Aurora Optima 997 Flex (Flex Nib Discussion)

[@InkyRocks]

Flexible Nib Factory: flexiblenib.com/store/ Blue Dew fountain pens: www.bluedewpens.com/ Secretary of De Flex (Pen Realm): www.penrealm.com/ This pen retails for somewhere around $500-$650 USD. After all my promotional coupons etc, I paid $270USD.

[@Merlin012001]

I have to agree with you on the writing with flex nibs. After about an a4 notebook page, my arm, wrist, and hand are telling me to stop and go to a smooth writing, non flex pen.

[@InkyRocks]

@@Merlin012001 Oh that's only with some of these semi-flex pens. The Blue Dew (and other zebra like adaptations) and Secretary of De Flex, I can write pages. But a pen like this Optima is definitely an "occasional" flex kind of pen for me!

[@Seefood73]

@@InkyRocks could you do a broader review of De Secretary? There is not even a single one on youtube, and I really want to hear and see what to expect before I shell out that money...

[@InkyRocks]

@@Seefood73 I don't think I can fill a whole video of it, but maybe a review of several nibs. What specifically are you concerned about?

[@Seefood73]

@@InkyRocks it's a hand-made product of $140, I've seen 20 minute videos done on $10 Jinhao pens... Basically I'm intrigued about how soft it is compared to vintage flexes, if it's as close to a "wet noodle" as they say it is, does it play nicer with certain inks or railroads with some more than others, does it require fussy re-tuning like a Noodler's pen if I take it apart to clean it, does it keep up with normal writing speed or do I need to slow down significantly when I flex. In the bottom line, is it a gimmick or a really good and interesting tool?

[@gadgetstop321]

Thanks for including sound along with the writing clips! Without the sound it seems like the flex nibs are effortlessly gliding across the page, but the sounds of the nibs on paper snapped me back to reality.

[@InkyRocks]

hahaha! That was just my camera mic, not an external one. I forget how loud flex sounds. Music to my ears!

[@ShahriarFarkhan]

You gotta try a vintage flex nib ;) Gliding across the paper is more common on and no railroading. There is a reason why people keep saying that :)

[@gadgetstop321]

@@ShahriarFarkhan I'm looking forward to the day when I can go to a pen show and see some vintage pens in person.

[@ShahriarFarkhan]

@@gadgetstop321 That is the best way :)

[@adamfarkas5593]

Hands down you make the best pen and pen-adjacent videos on the internet! Thanks again.

[@InkyRocks]

Wow! Thank you so much! Now I feel the pressure....hahaha! Thanks for such a kind comment!

[@adamfarkas5593]

@@InkyRocks Of course.! I very much enjoy all of your stuff. It's always a nice surprise to get a notification that Inky Rocks has a new post!

[@Susansinksanddrills]

My aunt used to write with a flex nib, and every note or card I received from her was a work of art. I wish now, of course, that I knew more about the pen and ink she used, and could watch her write, and talk to her about it. I didn't even save any of notes, I took them for granted. Such an opportunity lost.

[@InkyRocks]

But you do have the memory, and it's a lovely one. Thank you for sharing.

[@wbhurt]

This is one of my favorite of your posts yet! 1.great content as always, 2.I think the same thing all the time about ebonite feeds/expensive pens, 3. Chasing Amy is my all time favorite movie!(great shout out). My son and I paused the video so we could read the rock facts! Thanks so much!

[@InkyRocks]

hahaha! I laughed so hard about the rock facts! I should always make sure I write informative stuff instead of just "the quick brown fox..." I've only seen that movie once but it really stayed with me. Seems like we are always chasing something! Thank you!

[@wesdenham282]

Thanks for a calm, lovely and sane pen review. So unlike videos with a half-hour of rapid-fire descriptions of cardboard boxes (corrugated and non-), plastic wrapping (cellophane or shrink wrap) shipping label typeface, inner box (leatherette or faux-suede), molded inner box platform, instruction micro-booklet printing (process color or spot) and other fascinating factoids.

[@InkyRocks]

hahaha! I almost snorted my coffee--yikes! I'm still laughing. I have to force myself to do a mini "unboxing" as people seem to like it. But I used to just throw away my boxes until I started selling my pens and most buyers want the box. Thanks for making my day (and coffee up my nose.)

[@MyLifeMits]

I really appreciate the time and effort you put into these videos! All of those close-ups and descriptions are so very helpful :) Thank you always for your videos!

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you for always being so supportive Mitsuko! I'm glad you got something out of it!

[@topazhk]

Thanks for the review...I really look forward to catching your output on Saturdays and I find your honesty in this kind of review really refreshing. Thanks!

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much! The main thing I try to keep in mind is that I can only give you my opinion, while keeping in mind that everyone has different needs from a pen/ink. Thank you for your support!

[@chrisbliss2034]

Ohhhh Looooooordy! No one, but no one , is this GRAPHIC in pen reviews ! 😰😁. We are indebted to your honesty, integrity and sheer practicality. My pen....your nib....this universe.... ❤️(---- "time for your bed, Mr. Bliss....!") 😌🤗....

[@InkyRocks]

hahaha! It looks like you had fun watching. That makes me very happy! Thanks Mr Bliss!

[@cynthiaalvarado8610]

I totally agree!! More higher end pens must come with ebonite feeds by default. I too purchased a FNF ebonite for my FA nib and it was a game changer. The color of the pen is very nice to look at especially this time of year. Thanks for another enjoyable video! Take care.

