After a break of many years, I have rediscovered my passion for fountain pens, inks and writing. Of course, again with the sweet and painful side effect of searching for the unique fountain pen. Today comes an Urushi from "Wancher Japan", the next Grail. And a little bird told me that something nice is coming from Japan for Christmas too... best regards from Germany.
19:23 I bought a TWSBI Diamond 580 in Prussian blue this year. Even with its modest price, it was still a non-holiday splurge for me. I bought in celebration of a work achievement.
Very clever, entertaining, and informative shows! Enjoyed your using great Indiana Jones references to make thoughtful points. One of your most delightful! - Pam
Thank you, Pam! I appreciate the encouraging words and kindness. Thanks so much for watching. I’m also Glad that you enjoyed the Indy references. They were really apropos.
I love the way you talk about fountain pens it's something like poetic way to express your thoughts regarding wonderful writing tool Fountain pen. Best regards
I have an appointment to pick out my Montblanc 146. I don’t talk about it but I’m so excited. I feel there is no one who will be able to understand how I can spend that much on a pen, especially when I have some nice pens already. I don’t want the moment or the experience to be spoiled by negativity. Everyone has their thing and mine happens to be pens right now. I feel it’s a pretty tame thing to want and enjoy.
I agree completely! Congratulations on an excellent choice and a wonderful pen! There is nothing wrong with celebrating a little bit with it in whatever form that is for you; a glass of wine, a slice of cake. Mark the moment and enjoy it. I am so very happy for you!
Thank you so much! I feel like I have “confessed” to an understanding, like-minded friend. Perhaps a pen of this calibre deserves both the wine, AND the cake! It will be our secret❤
Thank you Hemingway. A pleasure to watch as always. I hope to join the live next Tuesday night (12 pm Wednesday here in Australia), as I don’t have my usual commitment happening.
wonderful video. i love tea inks too! "send me your d pics, " 😂😂😂. may i suggest people sending in a pic of all their capitals? back to tea, i always suggest Taccia Benitsuchi because i was looking for a dark brew tea colored ink that had a rosy orange to it, Taccia misses the rosy aspect, but comes really close to me. it's just this, i sit at a restaurant table, order iced tea, and find myself staring at the colors in it and i want to write with that. you've convinced me not to be so negative towards people who buy $200 plus pens, you are right, everyone's heart needs what it needs, it's better than them hurting themselves with other addictions that cost a lot of money.
I knew I was in trouble when I said that D pic comment. Oh Boy. Walked right into it. I may do a video on tea inks. It would be lovely and fun. In fact, I am going to write that and film it right away. Thanks for the inspiration!
I like your comment of setting a pen aside and then approaching it again to build a relationship with the pen. I have had a similar experience to what you describe, of learning to appreciate a pen I thought I did not like. I find that for me, that when I buy a pen, I need to have a particular job for it to do. The Pelikan M-1000 was a good example. At first I did not like the pen as the line was too broad and too juicy. Then a month later I went back to it and purposely lightened my touch on the pen. I learned to write a bit larger with it and now I use it every day o journal. It is smooth as glass, never hard starts or skips. I was out with family last night and was not able to be present for the live feed. I really miss hit as it is close to a pen club as I have access to. Thank you for all you do. Merry Christmas to you and yours.
I finally got the 146 flex, thanks to your experience i was prepared, the very first minute was jarring, first needle point, minute three i caught the rhythm, flex lift, flex lift... was a revelation, the feedback disappeared and was in love immediately. I've been through three fills in three days. The very same day i made a trip to the magna carter fctory and tried their mag 600 amongst others, great pen, true flex but the 146 writes finer and has a lot more edge difinition, i cracked a deal and will pick my 600 up in polished black ebonite in January. Well this is blowing up in a good way. I caught your show live in its last minute half asleep. Neways watching your show now with my cofee. Seasons greetings 😊
Thanks so much for the kind words and for watching! Thank you. I am glad that you had a great experience with the 146. It is amazing, and its own thing. I am glad you went for the Mag. Let me know what you think of it. Seasons Greetings!
At times, I do wonder if I am lying to myself when I think, I am not hungry for the next grail pen. I think this hobby has a problem where people talk about how amazing the feel of this pen or that pen is, so those of us without the pen are left wondering "what am I missing out on?" I do like switching between my pens but I also have a profession where I don't really get to write for work much, so I resort to journaling and writing letters so I can experience that joy. Sometimes I feel guilty that I have so many pens and very little chances to use them in one lifetime.
It’s a nice hobby. We could be doing self destructive things. I am glad you are finding joy in this. I think it’s good to enjoy them each when you can. Thanks for watching.
