Montblanc 149 vs Visconti Homo Sapiens Bronze Age - Which Grail Pen Is Best? There Can Only Be One!

[@bunyan6101]

I think the Montblanc is timeless, yet the Visconti is innovative and unique. If you’re playing at this level I don’t see why you wouldn’t have both.

[@HemingwayJones]

I agree completely.

[@amyalphabet722]

Oh, My. GOSH! I was actually yelling at the computer while watching this video, it was just BRILLIANT!! I cannot say enough great things or articulate how much I enjoyed this, thank you! Also... team Visconti only because I have climbed Etna and have an ongoing affair with Italy courtesy of my Grandpa, who served during the Italian Campaign as a member of the Royal Canadian Army.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello Amy, I love this comment! Thank you for this! I am so glad that you enjoyed it. I had so much fun making this one.

[@mosesmartinez4364]

IAM FROM THE U.S. AND HAVE 6 VETERAN UNCLE MY HAT OFF AND THANKS TO YOUR GRANDFATHER FOR HIS SERVICE. GOD SPEED

[@InkDiaries]

My husband surprised me with a Visconti Homo Sapiens Bronze Age for my birthday. It should be arriving later this week👍🏻 loved this video 😊

[@HemingwayJones]

What a wonderful pen and an amazing gift! What a great guy! Congratulations!

[@TeensierPython]

How did you like it? We need an update.

[@anguswhite8233]

glad you went for the 149!: went for the 146 as wasn’t sure I’d like the enormous nib on the 149 but I’ve never regretted buying it - it writes beautifully and feel like I could write all day with it:)

[@HemingwayJones]

The 146 is near perfect! What a great pen!

[@davecharvella4854]

Have both, and love both! And, like they say, "timing is everything" i.e., I purchased both pens new for < $600. 00 each. So, if you're patient, the deals are out there to be had!

[@HemingwayJones]

I agree! Also seek out a good opportunity and never over extend oneself.

[@sajjadhusain4146]

I inherited the majestic MB 149 from my late father. So, it will always hold a special, unrivaled, sentimental place in my heart. But the pen is also a fantastic feel in hand and superb writer (I have the M nib). In this particular face-off, I’d still pick the Visconti HS. It edges out the MB in the feel of the material. And more importantly the way the nib writes. My Bronze Age HS is one I very belatedly bought less than a year ago. And it wins this contest for me.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello My Friend! It’s great to have such a well articulated and kind contrary opinion. I love them both and this was hard, sentiment, weight, and the nib eked out the win for the MB, but I am very glad I don’t have to decide for real. Thanks so much for chiming in with a great comment!

[@sajjadhusain4146]

@@HemingwayJones Thanks for the kind reply, HJ. I always enjoy comparison and pen vs pen videos like these. And you do them especially well. So yea, I did not find it overly difficult to choose between these two pens. I like my Visconti Divina pens even more.

[@HemingwayJones]

@@sajjadhusain4146 Thanks so much, My Friend! I am happy to have you here. I appreciate your contributions to our dialogue! Stop by again soon.

[@plumbooks]

I have a Lamy Safari & Pilot Kakuno. These are more in my price range LOL. But, if I had the opportunity, I'd pick the Visconti over MB. 1) Cost - I sleep more soundly and eat better spending the least amount of money on a pen lol 2) Uniqueness - the design & color of the MB is more widely copied. My untrained eyes would have a hard time picking it out unless I see the MB finial. With the Visconti, you literally get to hold a little bit of Mount Etna in your hand. You can't beat that! 3) The clip - that arching crescent shape is no ordinary clip. It's designed to mimic the Ponte Vecchio, a famous bridge in Florence. There's a Visconti boutique not too far from there. Thanks for a great comparison!

[@HemingwayJones]

Very sounds judgement! Thanks for watching.

[@dr.d723]

I appreciate your video. I have been debating for some years about getting Visconti HS Bronze Age, but have not purchased one yet. I have several Montblancs, including 3 146s. I don't have a 149 yet. But your video answered a huge question for me. I have osteoarthritis in my writing hand (it happens when you get older). I find that I can write for hours with my MB 146s, but not so much with my heavier pens. And I love, love, love the way all of my MBs write - they flow. Like you, I am not heavy handed. So the MB writing experience is better for me. So, you answered an important question for me - the Montblanc 149 is the answer.

