burger icon
rating icon
rating icon
rating icon
rating icon
rating icon
10.0

About product

If you are after a prestigious pen to give your writing a touch of elegance, Wordsmith & Black’s fountain pen is a top choice. This fountain pen comes in many colors and boasts a balanced brass barrel that allows for a smooth writing experience. Furthermore, the pen offers a high-end look and feel with an engraved nib and a touch of luxury from the included faux leather gift case. The medium nib of the pen offers a consistent inkflow yielding 0.5 mm line sizes with zero leakages and is ideal for taking neat notes without ink smudges. The pen also comes with 24 ink cartridges, 12 blue and 12 black, for speedy refills. Plus, it comes with a cap cover that clicks in place, reducing the likelihood of spillages when carrying it in your pocket.

Pros

  • Includes 24 replacement ink cartridges  
  • 0.5 mm line size
  • Wide color variety to select from
  • Includes a faux leather gift case

Customer Reviews

cross icon
Customer Reviews

Update - 11-1-20: Two items to update:1. Replacement pen arrived yesterday evening. Used it with the converter this morning and my Waterman Serenity Blue Ink and it writes beautifully. As well as the last pen wrote before continuously running out of ink. All other positive comments from my original post apply - wonderful pen in the hand, and on paper.2. Customer Service at Waterman& Black - excellent customer service. THe problem with the 2-day initial reply process is that Waterman & Black Customer Service is in China. TIme difference applies. They read my issue and immediately told me that they were sorry this happened, had a couple of hints on cleaning the pen to clear any blockage (which shouldn't be an issue with a brand new pen), AND informed me they were sending a replacement pen with their apologies. I informed them that I had already returned the faulty pen and had another one coming to me via Amazon. Amazon - one day replacement - THANK YOU. As far as Waterman & Black, I provided my input as to what I believed the problem MIGHT have been - a blocked ink flow tube from material associated with the plastic cartridge that I used first with the first pen. As I said here, I used the replacement pen first off with the converter and my ink bottle and it performs flawlessly. The cartridges they use are thick at the end that goes into the pen barrel toward the head. I don't know the design/style of their piercing/cutting mechanism, but I believe there is a chance a piece of the cartridge blocked the ink channel that prevented flow of ink by gravity, as I could get it to flow only by screwing down the converter barrel plunger every half a page.In any event - we'll see what Waterman & Black say about that. But in the end, I have a functioning pen with the converter. IF Waterman & Black send me another pen as they said they will, I will use a cartridge after verifying proper operation with the converter, to see if the pen experiences an ink flow failure again. I'll stay in touch about the level of customer service to follow up with investigating possible issues with their pens/cartridges.I've used fountain pens a lot throughout my life. I find using them to be artistic and enjoy the feel of good ink flowing on to paper with a quality pen. I purchased this particular pen based on reviews and the color/nib color based on personal preference.My nitial impression of the quality, heft, feel, and balance of this pen in my hand was 'outstanding.' I ordered the additional package of cartridges, and a bottle of Waterman 'Serenity Blue' ink to round out my purchase and happily loaded a blue ink cartridge to see how well it performed.WIth ANY new fountain pen, you have to prime it to begin writing because there's no ink in the nib to pull ink from the chamber/cartridge downward. I shook the pen down to force ink toward the nib to begin writing - nothing. I shook harder, now over paper towels because of the expected large drops to fly out - nothing. I shook it downward vigorously - nothing. I removed the barrel and SQUEEZED the cartridge to force ink into the nib. The cartridge is much more sturdy that the old cartridges I've used in the past - nothing.I removed the cartridge and checked to ensure it had been pierced - it had and I could squeeze ink out of it. I discarded the cartridge and inserted the converter into the pen head to use the bottled ink from Waterman. I used the converter and pulled a full cartridge worth of ink into the pen from the nib in the ink bottle.I began to write. AHA!!! I was rewarded with a beautiful line of ink and I the pen felt like it was gliding over my paper - laying down a beautiful line of ink, and my handwriting felt like it was being rewarded for my efforts to make nice loops, gentle curls, and exact punctuation. I was happy now ..... for about one-half of one page. The ink began to flow slower, until finally it stopped altogether. I had to unscrew the barrel from the head and using the converter screw-plunger apply pressure to the ink inside the converter to push ink into the nib once again.I began writing again and was rewarded once again with a beautiful writing experience ... for one-half of one page. Same story - same result - same corrective measure ......... I wrote to the company in the hopes of some 'insider' information about possible causes of this problem. No answer for two days - in the middle of the week.It's a fountain pen, not a new tech piece of complex industrial electronic or mechanical equipment designed to make my life better. It's a fountain pen, and it simply doesn't work. I purposefully avoided fountain pens that were relatively inexpensive because I thought "If I pay a little more, I'll get a little more." Apparently that idea is incorrect in today's world. I cannot afford a Mont Blanc. I used to use the old standard fountain pens that had the cartridges you used in the caligraphy sets made by the same company ... never had a problem with those pens, but thought they were 'baseline' pens and perhaps I could get a better writiing experience with a pen from a manufacturer that seemed to be a 'cut above.' It seems this company has a fancy website and great product photography and marketing - but nothing more.The pen doesn't work, and they won't respond to an outreach for assistance. I'm returning the pen, and will seek another that simply works for now. Once again, in today's age, I must lower my expectations of the products that are available. WHY can't I find a quality product? I don't mind paying extra for QUALITY, but that term seems to mean little anymore.