I have learned over the years to not chase dreams, but chase function. No matter how bad you may WANT something, if it doesn't fill a function better or uniquely, you will quickly lose all love for it. The functional you appreciate every time you use it without fail.
Agreed! Don’t chase dreams, chase inspiration. If an item does not immerse you in your passion, disregard it. Surround yourself in your aesthetic, you creativity and you can never go wrong.
This video topic was VERY timely for me. End of year work bonus has me on my own quest for the holy grail. I've actually turned to getting a couple of vintage pens rather than a single new grail & I'm super excited about it! 😊
So glad you touched on the whole "sometimes it isn't what you thought it would be" because that is certainly a risk when your expectations are so built up. I went through that with my Aurora Talentum that I wanted for 20 years, but it wasn't quite the same because I knew that about them. I just kept writing with it and learned to hold it, it loosened up and it was fine thereafter. My Sailor Pro Gear slim with a 21k nib on the other hand, I did not admit this to anyone but I struggled with it. It feels different than any other pen I have and in retrospect of course it does. It's so little and delicate with a nib that should be jewelry. I can't use it the same way as my collection of mostly broad, wet writing chonks. And again, of course I can't. I should have known this. It is now my journaling pen, because it demands a careful touch and a mindful pace in writing. Perfect for when you're trying to get some thinking done. Every pen is a purpose, I just had to find it.
I got one of the transparent 823 from Peyton Street a couple weeks ago. I definitely have an issue with buying new pens. All the sales at the end of the year made it hard to not buy some big hitting pens. My goal for the new year is to use my pens multiple times before I buy another pen.
I have a Pilot 823 broad nib. I enjoy it a lot! I did have to work on the nib. I wonder if I made a mistake when I first got the pen. Things I would do differently are: wash the nib; know more about the ink I was using (used a dry ink that was not wet enough, I may have over compensated for that. I decided to be satisfied with my pen and to focus on inks. I bought a lot of ink samples for my Christmas advent, and I am making my list for next year from that. I am looking forward to watching your seasonal depression video. I know being thankful is very powerful switch. I am thankful that I found your channel!
Thank you very much for the kind words and for watching. I’m glad you worked out the issue with the 823. Focusing on inks is brilliant. Well done! It gives you a lot of variety. Thanks so much for being here.
Love the idea for a coffee inks video. I have two myself: Herbin Cafe Des Iles, which I'm not biggest fan of. The color's not bad, but quite dry for my tastes, and Papier Plume Cafe Diabolique which I like quite a bit. Probably my favorite brown ink. I have it in my Indigo Bronze Eco and it's great in that pen.
I have the pilot vanishing fountain pen, Have trouble using them in a book because I'm left handed. But I have no problems writing on single sheets of paper punching four holes in them then putting them in the book after I get done writing right handed people for what I've seen have a lot less trouble writing on a book than I do the cost of the way the hens are positioned.
Have been putting $20 a week into my pen hobby for the last 15 years. Went on a "Budgeted Binge" a few weeks ago after a very long fast. It'll take months to get them all digested and can't wait. Been journaling to beat depression for almost 25 years. It has been extremely helpful. Can't wait to see that video also.
Special Edition Safari's can be grailish pens in that they are available for a short time (and are often ink matched with a special edition ink). If you miss out you have to go onto the secondary market.
Your comments about your old Jeep echoed my feelings about my 23-year-old Toyota Camry. I don't worry about it! My students don't get why I keep driving it. But it is very freeing to not worry about the car!
It’s so liberating having an older car. I envy you, My Friend. Merry Christmas and Much Love. Thanks for being part of this Channel. It makes me feel better knowing that you are here.
I recently bought four "grail" type fountain pens after getting hooked on fountain pens three years ago. They are all worth every penny. The biggest surprise for me is how much I love my Lamy 2000 (f). I bought it mostly because of my budget as it was a less expensive grail. But now, "I get it". Thanks Hem!
You see it’s power now! As sure as the True Grail gives life, a false grail will take it from you. Anyway, enough with the Indiana Jones references. You have chosen wisely! Great pen choice.
Hemingway this subject can fill up hours of video coverage. The concept of course differs from one buyer to another but each and everyone shares the same question which has to be answered in order not fall into a rabbit hole of endless collecting. The essencial question is "What does 'grail' exactly mean to the prospective buyer, to be more succint, why does it resonate with him (or her), which emotional or intellectual need does it fulfill, how will it be used (or hoarded)? Plenty of shrinks have written on the topic of collecting and I'm one who follows this literature. Is it the object or the chase that triggers exitement? Is it using the pens or simply the pleasure of possession and perhaps display? For me, although I've already got 9 high end fountain pens, the acquisition of a Sheaffer Legacy 1 or 2 takes me back to my folk's days when these writing instruments were in full glory. Wonderful topic for journaling which I shall begin. Thank you Hemingway, please more on collecting because I'm in.
