A Master List of Chinese Fountain Pens?

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 28 ส.ค. 2024

ความคิดเห็น • 142

  • @HJKelley47
    @HJKelley47 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    A hobby in which you fall down the proverbial fountain pen rabbit hole for the sheer enjoyment of
    writing with these beautiful writing instruments. I should know, for I have over 420 pens in my
    collection. I have large collection of Chinese pens. With knowledge on how to tweak a nib, you
    can get years of writing experience with these pens. The Moonman/Majohn A1 is a pen I
    absolutely love writing with. I currently own four of them (Black/Silvery Blue/Green/Orange).
    I've got two of the Moonman A2 in route to me. My oldest Chinese pen is the Jinhao 750 (silver)
    with a med. nib. It is now 13 yrs old, and writing like a champ. I keep my pens in a pen case, and
    there are no dents, scratches or issues with that Jinhao. When I ink it up I always get a compliment
    on how attractive the pen looks. I paid approximately $2.99 for my 750 way back when. I am
    thankful there are pens we can all afford, for not all of us can afford to spend $3,000 for pens.
    If it were not for these knock-offs, only those with deep pockets could participate in this hobby.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว

      That's awesome! I'm looking forward to seeing some reviews of the Moonman A2, should be pretty soon that those start popping up. Thanks!

    • @robbinallan3767
      @robbinallan3767 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      All valid points. Like you, I fell down that rabbit hole and took hundreds of pens with me and most of them are awesome.

  • @chrisrap52
    @chrisrap52 ปีที่แล้ว +49

    As am owner of most of the Chinese pens you show & also have some of the pens they are based on, I find the use of terms like knock-off, clone, etc. are not accurate. You reference patents, copyrights but give no specific references as there are none. Many of these designs can be found in other pens not made in China. There are many "skeleton" designs, Visonti has some, so does Monteverde. The V169 is one of many. As with cell phones, cars, food, etc, many copy many. It is the nature of the business. I worked in product development & have firsthand experience at an American fortune 100 company. For me, I enjoy a pen for how is writes, do I like it. What may have influenced the design is secondary. Would like to see you compare these to what you believe is the "original" based on actual experience, not based on other's opinions or photos.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Thank you for the comment, I'm a big fan of you channel. I wanted to add my two cents, limited as it might be. I agree and appreciate your background knowledge on the subject.

    • @robbinallan3767
      @robbinallan3767 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

      ​@KendallW Hey Kendall. I enjoyed your video. I just wanted to comment that for me it would be a real accomplishment to have Chrisrap comment on my video. I consider him the Chinese pen guru. Thanks for sharing your insights.

  • @PolyMathWannaBe62
    @PolyMathWannaBe62 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +9

    I think calling some of these pens 'Chinese derivatives' would be more complimentary. Alternatively, you could just refer to them as copies.
    However, as someone on a low wage with ADHD, nice Chinese derivatives help me to focus on writing and learning. I have an x159 and several jinhao 80s. I will not be able to afford the original Mont Blanc 149 for several years.
    I refuse to feel guilty for paying for a cheaper alternative in this economic climate when people are dealing drugs and dishonestly claiming welfare.
    I do think your video was informative and I like the pens you chose. Peace. ✌️ 😊

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I really appreciate it. Yes, I like the term "derivative" much better. And I totally agree. Thanks!

  • @CreatingCuteArt
    @CreatingCuteArt ปีที่แล้ว +19

    I can’t believe how high quality my A1 feels, and it convinced me to get my first Pilot Capless. I never would have gotten a VP without trying the A1 first to be sure I liked the clip writing experience ❤

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Yes, I'm loving my A1 a lot, just wish it came in a Medium nib. EF is okay, but it would be nice to have more nib options.

    • @CreatingCuteArt
      @CreatingCuteArt ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@KendallW oh my VP is a broad 😎

    • @charlesbrough6185
      @charlesbrough6185 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Kendall, If you want a different nib for your A1, consider getting a replacement VP nib unit. Sometimes they are on sale and you have a bigger range of options. Yes it fits.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@charlesbrough6185 Thank you! Yes, I will keep that in mind.

    • @calanm7880
      @calanm7880 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      My experience was the same - I was worried about VP clip so tried A1. I found it a positive experience, thus I did invest in a VP on that basis! Mahjon/Moonman have created a VP pipeline.
      Anyway, so much price is in the nib - there is no pretence that the nibs are in same league. However, I’m hugely grateful that Chinese manufacturers are making excellent pens at affordable prices - encouraging ppl in digital age to fall in love with physical writing - which can only benefit the high ticket pen manufacturers in due time! That’s been my journey these 3-4 years, and I’ve been spreading the good news about fountain pens to folks in cafes and friends.