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much! I'm glad that ebonite feed helped. It was a game changer for me too--it was SO frustrating when I first got it many years before FNF started selling. As a matter of fact, doing this video made me start using the FA again!

[@darkchocolate4643]

I had a really rough day, and your soothing voice is like a band-aid for my soul. Well, that and the really large glass of wine I'm nursing. Growing up with rock-hard steel fountain pen nibs, I really wasn't familiar with flex nibs or even soft nibs. Sometime in the beginning of 2021, I bought a Pelikan 100N from the sweetest 87-year old Dutch pen collector. It was a two-pen deal: said 100N and a Pelikan 100 that needed some TLC (the piston cork needed replacing). When the pens arrived, the 100N was an instant favorite. The 100, not so much. It sported a CN semi-flex nib that just felt weird to me. And since I couldn't ink it anyhow, it ended up in a drawer. Fast forward to two weeks ago. For some odd reason, I remembered the 100 collecting dust and decided to give it another go. Suffice it to say that I've been kicking myself (HARD!) for the past 2 weeks for not giving this pen a decent chance before. I've been thinking about getting another Japanese pen for a while, but one with a gold nib this time around. I initially had my heart set on the Pilot 912 with the FA nib, but after reading a bunch of reviews by people complaining about the feed, I don't think I should. I knew about the FNF ebonite feed you mentioned but they're in the US, and with shipping, taxes and custom fees, the feed alone would set me back close to 70€. Madness. I know Pilot didn't create the 912 FA with Spencerian handwriting in mind, but they should realize that there is an audience for this pen outside of Asia. I'm sure that in the 103 years they've been making pens, they've heard of something called cursive. Call me unreasonable, but if I'm going to spend 240€ on a pen, I expect it to write properly. Since I'm not planning on doing any calligraphy, I really just want so nice line variation, I think I'd better go for the Pilot 74 or 91, with a soft nib. All that remains is to decide between the SF and the SFM nib. First world problems.

[@InkyRocks]

Sorry you had a bad day--hope things are a little smoother. I'm sure it was that glass of wine more than a video hahaha! The FA nib is what it is--frustration with enough glimpses of joy to drive you crazy. For the money the 74, though not nearly as soft as an FA nib, is good value for the money. But seriously, if you are looking for flexy writing, your best bet, by far, is getting a modern modified flex nib like one from Pen Realm. I'm putting out a video in a few weeks about nibs and I show this nib again (and a bunch others.) Another idea is to put a vintage flex nib into a modern pen (like an Opus or something) Both of these have made me slow down on all the teeth gnashing, and I'm a lot happier for it.

[@darkchocolate4643]

@@InkyRocks I'd like to think it was the video. ;) I just ordered myself a 92 with a SFM nib. Never ever have I gone back and forth between two nib sizes the way I did for the past few days. I was driving myself bananas. As far as true flex writing is concerned, for now, I'm pretty stoked about the Pelikan 100 on one hand, and I also put a Zebra G nib into a Jinhao X750 the other day. I've been having so much fun with it, that yesterday I neglected all my other pens for several hours, and that's no mean feat. You have yourself a great day, Alesa.

[@rmoraespinto]

This is one of the best pen videos that I have been watched on YT. Conplete, thorough and clarifying. Thank you very much for your time to record this excellent video.

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much for your kind words. I do put a lot of work into these videos and I truly appreciate your lovely feedback!

[@shashijain5084]

Aurora pens are really top class !! Never disappoints !!

[@InkyRocks]

Thanks for your feedback. I'm glad you enjoy yours!

[@shane6242]

I have this same pen in Navy Blue, same # and everything! I luckilly havent had any issues with regular writing, and I agree with you on it being at best a semi-flex.

[@InkyRocks]

hahaha! I thought real hard about the Navy Blue as it's my favorite color but I'm still on a pastel color kick. Yes, semi-flex is about as far as I can push it.

[@pasttenseSara]

Your words ... they do more than describe .. they transport and impart, I feel like I am there with you as we discover the pen(s) and ink. Thank you for your review. I enjoy Flexible Nib Factory products. They have helped me transform several pens, including nib sharing a variety of brands with my Conid Bulkfiller.

[@InkyRocks]

OK, I'm jealous hahaha! Conids are like gold now! Thank you so much for your very kind words--sometimes trying to piece together and plan a video is like a puzzle. People like you make it worth it!

[@Merlin012001]

38 mins!! woohoo! new record!!! Looks pretty, but a conklin endura abalone and sliver from Goulet is my next foray into the pen market.

[@InkyRocks]

hahaha! Fast! That sounds lovey--abalone is beautiful on a pen!

[@Merlin012001]

@@InkyRocks i have 2 now one in silver and one in gunmetal...should get a replacement nib in for the silver one because I dropped it :((

[@streitschlichtunggoethegym6166]

Thank you for the overview of flex! Cheers Klaus

[@InkyRocks]

My pleasure! Thank you Klaus!

[@MLightstone]

As someone who loves flex nibs, I really appreciate this video.

[@InkyRocks]

Thanks so much! I keep meaning to do a full video about flex instead of incorporating it into other vids like this-but it seems so daunting hahaha!

[@MLightstone]

@@InkyRocks It is nuts how different the old flex nibs are from the new ones, unless you get like a Wahl Eversharp Decoband, which is no small investment. It's nice to see the new ones talked about in their own terms, rather than a constant comparison to the vintage flex nibs.

