In my humble opinion any version of the following iconic, trendsetting and most copied pens 1- Montblanc 149 2- Pelikan Tortoise 3- Parker Duofold 4- Visconti Homosapiens 5- Pilot 823 Love my broad nibbed 149 and agree it is The Pen.
Great video. I appreciate that you included the Lamy Safari for those of us who focus on the more affordable end of the fountain pen hobby, and I completely agree that their cursive nib is outstanding. Although the other pens are beyond my reach at this point, I sure enjoy seeing them in action through your videos. Many thanks.
Great video HJ, I’m chuffed as I must have good taste in that I have all the pens you presented if you swap the 149 for a 146. I don’t have a collection that runs into the 100s so when I do purchase a pen I research extensively. I love the M1000 and of course my 146, but at the moment my go to is the Visconti BA.
I prefer the smaller pens. I may try a Pelikan 200 but a 1000 is way too bulky for me. Same for Montblanc 149. I love my 146 (perfect size for me) and my Noblesses. Totally agree on the Pilot 823. Delicious. I lolled at the Visconti. You seriously could not pay me to use that. Parker caps are unmistakable. No sailor pro-gear? Not a fan myself but they are very iconic.
I have the Lamy. Good pen. My favorite is my Parker 51, purchased from a yard sale for $2 in the 1990s. I also got a Sheaffer Snorkel the same way ($5). The Parker is identical to yours. I sold the Snorkel for $95 a few years back, because it just wasn’t getting the use. Believe it or not, the pen I used most often was as a Pilot Varsity. They seemed to never run out of ink, and came in many colors. For the price ($3), you can’t really beat it-although it IS the ultimate beater.
I have no complaints. Possibly the M800 is more "iconic" than the M1000, but same difference, like. The 'Bronze Age' has really made a very quick journey to 'Iconic' stature, but I agree. It *is* iconic, already. There are of course other 'Iconic' pens, like Platinum 3776 for instance, and my list could possibly have looked slightly different, but I have no complaints, and as we know, there are only "five" days in a week. 😋
I don't collect fountain pens but I have the two Lamys on your list. I bought a 2000 in '79 and used it for years in college and at work. And I bought a Safari at Barnes & Nobel. They had a display of them by the checkout and I got hooked :) And now I want a Visconti ...
It's probably a bit controversial, but I think there's a serious case for the Parker 45: the pen that launched the cartridge/converter system, the dominant fill system. It was also in production for something like 47 years. Even though it sold by the 10s of millions, in the Coronet and TX versions, there are contenders for "grail" pens in terms of their rarity. Anyway, there are probably as many options on this as fountain pen fans. Thanks for a fun video that's brightened my week.
My “really nice pens” hover between $130 to $350. I have, maybe, 9 or 10 in that price range. My favorite “Classics” in my collection are my Pilot e95s/Elites , my Lamy 2000, my Waterman Carene, and my Sailor 1911L. I was going to get a Pilot Custom 843, but I didn’t want to deal with the more finicky cleaning, so I got the 743 instead. Also, the Pilot Falcon is a classic. I was lucky to snap up one of the last Kaweco Bronze Sports at Atlas Stationers. I dream about getting a Pelikan someday, but I probably need a new dishwasher more than I need a Pelikan!
@@TacticalJackalopeI don’t have a Go, but I just ordered my sixth Eco. My most expensive pen is that blue Opus 88 Jazz. I got it because it was an eyedropper, blue, my favorite color, and I can swap nibs, though I haven’t done so yet. I have an and it writes well. I like fine nibs, because I also buy cheap paper. TIP: WalMart has Meads, Five Star, and the next one down, but both have the plasticy covers, as does the Pen and Gears, which have thick smooth paper and work just as well. Right now, all those notebooks are on sale from 50 cents to 1.00. MY fountain pens write great on all of them. I take notes on things I’m studying, so I can’t justify spending a lot of money for paper, and you DON’T have to spend obscene amounts, to have paper that works well with fountain pens. I bought about 60 of them, because every time I’d go in there, they’d still have them, so I’d buy ten more. Last time I went two days ago, they were 50 cents, so I bought 20 more! Five Stars Composition notebooks are usually 3.25, so….I can’t pass up deals like that. Now I can take tons of frivolous notes on paper that words with fountain pens, and not feel guilty that I’m wasting paper.
@@Richard-1776 I had trouble with my cheapo 1.5 stub nib but Goulet Pen sent me a broad gratis. My only other TWISBI is the Swipe with a stub nib. That writes great. As for paper I bought some Exceed notebooks but they can be pricey. Long ago past taking notes I use the Eccola B6 notebook for my daily journal. I have noticed the Pen + Gear personal notebook. I bought several for $1.00.
I would like to submit the Pilot E95s, and I think the Pelikan M800 or M600 would be more iconic, as more people are likely to own those sizes. Of course, everyone's list will vary. Another great video.😊
I would have chosen some more true classics like The Parker 51: The Shaeffer PFM, and variations like the Legacy I or II. And which Waterman? And the Lamy 2000. (rather than the Safari). And the Pilot? In terms of longevity it has to be the Vanishing Point (or Capless).
I agree with your list except the Lamy safari, I don’t like sculpted grips but that’s just my preference. I would have added the Pilot Custom Urushi, the Sailor KOP, and the Namiki Emperor to your list. Maybe also the Delta DV.
Hi HJ! I have to agree with others that the Parker Duofold belongs on the list. Axe the Lamy 2000 and put the Duofold there! Good to see what is probably THE iconic FP, the Parker 51. Was the most stylish pen for years, and practically everyone tried to copy it.
