Kaweco Perkeo. While not an official “TGS 2025 resolution,” a goal of mine is to better familiarize myself with the entry-level and lower-priced fountain pen market, as I’ve recently had many new customers come into the shop looking for their first fountain pen. Every time I do a deeper dive into this particular market segment, it amazes me just how good the pens are. The Perkeo is an exellent writer, not just for beginners, but for anyone looking for a no-nonsense everyday fountain pen. (Now if only Kaweco would bring back the old “Indian Summer” color pattern with the black and gold/green color combination….)

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The Perkeo comes in a great selection of colors. I believe the bicolor models are being phased out in favor of solids, but hopefully they will bring them back.

We’ve begun stocking the full line of Kaweco Perkeos in our own shop. As you can see above, I chose the sharp-looking “All Black” model, which retails for $18 (the standard price). Kaweco has also started to release Kaweco Collection special editions in the Perkeo range, including last year’s “Infrared”. Like the Kaweco Sport line, the Perkeo can be customized with clips made especially for this pen (coming soon!), as well as a standard full-size international converter.

Thank you for reading! The Gentleman Stationer is supported by the T.G.S. Curated Shop and the T.G.S. Patreon Program. If you’d like to visit our in-person location, you can view directions and up-to-date hours here.

Kaweco Sport Piston Filler Redux: Classic Sport vs. AL Sport Piston Comparison

This release took me a bit by surprise. While I did suspect that Kaweco would eventually release a lower-cost version of its initial piston-filling fountain pen, I didn’t expect it to happen so soon. Of course, we’re talking about the just-released Kaweco Classic Sport Piston Filler fountain pen, which arrived Wednesday. Now that I’ve had a few days to mess around with it, I can answer a few of the questions that I received and offer my initial impressions on how it compares both to the standard (cartridge) Classic Sport model and the AL Sport Piston Filler.

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The standard Kaweco Classic Sport (top) vs. the Kaweco Classic Sport Piston Filler (bottom).

Kaweco Classic Sport (Cartridge) vs. Classic Sport Piston Filler

• Appearance. As with the AL Sport, Kaweco chose to use the most basic version of the Classic Sport (clipless black with gold trim) as the starting point for the Classic Sport Piston Filler. Capped, you won’t notice any meaningful difference from the standard cartridge Classic Sport other than the gold ring at the blind cap, which you remove to access the piston knob. (The blind cap at the back of the pen prevents the piston from accidentally being turned when the pen is posted.) Uncapped, you will of course see the ink window, tinted grey, which immediately differentiates the barrel on the piston filler from the standard cartridge pen.

• Weight. The first thing about the Classic Sport Piston Filler that struck me was the weight - the pen is notably light, with the added heft from the piston only slightly perceptible in my hand. It’s of course much lighter than the AL Sport Piston Filler, but that’s to be expected given the difference in materials.

• Clip Compatibility. There is no integrated clip in the Classic Sport Piston Filler. The standard add-on Kaweco Sport clip fits, so you can use that as you like. I personally prefer a sleeker clipless look on the Classic Sport, and if I need a clip on a pocket pen, I usually opt for the AL Sport Piston Filler or one of my Art Sport models (which also feature the integrated clip).

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Both piston fillers feature ink windows.

Classic Sport Piston Filler vs. AL Sport Piston Filler Fountain Pen

• Overall Aesthetic. The designs of the Classic Sport and Al-Sport piston fillers are distinct, even though the internal mechanics may be identical. Personally, I think the AL Sport Piston Filler looks more upscale, with the curved clip, matte metal body, and greater heft in the hand. Of course, it’s also more expensive, priced at $165 as opposed to $75 for the Classic.

• Clip vs. No Clip. As noted above, the AL Sport Piston Filler features the integrated clip, borrowing the same design from the Kaweco Sport Luxe series and the latest collection of Art Sport fountain pens. The clip is a matter of personal preference that often draws strong opinions. If you absolutely need a clip, you can add one to the Classic Sport.

• Ink Capacity. Both pens appear to use the same piston mechanism, and hold the same volume of ink. While I’ve not done a scientific measurement, the pistons took in enough water/ink to fill approximately 3/4 of the way to the 1ml marker on a sample vial. So I’ll guesstimate approximately .7ml of ink. This is roughly what would fit in a standard fountain pen converter, and probably more ink than you would get in a short international cartridge and certainly more than in the Kaweco Mini Converter. Piston or not, the Kaweco Sport will never be an “ink tank” fountain pen, but the piston pens hold more than enough ink to get most people through a few days of writing.

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The integrated clip on the AL Sport Piston Filler (left) vs. the standard Kaweco Sport Clip on the Kaweco Classic Sport Piston Filler. The add-on clip is sold separately for the Classic Sport.

Takeaways and Where to Buy

This post contains only my initial thoughts on Kaweco’s latest release - one thing I want to see is whether the Classic Sport Piston Filler shares the same excellent ink flow as the AL Sport version. As I pointed out in my post on that pen, having the ink sit directly behind the nib and feed (as it does with most piston fillers) often leads to heavier ink flow and an overall wetter writing experience, which I’ve always found to be a good thing with smaller nibs like those in the Kaweco Sport series. So far, the writing experience has been quite nice and consistent in both the Classic and AL Sport versions, but I plan to do a longer-term test.