Read More

This pen stands out from other "fancy" pens, it has such an elegant design it's a pleasure to see resting on your desk. The writing is butter smooth, and with the generous supply of ink cartridges, this pen will last me maybe YEARS. This one purchase is the equivalent of an entire 24 pack of pens, and new cartridges are so inexpensive! The craftsmanship is impeccable, the pen is decadently heavy and has a nice cold feel in the hand. It also comes with a beautiful leather case, perfect for giftgiving or safekeeping. This is a wonderful gift both for yourself and others, i'm very happy with this purchase.

Read More

Fountain pens went away a long time ago. Shortly thereafter, personal letter writing followed suit. But for those that still enjoy the art of handwritten notes and letters, this is the pen for you. Nicely fluid, boldly stroked and smoothly expressive, this pen has been great. Even mundane things like shopping and to do lists are delightfully more graceful to create. It comes with pre-filled ink cartridges (which I am currently using) and a refillable reservoir that can be used over and over again. I got mine with a medium nib and it works great. The plastic disposable "gel" pens are nice to use, but don't hold a candle to the smooth feel and subtle heft of this fountain pen.

Read More

It's been quite long since I bought a fountain pen and I was not very confident. This one is really really a good purchase.During our school days we were almost forced to use fountain pens to improve our writing and therefore we have worked with pens whose nibs had to be used in one certain way to smoothen out over months. Those were typical 'entry level' pens (you can get 5 of them in one $). I remember when the nibs became smooth, we got the speed back. After few years of such 'lessons' we could get introduced to the 'fancy' pens and appreciate them.This is one such pen which I appreciated from the very first write. It was that awesome feeling of smoothness which I was not really expecting from a new pen. The packaging is perfect and the 6 cartridges make it even better an experience. I'm not talking about casual writing as I was finishing those cartridges in around 2 days each. I waited for all the cartridges to get over (and then some more days) to write this review.I also like the fact that it comes with the converter. It's way safe that way as we don't have to stick to costly refills all the time. I have not tried it out yet (need to buy some ink first) - although it fits perfectly.I'd highly recommend this pen. Especially for the people who have used fountain pens for a long time. I'm not a collector of pens so I can't suggest from that angle, and it's a viewpoint of a user. If you're looking for a pen that you want to use every day, and you want that smooth experience of a fountain pen, this is undoubtedly the one to try out. I'm sure going to buy at least 1 more for myself. For a collector, the usability is probably secondary and maybe the history is more relevant. But for a user, it matters whether I can carry the pen confidently everywhere to use it.To add, I loved this color. I like the range of colors available, including a hot pink (a good candidate for gifting to my sister).I'm sure you'll feel the balance of weight being very good and comfortable. It 'feels' like you're holding something significant and at the same time it's so well balanced. I like the overall design of the pen and the locking mechanism of the cap (which is so important for a regular user).A very worthy buy. I'd highly recommend. Amazing nib. Very pleasurable writing device for sustained use.