[@HemingwayJones]

Brilliant! So happy to help. Debate whether you need one since you have a 146. That pen is nearly perfect. The 149 has the larger nib though.

[@crazywisdom2]

Moringa Powder really helps with my arthritis. just a thought.

[@wolf_ceit_witch]

Another great video. I loved the comparisons. Can't wait to get my first HS. My MB 149 is devine. I write with it everyday

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you Ceit! I cannot wait for you to get one also! All the best.

[@pamelaboxall7015]

You can't argue when something is just right and that Montblanc 149 is just right for you.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello Pamela! Exactly! Some pens just speak to you. I think a tougher comparison is the 149 to 146. I think that one is coming soon! Thanks for watching.

[@mvaron2546]

I truly enjoyed your Visconti/Montblanc comparison. I have the the Bronze Age and the Montblanc 146 and I love them both. One feature about the Bronze Age is that the metal features on the print actually tarnish and develop a patina, which definitely adds to the character of the pen. The early Homo Sapien models came with a non-gold, proprietary material, nib, maybe a titanium alloy. It offers a bit of flex but no variation in line width to speak of, which mine has. Visconti has switched to a gold nib for that series of pens. I'm glad I have the earlier nib. Thanks for your channel. It's great fun.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much, Marty! I appreciate the kind words and excellent information. Stop by again soon!

[@donhall-aquitania1025]

$700 for a grail fountain pen sounds crazy, but that’s also the price of an Indonesian made electric bass guitar that I’ve been considering as a beater. I would use that grail pen every day and the beater guitar maybe once a month. I still can’t spend that much on a pen yet though as I have a 34-year old Montblanc 146 that my wife gifted me for our first anniversary. It’s currently covering my grail pen category.

[@HemingwayJones]

That 146 is enough. That is a wonderful pen and a thoughtful gift! All the best!

[@amyalphabet722]

Over here just watching this amazing video again. I think I have made a big decision. I am going to wait until my next trip to Italy and get my Visconti there. With the VAT it may end up being more expensive, but a purchase in Italy will only add to its personal value to me and sentimentality. I now find myself looking at the Montblanc because despite my small hands, I much prefer bigger pens. Thanks again for this video, Hemingway!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks Amy! Thanks for watching!

[@Wolverine3660]

Again, HJ, you have produced a wonderful video. I must say that I am a bit biased, in that I absolutely love the MB 149 pen. And right now, I have 5 of them!!!! Had a Visconti HS pen, but, I didnt quite like it, so I sold it to a friend who seemed to love the Visconti. But, MB 149 is still my absolute favourite pen.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello My Friend. We share a love for that pen as well.

[@soutrikband]

I don't think I can ever afford these two. However, I am in love with Visconti Homo Sapiens ! This is my grail pen !

[@HemingwayJones]

It is a wonderful pen! Thanks!

[@johntaylor8817]

Hi. I really had a great time, and you had me worried. Glad you made the correct choice, the 149 is just the perfect writing experience, Visconti needs to get its quality control issues sorted out. I'm not totally against Visconti, their Blue Lagoon is one pen I wound buy because it's lighter and visually stunning.🤗 Cheers.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello John and thank you! I tried to build up tension a bit! I hear that Visconti is getting better. I may ask Brendan when I have him on my Live show this Tuesday. He is from Atlas Stationers and carries Visconti. Thanks!

[@aryanambastha4050]

Would you say that the writing feel of the nib of the 149 is the same as a 145 Classique, Or is there a difference?

[@HemingwayJones]

The feel, less aesthetics, are very similar to each other. There is something dazzling about the size of the 149, but the feel is very similar to me.

[@manaiki4388]

The Namiki Emperor nib is bigger than the 149 and according to some reviews it is lovely to write with and is really an amazing pen even though it is really expensive.

[@HemingwayJones]

It sounds amazing. I tap out at around $1,000 personally. I hear great things though.