Every time someone mentions the tiny lugs for capping on the Lamy 2000, I stop for a moment and think "What lugs?" Oh ... yes! I commend you for mentioning the Lamy Safari. There are very few simple but original designs. It cops a lot of flak from some reviewers. Yet it is one of the few very original designs in fountain pens. This is a great set of choices for iconic pens. I try not to think about the loss of my Parker 51 left to me by my grandfather.
When I think of iconic, there's others that readily come to me. The Sheaffer's Balance. The inspiration for every "cigar" shaped pen out there. The Parker 51 does come to mind, as you mentioned. Was a worldwide best seller for decades, and copied by everyone. Definitely the vintage version, and I highly recommend the version you showed, the Vacumatic. Far better than the Aerometric, in my humble opinion. But, also another iconic design of the 1940s that still has a version that's good: the Wahl-Eversharp Skyline. Over the top Art Deco design, incredible nibs. The top seller of 1945, beating even the Parker 51. And Esterbrook. Not the modern Jowo nib holders, but the J series. In their years of production, they easily rival the LAMY Safari. Indestructible, around 70+ nib options, and budget friendly even today (they were $38 in today's money, new, and restored, can be found for $60-$70 today. Plenty of kids owned them for school. )
Icons that use these Icons 😮 Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II - Parker 51 President John F. Kennedy - Montblanc 149 British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher -- Pelican M100 Neil Gaiman - Pilot Custom This is really amazing! 😮 You and your channel are truly the most accurate ...you really nailed it with listing the iconic pens! I could just give you a trophy right now. Thank you for this video, Sir.
Pilot Custom 823 is the smoothest pen I have come across. I only have some complaints with its vacuum filler, which for me has some alignment issues. But still this is my go to pen when I have to write for long duration.
I am using the Pelikan 800 in the Ocean Swirl with a medium nib a great writer,I also have a Montblanc Starwalker with a medium nib.On my wish list is the Montblanc 149 and I see Pelikan is coming out with a new 1000 model called Blue Cream a real nice looking pen.
Can't argue with anything on your list, Hemingway. Each of those represents some important part of the fountain pen world. The only one of these that I own is a Safari, though all the others are interesting. Thanks for the video!
I think about the vibe I want to convey and then I seek it out. I have a bunch of photography coffee table books and I often use those because you can quickly and easily change up the backgrounds for variety. I often use maps because I can wipe ink from them and I use prints. It depends on the theme.
Lamy Safari works with all inks. ALL ! You are never going to have trouble with dry inks, shimmering ones, fluid ones.......MB 149 : for holding it you need XXXL hands.
When you mentioned the Lamy Safari I thought you did a low blow to the 2000. Was I positively surprised by the end of your vid! It truly deserves a place amongst the greats. My soft spot for that design speaks up I guess. Did you ever try the stainless steel version? Would love to have your take on that one ...
I might agree with a couple of your choices, but here are mine. The Red Doufold, Parker “51”, Waterman 52, Parker 75. The 75 was the American version of the Meisterstuk. It appeared in advertisements and to me looked like a lofty pen a successful adult would have. The grid pattern was perfect. So much like the profit and loss charts seen in the board rooms of great capitalists. It also deserves veneration as it kept fountain pens in the back of our minds when we were all using ball points.
Excellent list and fun topic! I would consider the Kaweco Sport a truly iconic pen, being one of the original and most recognizable pocket pens. Also I’d give an honorable mention to the Parker 45 for popularizing cartridge/converters.
I have always loved the inlaid nib of the Sheaffer Imperial 444. My father used one and I thought it was a beautiful pen. That nib makes the pen iconic. The Parker Duofold should also be in the list. Both of these pens would easily push the Lamy Safari out of my list. But the other pens in your list would be hard to displace... a very good list. The most iconic would have to be the 149. After using a family heirloom 149 for over a decade, I retired it so my children can be the next generation to use it. I tried a pilot falcon and a 912 with an FA nib, both lovely pens... but it wasn't the same. So, I bought a new 149 that I didn't have to worry about. I rarely use another pen.
Good evening, I always enjoy your reviews and impressions. But. here I miss the Kaweco Sport, it’s unique design and versatility should earn a place as most iconic!
Sorry I’m late on this one,we got a chance to get away for a few days and seized it. A Great Vid. I watched it twice! Your choices are spot on for the “ iconic “ category from my perspective. Of course as others have pointed out the list needs to be longer. I am exceedingly jealous of your beautiful grey early P51. I wonder if the “Blue Diamond Lifetime” Warrenty is still good? My daily 51 is a Mark I, type 2 Burgundy, Lustraloy cap 1953ish Aerometric.
Great choices. Thanks for your content; it is always enjoyable. If we understand iconic by its cultural impact, quality, and value, having fun going in another direction, I would nominate the Twisby Eco, the Platinum Preppy, and just give it another decade or so; the Hongdian Blackforest is getting there. I wish I could add the pilot Kokuno, but maybe it's not as widely known and loved, but it should, it definitely should, what a great pen. Way to go Lamy, the only br@brand with two on the list and most pen enthusiasts will agree on their iconic status.
Good Choices. I'm not sure an Al-Star is a Safari though. Visconti nibs are much improved these days but were they any more sketchy than the other high end pens excluding MB? I sent plenty of Pelikans to Nibmiersters for a tune up.
would’ve included an Aurora88Big(they make their own nibs and they’re a whole lot better at quality control than Visconti!), a Sailor Pro Gear and a Platinum 3776(which I think is the best selling entry level gold nibbed fp in Japan with it’s unbeatable in house no.6 sized nib - there’s something about the aesthetics of this fp that just works: mine’s the Chartres bleu model w rhodium trim and an incredible EF nib that just makes me want to write!; thanks for this:)
Nice video. I have large hands and very much enjoy writing with a 149 or the M800. I usually grab one of my M800's or a 146, I don't think that the slightly smaller models give up anything to the larger pens. I think that with Montblanc and Pelikan I would recommend the finer nibs as both of these companies provide a larger amount of tipping material than the designation on the nib would indicate. Montblanc and Pelikan make wonderful pens. I have yet to pick up a Homo Sapiens Bronze Age, I have considered purchasing one for the past decade. Do you find the Power Filler to be better / superior to the vac system on Vac Filler Pens such as the Pilot Custom 823 or are we pretty much comparing Apples to Apples?