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Come by our shop and see not just the Kaweco Sport Piston fillers, but also the other new releases like the latest Kaweco Collection AL Sport “Olivine” (shown at left).

We currently have stock of both the Kaweco Classic Sport Piston Filler and the AL Sport Piston filler in the shop. If you’re in the Nashville area, I have two tester pens inked up so you can come by and try them in person if you like. We’ve also just received a major restock of Kaweco Bottled Ink, Kaweco Ink Cartridges, and other styles of fountain pens such as the full-sized Kaweco Perkeo!

During the upcoming holiday season, our store will be open for extended hours. Please check the “About” page for directions and updated operating hours, as well as announcements regarding any special events.

Kickstarter Alert: The Wingback Journeyman Pen

It’s always exciting to see U.K.-based Wingback release a new pen! They’re one of my favorite penmakers working with heavier materials like brass and stainless steel, since they pay close attention to the design and balance, with a focus on building pens that are both durable and capable of being used as an everyday writer. Specifically, Wingback pens and mechanical pencils tend to be shorter in order to offset the increased weight of the metals they use. You might think that this is an obvious point, but you’d be surprised at the number of machined pens on the market that end up too heavy to use for more than a few lines of writing at a time.

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Introducing the Wingback “Journeyman”!

While Wingback’s latest release, the “Journeyman”, is a touch longer than the existing “Mechanical Pen”, it maintains an excellent feel in the hand and should be on your list of pens to consider if you’re looking for a durable go-anywhere pocket writer. Even better, this new model has customization options previously unavailable.

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The new crown/knock incorporates a milled clip.

For those unfamiliar with the Wingback Mechanical Pen, it features a unique “twist bolt action” mechanism that locks down and, with some practice, can be operated one-handed. The Journeyman uses this same style of knock, but incorporates a milled clip into the crown that allows the pen to be secured to a bag, pen case, or pocket. Personally, I also find that the clip makes the mechanism easier to grip and deploy. Wingback has retained other favorite design elements such as the diamond knurling on the grip (neither too sharp nor too slick - just right!) and a comfortable barrel diameter that once again emphasizes the pen’s usability.

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The Wingback Journeyman (right) is only slightly longer than the Mechanical Pen (right). The Journeyman is shown in a combination of brass and stainless steel, while the Mechanical Pen is shown in Black Steel.

So what differentiates the Journeyman from prior Wingback offerings, in addition to the clip?

• Customization. The Journeyman can be customized on a component level, allowing you to mix and match materials. Available in brass, stainless steel, and Black Steel, you can now choose different combinations of metals for the barrel, crown, and clip. The pen I was sent for review features a brass barrel, with a stainless steel crown and clip. A full titanium pen is also available, though you cannot mix and match the titanium components with other materials.

• Refill Compatibility. The Wingback Mechanical Pen used a Fisher Space Pen pressurized refill, which is somewhat polarizing as many people don’t enjoy the way that it feels on the page. (I like it, but it’s not for everyone.) The Journeyman offers more flexibility, as it takes an international G2/Parker-style refill. While it ships with a Schmidt Easyflow 9000, you can choose from any number of ballpoint, gel, or even rollerball options in this format.

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The mechanism isn’t complex: simply unscrew the knock and drop in a new refill.

Are there any drawbacks to the Journeyman’s design over the clipless Wingback models? In addition to a bit of added weight from the clip and increased length, I should mention that the edges of the milled clip are somewhat sharp, and can snag your hand if the pen rotates while you’re writing. If you don’t tend to rotate your pen, this may not be an issue, but I’ll also add that my pen is a review sample so the finished product may differ as production specs are finalized.

Takeaways and Where To Buy

As with the other Wingback products I have reviewed, I found the quality to be top notch, and fans of machined mechanical pencils and pens will want to check out the Kickstarter page for full details. With two weeks to go at the time of writing, the Journeyman already has received nearly $100,000 in pledges (blowing past its funding goal of $2000), and Wingback has a track record on Kickstarter, so while Kickstarter projects are never guaranteed, there’s no doubt in my mind that the project will deliver. Current estimates have the Journeyman pens arriving in March 2025. Pledges start at £150 (roughly $195), making it a not-inexpensive purchase, but Wingback has always been known for not skimping on the quality of materials or construction.

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Clockwise from left: Wingback Journeyman, Wingback Mechanical Pen, and Wingback Mechanical Pencil. Check out the patina on the pencil, that’s developed over a couple of years.

If you’d like to read further on other Wingback pens and pencils, you can check out my reviews of the Wingback Mechanical Pencil and Fountain Pen and Mechanical Pen here. Pocket pens are one of my core areas of interest, and I periodically update the site’s “Guide to Top Pocket Pens”, which I also encourage you to visit.

Wingback provided me with the pencil featured in this review free of charge, for review purposes. I was not otherwise compensated for this review. The Gentleman Stationer is supported by purchases through our own T.G.S. Curated Shop, and pledges via the T.G.S. Patreon Program.