Montblanc 149 vs Visconti Homo Sapiens Bronze Age - Which Grail Pen Is Best? There Can Only Be One!
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 28 ก.ย. 2024
- Would you like to know which Grail Pen is right for you? Come on this journey with me as we go through it, point by point. By the end, you'll know which pen I prefer and which pen is right for you. What more could you ask for?!
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Another great video. I loved the comparisons. Can't wait to get my first HS. My MB 149 is devine. I write with it everyday
Thank you Ceit! I cannot wait for you to get one also! All the best.
You can't argue when something is just right and that Montblanc 149 is just right for you.
Hello Pamela! Exactly! Some pens just speak to you. I think a tougher comparison is the 149 to 146. I think that one is coming soon! Thanks for watching.
I truly enjoyed your Visconti/Montblanc comparison. I have the the Bronze Age and the Montblanc 146 and I love them both. One feature about the Bronze Age is that the metal features on the print actually tarnish and develop a patina, which definitely adds to the character of the pen. The early Homo Sapien models came with a non-gold, proprietary material, nib, maybe a titanium alloy. It offers a bit of flex but no variation in line width to speak of, which mine has. Visconti has switched to a gold nib for that series of pens. I'm glad I have the earlier nib. Thanks for your channel. It's great fun.
Thanks so much, Marty! I appreciate the kind words and excellent information. Stop by again soon!
My husband surprised me with a Visconti Homo Sapiens Bronze Age for my birthday. It should be arriving later this week👍🏻 loved this video 😊
What a wonderful pen and an amazing gift! What a great guy! Congratulations!
How did you like it? We need an update.
Over here just watching this amazing video again. I think I have made a big decision. I am going to wait until my next trip to Italy and get my Visconti there. With the VAT it may end up being more expensive, but a purchase in Italy will only add to its personal value to me and sentimentality. I now find myself looking at the Montblanc because despite my small hands, I much prefer bigger pens. Thanks again for this video, Hemingway!
Thanks Amy! Thanks for watching!
Great one HJ. I agree with everything you said save a couple of points.
1. I have replaced the barrel of one of my 149s myself. Not sure if Visconti parts are as readily available.
2. The filling mechanism on Visconti is just as bad....cleaning them takes forever. I would not consider it superior. Again, One can easily replace the piston on 149.
Though one can argue either way.
BTW, I never had a shadow of a doubt which you would pick 😀 I would also pick 149.
Hello My Friend! I think we are of like mind on many things. I should probably have added some extra detail to my points but it was getting going as it was. When I said that Visconti had a superior filling mechanism, I meant in regards to materials since it is titanium. I was thinking of longevity. Both are monsters to clean. On the barrel, supposedly, one should not ever have to replace a barrel since it is indestructible but I have not tested this! So, that’s where I was coming from. I agree with everything you say above. There was a bit more color there that could have been included. Always a pleasure!
@Hemingway Jones Of course, I am marginally biased judging by how many 149s and 146s I have hoarded....😀 ... I loved the production quality of your video, as usual.
While I would rarely disagree with you SHAK-MD, I will agree both are a pain to clean, and I mean a real pain to clean. The thing the HS has over the 149 for cleaning, is you can unscrew the nib unit, which helps to flush it out. I don't have the tools for the 149 to do that.
Thanks for the introduction of these two fantastic pens! I am a fan of fountain pen now!
Thank you, Cindy, for watching. Stop by again soon.
The Namiki Emperor nib is bigger than the 149 and according to some reviews it is lovely to write with and is really an amazing pen even though it is really expensive.
It sounds amazing. I tap out at around $1,000 personally. I hear great things though.
Have both. From a writing point of view, for my pens, the 149 wins hands down, no contest. Also build quality, fit and finish, MB hands down. From design and innovation, it's the Visconti.
Your method of comparison makes a lot of sense. At the end I was hanging in suspense wondering which of the pens you would choose. Thank you for actually picking one. Thank you for an enjoyable video.
Thank you, My Friend! I am so glad that you enjoyed it. This was fun to make.
I really enjoyed this video. I would take the Visconti, hands down, without an ounce of regret. There are a great many pens out there that can get really close to the feeling of the 149, but to date: I've encountered nothing like the homo sapiens. What a dull and colorless world it would be if we all agreed on everything though. I really appreciate the love you have for your 149. All the best from the Midwest!
Thanks so much for the great comment! And the kind words. You make excellent points. That Visconti is a wholly original piece of work with many amazing features. I completely get it. Wish you all the best and thanks for watching.