[@chrisrap52]

Well done. Maybe show some vintage flex someday, they have the best ebonite feeds. I agree with your assessments of modern flex. Also, most users do not understand the limits of a flexy nib. Trade-offs. I have a vintage Aurora 88 that has a very soft nib. I loved it until a heavy hand used it & sprung it. Was able to recover but was never as good. The world of pens is large & varied. Thanks for showing a bit of it.

[@InkyRocks]

It really is. Thanks for stopping by Chris! I used to use vintage flex a lot but now that I use so many inks and am so rough on pens, the trade off was too much for me (re-sacing, finding parts etc.) I now have a few vintage nibs that are jammed into modern pens. I sold the rest...

[@robgrant2271]

You never fail to impress. Great content and delivery. Thank You.

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much! Glad you got something out of it!

[@michaelstephan5272]

Alesa, really, really appreciate and enjoy your videos. I learned about your channel watching Appelboom videos and saw your top three pens video. The artistic dimension of your videos is amazing and a joy to watch. Thanks for all of your efforts on behalf of the fountain pen/ink/paper community!!!!!! Best wishes from Florida.

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much Michael! One of my New Year's resolutions is to show up on my own video at least once this year. But I would rather just show stuff hahaha! Take care!

[@petervik5399]

Comprehensive as always, always enjoy your presentation style and product description as we don't see some of these in our part of the world. Take care over there, cheers Peter.

[@InkyRocks]

Thanks so much Peter! Take care!

[@ellaniwalker6155]

Thank you for this beautiful video! I have never had an Aurora,expense, but they are beautiful. Love the ink show! It always soothes my soul! Have a great weekend! 🌟💖🦋🕊

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much! It's beautiful, but not a necessary pen. Glad you like the ink hahaha! Take care!

[@jlaurson]

Terrific to hear about the normalcy of flex problems. It's like hearing about real people's lives, rather than an Instagram-version of unattainable perfection. :-)

[@InkyRocks]

hahaha! That's a great analogy. I live the "real" flex life😎

[@kattz753]

The real kick in the pants is that the free Charlie pens in the giant Noodlers ink bottles have ebonite feeds. If it can be done for free, all expensive pens should have ebonite feeds.

[@InkyRocks]

I absolutely agree. It is so nutty, I'm wondering if there is some other marketing/production reason they don't.

[@ShahriarFarkhan]

I really like your thorough, honest review. That nib is a semi-flex at best - I love them for normal writing with an occasional flourish. The early prototypes were softer and people were springing them so they firmed them up, haha. Omas had the same issue with their early Extra-Flessible nibs springing. My vintage nibs are always much nicer than my modern flex nibs, I do think modern flex experience is getting better. I sent a few of my Aurora flex nibs to Gena and she added more flex and flow and they are a lot closer to perfect flex. You can try that if you want more flex but the stock nibs on these are awesome for daily writing and I love the one I have for just that.

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you! I'm really interested in that--she will modify the flex nib on this pen? I've heard of people modifying and making the Falcon softer. I'm considering that--but even though the Falcon messes up the paper underneath--for small writing flex, it's pretty good. And lots of times softening messes up the snap back. I used to be so into vintage flex but the trade off was too much for me. I got tired of re-sacking pens and I could never really seem to clean out the pens thoroughly so I couldn't use these new very light inks. I've given away/sold almost all of them (or Franken-penned them.) But I won't ever say never, because now that I've publicly said I don't want any vintage, I'll see one that I *must* have hahaha!

[@inkypinky6385]

keeping these in mind, I love the idea of a modern flex pen but I fail time and again. The best I have used so far (besides the Zebra G on a dip handle or on a Jinhao 159) is the Fountain Pen Revolution Himalaya. It is my flexiest and after several years of use, I am happy to report that it's vomit smell is almost gone.

[@InkyRocks]

hahaha! I guess that is your tradeoff: vomit smell for nice and flexy!

[@karidru5272]

Ah what a nice video. I also like pastel color fountain pens. They seem elegant to me. Aurora is one of my favorite pen companies. Their pens feel good in the hand and make you want to use them. That said... I would categorize them as fiddly, in general. Not just because of the flex. I've never used one where I didn't feel there was some kind of learning curve. Maybe that's not for everybody, but I like the process of getting to know them. Like making a new friend who is kind of shy. Once you understand each other, you're forever.

[@InkyRocks]

What a great description. That's probably how I feel about it too. Their designs are just gorgeous. Thanks

[@freespirit995]

Thanks for a very interesting review- particularly showing the range of flex nibs available. I am starting to "explore" fine flex nibs and it is proving an interesting pen journey. Last year, I bought a Platinum 3776 with a soft fine 14K nib which is a wonderful pen for flexy effects, as well as having a wonderfully precise nib for making corrections in printed texts. More recenty, I bought an old style Visconti Van Gogh maxi with an extra fine 23 K nib which has proved fantastically flexible and wet and very fine- all at the same time- quite a find! Aurora make fine pens, including the De Luxe Ipsilon range: I only have one Aurora Optima (a gorgeous deep orange "O Sole Mio" version) with a medium nib: it is quite "toothy" but writes well, although having seen your fine video, I now wish I had a flex version. Having seen your video, I now obviously have to find another Aurora to add to my collection...!

[@InkyRocks]

hahaha! It looks like you are enjoying your flex journey. I like your attitude--instead of being frustrated, you view it as a journey/experience. People would probably get a lot more pleasure out of their pens if they thought more like you. Thanks!