Thanks for the great comment. I feel that they are about the same. They both seem to work. With the HS, you cannot see how much ink is in there. So, you hope, and it always works. Thanks!
Impossible to argue with this list. I might trade the 51 for the Snorkel. And being a snob, I would trade the Safari for a DuoFold. Interestingly, though I've spent enough to buy them all, I own none. Though my 1911 KoP is aesthetically identical to the 149. A ripoff, honestly.
Oh boy, I enjoy most of these pens; only missing the Parker and 149 (the 146 suits me well atm, but the 149 is on my Christmas wish list). I think you pulled together an accurate list but maybe I’d add a TWSBI vac 700R, although not at the expense of your top 5. Always a pleasure to watch, and so beautifully edited!
Great program. What I will say may NOT be popular. I have bought at least 12 less expensive pens ( ~$ 30 to $ 200 ). Most of these cheaper pens end up in the garbage for various reasons. I would suggest that it may be best to SAVE UP your money and buy a small number of very, very good quality pens ( Mont Blanc, Pelikan etc ). You will be much HAPPIER in the long run !! Thank you RS. Canada
823 is a great pen, but i would argue the pilot Vanishing Point is the most iconic fountain pen that they make They invented the retractable fountain pen
Is that the Yin Yu Tang house at the Peabody Museum you are wondering through at the end of the video? Always appreciate the robust, firm delivery in these videos.
I own many of these and agree with your selections--except the Visconti. Quality control issues is a knock out for me. I would never buy a product known to have issues.
Hello, my 5 sets are related to the purpose: for a complex business meeting, a Parker 51 Aerometric steel/black with a 0.9 mm lead pencil and a Parker 1963 black steel four-colour ballpoint pen made in Germany. The whole set has a Bauhaus design. This set is accompanied by a JUNGHANS MEISTER AGENDA. All black steel. For a meeting outside the office, a MB 146 platinum black set with a ballpoint pen and a 0.7 mm lead pencil. This set is accompanied by a REVUE THOMEN LE CLUB. For outdoor use, a KAWECO SPORT STAINLESS STEEL set, ballpoint pen and 0.7 mm pencil. This set is accompanied by a LONGINES ZULU TIME 39 mm. For office work, a SHAEFER PFM MK 5 black set, accompanied by a LONGINES FLAGSHIP 1967 gold black leather strap. Finally, the most complete 4-piece set is a black-gold MB 146 that includes an MB highlighter that fits the set. Without a doubt, the most reliable set is the one that includes the PARKER 51 Aerometric. The complete set works perfectly and always, it has never failed as has happened to me with the MB 149 that have been repaired several times. All sets have their leather and branded cases.
Hello, I watch your show from Chile and I enjoy it. I have been a collector of sets for 40 years. It has taken me up to 15 years to complete a set of ballpoint pen, pencil (when it exists) and lead pencil. Your videos got me started in journaling. I currently write three journals. Greetings now from the Dominican Republic and I bring with me my KAWECO SPORT SS set and the LONGINES ZULU TIME green visor.
It depends on the paper and the flow of your writing Fine nibs tend to give more feedback but are less likely to bleed or ghost If you use high quality paper then medium would do jes’ fine😂
Hello and thanks for watching! Personally, I like their large flows mediums, but a lot of this is on preference. I don’t think you could go wrong with Fine either. I would make sure your pen seller makes sure it is a nice nib for you before shipping. Wish you all the best with this exciting purchase!
This kind of list is fraught with danger because there is so much interpretation and personal preference. And, of course, there is the world of vintage pens. I agree with you on the Pelikan m1000. I even agree on the Montblanc 149, though it holds no appeal for me. Also agreed on the Parker 51, though, again, it's not one of my favorites. And, of course, the Lamy 2000 is quite iconic. Others I thought of were mostly vintage: Waterman's Ideal 52, original Parker Duofold, Sheaffer Legacy.
In terms of icons, I’m with you on the 149, Lamy Safari and 2000, the Parker 51 and possibly the Pilot 823 - but not on the Pelikan or the Visconti. I agree they’re good pens, but icons? No - at least not from my southern hemisphere perspective. Pelikan make great pens; and their following is significant- especially since the Pelikan Hubs- but they have not, IMO, reached icon status here. If I was to include Visconti, quality consistency aside, and it’s a divisive brand, their Divina is more the icon; and the base Homosapiens the workhorse. As for the 823, great pen it may be, but I’m not sure if that is the icon or the Vanishing Point and/or MYU. Have you missed any? Possibly the Sailor KOP in Ebonite, and definitely the Kaweco Sports.Thankyou for posting- much appreciated.
While the 149 is a great classic pen I will never own one. I work in industrial jobs. I have to stick with the cheaper clones because I don't want a pen that I can't take everywhere with me.
I own a 149, I take with me to work just fine. It is is very durable, srew on cap that stays put, doesn't dry out. It's a great pen for work work. But a grail pen/icon isn't something I would ever take to work. Thats a pen you keep at home or ok a trip. Something you really enjoy. You are doing yourself a disservice not owning one.
@nope8535 Boy, aren't you special. Happy with your 5 seconds of fame? Want a sucker to make you feel better? Just say you are broke, actually don't. We don't care.
