Pen Talking

I'm a fountain pen collector, and have been for ages.  I both collect and use them, as they (at least to me) the most comfortable writing instrument you can use.  In my line of work, I spend hours a day taking notes, etc., and you really want something that's comfortable to use.

This pen, a Visconti Romanica, is not exactly a daily user.  I picked this up a good while ago, and actually wrote a quick review of it for publishing on the Fountain Pen Network.  However, I never got round to it, so I thought I'd put it here.

So, here goes...

The Pen:  Visconti Romanica, sterling silver over a black body.

-- First impressions:  This is a LARGE pen, with a little of weight to it.  The design is quite beautiful, with the high arched “windows” cut outs, and the “brick work” engraving.  I particularly like the crenellations at the top of the cap and barrel.  The pen is heavy, but not uncomfortably so.  I’ve written with it for fairly long stretches, and have had no problems.  (And I do post the cap.)  Definitely a pen that attracts attention, without being overly gaudy.

Filling System:  The double-reservoir power filler.  Yes, it’s a bit gimmicky, but it works as advertised.  Having used the pen a good bit, I’m confused by some of the complaints I’ve heard.  The small reservoir seems to hold more than enough ink for extensive use.  (Unless you’re using it with a broad or stub nib.) I filled this up with Diamine Crimson ink, and have had no problems.

Nib:  23 kt Palladium - Medium.  Very springy.  I’m a lefty, so I don’t get all the “expressiveness” that some folks do.  But I like the nib.  It writes well.

Overall:  This is definitely a pen that makes a statement.  It is well-designed, well-built, and beautiful to look at.   Granted, it’s not for everyone.  It is expensive.  And the price is going to go up.  (I was lucky to get mine via the good graces of a friendly pen seller.)  The Romanica is well worth a look.  It’s a superb pen.  It’s the type of pen that appeals to my gothically-eccentric side.  I could readily imagine using this pen in some dark castle library while paging through ancient volumes by candle light…

Obviously, I don't tote this one around on a daily basis.  I'm usually in for the purely practical.  But this pen has that gothic-y air to it that just catches my attention.  So...  It's fun to write with, though you wouldn't really want to use it all day.  And it definitely DOES attract attention.