Thanks for another great review! I have two of these. I replaced the nibs in both. I pulled out the old fine nibs with jewelry pliers. One cooperated. One was difficult but I managed it. I think a reviewer or two broke theirs doing this operation so as always you have to throw caution to the wind and realize you may destroy your pen. Regardless, mine are done and no worse for wear. One has a Moonman medium nib and the other has a Jowo medium nib. The fine was 'ok' but I don't really enjoy fine nibs. Anyhow, on to the ethics comments. I don't know if the patent is expired or not but the pen is no longer made and the original company is no longer. So I don't really have any issues with a recreation. Truth is I don't have a problem with Chinese companies making cheap knock offs anyhow. I'd rather spend $3 for a knock off safari to realize the grip is uncomfortable than retail on a genuine Lamy so I can throw a $30 POS in a drawer to be forgotten. The other side of this though is I have bought a cheap Chinese copy and realized I like the general feel so much I wanted to buy the original. As you said, sometimes you can try the cheap copy to realize you actually want the original. Additionally, some people just cant afford a $500 pen. Let them buy what they like and enjoy the hobby. Way too many uptight and judgemental people these days.
I’m an OMAS obsessor and was so pleased to see this pen. Sure it’s not an OMAS and the nib is not an OMAS nib or anywhere near; but I love this shape, and have no issue with the copying of a pen no longer available. For this price it’s a delight. Great review as always thankyou
I bought the V60 for GB£38 and it is a superb buy. Mine is fitted with the long knife nib (manual grinding engraved on the nib). It is a wonderfully smooth and wet nib. Bit like an architect nib I believe. I have several montblanc, pelikan and other premium brands, and this writes as well as those. My favourite, amongst many, is my Pelikan M1000 with a medium nib which writes like a BB; this V60 is as good as that, and less than a tenth of the price. Can't wait for a V90.
I got mine from the Ali Express 365days Stationery Store with a “long knife” 1.2-1.7mm nib from Lemon. It is the broadest and most wet nib I own. And the pen body itself is excellent.
I got mine in yellow and received it about 2 weeks ago. I got one with a good nib that writes well, no gaps between the body and the piston knob, and I love almost everything about it, except that I have to adjust my grip or the bottom right edge digs into my middle finger right at the first knuckle and is uncomfortable. But, like you, if they release a larger model I won't hesitate to grab one.
I bought the Medium nib and have been blown away by how nicely it writes and how it feels in the hand. Mine is wet out of the “box”. I then ordered a fine nib, and it works well too. The build quality seems lesser than the medium version, but that is likely just quality control. I also hope for a magnum version.
Thanks for this. Always wanted one of the originals, now that they are no longer made or, out of reach I’ll take one of these. Looking forward to the shootout.Also hope Moonman decides to make the larger version.
Had always wanted a 360, so had to try this, and glad I did. Agree, wonderful in the hand. On AliExpress blade nibs and normal medium also available, but depends on the seller - some indeed only have F and EF. I got sent a blade nib by mistake, but turned out to be perfectly ground and interesting to use. Rather than send it back, I have now ordered a standard medium too 😊
I purchased one with a M hand finished nib and its buttery smooth and closer to Broad in my opinion. Its an absolutely lovely writer but not as boucy as my orignal 360 but one of the nicest new nibs I have used. On most of the Aliexpress sites they don't have the Hand finished optional Nibs but from my experience its worth waiting for that option. They include the orignal nib with it too!
Aloha, got mine 2 days ago. Perfect in every way, including the piston knob, as solid as the Penlux masterpiece grande. And, yes, hope that they make the Omas Magnum size.
Greetings from Australia. Great video. I have one of these pens in white with a medium nib. It writes great. I'll buy another in black. It cost me $66 with delivery from China. The original company has gone under. It's a copy, but I dont care!!! Fountain pens are Fun. It's all about FUN, and I'm having fun using a triangular pen. I would never pay $2000 for a pen.
I looked at the Omas 360 many years ago at Artilite and several times I almost bought one but the price just was too high compared to other pens and I was not sure I would like the shape of the pen to use it to write. Since the Majohn v60 was introduced I have purchased four and love all four. They write great, look great, and are a great value. As usual, great review Doc.
I too have one of the V60's - my fine is very wet and smooth and no gap by the piston. Considering another in a different colour! I think I am in the same camp...a copy of a current production is problematic; but a copy of something not being made??? seems less of an issue. For a few of the copies I have they inspired me to get the original - so I think they did a service to those pen producers as I was able to "test drive" at a lower cost - without the copy would I have bought the original..probably not!
Yes totally agree. I would never be able to afford an original Omas and since they are now a defunct company there is no ethical conflict either. They are in fact available in Medium nibs if you look around but they are not Moon Man nibs and are also an upcharge of $10 US. I ordered mine this way and was pleasantly surprised to receive both the Medium nib and an extra Moon Man Nib in EF. The Medium nib is 2-tone and very smooth. No complaints.
The idea behind intellectual property laws is to allow profits for original ideas to be protected for the originator for a limited time, but no one has an indefinite exclusive right to those ideas. Eventually, original ideas become available to society at large.
