Skip to main content

Fountain Pens - Beginning of a Collection [2017 ~ 2018]

Gear Review

Building a Fountain Pen Collection: A Multi-Year Roadmap

*Strategizing, studying, and curating a purposeful selection of writing instruments.*

3
Initial Pens
6
Target Total
~$290
Total Outlay
9
Years Time Span
Section I

Current Inventory

My collection currently consists of three Pilot Metropolitan pens and a variety of inks for daily use.

 

  • →Pilot Metropolitan Classic (Black) — The base of the current collection.
  • →Pilot Metropolitan Retro Pop (Turquoise) — Reliable everyday writer.
  • →Pilot Metropolitan Retro Pop (Purple) — Used frequently for intensive study sessions.
  • →Iroshizuku Ink (Kon-Peki) — Vibrant blue ink.
  • →Iroshizuku Ink (Murasaki-Shikibu) — Rich purple ink.
Section II

Planned Acquisitions

I have curated a list of desired additions to increase the variety and quality of my rotation over time.

Pens & Accessories
ItemEst. PriceTarget Date
Pilot Custom 74 Black$75Mar 2018
Platinum 3776 Blue$75Aug 2018
Platinum 3776 Red$75Dec 2018
Pen Case (3 Pack)$25Aug 2018
Tip: Tie your luxury purchases to personal milestones, such as passing certification exams, to turn writing instruments into earned rewards.
Section III

Collection Updates

Progress Log
  • →12/31/17 — I’ve delayed my planned purchases, making them contingent on successfully passing my certification exams for Python and R. The Metropolitans are holding up well, requiring frequent reinking due to my studies.
  • →2/4/18 — I purchased the Pilot Custom 74. It is an "okay" pen—certainly an improvement over the Metropolitans—but using it has made me lean further toward the Platinum 3776 for my next acquisition. I expect to favor a two-pen 3776 rotation moving forward. I am also beginning to look ahead to 2019 and 2020 for potential additions from brands like Sailor or Lamy.
  • →1/19/26 — Purchased a Lamy Safari. The total cost was $40 including the Z28 converter and tax (the pen itself was approximately $28 before tax).
A work in progress: evolving the collection one pen at a time.

Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Sony MDR-ZX100 vs ZX-110 vs ZX-310 Series Headphones

Gear Review Budget Audio Face-off: Sony ZX Series Review Comparing the ZX-100, ZX-110, and ZX-310 for your everyday carry ~3 Models ~$10–$20 Price 2.5+ Years Longevity Table of Contents ① Build Quality ② Cost Comparison ③ Sound Quality ④ Overall Value ⑤ Upgrade Path Section I Build Quality The Sony ZX series headphones primarily feature a durable plastic construction. My ZX-100 has lasted over 2½ years, enduring countless tosses into my backpack and car without any issues. However, the lower-end ZX-100 and ZX-110 models have a significant downside: poor-quality earpads.   The Earpad Problem Over time, the earpads on the ZX-100 and ZX-110 disintegrate, leaving vinyl flakes that stick to your hair and ears. The ZX-310 comes with upgraded earpads that don't suffer from this problem — a clear win in the build department. Tip: If your earpads start to flake, it is a sign of material degradation; consider replacing the cushions or upgrading to a model with more durable synthetic lea...
9 comments
Read more

Casio G-Shock 5600 vs 6900 vs 9000

Gear Review Finding the Perfect Fit: My G-Shock Journey A deep dive into balancing form, function, and wrist presence. 4 Models Tested 2 Favorite Series 1 Non-negotiable Feature Table of Contents ① The Quest for Size ② Best Compromise: G9000 Mudman Series ③ Feature Needs: G/GW vs DW ④ The Lineup: Models at a Glance ⑤ Final Verdict: 5600 Wins Section I The Quest for Size After trying out several G-Shock models, I've developed a better sense of the specific features and design elements I appreciate most. While features are always a plus, my main priority is size. Here's how some of the models I've tried stack up. 5600 Series For overall size, the 5600 series stands out as a favorite due to its compact, comfortable form. It's slim, lightweight, and fits well on my wrist without being too bulky. Although the 6900 series provides the benefit of a well-placed front illumination button, the 5600 remains the ideal size for everyday wear.   Section II Best Compromise: G900...
Post a Comment
Read more

Casio MTD 1010 the $30 Submariner Homage

Diver-Style Watches  ·  Budget Horology Casio MTD-1010 Oyster Quartz  ·  Ref. MTD-1010-1AV The Best Budget Submariner Homage $30 eBay Price 41.5mm Case Size 10 ATM Water Resistance 20mm Lug Width If you're on the hunt for an affordable watch that channels the classic diver aesthetic of the Submariner, look no further than the Casio MTD-1010. Priced at around $30 on eBay, this model offers incredible value for anyone who loves a good deal.   Table of Contents ① Affordable Elegance ② Function Over Frills ③ Best Bang for Your Buck ④ Specs & Practical Tips Section I Affordable Elegance The MTD-1010 strikes a bala...
3 comments
Read more