[@waylon_willie]

HJ! My grail Bronze Age arrives tomorrow! Your videos have helped guide me so much, thank you!

[@HemingwayJones]

My pleasure! Congratulations!

[@fossilimprint2954]

Your method of comparison makes a lot of sense. At the end I was hanging in suspense wondering which of the pens you would choose. Thank you for actually picking one. Thank you for an enjoyable video.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you, My Friend! I am so glad that you enjoyed it. This was fun to make.

[@cindyliu1828]

Thanks for the introduction of these two fantastic pens! I am a fan of fountain pen now!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you, Cindy, for watching. Stop by again soon.

[@Shak-MD]

Great one HJ. I agree with everything you said save a couple of points. 1. I have replaced the barrel of one of my 149s myself. Not sure if Visconti parts are as readily available. 2. The filling mechanism on Visconti is just as bad....cleaning them takes forever. I would not consider it superior. Again, One can easily replace the piston on 149. Though one can argue either way. BTW, I never had a shadow of a doubt which you would pick 😀 I would also pick 149.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello My Friend! I think we are of like mind on many things. I should probably have added some extra detail to my points but it was getting going as it was. When I said that Visconti had a superior filling mechanism, I meant in regards to materials since it is titanium. I was thinking of longevity. Both are monsters to clean. On the barrel, supposedly, one should not ever have to replace a barrel since it is indestructible but I have not tested this! So, that’s where I was coming from. I agree with everything you say above. There was a bit more color there that could have been included. Always a pleasure!

[@Shak-MD]

@Hemingway Jones Of course, I am marginally biased judging by how many 149s and 146s I have hoarded....😀 ... I loved the production quality of your video, as usual.

[@ironmic9244]

While I would rarely disagree with you SHAK-MD, I will agree both are a pain to clean, and I mean a real pain to clean. The thing the HS has over the 149 for cleaning, is you can unscrew the nib unit, which helps to flush it out. I don't have the tools for the 149 to do that.

[@vicentegregorio6476]

I don’t own a Visconti, but I have had a 149 since the early 80’s, never serviced and it works perfectly. You have inspired me to buy a Visconti Homo and to join your channel. See you in KZbin also. Thanks.

[@Starbase_Area51]

I'm not an expert on fountain pen nomenclature, but in the non-fountain pen world, the Visconti 1/4 turn cap securing mechanism is called a "bayonet mount". I'm guessing the term comes from Civil War or earlier rifles. The term bayonet mount is commonly used in electronics, photography and household tiny light bulbs. BTW I've been using an Aurora FP with a similar screw piston fill mechanism as the 149. My grandmother gave it to me in the late 70s and I used it daily for school then work for at least 30 years and it still sucks up ink like Day 1. Then I lost it and found it years later - now it's very seldom used. Keep up the good work on the channel!

[@HemingwayJones]

I like that term. For the videos, I tend to use the term the manufacturers use, just to keep things consistent and easier for people to find. But that is definitely the idea.

[@jag9401]

That's exactly right

[@CarzorStelatis]

You're correct, although that type of bayonet is much older than the US civil war - initial versions of the 'socket' bayonet were developed in the 1690s.

[@richardsimms251]

I am on the edge of my seat ! Great video RS. Canada

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you!

[@shamus730ify]

Great video, brilliant cliffhanger!!! But I was right! What gave me the clue was the comfort in writing for long periods.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks Jim! Very perceptive. This one was super fun to make. Thank you!

[@joeymaximus8146]

I really enjoyed this video. I would take the Visconti, hands down, without an ounce of regret. There are a great many pens out there that can get really close to the feeling of the 149, but to date: I've encountered nothing like the homo sapiens. What a dull and colorless world it would be if we all agreed on everything though. I really appreciate the love you have for your 149. All the best from the Midwest!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much for the great comment! And the kind words. You make excellent points. That Visconti is a wholly original piece of work with many amazing features. I completely get it. Wish you all the best and thanks for watching.