  • @CristianoHFerrazKBSBrasil
    @CristianoHFerrazKBSBrasil ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Excellent and very useful information. Thank you for sharing. We are all looking forward to te spreadsheet you are creating.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you! Maybe someone already has a sheet like this, but since I couldn't find it I started to pool together what I could. Hopefully others can help me fill it in better as it goes :)

  • @sheilamillar8071
    @sheilamillar8071 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Super helpful to have an overview. And I love your calm balanced voice.
    I have just discovered such Chinese pens and it’s a new world.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you so much!

  • @-o-The-Duke-o-
    @-o-The-Duke-o- ปีที่แล้ว +12

    I will add that the Jinhao 82 is a wonderful "Knock Off" of the Sailor Pro Gear Slim. It is really a great pen on it's own and super inexpensive. Cheap enough to order a few and the mix and match he parts to create great combos such as Sailor offers in their line. They are a really nice pen in hand. Order a few nibs in your favorite sizes as well to create your favorite pen. Have fun and enjoy!!!

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks, I haven't tried the 82 yet, but I've heard very good things :)

    • @sunnymoondog
      @sunnymoondog ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Duke, what nibs do you get for the Jinhao 82? Do you get Sailor nibs? Or Jinhao nibs? What fits?
      How are the nibs that are included with the Jinhao 82? Thanks for your info!!

    • @rubyophidian6004
      @rubyophidian6004 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@sunnymoondog Factory nibs have been a mixed bag for me personally(none have been outright unusable, but a few have definitely felt like I was writing with a nail), but I've been using china pens for years and am very familiar with nib smoothing, so that's not much of a problem for me, and these haven't been too much trouble to smooth. They're #5 sized nibs, so theoretically you can swap it with any #5 nib. Jinhao has them in packs of 5-10 on both Aliexpress and Amazon, YMMV with them, but of the ones I've bought, most of them usually write just fine once the tines have been spread just the slightest bit, so you're bound to get an least one or two useable nibs. You can also get a pack of super fine grit sandpaper(7-10k) and just learn to smooth them yourself. Practice on cheap nibs, they're perfect because half the time they're scratchy anyways, if you mess one up beyond repair you have more. Hope this helps!

    • @chumley121
      @chumley121 ปีที่แล้ว

      Very nice pen. Too small for me. It's tiny compared to a jinhao x750 which I have 4 inked and use daily. Ha.

  • @nccastro653
    @nccastro653 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    You need to include Hongdians and PenBBS s! They are amazing!
    Good video!💪🏾

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      100% agree, thanks!

  • @jaimejaime1178
    @jaimejaime1178 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hello to all. This is Jim from Madrid, Spain (a New Yorker expat living abroad) - a fountain pen lover both for writing and for Art.
    I am new to your channel, Kendall, but I find this video very helpful to all fountain pen lovers, as well as all the info provided, including Reddit and your own spreadsheet. So Thank you very much for your hard work. And I'm also subscribed to chrisrap's channel, amongst others.
    I just want to share that Chinese fountain pens have come a long way at a still very affordable price in most cases, something extremely important nowadays and they make for an excellent entry point for many new FP users as well as for FP collectors.
    One of the most important things to be considered about FPs today, besides that they are great and fun to write and draw with, you cN use many diggerenr and beautiful types of ink, etc... is that they are "ECO FRIENDLY", since they help reduce substantially the overall plastic imprint we all leave behind... in comparison with using many other throw away plastic tools... just for that, it's great to see more and more people getting into FPs - I already bought 2 Majohn A1s, one for each of my daughter's, since it's an excellent fountain pen (great manufacturing quality) and a great transition FP from traditional plastic pens to FPs...
    So... thank you all for spreading the love of FPs and don't ever STOP!
    Cheers from sunny Madrid!!!

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you so much!

  • @susan9350
    @susan9350 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Great info as not everyone wants to spend $100 on pens. ❤

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Thanks! Yes, price doesn't need to be such a barrier for someone to be able to enjoy fountain pens.

  • @PenArrowNation
    @PenArrowNation 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    That Asvine is the bomb. My personal favorite one to write with is the WingSung

  • @neilpiper9889
    @neilpiper9889 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I too have a Jinhao 80 with a Lamy 1.1 nib. My favourite daily carry pen.
    I recently bought the dark red Jinhao X159 with silver clip and a medium nib which writes beautifully normally and in reverse as well.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes! Absolutely love that stub. Puts down a perfect amount of ink.

    • @archivist17
      @archivist17 ปีที่แล้ว

      I bought a Jinhao 80 for 4GBP, and a Lamy Left Handed nib for the same price, which is a very pleasant combination.

