I was surprised that the Vanishing Point didn’t make any of the lists. It’s so unique, it’s been around forever, the whole concept of taking a fountain pen and making it retractable was introduced and possibly is even still only seen in this particular pen.
@@NTR_Savant I didn’t realize that. Were they click mechanisms or twist retracted like the Montblanc Boheme? I think there are a few others out there now that use a twist mechanism to retract the nib but I’m not aware of any others that use a click like the Vanishing Point although there is another Pilot that’s like a slimmer Vanishing Point but I just think of that as the skinnier sister LOL.
@@pjschmid2251 they were more of a slide to open so sorta in the middle I guess, I couldn't find a single video of somebody even using one unfortunately
I own 3 of the historic legendary pens: Conklin Crescent filler (vintage circa early 1920s), various Parker Duofolds (1920s), Parker 51 (I bought when I was in high school.)
I've been thinking about this. There are two categories I've considered: Advances in design, and then style icons. These are very personal lists, and I got the dates from Lambrou 1989. LE Waterman eyedropper 1884 (first patented FP) Conklin Crescent Filler 1899 (First self-filler) Waterman 42 1907 (Safety) Sheaffer Lever Filler 1908 Pelikan 100 (Piston filling) 1929 Parker 51 1941 Sheaffer Snorkel 1952 Waterman CF 1953 (cartridge) Parker 45 1960 (User servicability/customisation) Pilot Capless 1964 (Unique design) Hero 100 [not sure of date] (Global mass market) Style Icons: Parker Duofold & English Duofold Sheaffer Balance Swan Mabie Todd Onoto De La Rue Lamy 2000 Kaweco Sport Pilot Myu Montblanc 149
The Parker Vector is legendary still popular after decades, maybe more popular than the 2 you mentioned. I enjoyed the video as always and look forward to the next one!
Interesting picks - will say that in my experience working in an office in the US, the Safari has created more of a contagion of fountain pen use than the Metropolitan. Even though I use the orange Metropolitan, it's the Safaris that have more people asking me what it is and leading to them buying and using one.
The English school children’s legend. Osmiroid pens from London from 1953 The model 65 and 75 were used by millions of English kids till the 80s when fountain pens fell out of favor These very simple pens had a nib selection of over 25 nibs, from fine extra stiff for manifests to a wide selection of italic nibs even a crooked italic for left handers I still have my pens from the 60s with a selection of 10 different nibs
I had the pleasure to buy an old Osmiroid 75 with a stainless sketch pen nib around 20 years ago as my first Fountain Pen. Even if I used it for a short while it was a dream to write with for my ballpoint-accustomed hands and informed my interest in writing instruments. Your comment made me dust it off, maybe I will get some ink and good quality paper later to enjoy it again. Thanks!!!
My first pen was a metro, couldn't agree more about it being a great first pen and intro to the hobby. It's such a good writing experience, it really hooks you!
An US centric list about iconic fountain pens is pretty pointless (like a UK centric list about best dishes). MB 146, Parker 51 and Lamy Safari are the most obvious contestants. But in general, I like the idea of telling the story of fountain pen icons, like we do with wrist watches, to give orientation and the illusion of value. More great pens will come from it. These “icons” will be just overprices fountain pens like any wrist watch nowadays considered an “icon”, but the appreciation of the art of pens/watches as a whole would increase.
Fun episode indeed. I certainly agree wholeheartedly with Pilot Custom 823 (and it's little brother the 74) as well as the TWSBI Diamond 580 line. Both introduced me to the spectacular end of writing instruments. I also have a couple Lamy 2000's and they are solid, well built pens that write consistently well, but I wish the grip didn't taper all the way to the point and I wish they had better ink windows. I love Nathan Tardiff's fountain pens BECAUSE they actually encourage *_and allow_* the user to become familiar with all aspects of fountain pen maintenance without breaking the user's bank account. That helped me immensely and made me far more comfortable in the robust yet fragile nature of my more expensive pens! In my opinion, they serve their niche quite well and have promoted Fountain Pen knowledge and use. Regardless, they all qualify for inclusion in your "Pantheon of Legendary Pens."
I never knew my grandfather. But I found an old desk that was his and in the drawer was some old broken pens and pencils. Among it was a piece of a Schaffer whit dot fountain pen. This was like fifty years ago when I was 8. Fast forward half a century and I see a Schaffer white dot green fountain pen fully restored for $75.00. I recognized the green celluloid barrel. I had no idea what it was and even had forgotten about it till I spotted it on E-Bay. Now it’s one of my treasures.
Yes, having been a FP collector for about 50 years, I think their list has some big holes. It seems their knowledge is limited to what they encounter and what they sell.