[@davidprewitt1050]

Well done my friend! I like this format from time to time. I need both. P.S. congratulations on 5k subscribers.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much! I am glad that you noticed! I alternate. It’s tough to always do high concept each week. The high concept ones can take a week or two to edit and I get exhausted sometimes after. Next week is another straightforward review, but after is the Dark Academia one and I am so PSYCHED to get that one out there! I am also working on another high concept one now. I think you will enjoy it. All the best!!!

[@JMaxwell1000]

I was most impressed with the beautiful B&W map of Rome you were using as an underlay. Great review! Personally, I'd definitely prefer the Visconti.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you! That is an excellent pen!

[@cmcmc7647]

Just have bought a Visconti ! And going to buy a Montblanc in June 2024, Thanks for the video, helped a lot

[@HemingwayJones]

Wonderful! It is an excellent pen. Well done and enjoy. It's good to space these things out. It gives you time to enjoy them.

[@cmcmc7647]

Oh thanks ! And btw, I also watched your Lamy 2000 video, very interesting ! It’s been my everyday FP for many years, but maybe it will change with the Visconti ! I also recently bought the Leonardo Momento Zero and the Nahvalur Schuylkill Asfur Bronze, did you have time to check them out?

[@rockfitclub]

That was my question that which one is better 👏 Thank you

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello There, My Friend! Visconti I think is a better pen, but I prefer the MB. It just has a quality. Also, the Visconti being so heavy is a huge Achille’s Heel. Something to consider. If you have more specific questions, please let me know. I am happy to help.

[@richardzak2140]

Hello HJ. Another interesting video. I have neither pen but I do inspire to get a Montblanc. However, after watching this video, the Visconti has me intrigued. You have placed me in a peculiar position my friend and have opened my eyes to another dream. Time will tell of my choice.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you, Richard! I appreciate it very much. I will be doing more material on both. Maybe it will help you decide.

[@dinodiaz3532]

I just bought a pre-loved 149 not in small part owing to this video. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much! Congratulations! Great pen!

[@deniseplasse5126]

❤ great review!!! I picked the Homo sapiens over the MB 149…. But only because it came to me on the second hand market or a great deal. I am currently saving for my MB 149 ❤🎉❤🎉

[@HemingwayJones]

It’s a fantastic pen. There really is no wrong choice here.

[@tsherbs1309]

I liked this concise comparison. Thank you for it. I've never even touched either of these two pens, so I can't add anything from my experience. But I did learn some things from your video. I want to hold that repurposed lava more than I want to hold the MB plastic....

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello T Sherbs! Thank you for the kind words. I am glad that you enjoyed it. The Lava is an interesting experience. It is an impressive and interesting pen;. Stop by again soon.

[@sajjadhusain4146]

The material and finish on the Visconti pen is, as I hinted at earlier, one of few big reasons why I prefer it to the MB 149.

[@frankmarek9921]

Both are wonderful pen your very lucky to have someone bought you two beautiful pens ,yr last video was great.frank in Oswego I'll.nice 18kt nibs

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you, Frank! Wishing you all the best.

[@frankmarek9921]

@@HemingwayJones you to

[@immolder]

Great video! It's interesting I have a few MB's Solti edition and Mozart. Love them both, great quality. My mother is Bavarian and I have been over multiple times. Plus loved working for German companies in the States. The Visconte is less recognized and subtle, this to me now is a plus as I care less about impressing others. Also my father served in the 85th division the whole war (WWII). He landed in Sicily went through Rome and finally Northern Italy. Received the Bronze Star and only recounted the funny memories. For me the final decision was to get the Visconte, it will be here in a few weeks.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much and thanks for watching. The Visconti is a gorgeous and unique pen. Let me know your thoughts when it arrives. I wish you all the best.

[@mrjessetaylo]

Love all your videos but this one is my favorite! I loved the side by side comparisons and I hope we can look forward to more videos like these in the future!

[@mrjessetaylo]

P.s. saw the twist ending coming a mile off!

[@HemingwayJones]

@@mrjessetaylo I am that obvious!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much! I will do stuff like this again soon. I try to mix it up. Thanks so much for watching. I am so happy you liked this one.