  • @4everflow
    @4everflow 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Just as I was about to make a spreadsheet of the colossal list of Asian (especially Chinese) pens recommended all over fountain pen forums, I had the thought - "hey, there's gotta be someone out there who already had the foresight to realize how useful such a list would be..."
    And here I am, posting on his channel! Thank you for your focus and consideration for making such a list 🙏🏾

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      You would think there would be a database somewhere but not really. Every store has their own set of data, but there isn't an "IMDB" type of site. Maybe one day, but for now I still like this idea. Although I haven't updated the list for quite a while. I reached out to several pen reviewers to see if they kept the measurement data and they could just send it to me, but none of them keep it, lol. Most of them just add it to their video, then if they need the measurements again will look up their own video. Maybe one day there will be an organized way that we can all add info to a trusted list. If you see something missing, send me an email or comment on the spreadsheet and I can add it. Thanks!

  • @karmabear7923
    @karmabear7923 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Amazing spreadsheet! Thankyou from Italy!

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I haven't updated it in a while, but I figured if I wanted a resource like that, others would find it useful too. Thanks!

  • @archivist17
    @archivist17 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Is it a 'knock off' when it provides something the original does not? Take your Majohn A1 - it doesn't have the clip that gets in the way of a lot of people's grip, but has a discreet rollstop at the other end. Another example would be the Moonman 80S Mini/Mini E. These two use the supreme serviceability of the Parker 45, in a pocket pen format, which works very well, and was a trick Parker themselves missed.

    • @archivist17
      @archivist17 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Another issue. Where do we stop? You cite the Tombow Zoom 'Egg' as inspiration for the Q1, but the Egg, in its turn, followed on from the Platinum Glamour. Do we criticise the Sailor King of Pen for taking the cigar shape of the Montblanc Meisterstück 149, as the Jinhao does, the Platinum 3776, and plenty more... Do we criticise Montblanc for 'knocking off' a piston fill system from Pelikan? How many Parker 51 clones are there in the world? German, Italian, and US brands included. I worry that the only pens which attract this sort of criticism tend to be Chinese.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      10,000% agree. "Inspired by" is a less negative term, but really, there are solid improvements being made.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@archivist17 Exactly! I'm learning more and more about this as I get more acquainted with fountain pens (still pretty new). It is a complicated thing to talk about at all, and the reasons you mention are much better stated than my attempt in this video. Thank you!

  • @LewisLittle66
    @LewisLittle66 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    I have a lot of Chinese pens and they are great value. I don't view them as counterfeits; they're not trying to pretend to be the ones they're copying. My favourite is the Jinhao 8802 (closest match is the Pelikan 400/600, it's about midway between the two in size) I paid about £6 for it and I use it literally every day.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Thank you for the comment, I totally agree. I haven't used the 8802 but sounds like I should look into it. Thanks!

  • @keithwhitney7491
    @keithwhitney7491 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    As I have posted on other videos, our legal system actually encourages competition, which leads to better deals for consumers; however, it is also designed to enforce trademarks, trade names, patents, and copyrights. It does support what is called “trade dress.” I can best illustrate by one or two famous cases. Fudruckers vs. Flakey Jakes involved the original layout of a hamburger chain where you saw raw meat, various toppings, and more. It was the first to use this particular layout. Flakey Jakes entered he market and used a somewhat similar layout, which was determined (proof included surveys, etc.) that it confused customers as to the “source” or ownership because it was viewed as being deceptively similar. (Another case that has some interesting connections in legal issues involved two restaurants in Texas, Two Pesos and Taco Cabana, which was also viewed as deceptively similar, confusing customers as to source. HOWEVER, this particular take on “source,” which is trademark oriented does NOT mean the U.S. protects designs though patents or trade dress (in individual market items). So, Walmart can order “copies” of high-priced design dresses and NOT be in violation of any American law. (Japan does have a design patent; our patent law requires a function-aspect of the patent application). To be brief, there is nothing wrong with copying mere designs which almost all fountain pen manufacturers do! However if someone made a cheap pen that looked like a Montblanc 149, say complete with an 18 K nib and sold it for $249 instead of the real Montblanc’s price over$1,000, THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH DOING SO! You just need to put your brand on it, avoid anything deceptively similar to the “snowflake” Montblanc uses only as a trademark that it feverishly guards because it allow it to sell a well-made pen at obscenely high prices. Why? Well, I have had numerous angry comments on my posts when I dare call another pen worthy of Wall Street or prestigious N.Y. Or international business. The PEN is about prestige. Are there better pens? Absolutely! And some are even more expensive; however, the genius Bauhaus design Lamy 2000 is a near perfect pen to actually USE in business (at least the medium nib or larger, where you have no sweet spot issues usually, where you have a hooded nib & no ink on your fingers, and an ink window and, something I learned the hard way, a cap that STAYS ON until you pull it off. The Montblanc cap can come unscrewed if you clip it into the inside pen pocket of an expensive suit. As In law we use permanent ink, which (I can confirm) will not come out of a suit if the cap to a Montblanc 149 comes unscrewed and you do not realize the uncapped pen’s ink supply is being sucked into the fibers of your $500 (today’s price over $1,000) suit. I also asked an expert who said, “Yes, you WILL get ink on your fingers if you are not incredibly diligent in carrying a cloth to wipe ink of the nib and feed before writing with it. Perfect pen? NO! Most prestigious, with a logo people flash, YEST. Can you make a copy of the 149 or the LAMY 2000 as long as you do not use their branding or logo (the snowflake) absolutely! The average Joe or Jill can have something at a really, really low price that looks like your pen, but it is not branded to BE A REAL MONTBLANC. Why do we encourage this behavior? We do so to provide lower cost goods to all us average folks and the poorer majority. It encourages competition and lowers prices for all except those who want ELITE, to establish PRESTIGE! They will pay for that snowflake and be happy, and trust me, THEY WILL RIDICULE ANYONE WITH THE CHEAP COPY. It is O.K. I have a Montblanc 149, a gift; I write with a LAMY 2000 and a lot of Chinese knockoffs. I love my Pelikan M1000, my M800s, and other expensive pens. I carry one usually; I fill the ret of the pen carrier with Chineses pens I also love! I have lost one pen carrier with 4 pens. I do not want it be one with 4 X $500 = $2,00i0 in pens!