I have a large collection of Chinese fountain pens. I have two Admok M800's and they are outrageously advertised as 'the Chinese Pelikan' but they are fantastic writers due to having Schmidt nibs. I'm not in any ethical quandary abour buying Chinese pens. I'm not especially interested in this Moonman pen but if they are released in more colors, I could change my mind.
I am very pleased with my V60. The steel nib is of course nowhere near an original Omas, but it is fairly smooth and gets the job done. The pen has given me better service than the new Omas Ogiva (from the re-start brand in Bologna), the piston of which stopped working after a week. (Original price was close to $400 vs the $30 of this V60.) I do not see a major ethical issue here: since the 360 is no longer made, Moonman is not cutting into those profits. The case of the Jinhao Lamy, on the other hand, is unacceptable. All in all, I love the V60!
I bought this after a many years long fascination with Omas and after seeing the Doodlebud video. It's incredible! I own a Sailor 1911 21k.. and I feel that unless you're looking closely at the details, they're incredibly comparable in all other aspects except the nib (and I mean that mostly visually. The V60 is enjoyable and reliable to use for daily work writing) . Even to the touch it doesn't feel "cheap", the weight and quality of the plastic is convincing. While the non-disassemble friendly piston filler is not as accessible as a cartridge converter, it has a great classic charm to it in my mind and makes filling it with ink enjoyable, if you chronically change ink colors YMMV. I would love to know what kinds of nibs are compatible with this pen, maybe it would be worth upgrading to a gold nib, a cursive italic nib, or even a flex nib- just whatever is compatible. I see this as a way to try a great design that is nearly impossible to attain today- at a price that I can take it to work and use in all manner of environments and use without guilt (I do this with my 1911 too(so it may build it's wabi-sabi charm over time), but the guilt I am referring to the guilt of it being rare and irreplaceable).
Swag idea: a bingo card with your friend's typical replies. That way, you get some fun out of it, and hey ... a price for the first one to fill up a row?
Majon/Moonman copy I have two Pilot VPs Beautiful quality pens The nibs are excellent Majon V1 and V2 are copied in both plastic and metal Their 0.38mm nibs are super smooth but more like a Pilot medium Well worth the $20 Again excellent copies if you want a retractable nib pen But not a shadow on the quality of Pilot
I agree totally with you Stephen, the 360 isn’t in production any more, and the v60 is a copy that’s not trying to take away business with an existing brand, totally ethical, great review…. Jude
I have an Omas 360 ballpoint. I could not afford the fountain pen when it was released and certainly not now at the high after market prices, it is beyond my reach. I thought about getting the V60 to compliment the ballpoint. One review thought it was horrible. Yours and others have praised the pen. So, I am on the fence as it were.
We shouldn't look at pens always it's copy or not. If the pens is branded different then is simply inspired by. If we do a case when shape of pen, additional brands on cap etc. is copying then sailor 1911 is copy of Montblanc design. Same to Pilots 743, 843, and every torpedo shape pen is copy of sheaffer balance. I think that copy down to single bits like moonman A1 is too much but still they don't claim that's a Pilot, and you won't buy it as a VP. Nahvalur copied nib unit as well, twsbi "copied" pelikan piston, everyone back in the day "copied" sheaffers, watermans and parkers filling methods. In conclusion I cannot understand why people are upset on only chinese manufacturers. We should focus more on pen performance, servicability and reliability in pens. As you pointed out - Majohn even improved this no longer available pen. I think it is a good thing, because OMAS could not done that when they were making this pen, so this pen is just highly inspired by.
@@ichirofakename I think it's purely from "cheap chinese garbage" - pens like 1$ Hero pens, and just a fact that this particular pen is made in china. I cannot understand why people only can see copying, and forget about improvements, their own designs, and quality - you pay what you get mostly. Unfortunetely most people forget that iphones, and majority of things has some part made in China. And in addition for example Jinhao 86 (like parker 51 with screw cap) year before Parker reissued 51 with screw cap.
Thanks for the review. Ive seen your 360 on your videos quite a bit and was definitely intrigued. I'll be ordering a V60 soon. I have brand loyalty to some of my favorite companies; Visconti, Pelikan, Leonardo... but i consider that they are producing genuinely unique pens. Things like Montblanc 149 look very generic To Me. I would not buy one regardless of purchase options because it has no value To Me. So a Jinhao copy for $6 is perfect.
1. That's a good-looking, well-made pen. Thanks for the show. 2. I am indifferent to intellectual property issues, as long as no deception is involved. I have bought multiple Sailor Pro Gear Slims along with multiple Jinhao 82's, which are a knock-off. I'm glad to have both. Between these two x60's, I would buy the one that doesn't dry out and is affordable. Go ahead, hang me in effigy.
I worry about apparent variability in supply and reviews, it suggests there are copies of copies in the marketplace, this is the slippery slope that accepting copies enables.
It would be awesome if they made a bigger version with a no.8 size nib and ebonite feed. Yeah this is a nice way for people to get into a pen like this. There is a bit more expensive one from Pineider, but right now there are sales for Black Friday you can get them for 120 to 140. I have an ASC Green Autumn Celluloid with a Chilton style filler. I don't use it all the time, but I still adore it. Yeah that pen is expensive.Another difference is that the grip section on the ASC is circular instead of triangular. I would really be tempted to buy one if they made more finishes and like I said it was bigger with a No.8 nib with an ebonite feed like the P139.