[@13noman1]

Well, that was a fun contest. Despite the scoring, I was pretty sure you were going to go with the MB. I finally broke down and bought a 146 a couple of years ago out of some curiosity -- and only because it was at a rather good price. I will admit that it was better than I expected but personally, I feel what your paying for in MBs...is their rather proficient marketing systems. So, to each his or her own but in my book I'd go for Visconti (yup, have one and predates my MB).

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much! I am very glad that you enjoyed it. Enjoy that wonderful pen.

[@karens-j2231]

I very much enjoyed this video. I had purchased the Visconti for a very good price and it had been on the top of my wishlist for a very long time, because I love the looks and found the material very intriguing. And then I returned it... I still love the looks and the material is wonderful, but the ridges of the capping mechanism kind of hurt my fingertips, so I had to let it go. I really enjoy the nibs of my Montblanc pens (mostly vintage) and would LOVE to get a 146 because the 149 is too big for my hands which are rather tiny 🙂. But I am still searching for a used one with an OM nib, because I will not pay the price for a new one which is as you said only plastic.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello! I can see returning the Visconti for those ridges. They are cut quite deep and are perceptible. If you are investing that much, it should be perfect. As for the MB, the 146 is such a perfect size. It is so perfectly balanced,. Gently used is definitely the way to go. All the best!

[@tce4159]

The largest nib I have ever written with is a Namiki Emperor Urushi Lacquer Vermilion No.50 nib Fountain Pen . My friend just got one this last year when we visited Atlas Stationary’s in Chicago it’s her grail pen… My grail pen is a David Oscarson Alexander Fleming ( gray) fountain pen… I ended up having it alternate it just a bit ( I put a small diamond in the clip ) David saw it after it was done and he was fine with it , actually he liked it. ( thank goodness) I have both the Visconti and Montblanc, I’m with you. I would keep the Montblanc but I love them both. Enjoyed the way you weighed the two pens out, negatives and positives ,that was great ! Thank you 😊

[@HemingwayJones]

That nib sounds comically huge. I must try it! I am so glad that she got it from Brendan. Atlas is the best. Your grail pen sounds amazing! Send me a photo sometime. I’d love to see it. Awesome! I am so glad that you enjoyed the video. I had so much fun making this one. Thanks so much.

[@gizmogeek23]

I recently picked a 1979 149 from Antique Digger and it’s something really special. I eventually want to get a Visconti. I wish the clear band ink window would be brought to the normal Homo Sapiens from the crystal dream/Skylight models.

[@HemingwayJones]

I love that ink window too. It’s so fun. Your 149 sounds awesome!

[@AlainTabangin]

My wife bought me the Visconti for Father’s Day. Really beautiful pen.

[@HemingwayJones]

Awesome gift. Here’s to her!

[@vishalachari2281]

Just got the Visconti HS Bronze Age today and must say it's an amazing pen. Also have MB146 which in itself is a legend.

[@HemingwayJones]

Congratulations! That is an excellent pen!

[@haroldmarenger3435]

I have both pens and I like them both for various reasons. Both hold a lot of ink, which is important to me. Both are comfortable in hand. The clip on my MB149 clips to my pocket more securely than the VHS-the clip on the VHS is somewhat smooth and tends to slide off my shirt pocket. I do not post either pen when writing with them. And for me, filling from an ink bottle, the MB149 is easier to get a complete fill over the VHS. I feel that the piston filling system may be a little more reliable over time, whereas the VHS’s seals may need to be replaced sooner than the MB’s-this is just speculation on my part, both of my pens are filling as they did when they were purchased (a very small dab of silicone grease on my MB every 4 years seems to do the trick-I’m not sure how I would do this for my VHS). My MB is smoother writing, where the VHS experiences a lot of hard starts, and seems to run out ink faster (probably because I can’t seem to get a full fill). The MB has an ink window (a big plus), and the VHS does not-you could move up to the Crystal Dream, but then you are now in the MB price range. The VHS’s lava-resin material resists scratching, where the MB will not resist scratching. And the VHS is not as recognizable to most, as compared to the MB149, and is less conspicuous. My VHS has the, 23kt Palaidium nib, which is always going out of adjustment and my MB writes first time, every time. So for the writing experience I’d say the MB is better, and for durability, I’d have to give it to the VHS. Both pens have their strengths/uses. Right now, my MB edges out the VHS, but if I can get the VHS’s Palladium nib swapped out with an 18 kt gold extra fine nib, I would say the VHS might just edge out the MB slightly, but so far the MB works the best between the two.