Read More

My fountain pen arrived on time....thank you Amazon. I do wonder why packaging up a parcel has become such a hard thing to do well. The respect and enjoyment of mailing off a purchase these days is totally lacking I must say. No protective wrapping to keep the purchase from being shaken around, is totally missing!. Sending off someones purchase these days lacks sincerity in every way. Such a lack of respect for peoples purchases and so inconsiderate of what state it'll be in upon its destination seems to be an on going trend these days.As for this fountain pen....its pretty awesome!I like the feel of it, the balance in my hand and writing with it. It writes smooth...rather an important factor I'd say. I bought two different styles. The one with the rounded head....I think it's called the 'magesti' is quite different in every way. Its quite huge from the flat ended one I bought. The 'magesti' round headed one also rattled when I shook it lightly, between my fingers. Neither lids will stay put when writing with them....they just fall right off. Not such a big deal, I'm just happy to be writing with a fountain pen again and one that feels so comfortable while doing so. I did send the other one I purchased, back. The color red is absolutely stunning but the huge size compared to the flat head one is like night and day. They both came with 6 cartridges, were the same in price and they all arrived in good form. For the price this black and gold beauty is a keeper for me! I bought the lavender color ink bottle as well. So far I'm still working on the cartridge that came in the box of 6 so I don't know how the converter refill part of the pen will work out. I hope its not too confusing. The wise thing would of been to try it out when first using it but I didn't order the ink bottle until later. The red and gold one went back....even the look of it is totally different and not at all as comfortable to hold.....for me that is. I honestly believe that when you find the fountain pen that feels and writes with such ease and comfort, as I have, that you'll be looking for things to write and people to write to. I just love my new purchase, love the color too. I'd get one of these beauty's in a different color, no problem!Happy writing🥰

Read More

Love it !!

Read More

Ce stylo plume est très très joli, l'emballage est costaud et très beau aussi, pour faire un cadeau, c'est génial. Le stylo est ensuite emballé dans un très joli coffret noir. L'écriture est top !!! Moi j'ai pris une plume moyenne car j'écris mieux qu'avec une plume fine et regardez le résultat sur la photo !La couleur rouge est magnifique, vraiment ce stylo plume est de qualité. De plus j'ai eu une belle réduction dessus, donc je suis ravie !Il est livré avec 24 cartouches (12 noires, 12 bleues) et à l'intérieur du stylo il y a un système de réservoir pour un encrier (que je n'ai pas encore testé).....Merci ! Et merci aussi de me dire si mon avis vous a été utile, car moi je regarde les avis des autres !!!

Read More

I can't believe the lightness of this pen that bring smoothy dark touch on paper. I have become a fan of this pen. I will have more. I love this. This pen is out of the world. Excellent, outstanding and unbelievable. Professionals should have one of this in their use at least.

Read More

Gerçekten muhteşem, özellikle firmadan istediğim destek, konuya ve çözüme yönelik davranışları çok iyi.

Read More

I love this pen. It writes extremely well. The ink flows very smoothly BUT once it is dried the pigmentation is very lacking. The black ink almost seems transparent in a way. I have yet to use the blue. When I buy refill ink, I'm going to definitely buy a different kind that stays dark after it dries.

Read More
rating icon
rating icon
rating icon
rating icon
rating icon
9.9

About product

Wordswork & Black’s luxury fountain pen is a great pick if you want to prepare elegant, consistent writing without smudges. The pen features an 18K gilded medium nib with a 0.7 mm line size. This provides consistent ink flow for smooth lines and reduces line breaks from skipping. The metal body and contoured grip design offers a delicate balance, giving you proper control over the pen without exhausting your fingers and wrist. This pen also uses a screw off cap closure that prevents ink spillage, keeping your hands clean as you put your ideas on paper. The pen’s engraved nib and 24K gold finish add to an overall luxurious look. It also includes a leather pen case and a deluxe gift box, making it an exquisite gift choice.