Good point of view. I had this pen, which wrote well in F. However it was of questionable quality, the piston felt flimsy compared to other Chinese pens from the same company and it was impossible to disassemble. But I do not have any ethical qualms about this one. The original company went bust years ago so I do not feel like they are doing anyone a disservice making copies of this iconic pen. But I also think the Chinese industry is technically capable of producing original designs as well of excellent functioning pens. PenBBS has shown the way in my opinion but looks like they are having difficulties, which is regrettable. In any case the Chinese own the future of this industry for sure.
There’s not a remote possibility I could afford a pre owned Omas 360. The fact it’s a knockoff doesn’t bother me at all. It’s just a very nice,comfortable pen to write with like the Pelikan Twister. I too have a black and gold, which I keep in a cloth sunglasses pouch. I have no difficulty posting the cap on mine or writing with it like that. The red/gold is sold out so I had to settle for the red/silver.
i wanted to ask you is there a big difference in the writing experience on a Waterman Carene vs Expert, i own an expert and im debating on maybe getting a Carene but its expensive
My thought process largely mirrors yours. However, I do add that I usually wonder about the long term durability of the materials used. Although, in this case, the original Omas isn't know for it's resilience either.
The 360 is my all-time favorite pen, coming from my all -time favorite pen. There hasn't been an OMAS nib I did not like. Something about these clones really rub me the wrong way. I don't think it the shape of the V60 that is bugging me. If they wanted to make the shape the same that is fine, it's all the little details that are pretty much the same as the 360. The clip, the Greek key bands, even the name is not very original. 360, V60. Have the shape but create your own details, and i wouldn't feel as offended. It goes for the other clones as well. Sailor for example does not do their 1911 clip the same as the Meisterstuck nor the lettering on the cap band. When you buy an OMAS you're mostly buying the nib. Usually, I feel when you buy a fountain pen you buy it for the nib and the writing experience. You might get a good experience with this pen, but you won't get the OMAS experience, and maybe that is okay, but they I feel, why get an OMAS or 360 look like, if you don't want the real experience? But that is me You are deliberately creating a pen that looks like another in terms of what, to get them to buy it because it is like the original. When you make a dupe, the flip side is I feel you're trying to dupe the customers. Otherwise why are you trying to make a copy? Finally to Stephen, if you will be reading this. i can understand you making a shootout, but just my thought, it's not a big deal, but I don't know if this pen is worthy of a shootout with the 360, but I understand why you would do it. Not like I will stop watching. :)
If the "knockoff" is better in quality, with innovative ideas and improvements, and are cheaper, why not? I mean, I hate knockoffs, simply because most of them are in terrible build quality, constantly having this and that problems. If they make a pen without these, I'll be happy to buy it. It's not like other reputable brands don't have "copied" or "mostly copied" designs. Montblanc 149 vs Sailor Pro 21 (and let's be honest, too many others) right? If they can make it better, cheaper, there is no reason to not go for it. Give me one of this than any of the modern Parker or Diplomat or Monteverde or Sheaffer.
Never really tempted by these Chinese pens, due to the lack of originality. But as you say, it is near impossible to get an Omas 360 at a decent price, and the design is quite iconic. Perhaps tempted to pick one of these up just to try the grip shape, and if I like it maybe bite the bullet and go for the real deal.
I just found this on AliExpress: C$34.39 | Majohn V60 Triangular Piston Resin Fountain Pen EF/F Nib Ink Writing Pen School Office Business Stationery Supplies Gift Pen a.aliexpress.com/_mP0Z3mB
I'd like to see a Mexican pen-off on this one between you and InkquiringMinds Doug, because in his review he tried to take it apart and found that almost impossible to do (which makes me curious about the review you mention by the 360 specialist).
As long as nobody is claiming it is an Omas pen - I do not have a problem with it being a copy. If I could put an #6 Leonardo nib in it, I may even consider in future purchase of such pen - for now, the colors are just not for me. Bigger version, nib in size 8, ebonite feed, sizes M-B-BB - and it will be selling like hot buns.
It's a decades old design that is no longer being made and the market segment it's targeting is a completely different realm in both price point and features, so I quite frankly don't give a single fraction of a quectoshit about it being a copy. On the other hand, I wish they would have added an ink window while they were at it. I also wish they had either made the piston removable, made the nib unit removable(it's glued in) or at the very least used a feed that doesn't have fins that get destroyed when you look at them the wrong way, because now there is no easy way to lubricate the piston, which will at some point need to be done. Any of the three options would have been fine, but it's like they intentionally made it impossible for you to access the piston in a way where you don't stand a decent chance of damaging the pen.
I would have no problem buying one. There's very little new in the fountain pen world. Almost everything has been done before. As far as copying the design, it doesn't really bother me a whole lot.