Thanks for watching and for the inspiration. I am going to expand on this idea soon. I keep thinking of more dimensions to it. Maybe I’ll do a regular video on it. Thanks so much for watching.
Thought provoking. Brings to mind KD Lang’s Buddhist wisdom in “Constant Craving”. Or the wisdom from the New Testament, “Godliness with contentment is great gain.”
Super. Thank you, Hemmingway, for these helpful, redemptive thoughts. I am reminded in this connection of Commander Spok suggesting that to have is less rewarding to desire, but then again, of C.S. Lewis asking, if we knew our desire were unattainable, few of us would set out, and none finish. But, I do like having something hanging out there. A Namike urishi maki-e Emperor. What would happen to me if I got it (beside havoc wrought on my budget)? I would feel that I had to usee it all the time at home. I would worry about it if I left it at home. Smeagol's ring! But, I have to work Namiki representatives very kindly let me test it out when I attend the Ohio Pen Show. Kind, and canny.
Thanks very much! I do love the concept of leaving the Undiscovered Country. That one Grail floating out there as the ultimate desire, perhaps never attained, perhaps gained for a very special occasion. Thank you!
That also reminds me of this Churchill quote: "Every day you may make progress. Every step may be fruitful. Yet there will stretch out before you an ever-lengthening, ever-ascending, ever-improving path. You know you will never get to the end of the journey. But this, so far from discouraging, only adds to the joy and glory of the climb."
My first "grail pen" was more of a general category of fountain pens that aren't disposable; my first ever fountain pen was the disposable one from Bic, but they've since discontinued it, and resale sites like Amazon have jacked the price way up. So, I had to look for one that was in the same price range, but more durable. And miraculously, I found the Amazon Basics fountain pen. I received it as a birthday present not long after that, and I've been obsessed with fountain pens (and writing instruments in general) ever since. My girlfriend even gave me a quill pen for my birthday this year, and I love it! But on the subject of fountain pens again, my most recent purchase was the Sailor Shikiori PGS Vega, which I bought for myself as a birthday present this year, because I'm working on something related to the myth that the pen is themed around Edit to add (because I forgot) that between the Amazon Basics pen (which I've recently nicknamed Shadow) and the Vega, I also bought a Pilot Metropolitan
It's called a "grail" because it's the holy grail, right? So to me, the whole point is the quest. Looking for something super specific & rare gives me an excuse to go to pen shows & keep up with the pen community, without buying every cool thing I see. Once I've got the pen, it's not a grail anymore - even if it's my new favorite! The quest is over & nothing I can hold is truly a "holy grail".
I've been wanting the Pelikan M1000 for a while but just couldn't justify the price. In August I was inducted into the Martial Arts Hall of Fame and purchased the pen as a commemorative to the occasion and signed the induction paperwork with it.
I loved all of the Indiana Jones references! You are so right about never being satiated. I received my first fountain pen last Christmas and I clumsily tripped over a rock and fell flat on my face down the very deep rabbit hole. Where exactly does my grail pen live? When I think I've found it, I see someone recommend another pen and suddenly only that pen will make me happy. I've had to put myself on a very strict budget because the first thing they do when you reach the bottom of that hole is make you hand over your wallet. I really should have called the police. 😂 Hope you enjoy your journey to the next pen.
Thanks so much, Michelle. I am glad you enjoyed this episode. Everything you said here is true and so many people on YT are only here to sell you pens. It’s very tempting.
It's always felt strange to me that buying one is followed (often directly) by my brain saying "let's do that again." I may or may not have two 146's :)
This was such an enjoyable video, Hemingway. It's interesting you should mention Indiana Jones, since I just ordered a Conway Stewart Indiana Jones pen. I'm getting a fine nib, since I think that would go best with a pen that is small by today's standards but would have been considered normal size back in the 1930s. I'm aware that vintage pens tend to have finer nibs, so that should capture the aesthetic for me. It's interesting that "D" is your most problematic cursive letter to write. Mine happens to be "Q". I'm still trying to master writing "Q" without much success.
Thanks very much! I have an Indiana Jones pen too. It’s still in the box. Sadly, I need to send it back when I am done reviewing it. I am looking forward to filming with it. I am a huge Indiana Jones fan.