Pros

  • Includes 24 replacement ink cartridges 
  • 0.7 mm line size
  • Available in a range of luxurious colors
  • Comes with a deluxe gift box

Customer Reviews

cross icon
Customer Reviews

This is a HEAVY fountain. pen. This gives it a masculine feel so would be a perfect first pen for a man. In fact it's so heavy it writes better if you don't put the cap on the back of the pen.That's an important detail since most modern fountain pens are light, and balance better with the cap on back. Not this one. It's perfectly balanced if you just place the cap off to the side and start writing.The chrome finish is beautiful. I got the medium nib, and it's pretty big. But it's perfectly accurate even for smaller letters. Writes well on a cotton based paper.I am using one of the black ink cartridges that came with the pen. Surprisingly the ink is very dark and flows well. This pen also comes with a rechargeable ink tank. I will be curious to see if the pen nib works as well with bottled ink. Pelikan is my favorite brand but this nib may be flowy enough that some of the UK inks will work with it.My only complaint is that the machining on the threads for the cap felt rather rough and gritty when screwing it off and on. However as I use the pen more those threads are wearing in nicely and should get smoother over time.

Read More

It writes so smooth, besides being a pretty pen!

Read More

It works really well, very smooth writing, overall a great pen! I just wish it could hold more ink. I use the refillable cartridge because constantly buying filled ones would be expensive. One little bottle of ink lasts me way longer than the same price of cartridges. But i have to refill it all the time, it can be a little annoying. Aside from that, the pen is perfect

Read More

Great pen! This is my everyday, go-to writing implement. I can't recommend it enough!

Read More

Heavy and thicker for older hands. Writes great.

Read More

This pen is an outstanding value for those looking for a fine writing experience. It measures up to the quality promised.

Read More

Very nice pen, but thick letters. Had to try the fine, also a little thick, but better. Ordered the extra fine, I hope it will be right for me. Very nicely made pens, ink flows smoothly and dries quickly on my paper. This is my first experience with fountain pens.

Read More

The dearest in my collection of fountain pens!! This fountain pen has got all that enthusiasts might be looking for.. the nib, the build quality of pen, the weight it carries, the color it poses & the gold trims are just right to put this master piece right above most classics.. 146 Mont Blanc.. hmmmm...

Read More
rating icon
rating icon
rating icon
rating icon
rating icon
9.6

About product

When it comes to precise and detailed writing, Scrivi Pen’s fountain pen is the perfect choice. The pen comes with an extra fine nib that yields a 0.3 mm line size. This size is great for small fonts and adding finer bits to various calligraphy styles. The nib provides a consistent flow of quick-drying ink, preventing smudges, keeping your work clean. With a premium brass barrel, this pen shows class and sophistication without compromising on writing comfort as the contoured grip helps to improve the pen’s balance. The pen comes with a gift case and five ink cartridges, reducing refilling hassles. The click-off cap closure also ensures that no ink congeals when the tip is not in use, ensuring a smooth writing experience.

Pros

  • Comes with five ink cartridges    
  • 0.3 mm line size
  • Three color options available
  • Package includes an elegant gift case

Customer Reviews

cross icon
Customer Reviews

The price paid was reasonable and the quality excellent. Love writing with this pen. Ordered another one for home.

Read More

It writes well and appears well-made. It is also relatively compact which I didn’t expect but quite like. It is let down by the smoothness of the pen grip section, which makes it a bit slippery to hold.

Read More

Solid pen. Writes smoothly and it's also great for sketches.

Read More

For the price, to be honest, I wasn't expecting very much. I was pleasantly surprised to discover this pen is actually a rather nice pen! It has comfortable weight and width, and the Cap clicks into place nicely, and feels reasonably secure. The only mild negatives I could find were the clip ( which feels rather flimsy by comparison to the pen itself ) and the converter ( which seems to perform adequately, but doesn't seem particularly durable. ) That said, however, I do feel it is worth the price, and overall I would purchase again.

Read More

The pen writes smooth and it feel good in the hand.

Read More

This is a one time use pen if that, the first I received the package there was no pen in it. So I had to go through the process of returning it. I received the pen in the second package it worked when it wanted to I know how to use a fountain pen I have several. When it finally ran out of ink which was fairly quick I ordered the replacement ink for that pen and they leaked all the time I ruined two pair of pants with this pen I guess you get what you pay for is true. I would not recommend this one to anyone I finally threw my pen away when the black ink exploded all over my hands. This is a waste of money DO NOT BUY!

Read More

Cap stays connected, smooth writing and ink flow. Pen weight is acceptable.Came with 1 blue and 1 black cartridge. Also, includes converter for using ink bottles.Paint on pen exterior not consistent.