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว

      Good context, thank you! The story of permanent ink slowly saturating a nice suit -ouch! Very good points about what is allowed and what isn't. And yes, "copies" are part of every business.

    • @ernievid
      @ernievid 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      US patent law does provide a design patent option, which is for an ornamental design, and is separate from the utility patent.

    • @keithwhitney7491
      @keithwhitney7491 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@ernievid You are correct in saying the USA finally entered the “design patent” world. Japan had long had one. However, it is doubtful that most fountain pens would meet all 4 requirements: The provisions of this title relating to patents for invention shall apply to patents for designs, except as otherwise provided. The first part of section 171 imposes four requirements for design patentability: novelty, originality, ornamentality, and the subject matter must be an article of manufacture. Are there really many truly original, and novel fountain pens? It is not mere “design” as it is in some countries. Even this change to U.S. law has come within the past 15 yeas, I think.

  • @themisterchristie
    @themisterchristie ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Other than they are so much cheaper, I laugh at the uproar over some of these copies because copying has happened in the past by the major brands. The Pilot Elite, Platinum Pocket Pen and a Sailor Pocket pen, all from the late 1960s to late 1970s were all very similar. So similar that other than the nib and the cartridge, I can interchange parts between my Pilot Elite and Platinum Pocket, swapping caps and barrels.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I wasn't aware of the pocket pen example, thank you!

    • @themisterchristie
      @themisterchristie ปีที่แล้ว

      @@KendallW I actually learned about that from a video from the PEI Pen Guy. He has a Pilot Elite with a Platinum Pocket Pen cap and since I recently got both, I checked it out and both barrel and cap are interchangeable. And through some Google research found that Sailor made a similar pen.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@themisterchristie Just checked out (and subscribed to) his TH-cam channel - thank you!

    • @themisterchristie
      @themisterchristie ปีที่แล้ว

      @@KendallW glad I could introduce you to another good channel

  • @utzhanning9308
    @utzhanning9308 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I don't see the Chinese fountain pens as a knock-off. For me they are consistently of such good quality that I would be willing to pay more than €100 for each one.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yes, the quality is amazing at their price. 100% agree

    • @chumley121
      @chumley121 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I totally agree. The quality of Chinese pens is there for them to stand alone. I have about 30 pens only a couple would be considered brands. A Lamy safari, Metropolitan, and a twsbi eco. Ha. The rest are Chinese and THOSE are my favorites. Ha.

  • @SilverSeaOT7
    @SilverSeaOT7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    New subscriber. Love the idea of you sharing the list. Looks very helpful!

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you! Yes, trying to see what I can add to the pen hobby that I haven't already seen before / not as much of.

  • @chumley121
    @chumley121 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Interesting. I ground down a Kaigelu F on a Jinhao X750 and made it into a 1.1. I was going to put it in the drawer. Now I'll use it.

  • @chuckbaker7909
    @chuckbaker7909 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I just received my Jinhao 9019 today. It is a Chinese clone of the Sailor KOP/Montblanc 149...although more towards the KOP. So far, after a few minutes of writing, it is a decent pen. The one selling point is the HUGE converter that it comes with. This converter screws in and holds close to 2ml of ink. That alone was worth the price I paid, which was $13.95 on Amazon.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว

      So good to hear, I've had my eye on that model. Thanks!