[@HemingwayJones]

This is a great analysis! Thanks for watching!

[@peterpuleo2904]

The safe course is to own both of these magnificent pens, as you do. I, alas, own neither.

[@HemingwayJones]

Truly! Great plan.

[@John-vi4ys]

Well, I can’t believe it, but it is 12:00am in the morning as I sit in my room at the Palazzo Hotel in Las Vegas for a work conference and I’m watching KZbin videos on Fountain pens and primarily for the Mont Blanc 149. First for you; AWESOME video, this is the first video of yours I have Seen, and I think it’s one of the best on KZbin, great job! Being Italian and owning other Italian pens, I have wanted the Visconti Homo sapiens Bronze Age for years. BUT; as I was walking through the Grand Canal Shops here at the Palazzo, I went into the Mont Blanc store, watches, bags and lots of pens including special edition Mont Blancscthat were $38,000, no exaggeration, so the $700 to $1,000 price on the 149 seamed reasonable. Even though I have to many cigar shaped black pens from Sailor to Pilot, etc. I am drawn to that classic style. They had 3 sizes of this pen side by side and even though they didn’t have any filled with ink, they let you handle and dry write with them. A bit more feedback than I prefer in my pens, but that could be because it didn’t have ink. I only buy fountain pens with EF nibs and they didn’t have that nib size and said it would be a special order they would have to send to MB and it could take weeks or months to get it. That struck me odd, but yet it made it feel special, in that it just wasn’t mass produced? I will be here for 3 more days, and I’m having a hard time pulling the trigger on the 149. I don’t gamble, so there is that here in Vegas, if I were, you could easily drop that amount in losing. Any more advice or coaxing would help with my decision. And once again, great video, I’ll be watching more. Thx!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much for the kind words. I am so glad you enjoyed this. Montblanc pens are usually quite smooth. It’s a shame that they wouldn’t let you dip it. That gives a pretty good sense of it. Nevertheless, all of their nibs are quite smooth and I believe that they have a 30 day nib exchange, if you do not like a particular one. I do not have an EF, except that my 146 Flex writes EF when not flexed, but it’s a different nib. Let me know if you decide to pull the trigger. Waiting is not the worst. Sometimes, it makes it that much more special. Let me know what happens.

[@haroldmarenger3435]

My Montblanc 149 is an extra fine and it writes very smoothly, with just the right amount of feedback for my style of writing. Also, Montblanc has a nib exchange program, so if you are not satisfied with your nib’s performance, you can have MB swap out the nib for a different nib-that is what I did with mine. When I originally received mine, I did not like the way it performed, so I brought it back to the Montblanc boutique and they sent it back to Montblanc to replace the fine point nib with the extra fine. I’m surprised that the Montblanc store did not have a tester pen kit with different nib sizes. Most Montblanc stores have them to help you select the right nib for your writing style. My Visconti HS Dark Age has an 18 kt gold extra fine that puts out a line width somewhere between my MB extra fine and a fine nib. My Visconti HS Bronze Age has a Palladium Dream touch nib instead of an 18 kt gold nib, which I do not recommend. Of all 3 pens, I still prefer the writing quality of the MB149 (for me). Although, if you want/need something durable, check out the Visconti Homo Sapien Crystal Dream-similar lava/resin body, it holds a lot of ink, has an ink window, 18 kt gold nib, and is durable. Good luck on your hunt!

[@MrAndrew1953]

I love the matte finish of the Visconti plus the gold/brass rings. I prefer a pen with a bit of heft.

[@HemingwayJones]

It is beautifully crafted and has an amazing texture and finish. Thanks so much for watching and stop by again soon.

[@johnmanuel2980]

Visconti. I love mine! Great video HJ. My next pen will be the MB.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks Brother! I’m glad yours is sorted.