The Pilot Metropolitan was my first fountain pen. The Pilot Custom 823 is my primary pen now. Top 5 Pantheon of Legendary Pens --- Waterman 12, Sheaffer Radite Flat-Top, Sheaffer Balance, Parker Duofold, Parker 51
I'm cackling cuz I bought a TWSBI Diamond 580 ALR Navy Blue for my boss (after much agonizing on color and nib size and the grip), and both that and the Pilot Metropolitans I saw him use at work are on the list! Metropolitans are absolutely prolific, because I'm also still laughing at the fact that I recognized them instantly the first time I saw him take one out for notes despite not owning any myself. Also I'm surprised my beloved TWSBI ECOs (that I have like 5 of...) also made it on there but not LAMY Safari...
I have the Onoto De La Rue; Parker Duofold; Parker 51; Waterman 12; Pilot 823. I will never own a Lamy 2000 but it is a design icon. You should have had an Urushi pen in there! :-)
I think the vanishing point is gimmicky. Although a stalwart, I feel not a Pantheon. Juxtapose the vanishing point to a Parker 51 in the hands of Eisenhower. Or Mark Twain and his crescent filler or the Lamy 2000 that is a museum piece.
Thank you for including the Falcon. It's the best modern flex nib and a great entry into gold nibs. Love that pen. And what about the Vanishing Point? I don't like any retractable nib pens, but that is certainly the ONE in that category, no?
I have five off of Drew's list! The Lamy 2000, Mont Blanc 146 (close enough to the 149), Visconti Homo Sapiens, TWSBI 580, and Pilot Metropolitan. And the Pilot Custom 823 off of Brian's list. All of these were bought from Goulet because of this videos! Drew and Brian do such a great job of describing pens that I feel 100% confident in their recommendations.
I had a list closer to Brian’s. I had no experience with Noodlers, so I could not include it. We all agreed the LAMY 2000 (I believe the perfect business world pen if you are in any conservative business), Pilot Custom 823 (design, function, nib +), and the Pilot Falcon (creative Nib Design). As to a 5th, I would pick one of the Opus 88 pens because I love the capacity, the shut-off valve, and the affordability. I did try to stay away from the super-expensive too!
Agree the Lamy 2000 should be on anyone's list. It is the perfect business world pen. Writes awesome, can sit for months and write immediately, durable, great design, beautiful nib. What is not to like.
The fun about lists like these is that all of the ones chosen can certainly be on the list of Pantheon Pens. You should have people provide their own lists and see which pens would be at the top. My list would be: Parker 180 - many pens claim to be or are capable of writing regularly or "reverse" writing (the top of the nib), this pen was specifically made to to that Pelikan M800 - not too large, smoothest nib I have ever used and a phenomenal piston filler Sheaffer Heritage - what can you say about the iconic inlaid nib, remarkable penBBS 323 - an amazing pen that is ergononically designed, a wonderful nib and is a cartridge converter that can also be used as an eyedropper Pilot 823 - the vacuum filler that headed a legion or other manufacturers to play catch up Sailor 1911L - beautifully made, great in the hand and, as they say, "it's all about the nib" ( this was a toss up with the Sailor King of Pen )
Any legendary list should carry the Sheaffer’s Snorkel, the most ingenious pen of all times. Also the Parker Vacumatic, which allows the storing of a quantity of ink into the barrel. For the same reason the German Pelikans and Montblancs, for the piston filling system, better in the Pelikans. When I started my fountain pens collection, piston fillers were very expensive; TWSBI changed that.
I can definitely recommend the Eco but if you're willing to spend the price, the 2000 is incredible. I just recently got mine and I was a little wary about it because my Safari isn't as great as I'd like, but I am beyond happy I pulled the trigger for the 2000, absolutely amazing pen.
Rarely are you wrong, Brian, but the Noodler's pens almost made me get out of fountain pens altogether! I agree with Drew and you on the Lamy 2000. And I agree with Drew on the Montblanc 149, but I would say 146/149. You have to have the Pelikan 140 in there, since hundreds of thousands of children learned penmanship with this pen. The Parker 51 (historical) also put fountain pens on the map, particularly in the US. Then, I would have to add a pen that I personally do not care for, but the Pilot Vanishing Point. While there had been some retractables before it, the Pilot VP made fountain pens much more convenient for so many people. It also really brought the Pilot brand into the US and Europe probably more than any other Japanese brand. So those are my personal observations. I am not historian, just a pen lover.
For me, the league of legends looks like this: Aurora 88 (vintage) Aurora Hastil Aurora Asterope Conklin Crescent Filler (vintage) Lamy 2000 Parker 51 Vacumatic Parker Duofold Sheaffer Balance Sheaffer PFM Waterman (I can’t remember the exact name and number atm)
Interesting picks! But I think there has to be an MB 149 or 6 in there. It’s a pen that’s transcended the fountain pen world. When you use a fountain pen In public people will ask “oh is that a montblanc”
@@dariel7001 …Oh, you’re spot on! I own and love both the MB 146 & 149. Either or both definitely belong in any list of timeless greats of fountain pens across eras.