[@freespirit995]

Hello again. I have now thrown caution to the winds and bought a (very expensive) Aurora Optima Auroloide blue with gold rings and clip, and a fine flex nib. What a wonderful writing experience- the fine nib is wet and its flexing qualities allows 'flourishes' and line variation as I write. It is a wonderful writing experience: so thank you for your earlier video and demonstration of these extraordinary Italian pens!

[@tezzcan1]

Lovely pen and a fantastic deal, well done. So many pen makes I haven’t tried, maybe one day. In the meantime I will have to live vicariously through you 😜. Stay safe and have a wonderful weekend.

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much! I hope I can keep your interest! Take care!💕

[@russelltrotter5372]

I'm sounding like a broken record with the needle skipping and repeating the verse. But it can't be helped, you have made another great video! I do love a good flex matched up with a good shading ink. Have a great week and Easter!

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much! It is nice to get such friendly and supportive comments as I do spend a lot of time on these vids. Good flex and shade is an awesome combo. Take care!

[@wendyholiday2021]

Another interesting educational video. Thank you. I sort of read over your shoulder ..the mineral notes. Also, very interesting. haha

[@InkyRocks]

That was one of the reasons I kind of wrote sporadically as I was checking other notes. It's my secret way of indoctrinating people into enjoying minerals muahahaha!

[@stampinsan]

That clip is gorgeous! I know, who comments on the clip? It really is pretty, and so is the rest of the pen. I have never even tried to us a flex pen! I was just recently given a vintage pen with a semi-flex stub nib so here’s hoping!! Great price on your purchase!

[@InkyRocks]

Well, you can't be too far off--I love the cap band haha! A semi flex stub is really the best. It will probably be a good normal writer, you have a stub and then you have a little flex. It's like the Swiss Army knife of pens! Enjoy your pen!

[@13noman1]

I find the pursuit of flex nibs like the quest for the Holy Grail; easy to start but almost impossible to declare success. I've tried some purpose built flex nibs (usually a side cut out), have had a few nibs re-ground for it (happiest with a Pelikan M800 done by Masuyama) but mostly I find myself gravitating towards the "flex cheat" of a nice stub for that line variation without a lot of effort!

[@InkyRocks]

hahaha! Another commenter called it a "journey." I like that and figure it's all different experiences. The quest for the Holy Grail sounds pretty exciting and fun.

[@davecharvella4854]

Wow! $270, what an amazing deal. I love my Auroras! All are non-flex versions, but still amazing writers. I love the look and feel in the hand, especially when posted. They are so well made and balanced. And, for me, provide just the right amount of feedback.

[@InkyRocks]

I'm curious about their non-flex nibs. If they are interchangeable, I may purchase a regular nib to see if I like it before committing to another pen. I was really surprised how comfortable the pen was!

[@davecharvella4854]

@@InkyRocks Although I personally haven't tried it, I believe they are. I also believe they are very expensive! IIRC, Mike Matteson speaks to this on his channel.

[@InkyRocks]

@@davecharvella4854 Ah! I'll check it out. I saw some for sale on FPNibs. Thanks!

[@jom6829]

Ahh the holy grail of fountain pens - a great flex nib. Lovely review and apart from the tedious messing around with it, sounds like it works nicely.

[@InkyRocks]

I'm pretty sure the cost of a great flex nib is tedious messing around hahaha! It works nicely now, but as a normal writer with occasional flex. Thanks!

[@dmullins311]

Beautiful pen! I like the pens with more girth too, more comfortable to use. I have Conklin Durograph omniflex that I've been very happy with, knowing it's not a true flex, but works for me. Love your videos.

[@InkyRocks]

The main thing is that you use what works for you. I sold an omniflex to one of the biggest vintage pen sellers here in Tokyo because he was so tickled with it--he loved it. Thank you so much!

[@nameissturdy1390]

You got the “throw across the room” nib straight away! That’s funny in an ironic way.

[@InkyRocks]

I've had a string of "throw across the room" nibs lately and am wondering if it's just me hahaha!

[@destinedthunder]

I absolutely love shades of Tiffany blue. This is gorgeous!!!!!

[@InkyRocks]

hahaha! I didn't even think of that but you are right! Thanks!

[@roderickfemm8799]

Thanks for the deep-dive review. I often have problems with the few flex nibs that I have and have to fuss with them to make them work with my manner of writing. I sold off my Falcon, but I still have an FA nib, and a Scribo Feel flex nib, and they work pretty well. The Sailor that I think compares best with the Aurora Optima is the Pro Gear Realo, since it's also a piston filler with a very similar ink window. It's a little longer capped, but about the same posted. Which reminds me, when you're comparing pen lengths, it would help people with big hands who post a lot if you could compare posted lengths as well.

[@InkyRocks]

Ahh! thanks for the tip! I had not thought of that--I'll try to add that in. It took me awhile to add even posting the pen and reverse writing because I kept forgetting since I don't really do either. How flexy is the Scribo? That may be my next flex purchase. I'm also looking at the Omas but those are hard to come by (and my list of wants is very long!)

[@roderickfemm8799]

@@InkyRocks The Scribo is pretty flexy, as modern flex nibs go. Not as flexy as the FA nib, possibly because it doesn't have the side cutouts. I think it's also not quite as springy as the FA. I've been having some hard starts, but once it gets going it doesn't skip or anything.