    • @kevinblack8365
      @kevinblack8365 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

      So is the Sailor a Japanese close of the Montblanc or is the Montblanc a German clone of the Sailor. We use Clone in a derogatory tone and are happy to use it when it comes to inexpensive Chinese pens, yet never apply it to the better known expensive pens, why is that I wonder?

  • @maddewey8063
    @maddewey8063 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thank you. 😊

  • @mishaerementchouk
    @mishaerementchouk ปีที่แล้ว +2

    There’s definitely a substantial upgrade when it comes to the originals. In this regard, the originals are quite safe, and the copies are not really a competition. There are, indeed, conflicts like me buying Jinhao Centennial and realizing that Duofold is not for me, but I believe they’re marginal. Therefore, as long as there is no misleading branding, I don’t have hard feelings. BUT, in some cases, imitations have enough deviations to warrant high value on their own. For me, the outstanding example is Jinhao 80. The way how I use pens, Jinhao 80 is an ultimate workhorse. I wish they’d made it 20 years earlier. I’d have way less pens. And I spent on J-80’s less than I spent on fixing the nib in my Lamy 2000, which is still not up to my liking. If Lamy would make a pen with such design accepting Lamy’s standard nib, I’d snatch it right away. But they don’t (I do have Aion, it’s way different). The closest Lamy has is their Studio in all-black version but I still prefer J-80 for several reasons. This is what I wish big pen manufacturers would do: extend their designs for everyday had working pens. Don’t think this will have a chance to happen.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Good insights, thank you. I do love the Jinhao 80s as well. And finally tried the 82s and also quite liking those. I have a 9019 on order that I'm looking forward to trying out with that big #8 nib and a huge converter :)

    • @robbinallan3767
      @robbinallan3767 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I was glad to see your insights on the Lamy 2000. I agree 100%.

  • @konradyearwood5845
    @konradyearwood5845 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    For the person who wants to decide if the feel of the expensive pen works for them then these replicas are probably a worthwhile investment. If you purchase something like a Duofold and find that some aspect is not to your liking it can be an expensive mistake if you cannot recoup most of the original cost on the second hand market. The last decent bricks and mortar pen shop near where I live closed down last year so I cannot go in and "try" a pen.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Very good point. A local meetup and/or brick and mortar stores are a great option to try before buying. BUT, that isn't always easy or even an option.

    • @jamesaritchie1
      @jamesaritchie1 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thjere is no way in blazes you can tell what a real Duofold is like by buying a cheap Chinese knockoff.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@jamesaritchie1 I generally agree, but I've heard people buying a cheaper pen with the same grip section, say the milk-bottle type to make sure they like how it feels before they invest in a $300 or more priced pen. An overall VERY different experience, but specific elements that you can easily rule out.

  • @chumley121
    @chumley121 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Excellent job on the list. I started one as well but got bogged down trying to add to many details.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I'm looking to expand my list to all Fountain pens (not just Chinese), but wondering if someone has put together a database of sorts? I've been looking but haven't found anything definitive yet. So, I think I'll get started on it and see where it goes. If you'd be up for contributing, you can make a comment in the google sheet asking for access and I can add you as an editor. No pressure, just if you are interested.

  • @wkasimer
    @wkasimer ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Good video! A couple worth adding:
    Asvine P20 - knockoff of Leonard Momento Zero
    Asvine V126 - knockoff of Pilot 823 (and actually a bit better built than the Wingsung 699).

    • @-o-The-Duke-o-
      @-o-The-Duke-o- ปีที่แล้ว +1

      The P-20 is quite an improvement over the Leonardo in that it is a piston filler. Of course the resin cannot come close to Leonardo's offerings but the filling mechanism and ink window truly set it apart. I love mine. Hopefully Leonardo will step up their game with a piston fill though I'm sure they would raise the price all the more too. Hopefully Moonman will get together with Asvine and put a piston fill in the M800. Maybe even try their hand with the spaghetti resins. It would be the best of all designs imho.

    • @wkasimer
      @wkasimer ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@-o-The-Duke-o- Some of the Leonardo piston fillers have an ink window, e.g. the Momento Zero Grande 2.0.

  • @-o-The-Duke-o-
    @-o-The-Duke-o- ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I love my Jinhao 100 in Orange Marmalade. It is one of my favorites. I liked it so much I ordered another in Galaxy blue and now another in black with the Logo etched into the side. Jinhao did a great job with the Centennial though I wish it was a piston filler.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I actually prefer converter vs piston, mostly because I like to change ink more often, and easier to clean out in my opinion. Loving my 100 Centennial.

    • @henrykg
      @henrykg ปีที่แล้ว

      I like it also. Except the nib - it's F stamped but writes so thick that I put it away after a few words. I have to look for some nib replacement.