Guys, thank you for a great video! Seeing people who love what they are doing inspires me. Also, I have and use extensively three of Brian's selection - Creeper, 2000 and Falcon. Two of the last one, actually, I'm a fan of Pilot.
Just an FYI. De La Rue was the name of the company and Onoto was the name of the pen. De La Rue was a print company before getting into pens and still exists to this day, albeit not in pens. The modern Onoto company took the name of the vintage pen as its company name to revive the pen model. The original Onoto's key innovations were the plunger filler that filled on the downstream and the ink shutoff valve, both created in 1905. Sheaffer would use a variation of the plunger and the Japanese would use the ink shutoff, but the two functions wouldn't be combined again until Pilot did so with the 823. Contrary to popular belief, the ink shutoff was not created for air travel. 1905 was just a little while after Kittyhawk. The ink shutoff valve is only suppose to be opened when you need to refill the forward chamber, then it should be closed again. The valve is there to avoid the common problems of eye droppers.
The twsbi eco was my first fountain pen and solidified me as a fountain pen user. Metropolitan was my next, and it nearly ended my love affair with pens. Glad I recognized that it was probably just not my jam, because I have had several other fp that have gone miles above even my eco, and now I rarely ever use anything other then a fp. I don’t think I have quite got a holy grail pen yet, but I feel like my twsbi 580 is pretty close. I need to get something with a gold nib. I’ll be saving up for a month or so as I spent my fun money on a Suit this month.
I have a Conklin Crescent-filler, and it really was disappointing. Got that in Kansas City. Used it for six months & retired it forever. I have a 1929 Parker Desk Set pen, had the bladder replaced, and it dried out almost immediately. It is a wonderful 'dip & write' pen now (because it won't retain the ink), and I love the way it writes. Very thin pen. Love it. Finally, I have two Aurora pens which are a dream. Thanks for posting this video! Very interesting pens.
@Michael Melen….Did you mean the modern or the vintage crescent-filling Conklin? I have both. The vintage (properly restored) is a timeless classic and a keeper. The modern pen is entirely hit & miss as modern Conklin pens notoriously are. Mine, luckily, is very nice all round. I’m devoted to my very many Aurora pens. Which two Aurora pens do you own and love?
@@sajjadhusain4146 The Conklin was modern, of a 1998 vintage. The two Aurora pens are the Afrika and the 100th Anniversary Cento Red. I have Noodler's Ink 'Black Swan in Australian Roses' in the Cento Red, and the Aurora Blue ink in the Afrika. Which Auroras do you have, or are your favorites?
@@michaelmelen9062 …The very old vintage Conklins are great; the Endura model is possibly my favorite. And wow, the (Optima) Afrika is superb. I’d love to have one myself. And all the Cento anniversary Aurora pens I’ve seen are really cool. I have two; the Ipsilon and the Optima Cento pens. Aurora is my favorite brand. I reckon I have all their models: 88, 98, Optima, Duo Cart, Auretta, Asterope, Ipsilon, Style, Tu, Talentum, Ambienti, and the Internazionale. Favorites? So tough to call. But the 88, 98, Duo Cart, Hastil and the Internazionale round out my Top 5 Aurora favorites.
I recently found a Parker 61 from maybe 1959, in pristine condition. It used the Wicking Fill system. A bad idea, didn't catch on; but I'm delighted to have and struggle with this pen! Mighty good nib.
My pilot 823 is right here next to me. I did think that one pen neither of you chose (which I was surprised about) was the Pilot Vanishing Point. It’s popular, so usable and a great writing experience. The unique technology unmatched…🦊
Interesting to hear your list of vintage pens first, then the modern pens readily available currently. I have tried a number of pens on your modern list, and plan to try a new one for me, the Lamy 2000. But I really cannot understand your consistent promotion of Noodler's pens (and ink -but that's another story). People have given me a couple of Noodler's pens and I have never had a good experience with them. Sorry to be so blunt!
The list is large, its very hard select some fountain pen, the waterman ideal, parker vacumatic, parker 51, parker 45, sheaffer snorkel, sheaffer imperial, sheaffer balance, sheaffer touchdown, lamy 2000, lamy safari, montblanc meisterstuck, pelikan line 200,400,800, ... And the list goes on.