I was most impressed with the beautiful B&W map of Rome you were using as an underlay. Great review! Personally, I'd definitely prefer the Visconti.
Thank you! That is an excellent pen!
I think the Montblanc is timeless, yet the Visconti is innovative and unique. If you’re playing at this level I don’t see why you wouldn’t have both.
I agree completely.
Oh, My. GOSH! I was actually yelling at the computer while watching this video, it was just BRILLIANT!! I cannot say enough great things or articulate how much I enjoyed this, thank you! Also... team Visconti only because I have climbed Etna and have an ongoing affair with Italy courtesy of my Grandpa, who served during the Italian Campaign as a member of the Royal Canadian Army.
Hello Amy, I love this comment! Thank you for this! I am so glad that you enjoyed it. I had so much fun making this one.
IAM FROM THE U.S. AND HAVE 6 VETERAN UNCLE MY HAT OFF AND THANKS TO YOUR GRANDFATHER FOR HIS SERVICE. GOD SPEED
That was my question that which one is better 👏
Thank you
Hello There, My Friend! Visconti I think is a better pen, but I prefer the MB. It just has a quality. Also, the Visconti being so heavy is a huge Achille’s Heel. Something to consider. If you have more specific questions, please let me know. I am happy to help.
The safe course is to own both of these magnificent pens, as you do. I, alas, own neither.
Truly! Great plan.
Both are wonderful pen your very lucky to have someone bought you two beautiful pens ,yr last video was great.frank in Oswego I'll.nice 18kt nibs
Thank you, Frank! Wishing you all the best.
@@HemingwayJones you to
Just have bought a Visconti ! And going to buy a Montblanc in June 2024, Thanks for the video, helped a lot
Wonderful! It is an excellent pen. Well done and enjoy. It's good to space these things out. It gives you time to enjoy them.
Oh thanks ! And btw, I also watched your Lamy 2000 video, very interesting ! It’s been my everyday FP for many years, but maybe it will change with the Visconti ! I also recently bought the Leonardo Momento Zero and the Nahvalur Schuylkill Asfur Bronze, did you have time to check them out?
Great review, but for me the Homo Sapiens winsd hands down. I appreciate it is 10grams more but it's by no means a heavy weight, the nib gives some fantastic line variation and the vac filler is far easier to clean than the over priced, over hyped, precious resin (plastic) MB.
I love the MB and it is an extraordinary, but HS has a lot going for it. If only they’d sort out their QC. That is their Achilles Heal. Thanks very much for watching.
Love all your videos but this one is my favorite! I loved the side by side comparisons and I hope we can look forward to more videos like these in the future!
P.s. saw the twist ending coming a mile off!
@@mrjessetaylo I am that obvious!
Thanks so much! I will do stuff like this again soon. I try to mix it up. Thanks so much for watching. I am so happy you liked this one.
❤ great review!!! I picked the Homo sapiens over the MB 149…. But only because it came to me on the second hand market or a great deal. I am currently saving for my MB 149 ❤🎉❤🎉
It’s a fantastic pen. There really is no wrong choice here.
The largest nib I have ever written with is a Namiki Emperor Urushi Lacquer Vermilion No.50 nib Fountain Pen .
My friend just got one this last year when we visited Atlas Stationary’s in Chicago it’s her grail pen…
My grail pen is a David Oscarson Alexander Fleming ( gray) fountain pen… I ended up having it alternate it just a bit ( I put a small diamond in the clip ) David saw it after it was done and he was fine with it , actually he liked it. ( thank goodness)
I have both the Visconti and Montblanc, I’m with you. I would keep the Montblanc but I love them both.
Enjoyed the way you weighed the two pens out, negatives and positives ,that was great !
Thank you 😊
That nib sounds comically huge. I must try it! I am so glad that she got it from Brendan. Atlas is the best. Your grail pen sounds amazing! Send me a photo sometime. I’d love to see it. Awesome!
I am so glad that you enjoyed the video. I had so much fun making this one. Thanks so much.
Enjoyed the video, tough comparison! I guess I fall on the side of Montblanc as well, the 149 is the perfect size and weight.
I’m with you, My Friend! I just finished your letter by the way.
@@HemingwayJones looking forward to it!
@@shane6242 Thanks Man!