[@mikequinlan9585]

At the end of the day it’s about the writing experience. Because of that different people will choose different pens, regardless of price, design, and features etc. I several pens and my favorite is the Montblanc it’s the go to when I want to write a letter, make lists, and Christmas cards, birthday cards. It’s all about how it feels in your hand.

[@Alliejay-C]

Love the video! I agree… the writing experience is paramount.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you Alliejay! Always a pleasure!

[@LaddGardner4]

I love this so much. Fantastic. So's the sweater. :)

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much! I appreciate that. I try to keep the style interesting as well! Always a pleasure.

[@shane6242]

Enjoyed the video, tough comparison! I guess I fall on the side of Montblanc as well, the 149 is the perfect size and weight.

[@HemingwayJones]

I’m with you, My Friend! I just finished your letter by the way.

[@shane6242]

@@HemingwayJones looking forward to it!

[@HemingwayJones]

@@shane6242 Thanks Man!

[@thpeter]

Well, fooey. These are two pens were out of my pen lust list because of their ridiculous price points. But now I might have to reconsider both of them!

[@HemingwayJones]

Oh no! They are amazing pens in their own rights! Thanks for watching.

[@PeterTheVoyager]

Great comparison and I do agree they are both nice pens. I own a HS bronze age and a Montblanc brothers Grimm edition and I love them with different reasons. I'd also like to point out that Montblanc did quite a decent job with their piston filler compared to Montegrappa who tags a higher price IMO. My Extra Otto takes a whole eternity to screw the piston through its way, and that makes it a "happy to write, torture to clean" champion in my fountain pen collection. BTW I titled my HS the "loyal companion in the winter" and Montblanc is the "best go-to when gloomy mood strikes"

[@HemingwayJones]

I love that you name your Pens! I’ve. I have only named one, Black Noir for my Matte Black Vanishing Point.

[@PeterTheVoyager]

@@HemingwayJones I actually own that model ,too! It's my "ninja with low stamina" due to its low ink capacity but quietly merges into any office scenario. Most people just don't realize it's a fountain pen with 18k gold nib, haha

[@HemingwayJones]

@@PeterTheVoyager Great description!

[@ginopagnani7286]

A major surprise HJ, I thought for sure you’d pick the Visconti. I have the 149 and it trio is a classic, but I do hope to get the Homo Sapien sometime soon. My only concern is the iffy QC with the Visconti nibs.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello Gino, My Friend! If you get one, get it from Brendan or someone like him that will check the nib for you first. This is what I did. Brendan inspected mine before he shipped it to me. Peace of mind is valuable. I am so glad you enjoyed the video!

[@johnmanuel2980]

Gino, I had Atlas test my nib before shipping. it has written like a dream. Go ahead and pull the trigger on it. it is worth it.

[@ironmic9244]

Anyone familiar with your videos knows which pen you'd pick. To me, I feel like the 149 is an old friend to you. It also occurs to me that over time (and with the use you mentioned previously) the 149 nib has customized to your writing, like a well worn, well crafted dress shoe, which leads to a better writing experience. At this point, if I were you, I would not let anyone use or try your 149. For sentimental reason I think of my 149 like no other, yet I am blown away every time I pick up my HS, that the pen is made from lava, that the pen is millions of years old, and the feel of the pen is just unlike any other. Your point that you are literally getting a piece of Italy was marvelous. It's a good line, that Visconti could do well using. You know how Italians love evoke that Italian in them. Visconti used to make two-tone nibs for the HS when they were using 23k palladium nibs on their finer pens. Those nibs were a bit softer and so smooooth. It very well could have swayed your decision on the writing experience, because when the nib was working well they were just fantastic writers. Your 149 might have received no points with the older nib. Nonetheless, fantastic video, and see you next week in the MB class.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much for the kind comments! I’m glad you like the Visconti line. It’s a great pen When everything is said and done, I am very glad that I get to keep both! Thanks son much for all the great insight.

[@sandraharris8386]

Thank you for this detailed comparison Hemingway. I have to say the classic beauty of the Montblanc really appeals to me and I’m about to buy a 1985 era 149 for what I consider to be a reasonable price ($600 AU) - not something I would have said 6 mths ago before I was bitten by the fountain pen bug. I am not particularly interested in the name, and in fact, would prefer it did not carry the increased pricetag because of it. Watching your videos has confirmed to me though that this is my grail pen. May I ask who you are quoting in the Montblanc writing example please?