Read More

Contento. Pluma fuente muy fluida

Read More

Great value for money. Bought a medium nib to try it out since I didn't like the Lamy fine nib as it felt abit scratchy. The pen is heavier than the Lamy but for $12 cheaper it was a great deal. Medium nib felt alot smoother for me and the difference isn't noticeable much.

Read More

Best Fountain Pen of 2025

Updated May, 2025
check mark
Written by Elsa LaCock
Elsa LaCock
Elsa LaCock
Elsa is a versatile content writer specializing in creating engaging digital content across many different industries. With a talent for capturing the heart of brands, she ensures their visibility to the right audiences.
Updated May, 2025
Featured on

Buying Guide

Choosing the Ideal Fountain Pen for Elegant Writing Tasks 


Selecting the perfect fountain pen is a path toward a writing experience that blends functionality, aesthetics, and personal expression. A fountain pen is more than a tool; it's a statement of craftsmanship. It’s also the perfect gift for someone who appreciates individuality. 


Nib Material and Size


The nib is the heart of a fountain pen, dictating the writing style and feel. Consider nib materials such as stainless steel, gold, or platinum, each offering distinct characteristics. The size of the nib, ranging from fine to broad, influences the line width and overall writing experience. Broader nibs are used for less precise emphasis, while finer nibs may be used for intricate corrections. 


Ink Delivery System


Fountain pens employ various ink delivery systems, including cartridge, converter, and piston fillers. Cartridges offer convenience, converters allow the use of bottled ink, and piston fillers provide higher ink capacity. Your choice depends on the ease of use, availability of ink options, and the frequency of refilling that suits your writing habits.


Material and Design


Materials like resin, celluloid, metal, and precious woods contribute to the overall aesthetics and feel of a fountain pen. Consider the design elements, such as barrel shape, grip section, and cap style. Opt for a material and design that resonates with your personal style, ensuring a pen that is not only functional but also a visual delight.


Filling Mechanism


Piston fillers and vacuum fillers offer high ink capacity, while cartridge/converter systems provide ease of use and cleaning. Determine your preference based on the convenience of refilling and the ink volume you require for your writing needs.


Nib Flexibility


Nib flexibility influences line variation and character of your writing. Flexible nibs allow for line variation, while stiff nibs provide consistent line width. Choose a nib with the level of flexibility that complements your writing style, whether it's for calligraphy, sketching, or everyday note-taking.


The right fountain pen not only meets your writing needs but also becomes a cherished companion on your journey of self-expression.

Wordsworth & Black Fountain Pen Set, Medium Nib, Includes 24 Ink Cartridges and Ink Refill Converter, Gift Case, Journaling, Calligraphy, Smooth Writing Pens [Black Gold], Perfect for Men and Women
Wordsworth & Black Fountain Pen Set, Medium Nib, Includes 24 Ink Cartridges and Ink Refill Converter, Gift Case, Journaling, Calligraphy, Smooth Writing Pens [Black Gold], Perfect for Men and Women

Featured Products

Wordsworth & Black Fountain Pen Set, Medium Nib, Includes 24 Ink Cartridges and Ink Refill Converter, Gift Case, Journaling, Calligraphy, Smooth Writing Pens [Black Gold], Perfect for Men and Women

Wordsworth & Black Fountain Pen Set, Medium Nib, Includes 24 Ink Cartridges and Ink Refill Converter, Gift Case, Journaling, Calligraphy, Smooth Writing Pens [Black Gold], Perfect for Men and Women

@Wordsworth & Black

If you are after a prestigious pen to give your writing a touch of elegance, Wordsmith & Black’s fountain pen is a top choice. This fountain pen comes in many colors and boasts a balanced brass barrel that allows for a smooth writing experience. Furthermore, the pen offers a high-end look and feel with an engraved nib and a touch of luxury from the included faux leather gift case. The medium nib of the pen offers a consistent inkflow yielding 0.5 mm line sizes with zero leakages and is ideal for taking neat notes without ink smudges. The pen also comes with 24 ink cartridges, 12 blue and 12 black, for speedy refills. Plus, it comes with a cap cover that clicks in place, reducing the likelihood of spillages when carrying it in your pocket.

Check Price

Product features

  • Includes 24 replacement ink cartridges  
  • 0.5 mm line size
  • Wide color variety to select from
  • Includes a faux leather gift case

FAQ

Is this a refillable fountain pen?