Well, that was a fun contest. Despite the scoring, I was pretty sure you were going to go with the MB. I finally broke down and bought a 146 a couple of years ago out of some curiosity -- and only because it was at a rather good price. I will admit that it was better than I expected but personally, I feel what your paying for in MBs...is their rather proficient marketing systems. So, to each his or her own but in my book I'd go for Visconti (yup, have one and predates my MB).
Thanks so much! I am very glad that you enjoyed it. Enjoy that wonderful pen.
I love the matte finish of the Visconti plus the gold/brass rings. I prefer a pen with a bit of heft.
It is beautifully crafted and has an amazing texture and finish. Thanks so much for watching and stop by again soon.
I very much enjoyed this video. I had purchased the Visconti for a very good price and it had been on the top of my wishlist for a very long time, because I love the looks and found the material very intriguing. And then I returned it... I still love the looks and the material is wonderful, but the ridges of the capping mechanism kind of hurt my fingertips, so I had to let it go. I really enjoy the nibs of my Montblanc pens (mostly vintage) and would LOVE to get a 146 because the 149 is too big for my hands which are rather tiny 🙂. But I am still searching for a used one with an OM nib, because I will not pay the price for a new one which is as you said only plastic.
Hello! I can see returning the Visconti for those ridges. They are cut quite deep and are perceptible. If you are investing that much, it should be perfect. As for the MB, the 146 is such a perfect size. It is so perfectly balanced,. Gently used is definitely the way to go. All the best!
I notice that some of the backdrop is from the paintings of Hieronymous Bosch, "The Garden of Earthly Delights", an astounding painting. Well done. Is there some Pieter Bruegel also?
Yes! All Bosch in this one. Thanks. I have spent long hours with it at the Prado!
A major surprise HJ, I thought for sure you’d pick the Visconti. I have the 149 and it trio is a classic, but I do hope to get the Homo Sapien sometime soon. My only concern is the iffy QC with the Visconti nibs.
Hello Gino, My Friend! If you get one, get it from Brendan or someone like him that will check the nib for you first. This is what I did. Brendan inspected mine before he shipped it to me. Peace of mind is valuable. I am so glad you enjoyed the video!
Gino, I had Atlas test my nib before shipping. it has written like a dream. Go ahead and pull the trigger on it. it is worth it.
I liked this concise comparison. Thank you for it. I've never even touched either of these two pens, so I can't add anything from my experience. But I did learn some things from your video. I want to hold that repurposed lava more than I want to hold the MB plastic....
Hello T Sherbs! Thank you for the kind words. I am glad that you enjoyed it. The Lava is an interesting experience. It is an impressive and interesting pen;. Stop by again soon.
The material and finish on the Visconti pen is, as I hinted at earlier, one of few big reasons why I prefer it to the MB 149.
No doubt in this camp, MB. Writing experience is most important. There’s nothing like a big, light pen with a proper nib.
Agreed! Thanks!
I love this so much. Fantastic. So's the sweater. :)
Thanks so much! I appreciate that. I try to keep the style interesting as well! Always a pleasure.
Would you say that the writing feel of the nib of the 149 is the same as a 145 Classique, Or is there a difference?
The feel, less aesthetics, are very similar to each other. There is something dazzling about the size of the 149, but the feel is very similar to me.
I was 200% certain you'd keep Montblanc 😀😃😉
Exactly!
the Montblanc 149!!
Montblanc for sure.
Interesting comparison, HJ!
Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed it.
Humans function with emotions and that is the crux of the matter. I understand your choice but as I had the Mont Blanc at one time I no longer do. It's a long story but methinks I shall go with the Visconti HSBA not just for the value but we so enjoyed our trip to Sicily that the idea of having a piece of it in a fountain pen plays on my heart strings to loudly to ignore. Twas an entertaining, informative video. I did hang on to the small, burgundy. Mozart fountain pen. It does flow beautifully. Alas, I do not carry it in a pocket as I fear I should lose it. P.S. viewing some of your videos reveals that you are a snappy dresser. Thanks.
I’m strangely relieved you would choose the MB because my obsession with the HS is becoming unhealthy! You cooled my jets a little here !
Haha! Nice! I still would. Although I am using the HS right this very moment and it is pretty wonderful. Pace yourself and savor the longing and then the owning, is my best advice. Thanks for watching.