From Guitars, watches, jewelry, microphones, clothing and so on are copies, usually from originals and permeate society. The collector will always want the original but the average consumer just can't afford that kind of luxury, which when compared is often overpriced. When a patient or copyright expires, expect a copy to be made. Fountain pens, even expensive ones, are usually copies, yes I'm looking at you Sailor, so I'm not bothered. Lets more people enjoy fountain pens at a more reasonable price!
I've seen some other reviewers who have had less that stellar experiences with this pen, including Doug. My limited experience with injection molded Chinese pens is that they tend to be brittle, even to the point of spontaneously cracking while stored. Three main things can contribute to this: poor mold design, with walls too thin and improper filleting and gating; poor quality plastic, usually some grade of styrene; poor production control, especially cooling too fast which will introduce stresses that can lead to failure. Given these issues seem only to effect a percentage of pens, it's a bit of a lottery as to whether or not one will get a good unit or trash. I don't see the point of feeding the beast of too many too cheap, when there are decent, very affordable pens available from legitimate manufacturers.
Thanks for a good review. I love fountain pens, but simply do not have the funds to splash out on the "grail" pens. If one can afford high end pens, it seems to me that (obvious quality issues aside) one is also purchasing status. Easy to be ethical when the cash flow allows. I love Chinese pens. The copy issue is reminiscent of Plato, whom I personally regard as a twat. There was a time when the only good cigar was thought to be Cuban. Now, cigars from Nicaragua, Honduras, Dominican Republic are regarded by many as superior. I suspect there is a certain amount of snobbery involved from those who take issue with Chinese pens. Well done on opening up the conversation 🙌👍
I think there is a misunderstanding about 'Chinese copies' of pens. Functionally, all fountain pens are reasonably similar - with few exceptions, the mechanism of a fountain pen has existed for decades or longer. The only thing that can be protected is a trademark - which is the Montblanc bird-poo logo on top of their pen, or the Pelikan logo atop their pens. If a company can make a pen that is of better quality (which I think the MoonMan v60 is better than the 360 - except the nib), and sell it under their own brand for less money, that is just capitalism and drives competition. Even if it were possible for a company to trademark the triangular pen, you have to trademark it under a "use" or "intent to use" trademark. If you abandon a design or logo and don't take steps to protect it, you forfeit ownership of that trademark. For me, I'll be putting an 18c nib in my v60 and enjoying it fully.
I bought the V60 because it looks interesting. I enjoy peculiar fountain pens. There is reproduction in design in many items. Example, your eyeglass frame. Do other manufacturers make similar or even identical frames? I would imagine they do. Do those particularly interested in eyeglass frames have passion about this? I don't know if they do. When Moonman made fountain pens that resembled those of a maker who will not be identified here, the other company took offense and registered the name "Moonman" in a market, even on a continent, that is not one where Moonman makes its merchandise. So now the company Moonman call themselves Majohn. Lots of stock still says Moonman, we know who they are, and the other company looks to me like a bunch of soreheads and bullies. Sneaky bullies, also. What is the ethical issue here? Moonman does not claim its pen is the Omas. Whose rights are being trod on? In the penworld, a company calls itself Esterbrook, but it makes and sells pens that are very dissimilar in many ways from those made in their millions in a factory in New Jersey as well as factories elsewhere in the world. But the brand was not protected, and now it has been taken up by others. Parker pens are now made in China, are less and less like those made decades ago, but people continue to buy and use them. One model looks much like its predecessor, but costs dramatically more and performs rather worse. As the man said, Ya pays ya money and ya takes ya chances. Thank you for the audience. I'll stop now.
Aesthetic designs can't be patented. They can be trademarked. The concept of a triangular pen has been around for decades, so there is nothing to patent. Piston fill pens is a functional mechanism that can be patented, but it has long expired.
The more I move away from western culture, the less I care if it's a copy. What I care is the aesthetic and the functionality. In addition to fountain pen, I also collect fragrances and there are people, mostly westerners, who cry foul about knockoffs too. It's not something I care. If anything, if they can recreate the scent 1:1 that's a job well done sir. If the original creator gonna stop making if their stuff is copied, then let them. Someone will rise to create. Creativity is human nature, and only the best got copied - not that it will come out well in most cases. I don't mind paying for copies. I mind paying for bad copies. This pen looks nice enough and I don't have a triangular pen. Well, actually I have one but not one I want to throw into my pocket and roll out in the workshop with it for sure. So I guess I'm gonna get one of these.
I'm a fan of the Hario V60.
:)
☕😋
Thanks for another great review! I have two of these. I replaced the nibs in both. I pulled out the old fine nibs with jewelry pliers. One cooperated. One was difficult but I managed it. I think a reviewer or two broke theirs doing this operation so as always you have to throw caution to the wind and realize you may destroy your pen. Regardless, mine are done and no worse for wear. One has a Moonman medium nib and the other has a Jowo medium nib. The fine was 'ok' but I don't really enjoy fine nibs. Anyhow, on to the ethics comments. I don't know if the patent is expired or not but the pen is no longer made and the original company is no longer. So I don't really have any issues with a recreation. Truth is I don't have a problem with Chinese companies making cheap knock offs anyhow. I'd rather spend $3 for a knock off safari to realize the grip is uncomfortable than retail on a genuine Lamy so I can throw a $30 POS in a drawer to be forgotten. The other side of this though is I have bought a cheap Chinese copy and realized I like the general feel so much I wanted to buy the original. As you said, sometimes you can try the cheap copy to realize you actually want the original. Additionally, some people just cant afford a $500 pen. Let them buy what they like and enjoy the hobby. Way too many uptight and judgemental people these days.
