I confess: I started out biased against the Platinum Izumo, based on pictures on the internet and five minutes handling one in a pen shop. To me, the design seemed just plain oddball. Take a pen that looks lovely capped: almost dolphin-like curves, beautiful urushi lacquer, strong proportions. Take the cap off and what the hell? … Continue reading Platinum Izumo: accessible urushi
platinum
Heavy metal: the Montblanc Geometry Solitaire LeGrand
The Montblanc Geometry, reference 118097, is an unapologetic statement piece. It's all metal, platinum plated, and engraved with a marvellous geometric pattern that catches the light, and the eye. The numbers are big: 64g in weight, £1,215 in price, 18k in nib. The cap weighs a fair chunk, but the pen itself is a real … Continue reading Heavy metal: the Montblanc Geometry Solitaire LeGrand
Going large(ish) with the Platinum President
The Platinum President (PTB-20000P) is one of those pens that nobody knows about. Its value proposition is simple: it's a slightly fancier, larger version of the 3776, with a more western-tuned nib, now in 18k gold. The only downside, on paper, is that it lacks the 3776's wonderful sealing cap, but in all other respects … Continue reading Going large(ish) with the Platinum President
Two nibs that are finer than fine: FPnibs XXF, Platinum UEF
I love a good fine nib, I really do. Several reasons spring to mind: most importantly, you can write smaller, more legibly — great when scribbling on printouts, for example. They also tend to perform better on inferior paper, because they lay down less link. Which also means they last longer on a single fill. … Continue reading Two nibs that are finer than fine: FPnibs XXF, Platinum UEF