@@HemingwayJones You're right, when it comes to different pen brands, there are pen manufacturers that get less attention than others. This is certainly an interesting way to approach the subject. Personally, I was thinking more of just fountain pens. The most often ignored, forgotten and underrated fountain pens could be as follows, I think: - Waterman Expert, but as well as Hemispheré - Parker Sonnet is on my choice, however Urban maybe will suit to this list even more better, expecially 2016 updated version - KaWeCo Dia; - what is this pen!? - Cross Century II. In fact, all Cross pens. Townsend and Peerless are sometimes mentioned , but Century never. Century is a little bit older model, but still very usefull. - Pilotti Kaküno, KaWeCo Perceo or Lamy Nexx. Of course, they are aimed at younger people, but they fits wonderful well in an adult's hand also. I don't like the Lamy Vista/Safari/Al pen at much, I prefer Lamy Nexx much more and I think, that Nexx is perhaps the best fountain pen in the Lamy family.
I have recently been buying vintage pens: Pelikan, Waterman, Mabie Todd, Montblanc, and Wahl. In my opinion, they write better and have better nibs than anything on the current market. And, unfortunately, I bought lots of current pens. I don’t see myself ever buying anything but vintage from here on out.
That’s a valid strategy. The only negative I can think of in regards to vintage pens, in my personal experience, is that they tend to be more delicate and require more maintenance. For writing, they are awesome! I should do a video on this. Thanks so much!
Still pondering which base you were using for counting. Or maybe it isn't the base but the dimension you are inhabiting? Do you ever find yourself rolling toward the middle of your space? 😂. Great choices. While I have a couple Lamys they are not my go to pens. You may have piqued my interest in a higher Dali Lamy though.
Good selection of iconic pens and why they are iconic. I personally have never liked the Pilot 823, but that has to do with its visual appeal. To me it is very generic and boring. I'll grant it's a wonderful writer, but so are some other great pens whose visual and tactile appeal put the 823 out of contention. I realize pens, like many other things, are a matter of individual preference; it's just not mine.
In my humble opinion any version of the following iconic, trendsetting and most copied pens
1- Montblanc 149
2- Pelikan Tortoise
3- Parker Duofold
4- Visconti Homosapiens
5- Pilot 823
Love my broad nibbed 149 and agree it is The Pen.
I think vintage Sheaffer Balance and vintage Parker Duofold Big Red belongs on this list.
Currently the vintage Parker Duofold is on my wish list
I agree but i would ad to the list Eversharp Skyline and Sheaffer Snorkell
So many deserving of mention.
The new sheaffers are rubbish.
Love my vintage Parker '51. So smooth. A joy to write with.
which nib I may ask..gold/steel & med/fine?
The Waterman you purchased recently would have made a perfect choice for this video in my opinion.
Great video HJ!
Thank you very much!
Lisa
Great video. I appreciate that you included the Lamy Safari for those of us who focus on the more affordable end of the fountain pen hobby, and I completely agree that their cursive nib is outstanding. Although the other pens are beyond my reach at this point, I sure enjoy seeing them in action through your videos. Many thanks.
Thank you so much! The Safari is a wonderful pen. I have so much respect and affection for it.
Great video HJ, I’m chuffed as I must have good taste in that I have all the pens you presented if you swap the 149 for a 146. I don’t have a collection that runs into the 100s so when I do purchase a pen I research extensively. I love the M1000 and of course my 146, but at the moment my go to is the Visconti BA.
I'd argue the Kaweco Sport and the Pilot Elite are absolutely iconic.
You know there will be a Part 2!
@@HemingwayJones I had not reckoned with the Hemingway Jones system of enumeration! 😄
I prefer the smaller pens. I may try a Pelikan 200 but a 1000 is way too bulky for me. Same for Montblanc 149. I love my 146 (perfect size for me) and my Noblesses. Totally agree on the Pilot 823. Delicious. I lolled at the Visconti. You seriously could not pay me to use that. Parker caps are unmistakable. No sailor pro-gear? Not a fan myself but they are very iconic.
Oh year, Sailor would be an excellent addition!
Quite true. I enjoy the Waterman Carene as well. Love the design and how it writes! 😊
I have the Lamy. Good pen. My favorite is my Parker 51, purchased from a yard sale for $2 in the 1990s. I also got a Sheaffer Snorkel the same way ($5). The Parker is identical to yours. I sold the Snorkel for $95 a few years back, because it just wasn’t getting the use.
Believe it or not, the pen I used most often was as a Pilot Varsity. They seemed to never run out of ink, and came in many colors. For the price ($3), you can’t really beat it-although it IS the ultimate beater.
I like my Parker 51s. They are a piece of history. I have 3 of them. Also like my Parker 45s. Easy to service these.
I think the Lamy stub nib is great, too. I have one. The nibs are great, too.
Sheaffer Triumph/inlaid nib with snorkel mechanism definitely belongs here
I love my Bronze Age. My favourite fountain pen and my most used.
I have no complaints. Possibly the M800 is more "iconic" than the M1000, but same difference, like.
The 'Bronze Age' has really made a very quick journey to 'Iconic' stature, but I agree. It *is* iconic, already.
There are of course other 'Iconic' pens, like Platinum 3776 for instance, and my list could possibly have looked slightly different, but I have no complaints, and as we know, there are only "five" days in a week. 😋
Exactly. You know how I count! I may do a part two. There weee great suggestions in the comments.
I have an excellent condition Mont Blanc 146 circa 1990 with brass piston. Its lovely!
Wonderful!
I don't collect fountain pens but I have the two Lamys on your list. I bought a 2000 in '79 and used it for years in college and at work. And I bought a Safari at Barnes & Nobel. They had a display of them by the checkout and I got hooked :) And now I want a Visconti ...