Until looking at all the comments, I had failed to realize how “legendary” has to be difficult for the young, which to a 76-year old most all of you are. I guess, even at 76, I was stilled raised in a period where all inkwells (still in every grade school desk) were used for anything except trash. Pencils were always used in the lower grades, and, by later grades, we were using ballpoints. However, my first use of a fountain pen did come in the 1970s, when I began to practice law. We did not videotape documents being signed by the very old yet (we do now to prove competency, if any contest seems possible); hence, the senior partner indicated we needed to sign with fountain pens, because (he asserted; I never researched the issue) fountain pen ink can be time-dated, but ball point ink cannot. Anyway, I mention this issue only to note that my first fountain pen was a Schaffer with that inlaid nib. I am a little nostalgic when it comes to those nibs! For that reason though, I would probably opt for the Pilot 95 now. It is a gold nib and operates much better. But I still have one of my old Schaffer pens (just cannot recall how to spell it correctly! :) As to the more recent “legendary” (what can be from our era, I still love the suggestions about getting a more recent Pelikan worthy of legend, the M800 fits the list better for me because, while I was introduced to the wonderful style and function of a piston pen via a M200, it is just a little small for my hand. THANKS FOR STIMULATING THE DISCUSSION! GREAT IDEA!
Thought about this for a few days. So my criteria was ground breaker, best writers (personal experience), style, and overall gravitas. Waterman 52 with flex nib; Parker 51, Shaeffer Pen For Men IV or V, Lamy 2000, Pelikan m800. I agree with Brian. There are many pens that can make this list. In terms of a writer, hands down, no matter what, the Lamy 2000 is the best of the bunch. You can argue Pilot, Pelikan, Visconti, Omas, etc. etc. You can call them dream nibs, nibs of air, and so on. But the Lamy 2000 is a great writing experience, flawless design, everyday pen for understated elegance, durable, long lasting and trouble free. Also price right for what it is. Not showy, but this pen has to be on anyone's list. Also I do not think it is overrated.
I have two Conklin Crescent filler pens from Goulet Pens as well as a Lamy 2000 from Goulet Pens. I also have a vintage Parker 51 in great condition that I found at an antique shop at a very reasonable price. Another legendary historic fountain pen that I'd love to get is the Eversharp Skyline.
I was surprised that the Vanishing Point didn’t make any of the lists. It’s so unique, it’s been around forever, the whole concept of taking a fountain pen and making it retractable was introduced and possibly is even still only seen in this particular pen.
There are a bunch of pens (including the Vanishing Point) that WERE on my list, but II removed them so that we didn't take too long. - Drew
The 1932 Pullman and the Aurora Asterope were the first retractable nib fountain pens (not including safety pens as they still had a cap)
@@NTR_Savant I didn’t realize that. Were they click mechanisms or twist retracted like the Montblanc Boheme? I think there are a few others out there now that use a twist mechanism to retract the nib but I’m not aware of any others that use a click like the Vanishing Point although there is another Pilot that’s like a slimmer Vanishing Point but I just think of that as the skinnier sister LOL.
@@pjschmid2251 they were more of a slide to open so sorta in the middle I guess, I couldn't find a single video of somebody even using one unfortunately
@@NTR_Savant I am so grateful for that information, I wold like to know more about this ingenious retractable mechanism history in fountain pens.
I own 3 of the historic legendary pens: Conklin Crescent filler (vintage circa early 1920s), various Parker Duofolds (1920s), Parker 51 (I bought when I was in high school.)
I've been thinking about this. There are two categories I've considered: Advances in design, and then style icons. These are very personal lists, and I got the dates from Lambrou 1989.
LE Waterman eyedropper 1884 (first patented FP)
Conklin Crescent Filler 1899 (First self-filler)
Waterman 42 1907 (Safety)
Sheaffer Lever Filler 1908
Pelikan 100 (Piston filling) 1929
Parker 51 1941
Sheaffer Snorkel 1952
Waterman CF 1953 (cartridge)
Parker 45 1960 (User servicability/customisation)
Pilot Capless 1964 (Unique design)
Hero 100 [not sure of date] (Global mass market)
Style Icons:
Parker Duofold & English Duofold
Sheaffer Balance
Swan Mabie Todd
Onoto De La Rue
Lamy 2000
Kaweco Sport
Pilot Myu
Montblanc 149
All great points! - Drew
The Parker Vector is legendary still popular after decades, maybe more popular than the 2 you mentioned. I enjoyed the video as always and look forward to the next one!
Interesting picks - will say that in my experience working in an office in the US, the Safari has created more of a contagion of fountain pen use than the Metropolitan. Even though I use the orange Metropolitan, it's the Safaris that have more people asking me what it is and leading to them buying and using one.
Safari had futuristic design (bauhaus style) which is eye catching
I have both pens and I love both equally
Yes, I could easily make a good case for choosing the Safari for that slot over the Metro. - Drew
@@Gouletpens they are both winners!! 🖊 💜
The English school children’s legend.
Osmiroid pens from London from 1953
The model 65 and 75 were used by millions of English kids till the 80s when fountain pens fell out of favor
These very simple pens had a nib selection of over 25 nibs, from fine extra stiff for manifests to a wide selection of italic nibs even a crooked italic for left handers
I still have my pens from the 60s with a selection of 10 different nibs
I had the pleasure to buy an old Osmiroid 75 with a stainless sketch pen nib around 20 years ago as my first Fountain Pen. Even if I used it for a short while it was a dream to write with for my ballpoint-accustomed hands and informed my interest in writing instruments. Your comment made me dust it off, maybe I will get some ink and good quality paper later to enjoy it again. Thanks!!!