  • @basta.dotto_
    @basta.dotto_ ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I was looking for the Pilot Vanishing Point in Deep Yellow with Rhodium Trim and couldn't find it; I missed the boat, twice. I bought the Majong A1 in that colour, and I love it. The pen I received is very good quality, and I can put a VP nib unit in it, and it fits perfectly. YMMV, though, depending on when it was made. Because it's not a VP, I am comfortable bringing it with me as I feel that people loving the Pilot VPs will know it's a knock off and won't snatch it - they won't think that there's an 18k nib in there! 👏

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes, love the A1. I wish it came with a medium or broad nib, but it works really well. I may need to save up for a VP medium or broad nib :)

  • @jls3220
    @jls3220 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    The Asvine V169 is great

  • @joshuawilliams5213
    @joshuawilliams5213 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I've heard a few times about the "14kgp" not being believed. I'm curious, why not? you can buy gold plated jewelry for really cheap, especially when it is just a few microns thick. Why couldn't they do that with the nibs? They are probably buying the nibs in batches of the thousands, it doesn't seem that the gold plating would add more than a few cents per nib.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Very good point, and quite possible. Thanks!

  • @Ybalrid
    @Ybalrid ปีที่แล้ว +1

    As far as I know, they often have "14K GP" on the nib, meaning it's *plated* with a microscopic layer of 14K gold... but is otherwise a steel nib ?
    I am very happy with a moonman a1, a wingsung 699 that I have, and I also have a burgondy x159 that writes quite well

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks, I'm hoping you are right about the "plating" -either way I cringe at it.

    • @Ybalrid
      @Ybalrid ปีที่แล้ว

      @@KendallW I have some Jinhao x450 and an old 159 (the one that weights 2.5 metric tons!) where the "gold" actually rubbed off the nib...!

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Ybalrid Interesting. Lol, yes, that old 159 is pretty heavy. I thought I liked the weight until I tried the x159. Besides weight, I like the x159's #8 size nib better too :)

  • @santauxia
    @santauxia ปีที่แล้ว

    Very nice video. Subscribed immediately!!

  • @impish22
    @impish22 ปีที่แล้ว

    how fun.. I do love my Jinhao X159

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว

      100% yes. Now, I just need it with a Medium or Broad nib :)

  • @kevinblack8365
    @kevinblack8365 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    The more expensive pens are knock offs of each other. MontBlanc didn’t invent the cigar shaped pen. MontBlanc look like Sailor looks like Pilot. It simply shows your prejudice that is front and centre of your presentation. You don’t talk about the Sailor/pilot/whatever knocking off the competition. So whose design is the cigar shaped fountain pen and what copyrights / patents are current? That’s right, none.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  7 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      You're right. I was not aware of how much the higher-end pen companies had copied each other until after I made this video. From what I understand now the e95s style pocket pens were made by Pilot, Platinum, and Sailor. And they were so similar that their caps were interchangeable. This video just shows how little I knew at the time, but I'm still new to the hobby and learning new things all the time.

  • @jls3220
    @jls3220 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    It is extremely easy to tell all the world how wonderful the classic expensive fountain pens are. Chris and Doug have been the best at explaining that although not the best, there are very good reasons to spend less on Chinese (not a fan of China), pens . They are most excellent. I don’t think I’m buying a several hundred to thousand dollar pens. They aren’t worth that much.

  • @mattweber1842
    @mattweber1842 ปีที่แล้ว

    Very good information.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you!

  • @steffymuze
    @steffymuze ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I've got a decent Jinhao 599 I didn't see here (yet anyway, not done yet😏) that I got to tinker with before deciding if I like the style; a Lamy Safari/Vista knockoff body type. VERY hit and miss on the nibs (mostly miss) eta: Granted, neither are expensive but I hear Lamy nibs can be a little wonky out of the box too, and it's the grip I'm not sure about.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks for the heads up! I've added it to the "Database" master spreadsheet list. I've also changed it from just being Chinese pens to being any / all fountain pens. I'll do an update video and I might add columns for some of the weights and measures.

    • @steffymuze
      @steffymuze ปีที่แล้ว

      @@KendallW an update would be great & for me personally, the weight matters. One of the other Jinhaos I tried (750/750x) was surprisingly heavy!

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@steffymuze Yes, I didn't add those columns before because I wanted a more concise "list" but those columns can be hidden, so yeah I'm totally adding those and will fill in as I go. A never-ending process but useful and no reason it shouldn't exist. Yes the 750 is really heavy. And lengths are good to know too, both for how it will fit in the hand, but also whether it will fit in a case or display box. Super useful info.