I’m an OMAS obsessor and was so pleased to see this pen. Sure it’s not an OMAS and the nib is not an OMAS nib or anywhere near; but I love this shape, and have no issue with the copying of a pen no longer available. For this price it’s a delight. Great review as always thankyou
I bought the V60 for GB£38 and it is a superb buy. Mine is fitted with the long knife nib (manual grinding engraved on the nib). It is a wonderfully smooth and wet nib. Bit like an architect nib I believe. I have several montblanc, pelikan and other premium brands, and this writes as well as those. My favourite, amongst many, is my Pelikan M1000 with a medium nib which writes like a BB; this V60 is as good as that, and less than a tenth of the price. Can't wait for a V90.
Thank you Doc.
I got mine from the Ali Express 365days Stationery Store with a “long knife” 1.2-1.7mm nib from Lemon. It is the broadest and most wet nib I own. And the pen body itself is excellent.
I got mine in yellow and received it about 2 weeks ago. I got one with a good nib that writes well, no gaps between the body and the piston knob, and I love almost everything about it, except that I have to adjust my grip or the bottom right edge digs into my middle finger right at the first knuckle and is uncomfortable. But, like you, if they release a larger model I won't hesitate to grab one.
I bought the Medium nib and have been blown away by how nicely it writes and how it feels in the hand. Mine is wet out of the “box”.
I then ordered a fine nib, and it works well too. The build quality seems lesser than the medium version, but that is likely just quality control.
I also hope for a magnum version.
I agree! The ‘manual grinding medium’ I bought is a fat wet soft writer. An absolute joy to use.
Thanks for this. Always wanted one of the originals, now that they are no longer made or, out of reach I’ll take one of these. Looking forward to the shootout.Also hope Moonman decides to make the larger version.
Had always wanted a 360, so had to try this, and glad I did. Agree, wonderful in the hand. On AliExpress blade nibs and normal medium also available, but depends on the seller - some indeed only have F and EF. I got sent a blade nib by mistake, but turned out to be perfectly ground and interesting to use. Rather than send it back, I have now ordered a standard medium too 😊
I purchased one with a M hand finished nib and its buttery smooth and closer to Broad in my opinion. Its an absolutely lovely writer but not as boucy as my orignal 360 but one of the nicest new nibs I have used. On most of the Aliexpress sites they don't have the Hand finished optional Nibs but from my experience its worth waiting for that option. They include the orignal nib with it too!
Aloha, got mine 2 days ago. Perfect in every way, including the piston knob, as solid as the Penlux masterpiece grande. And, yes, hope that they make the Omas Magnum size.
Greetings from Australia.
Great video.
I have one of these pens in white with a medium nib. It writes great.
I'll buy another in black. It cost me $66 with delivery from China.
The original company has gone under. It's a copy, but I dont care!!!
Fountain pens are Fun.
It's all about FUN, and I'm having fun using a triangular pen.
I would never pay $2000 for a pen.
I looked at the Omas 360 many years ago at Artilite and several times I almost bought one but the price just was too high compared to other pens and I was not sure I would like the shape of the pen to use it to write. Since the Majohn v60 was introduced I have purchased four and love all four. They write great, look great, and are a great value. As usual, great review Doc.
I like the Twsbi Eco-T for it's shape. I will have no problem buying this pen since the original is no longer being made.
I too have one of the V60's - my fine is very wet and smooth and no gap by the piston. Considering another in a different colour! I think I am in the same camp...a copy of a current production is problematic; but a copy of something not being made??? seems less of an issue. For a few of the copies I have they inspired me to get the original - so I think they did a service to those pen producers as I was able to "test drive" at a lower cost - without the copy would I have bought the original..probably not!
Yes totally agree. I would never be able to afford an original Omas and since they are now a defunct company there is no ethical conflict either. They are in fact available in Medium nibs if you look around but they are not Moon Man nibs and are also an upcharge of $10 US. I ordered mine this way and was pleasantly surprised to receive both the Medium nib and an extra Moon Man Nib in EF. The Medium nib is 2-tone and very smooth. No complaints.
Saludos , desde Juárez, Chih. México
The idea behind intellectual property laws is to allow profits for original ideas to be protected for the originator for a limited time, but no one has an indefinite exclusive right to those ideas. Eventually, original ideas become available to society at large.
An excellent point
I have a large collection of Chinese fountain pens. I have two Admok M800's and they are outrageously advertised as 'the Chinese Pelikan' but they are fantastic writers due to having Schmidt nibs. I'm not in any ethical quandary abour buying Chinese pens. I'm not especially interested in this Moonman pen but if they are released in more colors, I could change my mind.
