Writing instruments are hardly a matter of concern in these days of messaging and emails. But acquiring those select pieces that make a personal statement is an important ritual in the sacred rites of perfecting your wardrobe. Here are a few serious matters to take into consideration.
FEEL
Meisterstuck Diamond Edition by Montblanc, classic roller-ball pen, Rs132,670 at Turret
The most important thing about any pen you choose to use is how it feels. Hold it in your hand and make sure you enjoy that sensation. An uncomfortable pen will make writing tedious, while the pen that fits you will make you want to hand write your emails too. When you test the pen, test it on different types of paper. The ink should flow immediately and smoothly.
Meisterstuck 149 by Montblanc, jumbo fountain pen, Rs149,030 at Turret
For those with large, thickset or long fingers, a heavier pen is likely to be more comfortable, while a lighter and slimmer pen is suitable for those with particularly small hands.
STYLE
What a pen should look like is ultimately a matter of choice, but keep in mind that the shape, size and detailing on a pen will determine whether its holder is bold and successful, creative and unconventional, or simple and elegant.
Year of the Monkey by Cross, ballpoint pen in Tibetan Teal, Rs43,500 at Cross Exclusive
As a general guideline, rough and matte finish pens in deep browns and greys work better with denim, linen and more casual wear, while transparent and metallic barrels in sharp cuts suit attire with a minimalistic touch. The timeless black and gold will always work with your three-piece, while laque finishes complement the luxury of silk attire.
Elegance by Waterman, Black Roller-ball Pen GT, Rs68,550 at Odel
The most important thing to remember, ultimately, is to try different options, ask questions and make sure this pen is for you before you take it home.
Townsend by Cross, rhodium-plated black lacquer roller-ball pen, Rs19,500 at Cross Exclusive
BALLPOINT
John F Kennedy (SE) by Montblanc, fountain pen, Rs120,900 at Turret
While ballpoints come across as the cheaper and less desirable of the options, there are definite advantages to owning a good one, or two, or three. For starters, a ballpoint pen won’t leak as easily as a fountain pen or rollerball. Carbon also dries much faster than ink, making it less likely to smudge. This makes ballpoints ideal for the not-so-tidy types and left-handers.
ROLLER-BALL
Prelude by Sheaffer, signature 22 karat gold-plated roller-ball pen, Rs47,500 at Pen House
Rollerball pens are a good compromise between fountain pens and ballpoints – more convenient than the former and more dramatic than the latter. These pens require less pressure than ballpoints and flow smoother. So if you do write by hand a lot, these will save you some time and pain.
Marvel Century II by Cross, Captain America, Spider Man or Iron Man roller-ball pen, Rs23,500 at Cross Exclusive
FOUNTAIN PEN
When it comes to fountain pens, the nib really is the thing. If you make the right decision at the time of acquisition, within the first few months, it will slowly get worn down and shaped according to the angle at which you hold the pen and the pressure you apply. A fountain pen really becomes your own. This is why it is of paramount importance to never lend one.
Tribute to Montblanc (SE) by Montblanc, classic fountain pen, Rs183,540 at Turret
What material the nib is made of will determine how flexible it is, and how much character you bring to your handwriting. Gold nibs are the most flexible, but a less flexible, iridium-tipped nib is better for those who have a heavy hand and thicker writing. Nibs come in a range, from Extra Fine (EF) to Medium (M) to Broad (B), as well as special configurations such as Oblique (O). While the thickness of the line tends to be a matter of preference, it is useful to keep in mind that, if your handwriting is small, a fine nib will help make it clearer and more precise. Another consideration when acquiring a fountain pen is whether to opt for cartridge or converter, and the availability of ink. Cheap inks can result in corrosion, so ask the retailer about the availability of suitable ink before making a purchase.