  • @KenchanKrafts
    @KenchanKrafts ปีที่แล้ว

    That spreadsheet is great, Kendall! Wonderful to see so the pens just in one go haha! Thanks for putting that together for everyone who might find it helpful! I don't think I give knockoffs enough attention and care to really see if they're for me, I have probably bought real knockoffs rather than these Chinese name brands.. which might be why I didn't like them. I will say the one jinhao x750 i have writes pretty well, but I think I can say that the Chinese brands seem to have poorer quality when it comes to caps and mechanisms to keep the nib wet after long periods of not being used. Which is fine if you use your pens on a daily or weekly. None of my non Chinese name brands have ever dried out in me, with the exception of lamy at times, but my jinhao 82 and some lesser known Chinese brands do dry out within 2-3 weeks. That's just from personal experience, which is different from others use and experiences. But would love to see you do some tests of that sort to compare the Chinese brands to their non Chinese counterpart to see the more extensive pros and cons for each. I should make a video for my sailors haha! I only got 2 jinhao 82s... and I'm very biased with my opinion, but will need to be scientific and objective with my tests!

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Originally I made the spreadsheet just for Chinese pens, but as you can see it now it's for any/all pens for lookup and comparison. Yes, I've had mixed luck with some of Chinese pens, but I've been pleasantly surprised. I recommend watching some reviews if you are ever on the fence. If I ever get a legit Pilot 823 I would definitely compare it to a knock-off. Though there are videos out there that have done that if you give it a search. Thank you!

  • @wondays654
    @wondays654 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Were these all purchased from the same website? I'm new to fountain pens(only have 3 Lamy safaris and a Twsbi eco) and was wondering if you could also post links to where to purchase them.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I really like Gouletpens.com for ink samples and for pens if they carry them, BUT they don't carry many of the Chinese pens that are easier on my budget. For all of these I found them on Ebay, Amazon, and AliExpress. AliExpress is the trickiest to buy from, quality control is the most suspect and shipping times take the longest. I look for the best price (including shipping) and weigh how much I care about being able to track the package and how soon I want it :)

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Also heard that Etsy is good -specifically the shop: "esybuy" but haven't personally used it.

  • @ladyluvsims
    @ladyluvsims ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I’ve swap the nib of the jinhao 80 with a Lamy Z50 fine

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว

      Same, I bought 3 jinhao 80s and 3 Lamy nibs so I could try medium, broad, and 1.1 stub. Swapping the nibs was really hard, but well worth it :)

    • @ladyluvsims
      @ladyluvsims ปีที่แล้ว

      @@KendallW i didn’t have any problems to swap it. I’m thinking on try a Z53 fine nib (the Lamy Aion’s nib) on my second jinhao 80. I literally fell in love with the Z53 nib.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว

      @@ladyluvsims I've never tried the Z53, but it sounds like I should give it a go. Thank you for the recommendation. Also thinking of a cursive nib that Goulet sells for the Lamy.

    • @chumley121
      @chumley121 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@KendallW I put a Lamy cursive (black) on a Jinhao 80. Works fine but I don't like the nib. Looks good but not smooth. I'll have to work on it.

    • @ladyluvsims
      @ladyluvsims ปีที่แล้ว

      @@KendallW i want to try this one too. My problem is it will cost me a kidney 😁 just for the shipping to France where I’m from and living .

  • @mdtdbe
    @mdtdbe 2 วันที่ผ่านมา

    It is very annoying that the Parker 51 Chinese knock-off (which cost less than ten dollars) writes better than the real vintage Parker 51 that I paid a good deal of money for. Very annoying!

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  19 ชั่วโมงที่ผ่านมา

      Agreed! It does happen.. I'm not partial to hooded nibs, so I haven't tried the 51 or the copy, but I've seen the same happen with other pens. Price does not always equal function - for sure.

  • @murraykriner9425
    @murraykriner9425 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Not sure why people balk some of these items. Obviously collector's buy them to look to others if they have fine taste, or high incomes to match their status. As I listened to your diatribes against selecting these copies, tabulating up the final sum you've spent, I came to the final analysis that you could have found any one of the original trademarked pens you've mentioned, instead of buying the replicas you have here. I own not a few of the newer Chinese fountain varieties, and am pleased with their feel, balance, weight, and writing qualities even if they aren't their carbon copies sainted namesake. You would have made a better argument had you shown the relative merits of these new makes, rather than make your viewer's giddy with their costly brethrens exorbitant cost.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thank you for the feedback. I tried to share pros and cons, but I obviously have a bias :)

    • @murraykriner9425
      @murraykriner9425 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@KendallW didn't mean any mercenary skirmishes were enacted on your part, just that many in the pen and ink community suffer from like woes, with perceived grace being a hoped for circumstance. My humble apology for making you feel any lash whatsoever.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@murraykriner9425 No apology needed. It can be a tricky topic to discuss, so I really appreciate when people chime in and engage in the conversation. Thank you!