It's probably a bit controversial, but I think there's a serious case for the Parker 45: the pen that launched the cartridge/converter system, the dominant fill system. It was also in production for something like 47 years. Even though it sold by the 10s of millions, in the Coronet and TX versions, there are contenders for "grail" pens in terms of their rarity.
Anyway, there are probably as many options on this as fountain pen fans. Thanks for a fun video that's brightened my week.
I agree! The 45 really modernised fountain pens as a whole, and even now is a well built, solid writer that works better than most modern
My “really nice pens” hover between $130 to $350. I have, maybe, 9 or 10 in that price range. My favorite “Classics” in my collection are my Pilot e95s/Elites , my Lamy 2000, my Waterman Carene, and my Sailor 1911L. I was going to get a Pilot Custom 843, but I didn’t want to deal with the more finicky cleaning, so I got the 743 instead. Also, the Pilot Falcon is a classic. I was lucky to snap up one of the last Kaweco Bronze Sports at Atlas Stationers. I dream about getting a Pelikan someday, but I probably need a new dishwasher more than I need a Pelikan!
The E95S is such a beautiful writer and unique pen. The burgundy and gold is gorgeous! Great nib
I got a Twisbi Go and used the saved money on groceries.
Ha! So did I but then I ended up with a Twsbi Diamond 580AL and a Twsbi Vac 700R!
@@TacticalJackalopeI don’t have a Go, but I just ordered my sixth Eco. My most expensive pen is that blue Opus 88 Jazz. I got it because it was an eyedropper, blue, my favorite color, and I can swap nibs, though I haven’t done so yet. I have an and it writes well. I like fine nibs, because I also buy cheap paper. TIP: WalMart has Meads, Five Star, and the next one down, but both have the plasticy covers, as does the Pen and Gears, which have thick smooth paper and work just as well. Right now, all those notebooks are on sale from 50 cents to 1.00. MY fountain pens write great on all of them. I take notes on things I’m studying, so I can’t justify spending a lot of money for paper, and you DON’T have to spend obscene amounts, to have paper that works well with fountain pens. I bought about 60 of them, because every time I’d go in there, they’d still have them, so I’d buy ten more. Last time I went two days ago, they were 50 cents, so I bought 20 more! Five Stars Composition notebooks are usually 3.25, so….I can’t pass up deals like that. Now I can take tons of frivolous notes on paper that words with fountain pens, and not feel guilty that I’m wasting paper.
@@Richard-1776 I had trouble with my cheapo 1.5 stub nib but Goulet Pen sent me a broad gratis. My only other TWISBI is the Swipe with a stub nib. That writes great. As for paper I bought some Exceed notebooks but they can be pricey. Long ago past taking notes I use the Eccola B6 notebook for my daily journal. I have noticed the Pen + Gear personal notebook. I bought several for $1.00.
Another excellent video. Thank you!
I would like to submit the Pilot E95s, and I think the Pelikan M800 or M600 would be more iconic, as more people are likely to own those sizes. Of course, everyone's list will vary. Another great video.😊
All good choices. You know I will be making a Part 2.
I would have chosen some more true classics like The Parker 51: The Shaeffer PFM, and variations like the Legacy I or II. And which Waterman? And the Lamy 2000. (rather than the Safari). And the Pilot? In terms of longevity it has to be the Vanishing Point (or Capless).
I agree with your list except the Lamy safari, I don’t like sculpted grips but that’s just my preference. I would have added the Pilot Custom Urushi, the Sailor KOP, and the Namiki Emperor to your list. Maybe also the Delta DV.
Hi HJ! I have to agree with others that the Parker Duofold belongs on the list. Axe the Lamy 2000 and put the Duofold there! Good to see what is probably THE iconic FP, the Parker 51. Was the most stylish pen for years, and practically everyone tried to copy it.
Every time someone mentions the tiny lugs for capping on the Lamy 2000, I stop for a moment and think "What lugs?" Oh ... yes! I commend you for mentioning the Lamy Safari. There are very few simple but original designs. It cops a lot of flak from some reviewers. Yet it is one of the few very original designs in fountain pens. This is a great set of choices for iconic pens. I try not to think about the loss of my Parker 51 left to me by my grandfather.
I'm glad you appreciate the Safari, it's one of my favorites! That Parker 51 was very special. Sorry for that. It’s tough when these things happen.
Awesome selection on pens. For me, it is fun when you do this sort of video. Thank you.
You are so welcome! I’m sure I’ll do another.
LAMY 2000 - I took that nib ring out and never looked back. Cap still snug… love it.
When I think of iconic, there's others that readily come to me. The Sheaffer's Balance. The inspiration for every "cigar" shaped pen out there. The Parker 51 does come to mind, as you mentioned. Was a worldwide best seller for decades, and copied by everyone. Definitely the vintage version, and I highly recommend the version you showed, the Vacumatic. Far better than the Aerometric, in my humble opinion.
But, also another iconic design of the 1940s that still has a version that's good: the Wahl-Eversharp Skyline. Over the top Art Deco design, incredible nibs. The top seller of 1945, beating even the Parker 51.
And Esterbrook. Not the modern Jowo nib holders, but the J series. In their years of production, they easily rival the LAMY Safari. Indestructible, around 70+ nib options, and budget friendly even today (they were $38 in today's money, new, and restored, can be found for $60-$70 today. Plenty of kids owned them for school. )
Icons that use these Icons 😮
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II - Parker 51
President John F. Kennedy - Montblanc 149
British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher -- Pelican M100
Neil Gaiman - Pilot Custom
This is really amazing! 😮 You and your channel are truly the most accurate ...you really nailed it with listing the iconic pens! I could just give you a trophy right now.