[@InkyRocks]

@@roderickfemm8799 So many modern flexes are actually semi-flex or soft. Scribo has such lovely pens. I may stick with a normal nib though. It seems to me, a lot of European pens have problems with hard starts if you leave them awhile (and I do, as I have so many inked pens.) I so want to collect the different colors of the Safari, but I was having so many problems with them hard starting that I sold them all. Thanks for the advice.

[@MrAndrew1953]

A lovely pen . A piston fillers are my favourite and the girth is just right for my hand. All pens over a hundred dollars should come with a quality screw in converter with an ebonite feed. Flex and stub nibs are the best.

[@InkyRocks]

I am SO with you there. Any pen that is over $100, requires a screw in converter and ebonite feed and I'm sure the world would be a better place.

[@MrAndrew1953]

@@InkyRocks Sell me the pen with the deluxe option pack (screw in con 70 converter and ebonite feed automatically unless advised otherwise). I’m starting to become a piston filler priority 1 fan - larger ink volume and less messy to fill.

[@InkyRocks]

@@MrAndrew1953 hahaha! I may have to do a poll on the "perfect pen"

[@WritingDelight]

Again a great video from you. Thank you very much. This Optima 997 is a nice pen, but it is not speaking to me in a special way. Well, you can't fall in love with every pen. Thankfully. And flex nib... I like them. I have an old Omas Emotica with an titanium nib with a great flex.

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you! I'm so glad I can't fall in love with every pen--I'm already feeling overwhelmed by too many pens and ink as it is!

[@WritingDelight]

@@InkyRocks I totally know what you mean. There are so many pens and inks out there. Some really great ones.

[@CraftingVicky]

it was great to hear the nib on paper

[@InkyRocks]

Thanks! I could listen to that all day!

[@marshdrifter]

We don't even get converters on $100+ pens, so ebonite feeds seem like a complete luxury.

[@InkyRocks]

hahaha! Should be a law: over $100, converter and ebonite feed required. It would be a better world.

[@paulherman5822]

If the free pen from Noodler's is an ebonite feed, I have to wonder why most pens don't have them... Kind of strange that the $5 Chinese pens have a similar feed to ones that cost hundreds of dollars to me.

[@InkyRocks]

@@paulherman5822 I know, I don't get it either. Just watched a video about a $1200 pen that had a plastic feed. Good grief.

[@JoelTurrell]

In re: the FA nib - my #10 nib (mounted on my Custom 912) exhibits significantly more flex than my #15 (on the Custom 823). I believe that 2 factors are at work. The first is that I am unconsciously more carefree when using the #10, because the nib could be replaced if I trashed it with too much pressure, etc. My 823 was made after Pilot's decision making replacement of the nib unit imposs-ible for owners and the consequences of too much pressure are much more expensive. (I'm guessing that decision came circa 2016.) The other factor I believe to be the size/composition of the #15 nib: there must be some kryptonite in the alloy which is mixed with the gold in the #15. The #15 simply does not flex as much as the #10.

[@InkyRocks]

Oh that's interesting! I have a number 10 (912) and when I first got it, it was so soft. Now it doesn't seen as soft as before and I can't tell if it's because I added the ebonite feed (I don't know how that would affect it) or that I've had better flex experiences to make it seem like it's less flexible. In your case, it would seem like that the 15 would be at least the same if not more soft. Flex is such an illusive and moving target hahaha!

[@pearse13]

What was the wet sailer ink you tried at 6:43. Thanks, and great video.

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you! It is Bungukan Kobayashi Suruga Bay (Summer). I'm not sure if it's available outside of Japan but they have been loosening up lately and may occasionally sell it on-line.

[@pearse13]

@@InkyRocks Thanks, can't stop watching your videos. Great production quality and don't know why but there is such a southing quality of your production and voice. I will have to move on from my Platinum Preppy EF and Lamy 2000 EF. The more I listen to you I know I will be spending a lot of money. But at least I know I will have years of enjoyment. Thanks again, Pearse, Dublin-Ireland.

[@InkyRocks]

@@pearse13 Thanks so much Pearse! I'm actually doing a video on "Pen Minimalism" (really) and curating a collection, in the future! There is something freeing about not having a lot of pens. I used to be that way till I made videos and now I keep pens because people want to know about them! Take care!

[@blackletter2591]

I have only two favourite flex nibs: the Blue Pumpkin dip nib from Brause, but only when fitted with an "ink cage" to enhance ink capacity, otherwise it's too much trouble to me. If I haven't got one from Etsy, I Macgyver my own with a piece of the spring from an old biro, being careful not to occlude the slit with superglue. Occasionally, I need to threaten the tip with wet and dry, but they quality I get is pretty good. My other favourite is an old Mabie Todd Fountpen Blackbird eyedropper, from the very early 1900s. It has a sweet little 14k MT 2 nib, quite small, that is so nice to write with. I don't have to lean in to get good flex out of it. I still don't understand why we can't buy pens like this any more? What's the problem? Soft Gold nib, ebonite feed, shouldn't it be easy? The eyedropper thing means it keeps up a really good flow of ink. I wouldn't mind getting a flex nib for my other eyedropper, the Additive Pens double Helix. It already has a beautiful nib, but I should take advantage of the firehose ink flow. In the end, I want a nib that produces nice writing with variable stroke width. Not writing that could have been produced with a stub or an italic, much less a fine nib, but the real thing. If you can't tell what sort of pen produced a specimen of writing, you're really saying that the only value of the pen is the aesthetic feedback from writing with it and having it on your desktop. That's not enough for me. Perhaps it's because I've done a bit of calligraphy; I want the writing to look different.