Getting my next Grail pen next week hopefully. The Visconti Homo Sapiens. I've already tried the 23kt Palladium nib so I know what is to come there, I'm very curious to feel how the materials feel in my hands and how heavy it is compared to my other pens. How different it feels than my ebonite pens and my celluloid. I am very excited!
@@HemingwayJones I will for sure Hemingway! How do you fill yours? Do you have a traveling inkwell? I have a Pineider one, but I've heard that the Homo Sapiens won't work with it very well. I ended up buying a Visconti one for my Homo Sapiens. I'd love to get the matching Lava one, but that is a pretty penny for just an inkwell.
I just fill it from the bottle. That inkwell is cool but then you go from ink bottle to ink well to fill. That’s a lot. I just go right from the bottle. All the best and congratulations again.
By the way the Pelikan M1000 is glorious, for me it is the European counterpart of a Sailor KOP, it is so juicy even though a medium, and lives up to its reputation of being glassy sooth.
I come and visit you every now and again, and I really liked this video. I am looking forward to seeing some of what you have coming along. As for Capital Cursive letters, the D… well it’s my first initial of my name… so I have some practice here, but the P (my last name…) I have yet to figure out a perfect P. So let’s trade 😂 email coming soon…..
Thank you, Denise! I appreciate your stopping by. I hope you enjoy what you find here and you are always welcome. Happy to trade letters. Thank you so much.
Enjoyed listening all the way through. First time I've had the chance. My better half is out of town. 😉 I consider myself very fortunate. Having acquired an 823 a couple of years ago, I still believe I have my ultimate grail pen. That's because a grail pen for me is primarily the pen that I love writing with the most. I just can't imagine another pen feeling better when I use it. I do appreciate artistry, but that's secondary for me. If it was a primary factor, & if money was no object, I think I'd go for a Wancher Dream Pen Raden--Light Pillar. What do you think of it?
Thanks so much for watching. I agree that the 823 is amazing and all you need. I don’t know that Dream Pen. I’ll have to look it up. Wish you all the best.
@@dutchessdoolittle7477 Medium. Just because at the time I thought medium was my clear favorite. Since then, I've become more adventurous in trying different sizes. However, I still think my 823's medium is perfect for me.
@@HemingwayJones Let me know what you think when you do. I have 2 of their less expensive models, having won one & having bought the other at half price as a "second." I can attest to their excellence!
Many good points about the grail pen, anyone who has not yet gotten their grail - pay attention.
Thank you!
After a break of many years, I have rediscovered my passion for fountain pens, inks and writing. Of course, again with the sweet and painful side effect of searching for the unique fountain pen. Today comes an Urushi from "Wancher Japan", the next Grail. And a little bird told me that something nice is coming from Japan for Christmas too... best regards from Germany.
Congratulations on an excellent pen! Thanks so much for watching and all the best!
I think the multiple quote from Last Crusade is the nerdiest thing I've heard on your channel so far, and I love it!
Haha! Nice and thanks! Remember it’s Hemingway Jones. That’s where it came from. Thanks!
19:23 I bought a TWSBI Diamond 580 in Prussian blue this year. Even with its modest price, it was still a non-holiday splurge for me. I bought in celebration of a work achievement.
You have chosen…. wisely! That is an excellent pen! Love it! Thanks for watching.
Very clever, entertaining, and informative shows! Enjoyed your using great Indiana Jones references to make thoughtful points. One of your most delightful! - Pam
Thank you, Pam! I appreciate the encouraging words and kindness. Thanks so much for watching. I’m also Glad that you enjoyed the Indy references. They were really apropos.
Hemmingway, equally enjoyable is the pleasure of gifting a pen to someone that will enjoy and make their own magic with this present.
Hear, hear! I should have mentioned that.
I love the way you talk about fountain pens it's something like poetic way to express your thoughts regarding wonderful writing tool Fountain pen.
Best regards
Thank you very much. I appreciate the kind comment I do my best to keep things entertaining. Thank you.
I have an appointment to pick out my Montblanc 146. I don’t talk about it but I’m so excited. I feel there is no one who will be able to understand how I can spend that much on a pen, especially when I have some nice pens already. I don’t want the moment or the experience to be spoiled by negativity. Everyone has their thing and mine happens to be pens right now. I feel it’s a pretty tame thing to want and enjoy.
I agree completely! Congratulations on an excellent choice and a wonderful pen! There is nothing wrong with celebrating a little bit with it in whatever form that is for you; a glass of wine, a slice of cake. Mark the moment and enjoy it. I am so very happy for you!