A few months ago I took a trip through Asia and the USA. I stopped in 5 airports, each had a Montblanc store in them. I took with me a few fountain pens (as always) One of them was a black, two tone nib, Jinhao x159. I went into Montblanc stores in each location from Atlanta, South Korea, Manilla, and more. In each one we tested the Montblanc 149 and compared to the x159. I had the sales people do it, I had my companions do it. Some are very familiar with fountain pens, others had no clue. We did blind tested holding them, writing with them, etc. NO ONE could tell the difference between the two pens until I clearly showed them the actual pens and their labels. (I even posted the x159 with the Montblanc to trick them up). So personally, I just don't think I could ever buy a 149 at full price after a 5 shop, 4 country test with more than a dozen Fountain Pen Sales people and random consumers.
I also think there would be value in hearing your feelings taking personal sentiments out. We got a great review but then your emotions made the choice. If there were only two pens to choose from and you had to buy them; which one would you get. Forget which one you had for 20 years or who gave it to you.
Just a few random thoughts.
Hi Ben Joe, coming in strong today, My Friend. The MB is lighter and writes better. The Visconti score higher but it is heavier. I also prefer the nib on the 149. All sentiment aside, I always go with the better writing experience.
You had much better luck with the x159 than I did and I am happy for you. Both of mine were off. One was complete garbage and the other was OK. I’m surprised no one in your blind test missed the big seam that runs down the center. I am also impressed that the sales people were so accommodating. But then, you are a lovely and charming guy.
This is a light hearted exercise and a wonderful framework to show the differences. I stand by it 100%. I’m sorry if it upset you for some reason. Of everyone and anyone, you are one of the last people I would want to upset.
@@HemingwayJones what! Me offended! Heck no. Just wanted to discuss. I don’t own either pen and trying muster up the courage to buy one. You are rock solid.
@@BenJoeMarkland So glad. Tone is hard to get in posts, but I love you, Man. I’d hate to think that something I posted hit you the wrong way. Big Hugs!
I just bought the Visconti Crystal Dream. I love the ink window because I change ink colors all the time. I really need to know what color I put in it. Love the Visconti clip modeled after the bridge. I have a Rembrandt and a Van Gogh. Just love the Brand. My husband would go with the Mont Blanc to go with his collection. Both are lovely instruments. Love the tarot cards and maps in the background shots. ❤
Thank you so much! I am so glad that you like the B Roll shots! I try to make them interesting and pretty. I love both of these brands. Visconti is so rich and interesting. The clip mirroring the graceful curve of the arch beneath Ponte Vecchio is inspired! Thanks so much for the kind words and for watching.
In 2024, the MB 149 is priced by the Visconti HS, which elevates the HS as pen of choice. MB is definitely gouging customers for what you are getting.
They are both wonderful pens that write amazingly well. There is always second hand for either.
I just picked up a MB for a song. Cleaned up the barrel with some Poly Watch, shined up the gold with Cape Cod cloths, flossed the nib and it looks brand new.
Thanks for the comment and stop by again soon.
I’ve got the HS Dark Age and a 146. Love them both, and really find it hard to choose between them. Though the weight of the Visconti does tell after a day of constant writing. But there are worse problems to have! 😊
I agree completely! It is a heavy pen yet magical!
Both pens are great. However, my 149 is always inked while my Visconti HS Bronze Age isn’t. The balance and performance of the 149 are just better, at least for me.
Hello Joe! I agree completely. Both great, but MB has the edge!
Yes it a better pen. Also, it’s a classic. The 149 has been produced since the 1950’s with some modifications along the way. There aren’t many other pens that have been continuously made for 70 years!
Great video, thank you. Never having used or touched either of these pens I am drawn to the Visconti as for me it is visually more interesting.
Question: is your writing grip unique or is there a “name” for it that I could read about? I use a classic child of the 70s/80s educated pinch grip but the way you hold these pens looks comfortable.
Hello Jeremie! It is definitely more interesting than the 149. it has a lot going on. It is a marvel and slightly mad. I love it.
I have both, and I love them both. The Visconti is better imo.
Hi, great video (again!). Quick question: which tarot deck are you displaying in the background in some of the shots?
Thank you very much! The Hieronymus Bosch deck of the Smyth Waite Gold? I need to watch it again.
Looks like the Bosch. I do have some B Roll of the MB on the SW gigantic and Gold that I use often. Thanks!
Visconti HS all the way for me too!
You have chosen... Wisely!
You said you can't think of a bigger nib than the 149. Here are 2 for a start....Pelikan M1000 and Namiki Emperor. Both clearly bigger than the 149
Nice. Thanks.
4:14 Plenty of them out there throughout the ages.
very neat $ clean comparison with facts, it would be great if you can add an information about the resale value, Thanks a lot, best wishes from Kathmandu, Nepal
Thanks so much. That’s a great suggestion. Wish you the best.