@@FGBFGB-vt7tc Agee. I found one and it works great and really good for drawing and art.
Thanks. These pens are now moving up some steps up in my next pen list.
My first pen was a metro, couldn't agree more about it being a great first pen and intro to the hobby. It's such a good writing experience, it really hooks you!
Yes! Thank you! - Drew
I think the pilot vanishing point and or fermo could've been on here.
100% true. Plus a few other that I didn't have the time for!
Just about any noodler's product can be described as "trailblazing." Nathan brings revolutionary products and he does it for the masses.
Very true, Ben!
An US centric list about iconic fountain pens is pretty pointless (like a UK centric list about best dishes). MB 146, Parker 51 and Lamy Safari are the most obvious contestants. But in general, I like the idea of telling the story of fountain pen icons, like we do with wrist watches, to give orientation and the illusion of value. More great pens will come from it. These “icons” will be just overprices fountain pens like any wrist watch nowadays considered an “icon”, but the appreciation of the art of pens/watches as a whole would increase.
Fun episode indeed.
I certainly agree wholeheartedly with Pilot Custom 823 (and it's little brother the 74) as well as the TWSBI Diamond 580 line. Both introduced me to the spectacular end of writing instruments.
I also have a couple Lamy 2000's and they are solid, well built pens that write consistently well, but I wish the grip didn't taper all the way to the point and I wish they had better ink windows.
I love Nathan Tardiff's fountain pens BECAUSE they actually encourage *_and allow_* the user to become familiar with all aspects of fountain pen maintenance without breaking the user's bank account. That helped me immensely and made me far more comfortable in the robust yet fragile nature of my more expensive pens! In my opinion, they serve their niche quite well and have promoted Fountain Pen knowledge and use.
Regardless, they all qualify for inclusion in your "Pantheon of Legendary Pens."
I agree, Noodler’s fountain pens made the flex nib popular and a-for-da-ble, so this brand deserves a place in a revolutionary fountain pen list.
the Montblanc 149 is truly the most important fountain pen in 6 decades.
I never knew my grandfather. But I found an old desk that was his and in the drawer was some old broken pens and pencils. Among it was a piece of a Schaffer whit dot fountain pen. This was like fifty years ago when I was 8. Fast forward half a century and I see a Schaffer white dot green fountain pen fully restored for $75.00. I recognized the green celluloid barrel. I had no idea what it was and even had forgotten about it till I spotted it on E-Bay. Now it’s one of my treasures.
Thank you for sharing that story! - Drew
Drew took a serious pill very nice presentation as alweays
I would add the Namiki Emperor as “art.” “Grail” would work as well. And you can get them on GP, so it’s relevant to the topic at hand!
Pilot custom 823
Lamy 2000
Pens from the old days tend to be so smalll... why do you think is that? I don't believe people had smaller hands back then (lol).
Well I think one of the reasons is that men had the custom of carry them in their shirt pockets.
Excellent narrative but, Sir you did not mention the name of The Conway Stewart.
Can't see how the Pelikan M series isn't on the list. Seems to be on everyone else's.
Yes, having been a FP collector for about 50 years, I think their list has some big holes. It seems their knowledge is limited to what they encounter and what they sell.
I thought about adding the M800 - it was close! - Drew
The Pilot Metropolitan was my first fountain pen. The Pilot Custom 823 is my primary pen now.
Top 5 Pantheon of Legendary Pens --- Waterman 12, Sheaffer Radite Flat-Top, Sheaffer Balance, Parker Duofold, Parker 51
No Vanishing Point???!?! It's THE retractable FP which was unthinkable years ago!
Vanishing point
Platinum 3776 century for slip and seal mechanism
I'm cackling cuz I bought a TWSBI Diamond 580 ALR Navy Blue for my boss (after much agonizing on color and nib size and the grip), and both that and the Pilot Metropolitans I saw him use at work are on the list! Metropolitans are absolutely prolific, because I'm also still laughing at the fact that I recognized them instantly the first time I saw him take one out for notes despite not owning any myself.
Also I'm surprised my beloved TWSBI ECOs (that I have like 5 of...) also made it on there but not LAMY Safari...
General MacArthur's1928 Parker Doufold that signed the Japaness Surrender of ww2
If the Lamy 2000 ever goes and gets a demonstrator variant it will sell tons for sure!
I have the Onoto De La Rue; Parker Duofold; Parker 51; Waterman 12; Pilot 823. I will never own a Lamy 2000 but it is a design icon. You should have had an Urushi pen in there! :-)
Interesting picks. But I want to include one more: Pilot E95. The actual version is too similar to the older. Thanks for your videos!