Thank you so much! I feel like I have “confessed” to an understanding, like-minded friend. Perhaps a pen of this calibre deserves both the wine, AND the cake! It will be our secret❤
Thank you Hemingway. A pleasure to watch as always. I hope to join the live next Tuesday night (12 pm Wednesday here in Australia), as I don’t have my usual commitment happening.
Thank you so much! It will be a please seeing you next week.
wonderful video. i love tea inks too! "send me your d pics, " 😂😂😂. may i suggest people sending in a pic of all their capitals? back to tea, i always suggest Taccia Benitsuchi because i was looking for a dark brew tea colored ink that had a rosy orange to it, Taccia misses the rosy aspect, but comes really close to me. it's just this, i sit at a restaurant table, order iced tea, and find myself staring at the colors in it and i want to write with that. you've convinced me not to be so negative towards people who buy $200 plus pens, you are right, everyone's heart needs what it needs, it's better than them hurting themselves with other addictions that cost a lot of money.
I knew I was in trouble when I said that D pic comment. Oh Boy. Walked right into it. I may do a video on tea inks. It would be lovely and fun. In fact, I am going to write that and film it right away. Thanks for the inspiration!
I’m really enjoying your channel. Thanks!!
Glad you enjoy it! Thank you!
I enjoyed the video, you said many things I often have thought or think. Merry Christmas to you
Thank you, Rob! Merry Christmas!
Can't wait for this Jan 4. Thank you!
I hope you like it. Thanks for watching.
I like your comment of setting a pen aside and then approaching it again to build a relationship with the pen. I have had a similar experience to what you describe, of learning to appreciate a pen I thought I did not like. I find that for me, that when I buy a pen, I need to have a particular job for it to do. The Pelikan M-1000 was a good example. At first I did not like the pen as the line was too broad and too juicy. Then a month later I went back to it and purposely lightened my touch on the pen. I learned to write a bit larger with it and now I use it every day o journal. It is smooth as glass, never hard starts or skips. I was out with family last night and was not able to be present for the live feed. I really miss hit as it is close to a pen club as I have access to. Thank you for all you do. Merry Christmas to you and yours.
Merry Christmas to you and your family and thanks for the kind words! That M1000 sounds amazing. You are tempting me.
I finally got the 146 flex, thanks to your experience i was prepared, the very first minute was jarring, first needle point, minute three i caught the rhythm, flex lift, flex lift... was a revelation, the feedback disappeared and was in love immediately. I've been through three fills in three days. The very same day i made a trip to the magna carter fctory and tried their mag 600 amongst others, great pen, true flex but the 146 writes finer and has a lot more edge difinition, i cracked a deal and will pick my 600 up in polished black ebonite in January. Well this is blowing up in a good way. I caught your show live in its last minute half asleep. Neways watching your show now with my cofee. Seasons greetings 😊
Thanks so much for the kind words and for watching! Thank you. I am glad that you had a great experience with the 146. It is amazing, and its own thing. I am glad you went for the Mag. Let me know what you think of it. Seasons Greetings!
At times, I do wonder if I am lying to myself when I think, I am not hungry for the next grail pen. I think this hobby has a problem where people talk about how amazing the feel of this pen or that pen is, so those of us without the pen are left wondering "what am I missing out on?" I do like switching between my pens but I also have a profession where I don't really get to write for work much, so I resort to journaling and writing letters so I can experience that joy. Sometimes I feel guilty that I have so many pens and very little chances to use them in one lifetime.
It’s a nice hobby. We could be doing self destructive things. I am glad you are finding joy in this. I think it’s good to enjoy them each when you can. Thanks for watching.
I have learned over the years to not chase dreams, but chase function.
No matter how bad you may WANT something, if it doesn't fill a function better or uniquely, you will quickly lose all love for it.
The functional you appreciate every time you use it without fail.
Agreed! Don’t chase dreams, chase inspiration. If an item does not immerse you in your passion, disregard it. Surround yourself in your aesthetic, you creativity and you can never go wrong.
That was a nice show HJ, thanks!
Thank you!
This video topic was VERY timely for me. End of year work bonus has me on my own quest for the holy grail. I've actually turned to getting a couple of vintage pens rather than a single new grail & I'm super excited about it! 😊
That sounds like an excellent choice. Well done.
So glad you touched on the whole "sometimes it isn't what you thought it would be" because that is certainly a risk when your expectations are so built up. I went through that with my Aurora Talentum that I wanted for 20 years, but it wasn't quite the same because I knew that about them. I just kept writing with it and learned to hold it, it loosened up and it was fine thereafter. My Sailor Pro Gear slim with a 21k nib on the other hand, I did not admit this to anyone but I struggled with it. It feels different than any other pen I have and in retrospect of course it does. It's so little and delicate with a nib that should be jewelry. I can't use it the same way as my collection of mostly broad, wet writing chonks. And again, of course I can't. I should have known this. It is now my journaling pen, because it demands a careful touch and a mindful pace in writing. Perfect for when you're trying to get some thinking done. Every pen is a purpose, I just had to find it.