I am very pleased with my V60. The steel nib is of course nowhere near an original Omas, but it is fairly smooth and gets the job done. The pen has given me better service than the new Omas Ogiva (from the re-start brand in Bologna), the piston of which stopped working after a week. (Original price was close to $400 vs the $30 of this V60.) I do not see a major ethical issue here: since the 360 is no longer made, Moonman is not cutting into those profits. The case of the Jinhao Lamy, on the other hand, is unacceptable. All in all, I love the V60!
I bought this after a many years long fascination with Omas and after seeing the Doodlebud video. It's incredible! I own a Sailor 1911 21k.. and I feel that unless you're looking closely at the details, they're incredibly comparable in all other aspects except the nib (and I mean that mostly visually. The V60 is enjoyable and reliable to use for daily work writing) . Even to the touch it doesn't feel "cheap", the weight and quality of the plastic is convincing. While the non-disassemble friendly piston filler is not as accessible as a cartridge converter, it has a great classic charm to it in my mind and makes filling it with ink enjoyable, if you chronically change ink colors YMMV.
I would love to know what kinds of nibs are compatible with this pen, maybe it would be worth upgrading to a gold nib, a cursive italic nib, or even a flex nib- just whatever is compatible.
I see this as a way to try a great design that is nearly impossible to attain today- at a price that I can take it to work and use in all manner of environments and use without guilt (I do this with my 1911 too(so it may build it's wabi-sabi charm over time), but the guilt I am referring to the guilt of it being rare and irreplaceable).
I can't wait to see what our friend @limmoblack has to pathologically complain about in this video!
Swag idea: a bingo card with your friend's typical replies. That way, you get some fun out of it, and hey ... a price for the first one to fill up a row?
Majon/Moonman copy
I have two Pilot VPs
Beautiful quality pens
The nibs are excellent
Majon V1 and V2 are copied in both plastic and metal
Their 0.38mm nibs are super smooth but more like a Pilot medium
Well worth the $20
Again excellent copies if you want a retractable nib pen
But not a shadow on the quality of Pilot
I agree totally with you Stephen, the 360 isn’t in production any more, and the v60 is a copy that’s not trying to take away business with an existing brand, totally ethical, great review…. Jude
I have an Omas 360 ballpoint. I could not afford the fountain pen when it was released and certainly not now at the high after market prices, it is beyond my reach. I thought about getting the V60 to compliment the ballpoint. One review thought it was horrible. Yours and others have praised the pen. So, I am on the fence as it were.
I might give this pen a look. I did look at a used Omas 360 and it did not do it for me.
I'm holding out for the 1.1mm. I see it on eBay but it's sold out at the moment.
We shouldn't look at pens always it's copy or not. If the pens is branded different then is simply inspired by.
If we do a case when shape of pen, additional brands on cap etc. is copying then sailor 1911 is copy of Montblanc design. Same to Pilots 743, 843, and every torpedo shape pen is copy of sheaffer balance.
I think that copy down to single bits like moonman A1 is too much but still they don't claim that's a Pilot, and you won't buy it as a VP. Nahvalur copied nib unit as well, twsbi "copied" pelikan piston, everyone back in the day "copied" sheaffers, watermans and parkers filling methods.
In conclusion I cannot understand why people are upset on only chinese manufacturers. We should focus more on pen performance, servicability and reliability in pens.
As you pointed out - Majohn even improved this no longer available pen. I think it is a good thing, because OMAS could not done that when they were making this pen, so this pen is just highly inspired by.
I agree. Take them on their own merits.
There is a troublesome hint of racism in the tone of many Chinese pen haters.
@@ichirofakename I think it's purely from "cheap chinese garbage" - pens like 1$ Hero pens, and just a fact that this particular pen is made in china. I cannot understand why people only can see copying, and forget about improvements, their own designs, and quality - you pay what you get mostly.
Unfortunetely most people forget that iphones, and majority of things has some part made in China.
And in addition for example Jinhao 86 (like parker 51 with screw cap) year before Parker reissued 51 with screw cap.
Thanks for the review. Ive seen your 360 on your videos quite a bit and was definitely intrigued. I'll be ordering a V60 soon. I have brand loyalty to some of my favorite companies; Visconti, Pelikan, Leonardo... but i consider that they are producing genuinely unique pens. Things like Montblanc 149 look very generic To Me. I would not buy one regardless of purchase options because it has no value To Me. So a Jinhao copy for $6 is perfect.
1. That's a good-looking, well-made pen. Thanks for the show.
2. I am indifferent to intellectual property issues, as long as no deception is involved. I have bought multiple Sailor Pro Gear Slims along with multiple Jinhao 82's, which are a knock-off. I'm glad to have both. Between these two x60's, I would buy the one that doesn't dry out and is affordable. Go ahead, hang me in effigy.
It's not well made. Look at some other reviews--it's brittle trash.
@@jacobus57 Well aint' that a drag.
I worry about apparent variability in supply and reviews, it suggests there are copies of copies in the marketplace, this is the slippery slope that accepting copies enables.
It would be awesome if they made a bigger version with a no.8 size nib and ebonite feed. Yeah this is a nice way for people to get into a pen like this. There is a bit more expensive one from Pineider, but right now there are sales for Black Friday you can get them for 120 to 140. I have an ASC Green Autumn Celluloid with a Chilton style filler. I don't use it all the time, but I still adore it. Yeah that pen is expensive.Another difference is that the grip section on the ASC is circular instead of triangular. I would really be tempted to buy one if they made more finishes and like I said it was bigger with a No.8 nib with an ebonite feed like the P139.