Interesting picks. But I want to include one more: Pilot E95. The actual version is too similar to the older. Thanks for your videos!
I think the vanishing point is gimmicky. Although a stalwart, I feel not a Pantheon. Juxtapose the vanishing point to a Parker 51 in the hands of Eisenhower. Or Mark Twain and his crescent filler or the Lamy 2000 that is a museum piece.
Thank you for including the Falcon. It's the best modern flex nib and a great entry into gold nibs. Love that pen. And what about the Vanishing Point? I don't like any retractable nib pens, but that is certainly the ONE in that category, no?
advances in design: Vanishing Point? or, were there click fountain pens that inspired that concept?
I definitely think the VP deserves a spot on the list if I had some more time! - Drew
My first several safari came with converters don’t know when they started making you pay extra
Lamy 2000 is my all time favourite 😍
Very understandable. Do you have more than one? I have three: two makrolon and one stainless steel, w/M, B and BB nibs.
@Sajjad Husain I have just one in makloron in fine nib
@@AbidKhan-lr5wb …Cool! The Lamy 2000 is an outright, enduring classic. I love it hugely. As you obviously do, too.
Drew nails it with the Metropolitan. It was my first fountain pen and started my journey.
I have five off of Drew's list! The Lamy 2000, Mont Blanc 146 (close enough to the 149), Visconti Homo Sapiens, TWSBI 580, and Pilot Metropolitan. And the Pilot Custom 823 off of Brian's list. All of these were bought from Goulet because of this videos! Drew and Brian do such a great job of describing pens that I feel 100% confident in their recommendations.
Thanks for watching, Mr Cat! :). - Drew
Pelikan 100n was the first Piston fill pin it was pelikan that invented and patented the mechanism in 1930s
I had a list closer to Brian’s. I had no experience with Noodlers, so I could not include it. We all agreed the LAMY 2000 (I believe the perfect business world pen if you are in any conservative business), Pilot Custom 823 (design, function, nib +), and the Pilot Falcon (creative Nib Design). As to a 5th, I would pick one of the Opus 88 pens because I love the capacity, the shut-off valve, and the affordability. I did try to stay away from the super-expensive too!
Agree the Lamy 2000 should be on anyone's list. It is the perfect business world pen. Writes awesome, can sit for months and write immediately, durable, great design, beautiful nib. What is not to like.
I would only pick the Lamy 2000 and the Montblanc 149
One word: Iconic.
Very true! - Drew
Would have to add the Parker 51 and agree on the other two for sure.
It's so interesting to see your lists. I was happy to see a Noodler's pen on Brian's list.
The fun about lists like these is that all of the ones chosen can certainly be on the list of Pantheon Pens. You should have people provide their own lists and see which pens would be at the top. My list would be:
Parker 180 - many pens claim to be or are capable of writing regularly or "reverse" writing (the top of the nib), this pen was specifically made to to that
Pelikan M800 - not too large, smoothest nib I have ever used and a phenomenal piston filler
Sheaffer Heritage - what can you say about the iconic inlaid nib, remarkable
penBBS 323 - an amazing pen that is ergononically designed, a wonderful nib and is a cartridge converter that can also be used as an eyedropper
Pilot 823 - the vacuum filler that headed a legion or other manufacturers to play catch up
Sailor 1911L - beautifully made, great in the hand and, as they say, "it's all about the nib" ( this was a toss up with the Sailor King of Pen )
Great list, Paul! - Drew
Any legendary list should carry the Sheaffer’s Snorkel, the most ingenious pen of all times. Also the Parker Vacumatic, which allows the storing of a quantity of ink into the barrel. For the same reason the German Pelikans and Montblancs, for the piston filling system, better in the Pelikans.
When I started my fountain pens collection, piston fillers were very expensive; TWSBI changed that.
All good points! - Drew
The Lamy 2000, Falcon, Eco, and even the noodler have all been the entirety of my wish list for years now
I can definitely recommend the Eco but if you're willing to spend the price, the 2000 is incredible. I just recently got mine and I was a little wary about it because my Safari isn't as great as I'd like, but I am beyond happy I pulled the trigger for the 2000, absolutely amazing pen.
the pilot metro was my first fountain pen and about 6 months later, I bought my grail pen, the pilot custom urushi from Goulet Pens!
No way! That's phenomenal! Thank you so very much for choosing us! - Drew
Rarely are you wrong, Brian, but the Noodler's pens almost made me get out of fountain pens altogether! I agree with Drew and you on the Lamy 2000. And I agree with Drew on the Montblanc 149, but I would say 146/149. You have to have the Pelikan 140 in there, since hundreds of thousands of children learned penmanship with this pen. The Parker 51 (historical) also put fountain pens on the map, particularly in the US. Then, I would have to add a pen that I personally do not care for, but the Pilot Vanishing Point. While there had been some retractables before it, the Pilot VP made fountain pens much more convenient for so many people. It also really brought the Pilot brand into the US and Europe probably more than any other Japanese brand. So those are my personal observations. I am not historian, just a pen lover.