This fountain pen includes 24 convenient pre-filled-ink cartridges allowing for quick refills.

Does this fountain pen dry up?

The airtight click-off cap closure ensures that ink does not dry up, allowing for a consistent inkflow without skipping.

Wordsworth & Black Majesti Fountain Pen-(Green), Luxury Case, 24K Gold Finish; 18K Gilded Medium Nib- Ink Cartridges, Refillable Ink Converter-Calligraphy Pen-Best Business Gift Set for Men & Women

Wordsworth & Black Majesti Fountain Pen-(Green), Luxury Case, 24K Gold Finish; 18K Gilded Medium Nib- Ink Cartridges, Refillable Ink Converter-Calligraphy Pen-Best Business Gift Set for Men & Women

@Wordsworth & Black

Wordswork & Black’s luxury fountain pen is a great pick if you want to prepare elegant, consistent writing without smudges. The pen features an 18K gilded medium nib with a 0.7 mm line size. This provides consistent ink flow for smooth lines and reduces line breaks from skipping. The metal body and contoured grip design offers a delicate balance, giving you proper control over the pen without exhausting your fingers and wrist. This pen also uses a screw off cap closure that prevents ink spillage, keeping your hands clean as you put your ideas on paper. The pen’s engraved nib and 24K gold finish add to an overall luxurious look. It also includes a leather pen case and a deluxe gift box, making it an exquisite gift choice.

Check Price

Product features

  • Includes 24 replacement ink cartridges 
  • 0.7 mm line size
  • Available in a range of luxurious colors
  • Comes with a deluxe gift box

FAQ

Can you change the nib to a smaller width?

The pen is available with two nib sizes: a medium-size iridium or an extra-fine nib.

How long does one ink cartridge last?

One ink cartridge lasts up to 18 pages with a medium nib. With an extra-fine nib, the cartridge can last up to 45 pages.

SCRIVI PENS Luxury Fountain Pen Set-[Blue] Fountain Pens for Writing - Smooth Extra Fine Nib - Includes Refillable Ink Converter, 5 Ink Cartridges [Black & Blue], Gift Box - Elegant Calligraphy

SCRIVI PENS Luxury Fountain Pen Set-[Blue] Fountain Pens for Writing - Smooth Extra Fine Nib - Includes Refillable Ink Converter, 5 Ink Cartridges [Black & Blue], Gift Box - Elegant Calligraphy

@scrivi pens

When it comes to precise and detailed writing, Scrivi Pen’s fountain pen is the perfect choice. The pen comes with an extra fine nib that yields a 0.3 mm line size. This size is great for small fonts and adding finer bits to various calligraphy styles. The nib provides a consistent flow of quick-drying ink, preventing smudges, keeping your work clean. With a premium brass barrel, this pen shows class and sophistication without compromising on writing comfort as the contoured grip helps to improve the pen’s balance. The pen comes with a gift case and five ink cartridges, reducing refilling hassles. The click-off cap closure also ensures that no ink congeals when the tip is not in use, ensuring a smooth writing experience.

Check Price

Product features

  • Comes with five ink cartridges    
  • 0.3 mm line size
  • Three color options available
  • Package includes an elegant gift case

FAQ

Who should use an extra fine nib?

Extra fine nib fountain pens are ideal for small fonts and detailing calligraphy styles.

Can I use bottled ink with this fountain pen?

This pen comes with a converter, allowing you to switch from ink cartridges to bottled ink.