[@InkyRocks]

Yeah, I agree. Sometimes, however, I want to just jot quick notes and a flex pen isn’t going to cut it. From what I understand, a lot of the “old” companies had closely guarded secrets on the composition of their nibs and it was the metallurgy that gave the nice flex. It is probably beyond the monetary scope for companies to do that now. And plastic feeds are much easier and cheaper to make.

[@unseen575]

I really love the one at the bottom at 1:07 with the blue marbling to it. Do you remember which specific pen it is? Thanks!

[@InkyRocks]

Yes, it's the Leonardo Momento special edition for Japan. I also talk about it a bit on my "How to Buy Pens from Japan"

[@Jellooze]

Speaking on the topic of the "hunt for a affordable flexpen" This combo has worked out alright for me, a jinhao x450 pen and e KanWrite ultraflex nib, its about 5bucks for the pen and 25 bucks for 2x of the flex nibs.

[@InkyRocks]

That sounds like a great solution. How is the KanWrite? The reviews I've read seem like it's a lot like a Noodler's on flex: takes a heavier hand.

[@Jellooze]

@@InkyRocks i dont have a lot to compare to, from my understanding it is Kanwrite that manufacture the noodlers pens and nibs. So their normal flex nib should be the same nib as the noodler pens use. But their Ultra flex nib is noticeable easier to use. fprevolution buy the their ultraflex nib from Kanwrite just like noodlers. So if you are in the US fprevolution can be a cheaper option due to KanWrite being in India

[@InkyRocks]

@@Jellooze Ah! Thanks for the answer! I had an FP revolution ultra flex and it was a little difficult for me to write with. I got pretty tired after a few words hahaha! But it's a pretty smooth nib and you can't beat the price!

[@MultiEbbot]

Great video ! I must had luck with my falcon nib it doesn´t dry out that easy like everybody says. I really have to push it hard and fast before it starts skipping.

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much--you are always such a great supporter! I don't have so much of a problem with the falcon for ink starvation, but with the FA nib. But both write with great ink flow in normal writing.

[@MultiEbbot]

@@InkyRocks Thank you :) I ment the FA nib I have it on a 912. Falcon pen and Fa nib the names still confuses me.

[@InkyRocks]

@@MultiEbbot me too hahaha! Count yourself lucky. My FA nib, prior to the ebonite feed replacement, almost required CPR because it absolutely died after a line of writing!

[@exzeroex]

"The finial is a flat top -_-" is how I heard that :D I have thought about getting the flat top engraved like how the Sun Moon Lake series has an engraving.

[@InkyRocks]

That would look nice!

[@MrAndrew1953]

So with this pen are you better off using Aurora’s version of an FA nib or can you use the FA nib with the flex factory’s ebonite feed?

[@InkyRocks]

As far as flex, the FA nib with an ebonite feed is softer and has greater line variation.

[@dashsunil]

I think the threads on this cap is little deeper making it short with the closed cap. I liked the pastel color though. 😊

[@InkyRocks]

Yes, I think that's what it is. I kind of like it!

[@jcparkins]

Lovely pen and a relaxing, calm video, thank you. I would love to find a good flex nib pen for occasional use, but so many of them are pricey. I have several dip pen nibs, but I can't tolerate the scratchiness. It's like fingernails on a blackboard to me. Ugh.

[@InkyRocks]

Thanks Jackie! I know, I'm always on the search. I may try looking thru some of the Indian pen companies for flex, but the one I tried was pretty much like a Noodlers--not really worth the effort (you end up getting a sore hand and indented paper!)

[@jcparkins]

@@InkyRocks you just reminded me that I have a cheap India-made flex pen, so I found it in a drawer, cleaned it out, inked it up, and remembered why it was in the drawer to begin with. It is awful. To be fair, it was really cheap so I shouldn't have expected much. But now it's in the trash, so no more aggravation with it.

[@InkyRocks]

@@jcparkins hahaha! That is why I'm so wary when people talk about great flex in some of these pens.

[@robt4550]

Very nice review. Thank you

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you!😊

[@fountainpeninsanity3344]

Good points about the trade offs with flex pens. I have always been curious about Aurora nibs, but I too don’t care for the black ends of most of their pens. I ended up getting a vintage Aurora because I think it’s really pretty and it has vintage flex, which is probably different than their modern pens. I have heard that Aurora nibs are quite toothy. Did you find the feedback pleasant?

[@InkyRocks]

I'm probably not a good person to ask as I like feedback on my nibs. When everyone winces at the sound a nib makes, I'm over there grinning like an idiot. I would say, maybe the same as Sailor but not as "crisp".

[@PenFriends]

As always a really relaxing and considerate video! Shame there is no inner cap! That should be a law too.

[@InkyRocks]

haha! I may be getting people to build the perfect pen here! Thanks!

[@VincentDuxD]

My metal falcon sef does not flex on rhodia and muji but works like a charm on cheap student grits, what could be the reason?

[@InkyRocks]

What do you mean it doesn’t flex (like the nib doesn’t open up?)