  • @darkchocolate4643
    @darkchocolate4643 ปีที่แล้ว

    Question for you: the Majohn/Moonman X1, the Montblanc Bohème knock-off, does it come with a #6 or #5 nib? Thanks!

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Definitely not a #6. I think it is a #5, but not 100% sure.

    • @darkchocolate4643
      @darkchocolate4643 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@KendallW Thanks Kendall! I must admit that I'm tempted to get an X1, even if it seems slightly gimmicky. :)

  • @nsbhater
    @nsbhater ปีที่แล้ว

    Thx 🤗✒

  • @jls3220
    @jls3220 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Keep your introduction short. Common designs are not copies. They all have the same designs. Cigar shape etcetera.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you. I'm very new to making videos, so I appreciate the feedback.

    • @jls3220
      @jls3220 ปีที่แล้ว

      Keep it up. You’re on right track.

  • @dariuszjablonski1969
    @dariuszjablonski1969 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thievery will last as long as there are amatours or clients for stolen goods or ideas

    • @reyhang8608
      @reyhang8608 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      When you get sick and need extremely expensive medication, I hope apply the same principle despite available generics. Cheers!

    • @dariuszjablonski1969
      @dariuszjablonski1969 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@reyhang8608 Human imagination does not need copying someone's ideas 1:1
      Warmths :)

  • @jls3220
    @jls3220 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I’m subscribed but you’re very slow

  • @arlenealennox3136
    @arlenealennox3136 ปีที่แล้ว

    Yes, knockoffs, so I just steer clear of Chinese pens completely.

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว

      You are not alone, for sure. Thank you for watching.

    • @reyhang8608
      @reyhang8608 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Go ahead. Spend 10X more. Nobody stopping you. Enjoy!

  • @kan-zee
    @kan-zee 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I opened up your website chart and couldn't find the comparison listing of the
    DUPEs vs Original fountain pens.
    Kaigelu 316 Parker Duofold
    Hero 616 Parker 21/51
    Duke 209 Parker Sonnet
    Baoer 388 Parker Sonnet
    Baoer 801 Parker Vector
    Moonman m6 Parker Duofold
    Moonman M600’s Parker Duofold
    Jinhao 992 Sailor Procolor
    Lingmo Lorelei Sailor Procolor
    Pen BBS 308 Sailor Porcolor
    Delike New Moon Sailor ProGear
    Wing Sung 3003 Pilot 78G
    Wing sung 699 Pilot custom 823
    Majohn / Moonman A1 $40 Pilot Vanishing point 170
    Wing Sung 6359 Lamy Al Star
    LM Focus 3 Lamy Dialog 3
    Delike Alpa Kaweco Al Brass Sport
    Lanbitou TWISBI Eco
    Lecai Acrylic Franklin Christoph
    Moonman C2 Franklin Christoph model 66
    Wing Sung 626 Sheaffer Balance
    Pen BBS 480 Sheaffer Balance
    Jinhao x159 $10 Montblanc 149 $700-800
    Moonman P136 Montblanc 146
    Majohn moonman x1=50-80 Montblanc boheme 950- 1500
    Monte Mount Snake Clip Montblanc Rouge et Noir
    Majohn / Moonman M800 $30 Leonardo Momento $250
    Asvine V169 $38 Leban Skeleton $200
    Jinhao 11 centennial $15 Parker Duofold Centennial $600
    Majohn/ Moonman Q1$14cad Tombow dragon fly $200+
    mini pocket size
    Jinhao 80 $5 Lamy 2000 or Lamy ion ~ $180

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      It isn't a "complete" list, and since it grows and changes it will never be, but info like this is helpful. Pretty sure I have some of these but I'll add the ones that are missing. Thanks!

    • @kan-zee
      @kan-zee 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      @@KendallW
      your correct....it is always a growing list

  • @michnygaard
    @michnygaard ปีที่แล้ว

    Why should they up their game and lower price just because idiots kopi their work. Do you really think this fake junk will do good for people hobby? It's like copy DVD or fake handbags. Break the junk and don't waste time

    • @KendallW
      @KendallW  ปีที่แล้ว

      I appreciate the comment and your opinion. Yes, the subject is a bit controversial - though there is a big difference between a forgery pen, trying to deceive someone, vs copying the design but using their own obvious branding. There are many that agree with you and choose not to support companies that copy designs, though I would also point out that the major brand have copied each other too, at least to some degree. A good example is the classic "cigar" shape. Who copied who? Another is the pocket pen E95s style. Sailor, Platinum, and Pilot all had the same shaped pen, so much as that you could interchange the parts.. So, there is definitely some grey area to the subject.

    • @reyhang8608
      @reyhang8608 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Buy the original. Ain't nobody stopping you. Enjoy!