Exactly! I’m glad it worked out for you in the end. All the best!
I got one of the transparent 823 from Peyton Street a couple weeks ago. I definitely have an issue with buying new pens. All the sales at the end of the year made it hard to not buy some big hitting pens. My goal for the new year is to use my pens multiple times before I buy another pen.
That sounds like a great plan and congratulations on a wonderful purchase! Don’t forget all the after Christmas sales as well! Oh boy!
I have a Pilot 823 broad nib. I enjoy it a lot! I did have to work on the nib. I wonder if I made a mistake when I first got the pen. Things I would do differently are: wash the nib; know more about the ink I was using (used a dry ink that was not wet enough, I may have over compensated for that.
I decided to be satisfied with my pen and to focus on inks. I bought a lot of ink samples for my Christmas advent, and I am making my list for next year from that.
I am looking forward to watching your seasonal depression video. I know being thankful is very powerful switch. I am thankful that I found your channel!
Thank you very much for the kind words and for watching. I’m glad you worked out the issue with the 823. Focusing on inks is brilliant. Well done! It gives you a lot of variety. Thanks so much for being here.
Love the idea for a coffee inks video. I have two myself: Herbin Cafe Des Iles, which I'm not biggest fan of. The color's not bad, but quite dry for my tastes, and Papier Plume Cafe Diabolique which I like quite a bit. Probably my favorite brown ink. I have it in my Indigo Bronze Eco and it's great in that pen.
I think you will see this one very soon. Thanks for encouragement! Thanks for watching.
I have the pilot vanishing fountain pen, Have trouble using them in a book because I'm left handed. But I have no problems writing on single sheets of paper punching four holes in them then putting them in the book after I get done writing right handed people for what I've seen have a lot less trouble writing on a book than I do the cost of the way the hens are positioned.
I can see that. You did a wonderful job coming up with a creative solution. Well done.
Brilliant that u set up videos with live chat in your absence. I will be there as I continue to seek my place in the fountain pen community
You are welcome here, My Friend. Make yourself at home. Yes! I like there to be something here for the Tuesday crowd whenever possible.
Have been putting $20 a week into my pen hobby for the last 15 years. Went on a "Budgeted Binge" a few weeks ago after a very long fast. It'll take months to get them all digested and can't wait.
Been journaling to beat depression for almost 25 years. It has been extremely helpful. Can't wait to see that video also.
Wonderful. I am glad that you are getting so much out of journaling. I am with you. Thanks so much for watching. All the best.
Special Edition Safari's can be grailish pens in that they are available for a short time (and are often ink matched with a special edition ink). If you miss out you have to go onto the secondary market.
Your comments about your old Jeep echoed my feelings about my 23-year-old Toyota Camry. I don't worry about it! My students don't get why I keep driving it. But it is very freeing to not worry about the car!
It’s so liberating having an older car. I envy you, My Friend. Merry Christmas and Much Love. Thanks for being part of this Channel. It makes me feel better knowing that you are here.
I recently bought four "grail" type fountain pens after getting hooked on fountain pens three years ago. They are all worth every penny. The biggest surprise for me is how much I love my Lamy 2000 (f). I bought it mostly because of my budget as it was a less expensive grail. But now, "I get it". Thanks Hem!
You see it’s power now! As sure as the True Grail gives life, a false grail will take it from you. Anyway, enough with the Indiana Jones references. You have chosen wisely! Great pen choice.
Hemingway this subject can fill up hours of video coverage. The concept of course differs from one buyer to another but each and everyone shares the same question which has to be answered in order not fall into a rabbit hole of endless collecting. The essencial question is "What does 'grail' exactly mean to the prospective buyer, to be more succint, why does it resonate with him (or her), which emotional or intellectual need does it fulfill, how will it be used (or hoarded)? Plenty of shrinks have written on the topic of collecting and I'm one who follows this literature. Is it the object or the chase that triggers exitement? Is it using the pens or simply the pleasure of possession and perhaps display?
For me, although I've already got 9 high end fountain pens, the acquisition of a Sheaffer Legacy 1 or 2 takes me back to my folk's days when these writing instruments were in full glory.
Wonderful topic for journaling which I shall begin.
Thank you Hemingway, please more on collecting because I'm in.