If you want to sell your Homo Sapiens I'm interested! I have a 1911 Sailor Realo, which is a beautiful 21k gold nib writer, so I don't need an MB. It posts (or not), it has a viewing window below the cap (this is a big deal), it's a piston fill and holds 1ml of ink, so I never have to mess with a converter. As an aside, it has a bit of flex too! But, and this is a big but, I want to write with, I need to write with a Homo Sapiens. I need a Homo Sapiens! Oh how I need a Homo Sapiens. (Beautiful review)
Thanks Dave! I am glad that you enjoyed the video. That Sailor sounds awesome.
Hello, Hemingway; this is my first outing to your channel - & it seems I chose one of the more contentious presentations to begin. I have to say, I'd choose the 149 in a heartbeat - & not because the design of the Homo Sapiens is inferior - in fact, aesthetically, it does carry the day; however, as with all the scribes I own, they must be utilitarian (never quite understood why individuals place them behind glass to look at - but hey, each to their own). For myself, the principal point to choosing between these two has to be the business end. In my local fountain pen club (approx 80 members), the number therein have tried the Visconti - 18 members, or thereabouts, so nearly twenty percent; without exception, they have all had to return the various models purchased for nib realignment - not once or twice, but in one case, six times. Given the price tag for these pens, I'd expect it to write straight out of the box. This issue is not singular to the pen community - Stephen Brown has made comment on defective blades - & he's a strong proponent for the brand. As far as I can discern, this is poor quality control on a well known family-run company - & it is consistent.
The MB may be rather conventional in it's design features, but I've never had a poor writing experience with any that I own. Now, whether or not this is an arrogant/indifferent stance by Visconti - denying that their nibs are questionable in terms of performance, or there are other factors unbeknownst to we, the consumer, remains to be seen...personally, I wouldn't touch one if my life depended upon it. If you want a reliable Italian family-run business that delivers at every level, I would suggest Aurora - second only to the greatest Italian brand (now defunkt), Delta. Of course, my assessment is subjective (& personaal), but if I'm going to spend a three figure sum on a scribe, then I (not unreasonably) would expect it to write without issue. Thank you for such an interesting presentation !!
Thank you so much for the kind words! And for the very comprehensive well-supported opinion. I appreciate it very much and agree with everything. All the best and do stop by again soon.
I shall indeed - I am now a subscriber.
@@andrewtongue7084 Thank you so much! I appreciate it! In the immortal words of John McClane, "Welcome to the Party, Pal!" Only much more affectionately!
Ah, the first Diehard movie, I know it well (& one of McLane's less egregious utterances)...laughing, here 😆
Yes! That’s exactly it.
I really want a homosapiens, but money is a thing and quality costs lots of money
Very good point. It is an exceptional pen.
Does anyone know which Tarot card deck(s) are featured here?
I do. It’s the Hieronymus Bosch deck. It has a Bestiary that goes with it. Let me know if you need more information.
@@HemingwayJones Thank you.
HJ, I love the breakdown of the two pens; however, the Visconti outscores the MB. That should be acknowledged, lol. Without bias, the Visconti wins hands down.
Hey There, John! Yea, definitely outscored it. This was super fun to do.
The Visconti HS is in the mail for me. Maybe someday I'll get an MB 149, but I just feel the extra you pay for the name is too much.
Congratulations on the Visconti HS! I hope that you enjoy it!
Honestly, Montblanc 149 is a beautiful writer. I love my Visconti, but the MB just feels better, the nib is far superior to the HS as well.
Hello and yes, I agree completely.
If i had to chose, but i will never do that, i let the MB go.
The reason i keep the Visconti is cause it heavier, which i like, and its way more special.
The MB is more a classic with way more pens looking like it.
Dont get me wrong, the MB is a masterpiece and simply brilliant, but just not that special as the HS is.
That is a sound argument. All the best.
149 or 146 wins to Visconti to me. Based on the nib alone.
It is an amazing nib.
HJ- The Namiki Emperor fountain pen sports a nib that is much bigger than the nib on the MB 149 pen.
That must be comical. The 149 is on the edge of practicality. I’ll try to find one. Thanks!
I would choose the Montblanc... mainly the weight would be better in my hand! Both beautiful pens for sure!!!
Thanks so much, Chris! Heavier pens wear one down after a while. Weight and how it writes means everything to me. Thank you!!