Thank you for this video, Sir.
Pilot Custom 823 is the smoothest pen I have come across. I only have some complaints with its vacuum filler, which for me has some alignment issues. But still this is my go to pen when I have to write for long duration.
Pilot custom 743 is exactly same but with cartridge convertor
Montblanc 149 is one of my grail pens
Thank you for the Roy Batty quote from Blade Runner when you were writing with the Pelikan M1000.
Montegrappa Extra is of my favorite grail pens!
Wonderful!
Enjoyed that a lot. 2 others that I’d recommend are Sailor King of Pen, Pro Gear with the flat finials & Conid Bulkfiller
I am using the Pelikan 800 in the Ocean Swirl with a medium nib a great writer,I also have a Montblanc Starwalker with a medium nib.On my wish list is the Montblanc 149 and I see Pelikan is coming out with a new 1000 model called Blue Cream a real nice looking pen.
Can't argue with anything on your list, Hemingway. Each of those represents some important part of the fountain pen world. The only one of these that I own is a Safari, though all the others are interesting. Thanks for the video!
Yes! The legendary Sheaffers Pen for Men, Imperial or Legacy I and II.
I think you got them all. How do you choose your backgrounds for when you're writing, do you just flip through magazines?
I think about the vibe I want to convey and then I seek it out. I have a bunch of photography coffee table books and I often use those because you can quickly and easily change up the backgrounds for variety. I often use maps because I can wipe ink from them and I use prints. It depends on the theme.
Lamy Safari works with all inks. ALL ! You are never going to have trouble with dry inks, shimmering ones, fluid ones.......MB 149 : for holding it you need XXXL hands.
When you mentioned the Lamy Safari I thought you did a low blow to the 2000. Was I positively surprised by the end of your vid! It truly deserves a place amongst the greats. My soft spot for that design speaks up I guess. Did you ever try the stainless steel version? Would love to have your take on that one ...
I might agree with a couple of your choices, but here are mine. The Red Doufold, Parker “51”, Waterman 52, Parker 75. The 75 was the American version of the Meisterstuk. It appeared in advertisements and to me looked like a lofty pen a successful adult would have. The grid pattern was perfect. So much like the profit and loss charts seen in the board rooms of great capitalists. It also deserves veneration as it kept fountain pens in the back of our minds when we were all using ball points.
Hello My Friend. There is always a Part 2! Thanks for this great and informative comment.
Excellent list and fun topic! I would consider the Kaweco Sport a truly iconic pen, being one of the original and most recognizable pocket pens. Also I’d give an honorable mention to the Parker 45 for popularizing cartridge/converters.
I have always loved the inlaid nib of the Sheaffer Imperial 444. My father used one and I thought it was a beautiful pen. That nib makes the pen iconic. The Parker Duofold should also be in the list. Both of these pens would easily push the Lamy Safari out of my list. But the other pens in your list would be hard to displace... a very good list. The most iconic would have to be the 149. After using a family heirloom 149 for over a decade, I retired it so my children can be the next generation to use it. I tried a pilot falcon and a 912 with an FA nib, both lovely pens... but it wasn't the same. So, I bought a new 149 that I didn't have to worry about. I rarely use another pen.
I am sure I’ll do a follow up. Thanks!
Good evening, I always enjoy your reviews and impressions. But. here I miss the Kaweco Sport, it’s unique design and versatility should earn a place as most iconic!
You make excellent points and I do love that pen! Thank you. Hmmm. Part II.
Thanks for this interesting video! I find fountain pens to be an incredible blend of practical tool, engineering, art, and history.
Thank you!
Thanks a lot for describing Parker fountain Pen.
Great video HJ, thanks!
Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you!
Sorry I’m late on this one,we got a chance to get away for a few days and seized it. A Great Vid. I watched it twice! Your choices are spot on for the “ iconic “ category from my perspective. Of course as others have pointed out the list needs to be longer. I am exceedingly jealous of your beautiful grey early P51. I wonder if the “Blue Diamond Lifetime” Warrenty is still good? My daily 51 is a Mark I, type 2 Burgundy, Lustraloy cap 1953ish Aerometric.
Nice work, pretty hard to keep it at only 5, there have been so many great fountain pens.
Thanks! You know I’ll do a part two!
Great list but I would add an Aurora 88, black with a sterling silver cap, And call me crazy but a Scheaffer vacum filler would also be on my list.
I would include the Platinum 3776 and the Sailor Professional Gear Realo in the list
Brilliant. There will be a follow up.
Great choices. Thanks for your content; it is always enjoyable. If we understand iconic by its cultural impact, quality, and value, having fun going in another direction, I would nominate the Twisby Eco, the Platinum Preppy, and just give it another decade or so; the Hongdian Blackforest is getting there. I wish I could add the pilot Kokuno, but maybe it's not as widely known and loved, but it should, it definitely should, what a great pen.
Way to go Lamy, the only br@brand with two on the list and most pen enthusiasts will agree on their iconic status.
I would have included the Delta DolceVita amomg the icons and the Aurora 88 before a Visconti with its history of questionable nibs.
Great video once again! Thanks for your content - Montblanc 149 is my grail pen.
I still write with my pair of Parker Duofold Seniors made in 1926. I think the Duofolds should have made this list.
I think so too! I’m sure there will be a follow up.
I don't have the MB149 or the Homo sapiens, but I have the others and agree with your analysis. I'd add the Yard-o-Led Victorian Grand to the list.
Certainly can't argue with your list, but although modern and limited, I believe the Lambrou Classic Pens LB5 has earned iconic status.
I love Lamy Safaris I now have 5 of them. I love that i have no fear in throwing one in my backpack or in my pocket on a hike.