[@VincentDuxD]

@@InkyRocks sorry, let me clarify, what it does on cheaper papers that are also rather smooth is, tines open, and ink flows with it, but on rhodias, it will either railroad instantly on down strokes or it will start to railroad half way through a stroke, I’ve tried 4 inks, waterman mysterious blue, waterman absolute brown, diamine smoke on the water and Parker quink, all inks produce the same problems, a pilot ink is on the way, but I don’t just want to use my favorite pen on cheaper papers, also, on rhodias there are occasional skips on down strokes when I write normally, should I take it apart and try to move the feed a bit forward?

[@InkyRocks]

@@VincentDuxD Yes, but just a tiny tiny bit or the feed will drag on the paper. You need to also make sure the tines are flush to the feed. It sounds like the more absorbent paper works better.

[@VincentDuxD]

@@InkyRocks well, the feed never was on the paper and I was pushing to a width as wide as your demo flex, yeah it does flex well on more absorbent paper, maybe it’s because of the surface tension could be maintained, yeah, I made sure the nib and feed are alined, Im in love with it and will never getting rid of that pen, it’s brown, nothing could part me from a brown or teal gray things, still, it bugs me xD

[@InkyRocks]

@@VincentDuxD Yeah, that would bug me. I haven't had that problem but the only thing I can think of that is with Rhodia that isn't with your cheap paper is the coating. It won't be as absorbent. It's so funny. Men always say the falcon is a soft flexible pen and many women, like me, think it's to firm to flex comfortably with.

[@wittwittwer1043]

I have given up on trying to find/buy an actual flex nib; I think the best one can do is a "soft" nib.

[@InkyRocks]

I hear your frustration. The Blue Dew and the Secretary are truly flex. I use both all the time and I liked the Secretary so much, I got two. As far as higher end pens, it's a little more difficult.

[@greyfriar9008]

Have you ever tried the flex nibs that Omas produced?

[@InkyRocks]

No I haven't. They are a pretty pricey pen but I'm always keeping an eye out hahaha!

[@greyfriar9008]

@@InkyRocks When you do be very careful as the 'extra flessibile' nibs are very soft and prone to spring with a heavy hand. Worth it though if one is gentle.

[@InkyRocks]

@@greyfriar9008 Will do!

[@melissapugs]

fantastic video

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you!💞

[@elizabethlevi6966]

What is the ink used to solve the problem?

[@InkyRocks]

Bungukan Kobayashi’s Suruga Bay Summer. Kind of hard to get ahold of. You can try Iroshizuku Tsukiyo which is a good all around neutral slightly wet ink.

[@joncaradies3155]

Totally agree regarding ebonite feeds ...... :D

[@InkyRocks]

Why would you bother NOT having one hahaha!

[@strshooter7399]

Inky Rs, Great video :=) really. I noticed your writing with some of the different flex nibs sounded kind of scratchy. Is this the nature of flexible nibs? My 912 ~ FA nib, straight out of the box seems very scratchy when flexing. With a new "2 slit" F.N.F. feed, it's got better ink flow than the original, but still requires slow writing and is still scratchy. Thanks for your video, very informative for sure and well done. :==)

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much. I think we need to differentiate the words "scratchy" and "feedback". All flex nibs will have feedback. It's a kind of vibration and that is what you are hearing when I flex on the video--it is a pleasant effect many people enjoy. Scratchy means that the nib tip itself is actually micro digging into the paper and that is not desirable. Most really fun flex nibs will be difficult to write with "normally" because part of the "line variation" comes from having a very sharp point on the tip of the nib. So to keep the pen from being scratchy, you have to write with a very light hand. So if your FA nib pen feels fine with "normal" writing (non-flex), it isn't the tip that is the problem. If it feels scratchy when you flex, then inside of the slit may be rough and you feel it when you flex. But more than likely, if you are only feeling it on the downstroke, it is feedback. You can help lessen this by using a very wet ink (shake the bottle and if there are a lot of bubbles that stay a long time, it's probably wet). Also, most flex writing takes time. More ink is going onto the paper and you need to concentrate more to get the pressure of up and down just right. So it will be naturally slower.

[@strshooter7399]

@@InkyRocks Wow, :-) thanks Inky R :-) you really know your stuff ! I'm having to re-evaluate what is really going on with my new pen. My inexperience with this style of nib is just something I'm going to have to work on. Still love the Pilot Customs, and glad of my purchase.

[@paulherman5822]

I might be an oddity, but flex just isn't that important to me. I have a few with flex, but they're ones that I got almost on accident. And I have one that the seller SAID was flexible (1940s Wahl-Eversharp Skyliner), but I could probably drive the nib into oak, it's that stiff. (The definite accidental one is a 1920s Sheaffer, 5-30 nib, and the other one I kind of thought was flexible, a ca. 1912 Mabie Todd Swan C2. Because I'd wanted a Mabie Todd, and it was in my price range. 😁) Do they work well? Great. But they're vintage, only about 10-15 years apart in age, from the time when flex was the norm. Really dress up my writing. Compared to any vintage pen, I've not seen any that have true flex like my Mabie Todd. Too much pressure needed, usually, in comparison. Even a Zebra G isn't as soft. If they made them like a vintage one, I would be more interested, but for my daily use, flex just isn't that important. I'd rather use a stiff Manifold nib that's smooth (like the vintage flex ones are) than something that is scratchy. Of course, I'm still hoping for a good, modern, truly flexible pen... 😁

[@InkyRocks]

I've written with and owned many vintage flex pens but ultimately the trade off was too much for me. I like changing out inks and using strange inks and that just tears up vintage. I got tired of changing out ink sacs and having old crusted ink contaminating my ink. I have a Waterman that is over 100 years old that is like a paintbrush. I don't use it. And, no, you are not an oddity! I envy people who don't care about flex--it makes life a lot easier!