Funny, though, how some commenters have often commented that the 149 feels too girthy and somewhat unwieldy and uncomfortable in the hand. Compared to the 146, for example.
If you’re used to the 146 I would say there is no reason to go for the 149, unless you want the big nib. The 146 may be on of the most perfect pens dimensionally. So lovely and balanced.
I would prefer if the Homo sapiens had a piston filler it is more reliable
Is it? I haven’t heard of issues with the power filler. Have you? What happens?
poor capacity and overly complicated
I’m new to the fountain pen world but become hypnotized by the Visconti. I was very nervous laying down $700 for a pen I may or may not love. Turns out that I absolutely adore it. The Mont Blanc has never called out to me. I’ve not written with one and probably won’t for fear of being hypnotized again.
You have an excellent pen there. It is much better to be happy with what you have. Especially when It is as top tier as the Big V!
@4:14 Namiki emperor
Montblanc 149 can open doors you didn't knock.
I like this quote. Well said.
@@HemingwayJones Thanks. I have the 149 in Platinum and a host of other fountain pens including the JFK Special Edition but the 149 remains my go-to pen. I can't wait to add the Origin Collection 149.
I own both pens. First: Montblanc "precious" resin: Advertising gimmick; it's PLASTIC: "1. any of various yellowish or brownish substances (as rosin) that are obtained from the gum or sap of some trees (as the pine) and are used in varnishes and plastics and in medicine. 2. any of various manufactured products that are similar to natural resins in properties and are used chiefly in plastics."
I like that the 149 has an ink window, while the Visconti Bronze Age doesn't (nor does the Medici, which I like better than the Bronze Age). Visconti's "bayonet" style cap is much more secure than the--in my case--loosly threaded cap on the 149. I prefer the 149 piston-fill to the Visconti plunger-fill, but I much prefer cartridge/converter fill to either of those methods; they make pens much easier to clean. I rarely use my 149, whereas the Viscontis (I own three) are inked and by my desk right now. My major regret is that I got my Homo Sapiens models before the gold nibs became available; mine are palladium.
Thanks so much for the comment and for watching. I am so glad you enjoyed the video. All the best and stop by again soon.
That doesn't look like a 149, It looks like a La Grande 147.
For me, in that Visconti Homo Sapiens is an ink window missing.
There are ones that have that. It’s a look.
@@HemingwayJones 👍👍🇪🇸🇪🇸
I’ve never tried either pen (someday!). Now, having admitted that my opinion is basically invalid, I have a hard time accepting that the one made of lava with a convenient capping mechanism doesn’t beat the plastic pen with a cumbersome screw cap 🤔
Hello, My Friend, but it does beat it, on almost every point, except that it is heavy and not as easy or enjoyable to write with, which is everything really to me. You make an excellent comment and I thank you.
Have both, and love both! And, like they say, "timing is everything" i.e., I purchased both pens new for < $600. 00 each. So, if you're patient, the deals are out there to be had!
I agree! Also seek out a good opportunity and never over extend oneself.
I have a Lamy Safari & Pilot Kakuno. These are more in my price range LOL. But, if I had the opportunity, I'd pick the Visconti over MB. 1) Cost - I sleep more soundly and eat better spending the least amount of money on a pen lol 2) Uniqueness - the design & color of the MB is more widely copied. My untrained eyes would have a hard time picking it out unless I see the MB finial. With the Visconti, you literally get to hold a little bit of Mount Etna in your hand. You can't beat that! 3) The clip - that arching crescent shape is no ordinary clip. It's designed to mimic the Ponte Vecchio, a famous bridge in Florence. There's a Visconti boutique not too far from there.
Thanks for a great comparison!
Very sounds judgement! Thanks for watching.
I inherited the majestic MB 149 from my late father. So, it will always hold a special, unrivaled, sentimental place in my heart. But the pen is also a fantastic feel in hand and superb writer (I have the M nib).
In this particular face-off, I’d still pick the Visconti HS. It edges out the MB in the feel of the material. And more importantly the way the nib writes. My Bronze Age HS is one I very belatedly bought less than a year ago. And it wins this contest for me.
Hello My Friend! It’s great to have such a well articulated and kind contrary opinion. I love them both and this was hard, sentiment, weight, and the nib eked out the win for the MB, but I am very glad I don’t have to decide for real. Thanks so much for chiming in with a great comment!
@@HemingwayJones Thanks for the kind reply, HJ. I always enjoy comparison and pen vs pen videos like these. And you do them especially well. So yea, I did not find it overly difficult to choose between these two pens. I like my Visconti Divina pens even more.