Good point of view. I had this pen, which wrote well in F. However it was of questionable quality, the piston felt flimsy compared to other Chinese pens from the same company and it was impossible to disassemble. But I do not have any ethical qualms about this one. The original company went bust years ago so I do not feel like they are doing anyone a disservice making copies of this iconic pen. But I also think the Chinese industry is technically capable of producing original designs as well of excellent functioning pens. PenBBS has shown the way in my opinion but looks like they are having difficulties, which is regrettable. In any case the Chinese own the future of this industry for sure.
There’s not a remote possibility I could afford a pre owned Omas 360. The fact it’s a knockoff doesn’t bother me at all. It’s just a very nice,comfortable pen to write with like the Pelikan Twister. I too have a black and gold, which I keep in a cloth sunglasses pouch. I have no difficulty posting the cap on mine or writing with it like that.
The red/gold is sold out so I had to settle for the red/silver.
i wanted to ask you is there a big difference in the writing experience on a Waterman Carene vs Expert, i own an expert and im debating on maybe getting a Carene but its expensive
Is this a re-upload?
My thought process largely mirrors yours. However, I do add that I usually wonder about the long term durability of the materials used. Although, in this case, the original Omas isn't know for it's resilience either.
The 360 is my all-time favorite pen, coming from my all -time favorite pen. There hasn't been an OMAS nib I did not like.
Something about these clones really rub me the wrong way. I don't think it the shape of the V60 that is bugging me. If they wanted to make the shape the same that is fine, it's all the little details that are pretty much the same as the 360. The clip, the Greek key bands, even the name is not very original. 360, V60. Have the shape but create your own details, and i wouldn't feel as offended. It goes for the other clones as well. Sailor for example does not do their 1911 clip the same as the Meisterstuck nor the lettering on the cap band.
When you buy an OMAS you're mostly buying the nib. Usually, I feel when you buy a fountain pen you buy it for the nib and the writing experience. You might get a good experience with this pen, but you won't get the OMAS experience, and maybe that is okay, but they I feel, why get an OMAS or 360 look like, if you don't want the real experience? But that is me
You are deliberately creating a pen that looks like another in terms of what, to get them to buy it because it is like the original.
When you make a dupe, the flip side is I feel you're trying to dupe the customers. Otherwise why are you trying to make a copy?
Finally to Stephen, if you will be reading this. i can understand you making a shootout, but just my thought, it's not a big deal, but I don't know if this pen is worthy of a shootout with the 360, but I understand why you would do it. Not like I will stop watching. :)
If the "knockoff" is better in quality, with innovative ideas and improvements, and are cheaper, why not?
I mean, I hate knockoffs, simply because most of them are in terrible build quality, constantly having this and that problems. If they make a pen without these, I'll be happy to buy it. It's not like other reputable brands don't have "copied" or "mostly copied" designs. Montblanc 149 vs Sailor Pro 21 (and let's be honest, too many others) right? If they can make it better, cheaper, there is no reason to not go for it.
Give me one of this than any of the modern Parker or Diplomat or Monteverde or Sheaffer.
Never really tempted by these Chinese pens, due to the lack of originality. But as you say, it is near impossible to get an Omas 360 at a decent price, and the design is quite iconic. Perhaps tempted to pick one of these up just to try the grip shape, and if I like it maybe bite the bullet and go for the real deal.
I would buy it. I could never afford a 360. So for me it's a yes
Is there a link you could post, I would love to try one.
I just found this on AliExpress:
C$34.39 | Majohn V60 Triangular Piston Resin Fountain Pen EF/F Nib Ink Writing Pen School Office Business Stationery Supplies Gift Pen
a.aliexpress.com/_mP0Z3mB
I'd like to see a Mexican pen-off on this one between you and InkquiringMinds Doug, because in his review he tried to take it apart and found that almost impossible to do (which makes me curious about the review you mention by the 360 specialist).
As long as nobody is claiming it is an Omas pen - I do not have a problem with it being a copy. If I could put an #6 Leonardo nib in it, I may even consider in future purchase of such pen - for now, the colors are just not for me. Bigger version, nib in size 8, ebonite feed, sizes M-B-BB - and it will be selling like hot buns.
I totally agree with you on this issue. Lack of ethics is what I dislike about Chinese products.
Every Chinese FP is a copy.
so is every off the rack suit.
It’s not the ethics of copying I’m concerned about, it’s the ethics of child labour and terrible labour conditions.
thats a dumb mentality
It's a decades old design that is no longer being made and the market segment it's targeting is a completely different realm in both price point and features, so I quite frankly don't give a single fraction of a quectoshit about it being a copy.
On the other hand, I wish they would have added an ink window while they were at it. I also wish they had either made the piston removable, made the nib unit removable(it's glued in) or at the very least used a feed that doesn't have fins that get destroyed when you look at them the wrong way, because now there is no easy way to lubricate the piston, which will at some point need to be done. Any of the three options would have been fine, but it's like they intentionally made it impossible for you to access the piston in a way where you don't stand a decent chance of damaging the pen.