For me, the league of legends looks like this:
Aurora 88 (vintage)
Aurora Hastil
Aurora Asterope
Conklin Crescent Filler (vintage)
Lamy 2000
Parker 51 Vacumatic
Parker Duofold
Sheaffer Balance
Sheaffer PFM
Waterman (I can’t remember the exact name and number atm)
Interesting picks! But I think there has to be an MB 149 or 6 in there. It’s a pen that’s transcended the fountain pen world. When you use a fountain pen In public people will ask “oh is that a montblanc”
@@dariel7001 …Oh, you’re spot on! I own and love both the MB 146 & 149. Either or both definitely belong in any list of timeless greats of fountain pens across eras.
Guys, thank you for a great video! Seeing people who love what they are doing inspires me. Also, I have and use extensively three of Brian's selection - Creeper, 2000 and Falcon. Two of the last one, actually, I'm a fan of Pilot.
Just an FYI. De La Rue was the name of the company and Onoto was the name of the pen. De La Rue was a print company before getting into pens and still exists to this day, albeit not in pens. The modern Onoto company took the name of the vintage pen as its company name to revive the pen model. The original Onoto's key innovations were the plunger filler that filled on the downstream and the ink shutoff valve, both created in 1905. Sheaffer would use a variation of the plunger and the Japanese would use the ink shutoff, but the two functions wouldn't be combined again until Pilot did so with the 823. Contrary to popular belief, the ink shutoff was not created for air travel. 1905 was just a little while after Kittyhawk. The ink shutoff valve is only suppose to be opened when you need to refill the forward chamber, then it should be closed again. The valve is there to avoid the common problems of eye droppers.
The twsbi eco was my first fountain pen and solidified me as a fountain pen user. Metropolitan was my next, and it nearly ended my love affair with pens. Glad I recognized that it was probably just not my jam, because I have had several other fp that have gone miles above even my eco, and now I rarely ever use anything other then a fp.
I don’t think I have quite got a holy grail pen yet, but I feel like my twsbi 580 is pretty close. I need to get something with a gold nib. I’ll be saving up for a month or so as I spent my fun money on a Suit this month.
I would sub 823 for Pilot E95s. It's been in existance almost as long as Lamy 2000 and a wonderful writer.
I have a Conklin Crescent-filler, and it really was disappointing. Got that in Kansas City. Used it for six months & retired it forever. I have a 1929 Parker Desk Set pen, had the bladder replaced, and it dried out almost immediately. It is a wonderful 'dip & write' pen now (because it won't retain the ink), and I love the way it writes. Very thin pen. Love it. Finally, I have two Aurora pens which are a dream. Thanks for posting this video! Very interesting pens.
@Michael Melen….Did you mean the modern or the vintage crescent-filling Conklin? I have both. The vintage (properly restored) is a timeless classic and a keeper. The modern pen is entirely hit & miss as modern Conklin pens notoriously are. Mine, luckily, is very nice all round.
I’m devoted to my very many Aurora pens. Which two Aurora pens do you own and love?
@@sajjadhusain4146 The Conklin was modern, of a 1998 vintage. The two Aurora pens are the Afrika and the 100th Anniversary Cento Red. I have Noodler's Ink 'Black Swan in Australian Roses' in the Cento Red, and the Aurora Blue ink in the Afrika. Which Auroras do you have, or are your favorites?
@@michaelmelen9062 …The very old vintage Conklins are great; the Endura model is possibly my favorite.
And wow, the (Optima) Afrika is superb. I’d love to have one myself. And all the Cento anniversary Aurora pens I’ve seen are really cool. I have two; the Ipsilon and the Optima Cento pens.
Aurora is my favorite brand. I reckon I have all their models: 88, 98, Optima, Duo Cart, Auretta, Asterope, Ipsilon, Style, Tu, Talentum, Ambienti, and the Internazionale.
Favorites? So tough to call. But the 88, 98, Duo Cart, Hastil and the Internazionale round out my Top 5 Aurora favorites.
@@sajjadhusain4146 Excellent! Obviously a person of Class & Discerning Taste!
@@michaelmelen9062 Oh thanks! That’s
just very flattering. I’ve only always been besotted with beautiful fountain pens (and watches), that’s all.
I really like your choice for the members of a pen-theon. My all-time favorite is the Lamy 2000.
would be amazing if you included snaps of those legendary fountain pens so that we could atleast have a glimpse of how they looked.
No Kaweco???