[@paulherman5822]

@@InkyRocks As most of my vintage are easy to replace ink sacs lever fillers, I still have a tendency to use whatever, with impunity (except for the shimmer inks.) If my Mabie Todd used a vintage, more caustic ink originally (which is probable 😁) and survived over 100 years, I feel pretty good with anything (of course, it's an eyedropper one, so really easy to clean.) And I've used some inks that certain people say are damaging to vintage pens, and have had no issues with eating ink sacs or anything else (I may just be fortunate. 😉) I will say that much of my daily use ones are fairly cheap, but still nice writers, though I try to have at least one of my vintage pens in use regularly as well. Currently, it's a transitional J Esterbrook with a broad "firm" nib. We'll see what happens when it's empty. Might be something that has more flex, though when that happens, it'll be when I may need to sign things in duplicate, so maybe the Wahl-Eversharp with the "can be driven into oak" 14K nib. We shall see...

[@thedoover6520]

It's very beautiful.

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you! 😊

[@KB-cx2dr]

Nice pen, but no inner cap would be a deal breaker.

[@InkyRocks]

I can definitely see that.

[@Detman101]

Most frustrating Flex-perience: Noodlers Ahab...bought one while my penbbs-456 was in california getting worked on. It was T H E W O R S T "Flex" pen that I have EVER had the displeasure of dealing with. I had to tinker with that pen at the start of EVERY DAY just to get it to work for a few hours....then tinker more. Eventually I got fed up and buried it in the back yard. And ugh...the smell...I've never tried to work with such a turd of an object (in every way) in my life!!! Never again! BEST Flex-perience: Opus-88 with "Secretary of De Flex" nib: I....LOVE....THIS....PEN!!!! I have many pens, none of them compare to the absolute reliability, ease of flex, smoothness, wetness and utter pleasure to hold carry and use...of this Opus-88 Demo with it's S.O.D.F flex-nib unit. This is the flex-perience I've been chasing from the beginning of this journey...but now....I've arrived. The only thing I'm looking at purchasing in the future is another Opus-88 demo with the 1.1 SODF Flex nib unit. Then I'm done. There is no better flex than this...it's better than my vintage Swan pen!!

[@InkyRocks]

I agree! People who haven't tried that nib always give me a big lecture on vintage flex. I've done a bunch of vintage flex and while they are excellent--they were too much of a pain for all the ink changes I do. I got tired of changing the sacs, fiddling with the nib because they dry out faster and being super careful with them and not using my crazy inks. SODF fixed that for me! Glad you enjoy it!

[@Detman101]

@@InkyRocks Hallelujah! I'm not the only one...finally, I don't feel like the lone crazy fountain pen flex apostle! lol... Yeah, I don't think I'm using anything but SODF from here on out. And I'm dropping down to 3 pens. My SODF Opus-88's and my apocalypse pen...Delike element.

[@zachsmith3376]

Why not just buy vintage? Marie Todd, Waterman,Parker? The older pens are more delicate but flex on top of everyday writing prowess too.

[@InkyRocks]

I've written with and owned many vintage flex but I often change out and use very odd inks and the trade off was too big for me. I was tired of the care it took. I dislike re-sacing pens and remembering to buy the right size, some of the materials were too delicate to soak and sometimes you just can't get all the old ink out of the pen. I realized vintage wasn't for me when I found myself pulling the nibs out of them and trying to figure out how to stick them in modern bodies. That too is a trade off hahaha!

[@Sonicman415]

I’m watching this because your voice is soothing and I love your vids 💙✌🏽🌏✌🏽💙 An ebonite feed oughtta be a law, I agree. Glad we cleared that up. 🙃

[@InkyRocks]

Hahaha! It should! Thanks so much!

[@simeonking2910]

I tried to flex my falcon for the first time and said I have to put this much pressure.... well.... guess it’ll be a regular nib then. I apparently have never flexed a nib at all before to even get a bit of line variation........ after all this time I thought I was doing what the pros were doing when I was simply writing..... S....M....H......sigh

[@InkyRocks]

Yes, the falcon does give you line variation but, like I said, it actually makes marks on the page below hahaha! I may send mine out to get it "softened" but am pretty sure that will mess it up as a regular writer. I agree...sigh

[@simeonking2910]

I actually spend a week or a month depending how fun or challenging the pen is to get it to be conformed to my position of writing in a consistent use without switching to another pen. As of now we’ve bonded where I have no desire to flex the nib now.... its writing like a dream regardless of what its characteristic is. No complaints here; I just thought I was flexing my gold nibs.... guess not....

[@docfrayon]

+1 for the ebonite feeds !! :)

[@InkyRocks]

Absolutely!😎

[@peggylove1]

The ink in your final scene in this video was sooo beautiful. Thanks for another fun video. $10,000 per carat for natural Alexandrite, WOW! It’s a beautiful stone. I only have a smallish one in a ring.

[@InkyRocks]

Ohh, you are very lucky! That bit of info is a little old so it's probably worth more now. Synthetic Alexandrite is now all the rage. Thank you!

[@unseen575]

Now that's a beaut

[@InkyRocks]

Thanks-classic!

[@MrAndrew1953]

I’ve been told titanium are the longest lasting.

[@InkyRocks]

That's what the FNF website says, though I haven't tried myself.