The last day of the Orlando Pen show a vendor was selling Lamy’s for $15. I still didn’t buy one 🤷🏽♀️🤷🏽♀️#teamtwisbi
Great presentation
Thank you!
Good Choices. I'm not sure an Al-Star is a Safari though. Visconti nibs are much improved these days but were they any more sketchy than the other high end pens excluding MB? I sent plenty of Pelikans to Nibmiersters for a tune up.
would’ve included an Aurora88Big(they make their own nibs and they’re a whole lot better at quality control than Visconti!), a Sailor Pro Gear and a Platinum 3776(which I think is the best selling entry level gold nibbed fp in Japan with it’s unbeatable in house no.6 sized nib - there’s something about the aesthetics of this fp that just works: mine’s the Chartres bleu model w rhodium trim and an incredible EF nib that just makes me want to write!; thanks for this:)
For Pilot I would have picked the Vanishing Point.
There is a video coming soon you will love it
@@HemingwayJones Nice.
Nice video. I have large hands and very much enjoy writing with a 149 or the M800. I usually grab one of my M800's or a 146, I don't think that the slightly smaller models give up anything to the larger pens. I think that with Montblanc and Pelikan I would recommend the finer nibs as both of these companies provide a larger amount of tipping material than the designation on the nib would indicate. Montblanc and Pelikan make wonderful pens. I have yet to pick up a Homo Sapiens Bronze Age, I have considered purchasing one for the past decade. Do you find the Power
Filler to be better / superior to the vac system on Vac Filler Pens such as the Pilot Custom 823 or are we pretty much comparing Apples to Apples?
Thanks for the great comment. I feel that they are about the same. They both seem to work. With the HS, you cannot see how much ink is in there. So, you hope, and it always works. Thanks!
I would argue that Omas has models that deserve to be on this list.
I love Omas! I am going to do a Part 2 of this!
Pilot Custom 823 The best!!
Impossible to argue with this list. I might trade the 51 for the Snorkel. And being a snob, I would trade the Safari for a DuoFold.
Interestingly, though I've spent enough to buy them all, I own none. Though my 1911 KoP is aesthetically identical to the 149. A ripoff, honestly.
Oh boy, I enjoy most of these pens; only missing the Parker and 149 (the 146 suits me well atm, but the 149 is on my Christmas wish list). I think you pulled together an accurate list but maybe I’d add a TWSBI vac 700R, although not at the expense of your top 5. Always a pleasure to watch, and so beautifully edited!
Pilot Capless/Vanishing Point was missing from the list :)
Great program. What I will say may NOT be popular. I have bought at least 12 less expensive pens ( ~$ 30 to $ 200 ). Most of these cheaper pens end up in the garbage for various reasons. I would suggest that it may be best to SAVE UP your money and buy a small number of very, very good quality pens ( Mont Blanc, Pelikan etc ). You will be much HAPPIER in the long run !! Thank you
RS. Canada
If you can, toss me some of those $30-$200 cheap pens you plan on throwing out next time :)
The ones missed on the list..salors, kaweco brass sport, sheaffers?, watermans?
823 is a great pen, but i would argue the pilot Vanishing Point is the most iconic fountain pen that they make
They invented the retractable fountain pen
They did and in 1964. There is a video coming up that you will love! Plus I think I’ll do a part two on this one.
Interesting list. Curious what ink you were using with the Visconti? Diamine Writer's Blood? Or Oxblood? Or ...
Oxblood. Thanks!
Of the ones you have mentioned I'll take the Montblanc 149 for the win please.
Hear, hear!
Is that the Yin Yu Tang house at the Peabody Museum you are wondering through at the end of the video? Always appreciate the robust, firm delivery in these videos.
It is indeed! I shot that footage for a video I have yet to do, so I thought I’d use it here. Thanks for the kind words.
I own many of these and agree with your selections--except the Visconti. Quality control issues is a knock out for me. I would never buy a product known to have issues.
Hello, my 5 sets are related to the purpose: for a complex business meeting, a Parker 51 Aerometric steel/black with a 0.9 mm lead pencil and a Parker 1963 black steel four-colour ballpoint pen made in Germany. The whole set has a Bauhaus design. This set is accompanied by a JUNGHANS MEISTER AGENDA. All black steel. For a meeting outside the office, a MB 146 platinum black set with a ballpoint pen and a 0.7 mm lead pencil. This set is accompanied by a REVUE THOMEN LE CLUB. For outdoor use, a KAWECO SPORT STAINLESS STEEL set, ballpoint pen and 0.7 mm pencil. This set is accompanied by a LONGINES ZULU TIME 39 mm. For office work, a SHAEFER PFM MK 5 black set, accompanied by a LONGINES FLAGSHIP 1967 gold black leather strap. Finally, the most complete 4-piece set is a black-gold MB 146 that includes an MB highlighter that fits the set. Without a doubt, the most reliable set is the one that includes the PARKER 51 Aerometric. The complete set works perfectly and always, it has never failed as has happened to me with the MB 149 that have been repaired several times. All sets have their leather and branded cases.
Very well reasoned! This is great. Thanks for watching.
Hello, I watch your show from Chile and I enjoy it. I have been a collector of sets for 40 years. It has taken me up to 15 years to complete a set of ballpoint pen, pencil (when it exists) and lead pencil. Your videos got me started in journaling. I currently write three journals. Greetings now from the Dominican Republic and I bring with me my KAWECO SPORT SS set and the LONGINES ZULU TIME green visor.
Thank you!
Would you recommend the fine or medium NIB for a first time owner of Visconti Homo Sapien?