The Pentheon
My list of iconic pens in my collection: Pilot Custom 823, 1980s Pelican M-400 Tortoise, LAMY 2k (SS & Makrolon), Visconti Homo Sapiens Dual Touch Cognac, Aurora 88 Giove, Pilot VP Raden Galaxy, Vintage Parker 51 Vacumatic Custom Ariel Kullock Edition, 1930s Swan Mabie Todd Flex, 1920s Wahl Eversharp Gold Seal
Great choices! - Drew
I would say: Parker Duofold, the old Parker 51, Pilot VP, Lamy 2000, Namiki Emperor, MB 149 and more :D
Great choices! - Drew
I recently found a Parker 61 from maybe 1959, in pristine condition. It used the Wicking Fill system. A bad idea, didn't catch on; but I'm delighted to have and struggle with this pen! Mighty good nib.
I tried the 61's too difficult a system. Plastic also cracks easily. Also skips when it writes. Was not a good pen, but a great idea.
My pilot 823 is right here next to me. I did think that one pen neither of you chose (which I was surprised about) was the Pilot Vanishing Point. It’s popular, so usable and a great writing experience. The unique technology unmatched…🦊
Can't argue with that! - Drew
It was a TWSBI 580 that got me into fountain pens
Interesting to hear your list of vintage pens first, then the modern pens readily available currently. I have tried a number of pens on your modern list, and plan to try a new one for me, the Lamy 2000. But I really cannot understand your consistent promotion of Noodler's pens (and ink -but that's another story). People have given me a couple of Noodler's pens and I have never had a good experience with them. Sorry to be so blunt!
Thanks, Herbert! - Drew
I can hardly wait to watch this. Pesky work.
The list is large, its very hard select some fountain pen, the waterman ideal, parker vacumatic, parker 51, parker 45, sheaffer snorkel, sheaffer imperial, sheaffer balance, sheaffer touchdown, lamy 2000, lamy safari, montblanc meisterstuck, pelikan line 200,400,800, ... And the list goes on.
I know! It's sooooo hard to choose! I had the Pelikan M800 on my list but I removed with a few others for time's sake. - Drew
Until looking at all the comments, I had failed to realize how “legendary” has to be difficult for the young, which to a 76-year old most all of you are. I guess, even at 76, I was stilled raised in a period where all inkwells (still in every grade school desk) were used for anything except trash. Pencils were always used in the lower grades, and, by later grades, we were using ballpoints. However, my first use of a fountain pen did come in the 1970s, when I began to practice law. We did not videotape documents being signed by the very old yet (we do now to prove competency, if any contest seems possible); hence, the senior partner indicated we needed to sign with fountain pens, because (he asserted; I never researched the issue) fountain pen ink can be time-dated, but ball point ink cannot. Anyway, I mention this issue only to note that my first fountain pen was a Schaffer with that inlaid nib. I am a little nostalgic when it comes to those nibs! For that reason though, I would probably opt for the Pilot 95 now. It is a gold nib and operates much better. But I still have one of my old Schaffer pens (just cannot recall how to spell it correctly! :) As to the more recent “legendary” (what can be from our era, I still love the suggestions about getting a more recent Pelikan worthy of legend, the M800 fits the list better for me because, while I was introduced to the wonderful style and function of a piston pen via a M200, it is just a little small for my hand. THANKS FOR STIMULATING THE DISCUSSION! GREAT IDEA!
Also, no mention of Edison pens? Talk about a great accessible pen for an excellent price!
Very true! Potential Hall of Famers! - Drew
Thought about this for a few days. So my criteria was ground breaker, best writers (personal experience), style, and overall gravitas. Waterman 52 with flex nib; Parker 51, Shaeffer Pen For Men IV or V, Lamy 2000, Pelikan m800. I agree with Brian. There are many pens that can make this list. In terms of a writer, hands down, no matter what, the Lamy 2000 is the best of the bunch. You can argue Pilot, Pelikan, Visconti, Omas, etc. etc. You can call them dream nibs, nibs of air, and so on. But the Lamy 2000 is a great writing experience, flawless design, everyday pen for understated elegance, durable, long lasting and trouble free. Also price right for what it is. Not showy, but this pen has to be on anyone's list. Also I do not think it is overrated.
Well said! - Drew
Thank You Drew. Remember to double up your shorties, butt to butt!
I have two Conklin Crescent filler pens from Goulet Pens as well as a Lamy 2000 from Goulet Pens. I also have a vintage Parker 51 in great condition that I found at an antique shop at a very reasonable price.
Another legendary historic fountain pen that I'd love to get is the Eversharp Skyline.
😍
Namiki Emperor seems pretty legendary
100% true! - Drew
The 3 legendary pen in my list
Pilot Metropolitan
Lamy Safari
Twsbi Eco
I have all 3 of them and I love all of them
I don't understand why you guys are such big Noodler's fanboys. Every product I've had from them has been a disappointment.
We felt like we needed to acknowledge the brand from a business perspective, and its affect on the industry in terms of disruption. - Drew