Thanks for watching and for the inspiration. I am going to expand on this idea soon. I keep thinking of more dimensions to it. Maybe I’ll do a regular video on it. Thanks so much for watching.
Thought provoking. Brings to
mind KD Lang’s Buddhist wisdom in “Constant Craving”. Or the wisdom from the New Testament, “Godliness with contentment is great gain.”
I am really glad you enjoyed it. Thank you.
Yeah I have no Grail pen choice. I have sold pens after being so excited for them. My 823, Mythos, Aero, 3776, VP, E95s, Nautilus the list goes on.
You are on the path to wisdom, My Friend! Thanks for watching.
Right, nobody influences me to get a pen. I'm an independent thinker. Mmmmm.... Pilot Custom 823.....
haha, so true! It really is excellent. I hope you are well, My Friend.
Super. Thank you, Hemmingway, for these helpful, redemptive thoughts. I am reminded in this connection of Commander Spok suggesting that to have is less rewarding to desire, but then again, of C.S. Lewis asking, if we knew our desire were unattainable, few of us would set out, and none finish. But, I do like having something hanging out there. A Namike urishi maki-e Emperor. What would happen to me if I got it (beside havoc wrought on my budget)? I would feel that I had to usee it all the time at home. I would worry about it if I left it at home. Smeagol's ring! But, I have to work Namiki representatives very kindly let me test it out when I attend the Ohio Pen Show. Kind, and canny.
Thanks very much! I do love the concept of leaving the Undiscovered Country. That one Grail floating out there as the ultimate desire, perhaps never attained, perhaps gained for a very special occasion. Thank you!
That also reminds me of this Churchill quote: "Every day you may make progress. Every step may be fruitful. Yet there will stretch out before you an ever-lengthening, ever-ascending, ever-improving path. You know you will never get to the end of the journey. But this, so far from discouraging, only adds to the joy and glory of the climb."
Love this.
A comment to boost the TH-cam algorithm!
Thanks so much! Very appreciated!
I am writing with a Hongdian C1 it cost £5. I am enjoying it. Never let people poo poo on your choices.
Agreed! Thanks for watching.
My first "grail pen" was more of a general category of fountain pens that aren't disposable; my first ever fountain pen was the disposable one from Bic, but they've since discontinued it, and resale sites like Amazon have jacked the price way up. So, I had to look for one that was in the same price range, but more durable. And miraculously, I found the Amazon Basics fountain pen. I received it as a birthday present not long after that, and I've been obsessed with fountain pens (and writing instruments in general) ever since.
My girlfriend even gave me a quill pen for my birthday this year, and I love it! But on the subject of fountain pens again, my most recent purchase was the Sailor Shikiori PGS Vega, which I bought for myself as a birthday present this year, because I'm working on something related to the myth that the pen is themed around
Edit to add (because I forgot) that between the Amazon Basics pen (which I've recently nicknamed Shadow) and the Vega, I also bought a Pilot Metropolitan
Wonderful pen journey!
It's called a "grail" because it's the holy grail, right?
So to me, the whole point is the quest. Looking for something super specific & rare gives me an excuse to go to pen shows & keep up with the pen community, without buying every cool thing I see.
Once I've got the pen, it's not a grail anymore - even if it's my new favorite! The quest is over & nothing I can hold is truly a "holy grail".
Yes indeed. The Holy Grail, the elusive search for something magical. You nailed it. Excellent commentary.
My wife got me a grail for Christmas... Montblanc Agatha Christie.
Congratulations on a wonderful pen! Awesome choice. Excellent gift!
I've been wanting the Pelikan M1000 for a while but just couldn't justify the price. In August I was inducted into the Martial Arts Hall of Fame and purchased the pen as a commemorative to the occasion and signed the induction paperwork with it.
Wow! Congratulations! That is a huge accomplishment and a wonderful way to celebrate it. Way to go.
♥️to your channel & I struggle with the letter F
♥️🖋️
Thank you so much! We’ll figure it out together.
Thanks, HJ! BTW, I think it's Scriveiner (-vein-like the things that run through our body).
Maybe, but I can’t say that! To me it’s just an alternate spelling. Thanks!
I loved all of the Indiana Jones references! You are so right about never being satiated. I received my first fountain pen last Christmas and I clumsily tripped over a rock and fell flat on my face down the very deep rabbit hole. Where exactly does my grail pen live? When I think I've found it, I see someone recommend another pen and suddenly only that pen will make me happy. I've had to put myself on a very strict budget because the first thing they do when you reach the bottom of that hole is make you hand over your wallet. I really should have called the police. 😂 Hope you enjoy your journey to the next pen.