@@sajjadhusain4146 Thanks so much, My Friend! I am happy to have you here. I appreciate your contributions to our dialogue! Stop by again soon.
$700 for a grail fountain pen sounds crazy, but that’s also the price of an Indonesian made electric bass guitar that I’ve been considering as a beater. I would use that grail pen every day and the beater guitar maybe once a month. I still can’t spend that much on a pen yet though as I have a 34-year old Montblanc 146 that my wife gifted me for our first anniversary. It’s currently covering my grail pen category.
That 146 is enough. That is a wonderful pen and a thoughtful gift! All the best!
glad you went for the 149!: went for the 146 as wasn’t sure I’d like the enormous nib on the 149 but I’ve never regretted buying it - it writes beautifully and feel like I could write all day with it:)
The 146 is near perfect! What a great pen!
Hi. I really had a great time, and you had me worried. Glad you made the correct choice, the 149 is just the perfect writing experience, Visconti needs to get its quality control issues sorted out. I'm not totally against Visconti, their Blue Lagoon is one pen I wound buy because it's lighter and visually stunning.🤗 Cheers.
Hello John and thank you! I tried to build up tension a bit! I hear that Visconti is getting better. I may ask Brendan when I have him on my Live show this Tuesday. He is from Atlas Stationers and carries Visconti. Thanks!
I appreciate your video. I have been debating for some years about getting Visconti HS Bronze Age, but have not purchased one yet. I have several Montblancs, including 3 146s. I don't have a 149 yet. But your video answered a huge question for me. I have osteoarthritis in my writing hand (it happens when you get older). I find that I can write for hours with my MB 146s, but not so much with my heavier pens. And I love, love, love the way all of my MBs write - they flow. Like you, I am not heavy handed. So the MB writing experience is better for me. So, you answered an important question for me - the Montblanc 149 is the answer.
Brilliant! So happy to help. Debate whether you need one since you have a 146. That pen is nearly perfect. The 149 has the larger nib though.
Moringa Powder really helps with my arthritis. just a thought.
I'm not an expert on fountain pen nomenclature, but in the non-fountain pen world, the Visconti 1/4 turn cap securing mechanism is called a "bayonet mount". I'm guessing the term comes from Civil War or earlier rifles. The term bayonet mount is commonly used in electronics, photography and household tiny light bulbs. BTW I've been using an Aurora FP with a similar screw piston fill mechanism as the 149. My grandmother gave it to me in the late 70s and I used it daily for school then work for at least 30 years and it still sucks up ink like Day 1. Then I lost it and found it years later - now it's very seldom used. Keep up the good work on the channel!
I like that term. For the videos, I tend to use the term the manufacturers use, just to keep things consistent and easier for people to find. But that is definitely the idea.
That's exactly right
You're correct, although that type of bayonet is much older than the US civil war - initial versions of the 'socket' bayonet were developed in the 1690s.
HJ! My grail Bronze Age arrives tomorrow! Your videos have helped guide me so much, thank you!
My pleasure! Congratulations!
I hate 149, everything about it. Shape, weight, color, sheen... I just hate it.
I got both but the Visconti nib was horrible on the paper had to get it retune and the montblanc wrote nice out of the box. Prices wise the Visconti is a few hundred cheaper. Forgot to say Sailor king of pen is also a great contender.
Hello Kahold! The nib is everything! I need to get a KOP soon. All the best.
The KoP is really the King of them all! 🙂
@@sajjadhusain4146 I need to try it!
Again, HJ, you have produced a wonderful video. I must say that I am a bit biased, in that I absolutely love the MB 149 pen. And right now, I have 5 of them!!!! Had a Visconti HS pen, but, I didnt quite like it, so I sold it to a friend who seemed to love the Visconti. But, MB 149 is still my absolute favourite pen.
Hello My Friend. We share a love for that pen as well.
I have both pens and I like them both for various reasons. Both hold a lot of ink, which is important to me. Both are comfortable in hand. The clip on my MB149 clips to my pocket more securely than the VHS-the clip on the VHS is somewhat smooth and tends to slide off my shirt pocket. I do not post either pen when writing with them. And for me, filling from an ink bottle, the MB149 is easier to get a complete fill over the VHS.