Amazon Reviews

Read the review on Amazon
"Update - 11-1-20: Two items to update:1. Replacement pen arrived yesterday evening. Used it with the converter this morning and my Waterman Serenity Blue Ink and it writes beautifully. As well as the last pen wrote before continuously running out of ink. All other positive comments from my original post apply - wonderful pen in the hand, and on paper.2. Customer Service at Waterman& Black - excellent customer service. THe problem with the 2-day initial reply process is that Waterman & Black Customer Service is in China. TIme difference applies. They read my issue and immediately told me that they were sorry this happened, had a couple of hints on cleaning the pen to clear any blockage (which shouldn't be an issue with a brand new pen), AND informed me they were sending a replacement pen with their apologies. I informed them that I had already returned the faulty pen and had another one coming to me via Amazon. Amazon - one day replacement - THANK YOU. As far as Waterman & Black, I provided my input as to what I believed the problem MIGHT have been - a blocked ink flow tube from material associated with the plastic cartridge that I used first with the first pen. As I said here, I used the replacement pen first off with the converter and my ink bottle and it performs flawlessly. The cartridges they use are thick at the end that goes into the pen barrel toward the head. I don't know the design/style of their piercing/cutting mechanism, but I believe there is a chance a piece of the cartridge blocked the ink channel that prevented flow of ink by gravity, as I could get it to flow only by screwing down the converter barrel plunger every half a page.In any event - we'll see what Waterman & Black say about that. But in the end, I have a functioning pen with the converter. IF Waterman & Black send me another pen as they said they will, I will use a cartridge after verifying proper operation with the converter, to see if the pen experiences an ink flow failure again. I'll stay in touch about the level of customer service to follow up with investigating possible issues with their pens/cartridges.I've used fountain pens a lot throughout my life. I find using them to be artistic and enjoy the feel of good ink flowing on to paper with a quality pen. I purchased this particular pen based on reviews and the color/nib color based on personal preference.My nitial impression of the quality, heft, feel, and balance of this pen in my hand was 'outstanding.' I ordered the additional package of cartridges, and a bottle of Waterman 'Serenity Blue' ink to round out my purchase and happily loaded a blue ink cartridge to see how well it performed.WIth ANY new fountain pen, you have to prime it to begin writing because there's no ink in the nib to pull ink from the chamber/cartridge downward. I shook the pen down to force ink toward the nib to begin writing - nothing. I shook harder, now over paper towels because of the expected large drops to fly out - nothing. I shook it downward vigorously - nothing. I removed the barrel and SQUEEZED the cartridge to force ink into the nib. The cartridge is much more sturdy that the old cartridges I've used in the past - nothing.I removed the cartridge and checked to ensure it had been pierced - it had and I could squeeze ink out of it. I discarded the cartridge and inserted the converter into the pen head to use the bottled ink from Waterman. I used the converter and pulled a full cartridge worth of ink into the pen from the nib in the ink bottle.I began to write. AHA!!! I was rewarded with a beautiful line of ink and I the pen felt like it was gliding over my paper - laying down a beautiful line of ink, and my handwriting felt like it was being rewarded for my efforts to make nice loops, gentle curls, and exact punctuation. I was happy now ..... for about one-half of one page. The ink began to flow slower, until finally it stopped altogether. I had to unscrew the barrel from the head and using the converter screw-plunger apply pressure to the ink inside the converter to push ink into the nib once again.I began writing again and was rewarded once again with a beautiful writing experience ... for one-half of one page. Same story - same result - same corrective measure ......... I wrote to the company in the hopes of some 'insider' information about possible causes of this problem. No answer for two days - in the middle of the week.It's a fountain pen, not a new tech piece of complex industrial electronic or mechanical equipment designed to make my life better. It's a fountain pen, and it simply doesn't work. I purposefully avoided fountain pens that were relatively inexpensive because I thought "If I pay a little more, I'll get a little more." Apparently that idea is incorrect in today's world. I cannot afford a Mont Blanc. I used to use the old standard fountain pens that had the cartridges you used in the caligraphy sets made by the same company ... never had a problem with those pens, but thought they were 'baseline' pens and perhaps I could get a better writiing experience with a pen from a manufacturer that seemed to be a 'cut above.' It seems this company has a fancy website and great product photography and marketing - but nothing more.The pen doesn't work, and they won't respond to an outreach for assistance. I'm returning the pen, and will seek another that simply works for now. Once again, in today's age, I must lower my expectations of the products that are available. WHY can't I find a quality product? I don't mind paying extra for QUALITY, but that term seems to mean little anymore."
Read the review on Amazon
"This pen stands out from other "fancy" pens, it has such an elegant design it's a pleasure to see resting on your desk. The writing is butter smooth, and with the generous supply of ink cartridges, this pen will last me maybe YEARS. This one purchase is the equivalent of an entire 24 pack of pens, and new cartridges are so inexpensive! The craftsmanship is impeccable, the pen is decadently heavy and has a nice cold feel in the hand. It also comes with a beautiful leather case, perfect for giftgiving or safekeeping. This is a wonderful gift both for yourself and others, i'm very happy with this purchase."
arrow icon