Thanks so much, Michelle. I am glad you enjoyed this episode. Everything you said here is true and so many people on YT are only here to sell you pens. It’s very tempting.
I have my first Pilot custom 823 on the way from Pen Realm. I hope it’s everything I imagine.
It will be! It’s brilliant.
Why doesn't achieving a grail pen stop the desire for acquisition of more pens?
It's always felt strange to me that buying one is followed (often directly) by my brain saying "let's do that again." I may or may not have two 146's :)
Sometimes it does, sometimes it fires the neurons up for me purchases. It becomes a quest for the next high.
This was such an enjoyable video, Hemingway. It's interesting you should mention Indiana Jones, since I just ordered a Conway Stewart Indiana Jones pen. I'm getting a fine nib, since I think that would go best with a pen that is small by today's standards but would have been considered normal size back in the 1930s. I'm aware that vintage pens tend to have finer nibs, so that should capture the aesthetic for me.
It's interesting that "D" is your most problematic cursive letter to write. Mine happens to be "Q". I'm still trying to master writing "Q" without much success.
Thanks very much! I have an Indiana Jones pen too. It’s still in the box. Sadly, I need to send it back when I am done reviewing it. I am looking forward to filming with it. I am a huge Indiana Jones fan.
@@HemingwayJones Perhaps you will like it enough to decide to get your own.
I can keep this one and then pay for it. We’ll see! Sometimes I think they send them to me as a way to sell them! 😂
Getting my next Grail pen next week hopefully. The Visconti Homo Sapiens. I've already tried the 23kt Palladium nib so I know what is to come there, I'm very curious to feel how the materials feel in my hands and how heavy it is compared to my other pens. How different it feels than my ebonite pens and my celluloid. I am very excited!
Wonderful! An excellent choice. Bravo! Please let me know what you think when it arrives. Congratulations!
@@HemingwayJones I will for sure Hemingway! How do you fill yours? Do you have a traveling inkwell? I have a Pineider one, but I've heard that the Homo Sapiens won't work with it very well. I ended up buying a Visconti one for my Homo Sapiens. I'd love to get the matching Lava one, but that is a pretty penny for just an inkwell.
I just fill it from the bottle. That inkwell is cool but then you go from ink bottle to ink well to fill. That’s a lot. I just go right from the bottle. All the best and congratulations again.
@@HemingwayJones Thanks Hemingway!
By the way the Pelikan M1000 is glorious, for me it is the European counterpart of a Sailor KOP, it is so juicy even though a medium, and lives up to its reputation of being glassy sooth.
You’re tempting me! I am sure I will pick one up soon. Thanks!
I come and visit you every now and again, and I really liked this video. I am looking forward to seeing some of what you have coming along. As for Capital Cursive letters, the D… well it’s my first initial of my name… so I have some practice here, but the P (my last name…) I have yet to figure out a perfect P. So let’s trade 😂 email coming soon…..
Thank you, Denise! I appreciate your stopping by. I hope you enjoy what you find here and you are always welcome. Happy to trade letters. Thank you so much.
Another great video,I'm going to get the raven exfine piston carbon black ing.whats in yr rave frank in Oswego,ill
Wonderful! You have great taste.
@@HemingwayJonesyou to
Enjoyed listening all the way through. First time I've had the chance. My better half is out of town. 😉 I consider myself very fortunate. Having acquired an 823 a couple of years ago, I still believe I have my ultimate grail pen. That's because a grail pen for me is primarily the pen that I love writing with the most. I just can't imagine another pen feeling better when I use it. I do appreciate artistry, but that's secondary for me. If it was a primary factor, & if money was no object, I think I'd go for a Wancher Dream Pen Raden--Light Pillar. What do you think of it?
Thanks so much for watching. I agree that the 823 is amazing and all you need. I don’t know that Dream Pen. I’ll have to look it up. Wish you all the best.
I wonder what nib size you bought with your 823? Was there any reason for that nib size over others?
@@dutchessdoolittle7477 Medium. Just because at the time I thought medium was my clear favorite. Since then, I've become more adventurous in trying different sizes. However, I still think my 823's medium is perfect for me.
@@HemingwayJones Let me know what you think when you do. I have 2 of their less expensive models, having won one & having bought the other at half price as a "second." I can attest to their excellence!
You haven't mentioned it in a while, and now that I'm watching from France, I'm wondering what your international viewership stats look like?
I haven’t gone into stats. Maybe I will next week as an end of year thing. I didn’t think anyone was that interested. I am glad you are. I love stats.
I’d be interested to know how many other Brits (or UK based folk) are watching
I’d be interested, as I am in Australia, and wonder how many other Aussies are here.