I feel that the piston filling system may be a little more reliable over time, whereas the VHS’s seals may need to be replaced sooner than the MB’s-this is just speculation on my part, both of my pens are filling as they did when they were purchased (a very small dab of silicone grease on my MB every 4 years seems to do the trick-I’m not sure how I would do this for my VHS). My MB is smoother writing, where the VHS experiences a lot of hard starts, and seems to run out ink faster (probably because I can’t seem to get a full fill). The MB has an ink window (a big plus), and the VHS does not-you could move up to the Crystal Dream, but then you are now in the MB price range. The VHS’s lava-resin material resists scratching, where the MB will not resist scratching. And the VHS is not as recognizable to most, as compared to the MB149, and is less conspicuous. My VHS has the, 23kt Palaidium nib, which is always going out of adjustment and my MB writes first time, every time. So for the writing experience I’d say the MB is better, and for durability, I’d have to give it to the VHS. Both pens have their strengths/uses. Right now, my MB edges out the VHS, but if I can get the VHS’s Palladium nib swapped out with an 18 kt gold extra fine nib, I would say the VHS might just edge out the MB slightly, but so far the MB works the best between the two.
This is a great analysis! Thanks for watching!
I prefer the visconti. Mostly because I have one.
Never thought paying Mont Blanc money for a plastic pen was worth it.
I think we all have our comfort pens. The VS is a mighty pen and an excellent choice.
Pilot custom urushi has a noticeably larger and better nib, so did the pilot Namiki emperor which uses the largest nib
Excellent choices!
Hi Hemingway. Well I was counting each round of this contest and I believe you owe the Visconti another point. The score should be 5 - 2. That said, there's no way I'd pick the Homo Sapiens as the winner. Just one look at the 149 writing sample and the MB is a much nicer writer (in my opinion). I would need to get used to the extra girth of the 149 but this would be a small sacrifice for a pen with such a superior nib.
Hello David! Did I really miss a point?!? That doesn’t surprise me. I do lists of top 5 pens and do 7 and no one seems to notice! On the scoring, the Visconti wins, but I pick the MB all day long because it writes better and is light. Another challenge would be the 149 v 146. Less girth matters. Stay well.
I would any day prefer only Visconti Homo Sapiens. I find MB 149 too Boring. 😂
That is an irrefutable point, My Friend.
I'm pretty sure these pens are GODS and should be worshiped...🤣
Awesome! 👏 Thanks!
A better match is Pelikan and Montblanc. Pelikan wins BTW.
Hi Barbara. I’m sure I will get there. Thanks for watching.
How about 149 vs King of Pen? The ultimate nib face off?
I would love that! But I don't have a KOP!
I really like my Visconti homo sapiens and i own a Montblanc 146 and not a 149, but i would like to say the Montblanc is the winner for me all day long.
Hello, My Friend, the 146 is awesome. It has near perfect dimensions. You have chosen wisely!
@@HemingwayJones thank you 😊, I've used the 149 but never thought of buying one as the 146 works pretty well for me.
It is a brilliant pen and a brilliant choice.
I happen to have both of these pens but f I could only keep one, Montblanc for me.
Me too! Well chosen.
I really do enjoy the MB 149 (I've only used some newer models) but I much prefer MB vintage pens, which I am starting to collect. I absolutely love my Homo Sapiens Bronze Age with the 18k Fine nib. There aren't many pens that have the same look and feel as the Visconti and not the same could be said for the MB. That gives a a lot of grail points to the Homo Sapiens for me. Honestly speaking though, nothing comes close to Pelikan for me.
Have you handled a Pilot Custom Urushi? That pen practically dwarfs all other pens, and the nib is quite big. When I saw it in person, I couldn’t believe how big it was. It was like Andre the Giant big. 😄 I wanted it so badly, but I couldn’t afford it. Maybe someday. ❤
That sounds awesome! I have never tried one. They are amazing pieces of art though.
@@HemingwayJones oh, definitely! 😃
Lovely vlog…sir where is the sweater from
Thank you very much! It’s from LL Bean, thanks!
Lack of an ink window is an issue on the Visconti
It is. It’s certainly a difference.
149
I don't think I can ever afford these two. However, I am in love with Visconti Homo Sapiens ! This is my grail pen !
It is a wonderful pen! Thanks!
OK
You have me subscribed
Thanks very much. Welcome!
Tried both (well the 146) back to back at a store. And I was really hoping to like the HS, but that nib was so much longer that it affected my writing. Going by looks, I prefer HS's body, 146's nib. I ended up with the 146.
That is a fair assessment.
My wife bought me the Visconti for Father’s Day. Really beautiful pen.
Awesome gift. Here’s to her!