It depends on the paper and the flow of your writing
Fine nibs tend to give more feedback but are less likely to bleed or ghost
If you use high quality paper then medium would do jes’ fine😂
Hello and thanks for watching! Personally, I like their large flows mediums, but a lot of this is on preference. I don’t think you could go wrong with Fine either. I would make sure your pen seller makes sure it is a nice nib for you before shipping. Wish you all the best with this exciting purchase!
Gotta say, I'm surprised the 823 is pilot's representative over the vanishing point.
I went back and forth. I am going to do a follow up on this one. Thanks!
This kind of list is fraught with danger because there is so much interpretation and personal preference. And, of course, there is the world of vintage pens.
I agree with you on the Pelikan m1000. I even agree on the Montblanc 149, though it holds no appeal for me. Also agreed on the Parker 51, though, again, it's not one of my favorites. And, of course, the Lamy 2000 is quite iconic.
Others I thought of were mostly vintage: Waterman's Ideal 52, original Parker Duofold, Sheaffer Legacy.
I’ll probably have to revisit this. Thanks for the great comment.
In terms of icons, I’m with you on the 149, Lamy Safari and 2000, the Parker 51 and possibly the Pilot 823 - but not on the Pelikan or the Visconti. I agree they’re good pens, but icons? No - at least not from my southern hemisphere perspective. Pelikan make great pens; and their following is significant- especially since the Pelikan Hubs- but they have not, IMO, reached icon status here. If I was to include Visconti, quality consistency aside, and it’s a divisive brand, their Divina is more the icon; and the base Homosapiens the workhorse. As for the 823, great pen it may be, but I’m not sure if that is the icon or the Vanishing Point and/or MYU. Have you missed any? Possibly the Sailor KOP in Ebonite, and definitely the Kaweco Sports.Thankyou for posting- much appreciated.
I can’t argue against any of your 5+ choices. The Kaweco Sport might deserve a mention.
Mister Jones, Were is the Graph von Faber-Castell Classic in your list!?! One in silver is my grail pen.
C'mon Yorick, NO eating the pens! LOL LOL
Sincerely!
Where are the Sailors?
Handmade wonderful nibs and Urushi with inlay work as well
The namiki emperor defenetly should belong on this list
While the 149 is a great classic pen I will never own one.
I work in industrial jobs. I have to stick with the cheaper clones because I don't want a pen that I can't take everywhere with me.
I own a 149, I take with me to work just fine. It is is very durable, srew on cap that stays put, doesn't dry out. It's a great pen for work work.
But a grail pen/icon isn't something I would ever take to work. Thats a pen you keep at home or ok a trip. Something you really enjoy.
You are doing yourself a disservice not owning one.
@@johnrus7661 Im a welder, I'm on fire sometimes.
@nope8535 Boy, aren't you special. Happy with your 5 seconds of fame? Want a sucker to make you feel better?
Just say you are broke, actually don't. We don't care.
How about list of the most underrated fountain pens. Excellent pens, but which are ignored, forgotten or overlooked.
I’m doing a series on this starting in a few weeks with a big one. This by brand.
@@HemingwayJones
You're right, when it comes to different pen brands, there are pen manufacturers that get less attention than others. This is certainly an interesting way to approach the subject.
Personally, I was thinking more of just fountain pens.
The most often ignored, forgotten and underrated fountain pens could be as follows, I think:
- Waterman Expert, but as well as Hemispheré
- Parker Sonnet is on my choice, however Urban maybe will suit to this list even more better, expecially 2016 updated version
- KaWeCo Dia; - what is this pen!?
- Cross Century II. In fact, all Cross pens. Townsend and Peerless are sometimes mentioned , but Century never. Century is a little bit older model, but still very usefull.
- Pilotti Kaküno, KaWeCo Perceo or Lamy Nexx. Of course, they are aimed at younger people, but they fits wonderful well in an adult's hand also. I don't like the Lamy Vista/Safari/Al pen at much, I prefer Lamy Nexx much more and I think, that Nexx is perhaps the best fountain pen in the Lamy family.
The platinum 3776 should of at least been a honorable mention
I need to have them all! But, first, their Chinese inspired, much, much, much cheaper versions!!
I have recently been buying vintage pens: Pelikan, Waterman, Mabie Todd, Montblanc, and Wahl. In my opinion, they write better and have better nibs than anything on the current market. And, unfortunately, I bought lots of current pens. I don’t see myself ever buying anything but vintage from here on out.
That’s a valid strategy. The only negative I can think of in regards to vintage pens, in my personal experience, is that they tend to be more delicate and require more maintenance. For writing, they are awesome! I should do a video on this. Thanks so much!
@@HemingwayJonesPlease do a video on that! I love your work.
Thanks! I appreciate that. It’s on the list.
Still pondering which base you were using for counting. Or maybe it isn't the base but the dimension you are inhabiting? Do you ever find yourself rolling toward the middle of your space? 😂. Great choices. While I have a couple Lamys they are not my go to pens. You may have piqued my interest in a higher Dali Lamy though.
I just adore my SAILOR KOPs, 3 of them. Nothing is even 2nd except the Pilot PCU, that is so-so oversized in comparison.
I have 2 Pelikan M800’s..smoothest fountain pen I own. Now I want to get an M1000. Looking for something that isn’t blue or green.
5:40 I think your first example there is an Al Star rather than a Safari?
Sailor 1911?
Good selection of iconic pens and why they are iconic. I personally have never liked the Pilot 823, but that has to do with its visual appeal. To me it is very generic and boring. I'll grant it's a wonderful writer, but so are some other great pens whose visual and tactile appeal put the 823 out of contention. I realize pens, like many other things, are a matter of individual preference; it's just not mine.
3776 ICON not Michelle Neal always Neal
Good one! What was the outro music?
Is That Divine Comedy By Dante In Visconti Homo Sapiens Image?
Yes! Of course it is. They go together.