I would have no problem buying one. There's very little new in the fountain pen world. Almost everything has been done before. As far as copying the design, it doesn't really bother me a whole lot.
From Guitars, watches, jewelry, microphones, clothing and so on are copies, usually from originals and permeate society. The collector will always want the original but the average consumer just can't afford that kind of luxury, which when compared is often overpriced. When a patient or copyright expires, expect a copy to be made. Fountain pens, even expensive ones, are usually copies, yes I'm looking at you Sailor, so I'm not bothered. Lets more people enjoy fountain pens at a more reasonable price!
I've seen some other reviewers who have had less that stellar experiences with this pen, including Doug. My limited experience with injection molded Chinese pens is that they tend to be brittle, even to the point of spontaneously cracking while stored. Three main things can contribute to this: poor mold design, with walls too thin and improper filleting and gating; poor quality plastic, usually some grade of styrene; poor production control, especially cooling too fast which will introduce stresses that can lead to failure.
Given these issues seem only to effect a percentage of pens, it's a bit of a lottery as to whether or not one will get a good unit or trash.
I don't see the point of feeding the beast of too many too cheap, when there are decent, very affordable pens available from legitimate manufacturers.
Thanks for a good review. I love fountain pens, but simply do not have the funds to splash out on the "grail" pens. If one can afford high end pens, it seems to me that (obvious quality issues aside) one is also purchasing status. Easy to be ethical when the cash flow allows. I love Chinese pens. The copy issue is reminiscent of Plato, whom I personally regard as a twat.
There was a time when the only good cigar was thought to be Cuban. Now, cigars from Nicaragua, Honduras, Dominican Republic are regarded by many as superior. I suspect there is a certain amount of snobbery involved from those who take issue with Chinese pens. Well done on opening up the conversation 🙌👍
i compare it to fashion. basically every garment you buy off the rack is "ripping off" the exclusive haute couture designers.
I think there is a misunderstanding about 'Chinese copies' of pens. Functionally, all fountain pens are reasonably similar - with few exceptions, the mechanism of a fountain pen has existed for decades or longer. The only thing that can be protected is a trademark - which is the Montblanc bird-poo logo on top of their pen, or the Pelikan logo atop their pens.
If a company can make a pen that is of better quality (which I think the MoonMan v60 is better than the 360 - except the nib), and sell it under their own brand for less money, that is just capitalism and drives competition. Even if it were possible for a company to trademark the triangular pen, you have to trademark it under a "use" or "intent to use" trademark. If you abandon a design or logo and don't take steps to protect it, you forfeit ownership of that trademark.
For me, I'll be putting an 18c nib in my v60 and enjoying it fully.
I bought the V60 because it looks interesting. I enjoy peculiar fountain pens. There is reproduction in design in many items. Example, your eyeglass frame. Do other manufacturers make similar or even identical frames? I would imagine they do. Do those particularly interested in eyeglass frames have passion about this? I don't know if they do. When Moonman made fountain pens that resembled those of a maker who will not be identified here, the other company took offense and registered the name "Moonman" in a market, even on a continent, that is not one where Moonman makes its merchandise. So now the company Moonman call themselves Majohn. Lots of stock still says Moonman, we know who they are, and the other company looks to me like a bunch of soreheads and bullies. Sneaky bullies, also. What is the ethical issue here? Moonman does not claim its pen is the Omas. Whose rights are being trod on? In the penworld, a company calls itself Esterbrook, but it makes and sells pens that are very dissimilar in many ways from those made in their millions in a factory in New Jersey as well as factories elsewhere in the world. But the brand was not protected, and now it has been taken up by others. Parker pens are now made in China, are less and less like those made decades ago, but people continue to buy and use them. One model looks much like its predecessor, but costs dramatically more and performs rather worse. As the man said, Ya pays ya money and ya takes ya chances. Thank you for the audience. I'll stop now.
Moonman was pretty emo about the pen, suggesting that theyd lose money on it
Patent expiring is my line.
If patents didn't expire than new development of technology couldn't happen. That would cause stagnation.
Aesthetic designs can't be patented. They can be trademarked. The concept of a triangular pen has been around for decades, so there is nothing to patent. Piston fill pens is a functional mechanism that can be patented, but it has long expired.
Doug Rathbun did not give this pen any positive reviews!
The more I move away from western culture, the less I care if it's a copy. What I care is the aesthetic and the functionality. In addition to fountain pen, I also collect fragrances and there are people, mostly westerners, who cry foul about knockoffs too. It's not something I care. If anything, if they can recreate the scent 1:1 that's a job well done sir.
If the original creator gonna stop making if their stuff is copied, then let them. Someone will rise to create. Creativity is human nature, and only the best got copied - not that it will come out well in most cases. I don't mind paying for copies. I mind paying for bad copies. This pen looks nice enough and I don't have a triangular pen. Well, actually I have one but not one I want to throw into my pocket and roll out in the workshop with it for sure. So I guess I'm gonna get one of these.
i compare it to fashion. basically every garment you buy off the rack is "ripping off" the exclusive haute couture designers.