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much for the kind words on this video and congratulations on the new purchase! It sounds amazing. Enjoy! When I am writing with the Montblanc about people and their faults; is just me writing. The page that was written to show the Montblanc on in the beginning has a quote by Jack Kerouac about enjoying the company of Mad People. I hope this helps and thank you for watching!

[@BenJoeMarkland]

A few months ago I took a trip through Asia and the USA. I stopped in 5 airports, each had a Montblanc store in them. I took with me a few fountain pens (as always) One of them was a black, two tone nib, Jinhao x159. I went into Montblanc stores in each location from Atlanta, South Korea, Manilla, and more. In each one we tested the Montblanc 149 and compared to the x159. I had the sales people do it, I had my companions do it. Some are very familiar with fountain pens, others had no clue. We did blind tested holding them, writing with them, etc. NO ONE could tell the difference between the two pens until I clearly showed them the actual pens and their labels. (I even posted the x159 with the Montblanc to trick them up). So personally, I just don't think I could ever buy a 149 at full price after a 5 shop, 4 country test with more than a dozen Fountain Pen Sales people and random consumers. I also think there would be value in hearing your feelings taking personal sentiments out. We got a great review but then your emotions made the choice. If there were only two pens to choose from and you had to buy them; which one would you get. Forget which one you had for 20 years or who gave it to you. Just a few random thoughts.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hi Ben Joe, coming in strong today, My Friend. The MB is lighter and writes better. The Visconti score higher but it is heavier. I also prefer the nib on the 149. All sentiment aside, I always go with the better writing experience. You had much better luck with the x159 than I did and I am happy for you. Both of mine were off. One was complete garbage and the other was OK. I’m surprised no one in your blind test missed the big seam that runs down the center. I am also impressed that the sales people were so accommodating. But then, you are a lovely and charming guy. This is a light hearted exercise and a wonderful framework to show the differences. I stand by it 100%. I’m sorry if it upset you for some reason. Of everyone and anyone, you are one of the last people I would want to upset.

[@BenJoeMarkland]

@@HemingwayJones what! Me offended! Heck no. Just wanted to discuss. I don’t own either pen and trying muster up the courage to buy one. You are rock solid.

[@HemingwayJones]

@@BenJoeMarkland So glad. Tone is hard to get in posts, but I love you, Man. I’d hate to think that something I posted hit you the wrong way. Big Hugs!

[@IAT1964]

Have both. From a writing point of view, for my pens, the 149 wins hands down, no contest. Also build quality, fit and finish, MB hands down. From design and innovation, it's the Visconti.

[@AlainSTO]

Tried both (well the 146) back to back at a store. And I was really hoping to like the HS, but that nib was so much longer that it affected my writing. Going by looks, I prefer HS's body, 146's nib. I ended up with the 146.

[@HemingwayJones]

That is a fair assessment.

[@elizabethmolton4086]

I just bought the Visconti Crystal Dream. I love the ink window because I change ink colors all the time. I really need to know what color I put in it. Love the Visconti clip modeled after the bridge. I have a Rembrandt and a Van Gogh. Just love the Brand. My husband would go with the Mont Blanc to go with his collection. Both are lovely instruments. Love the tarot cards and maps in the background shots. ❤

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you so much! I am so glad that you like the B Roll shots! I try to make them interesting and pretty. I love both of these brands. Visconti is so rich and interesting. The clip mirroring the graceful curve of the arch beneath Ponte Vecchio is inspired! Thanks so much for the kind words and for watching.

[@peterpuleo2904]

I notice that some of the backdrop is from the paintings of Hieronymous Bosch, "The Garden of Earthly Delights", an astounding painting. Well done. Is there some Pieter Bruegel also?

[@HemingwayJones]

Yes! All Bosch in this one. Thanks. I have spent long hours with it at the Prado!

[@archivist17]

Interesting comparison, HJ!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed it.

[@jamesjacocks6221]

No doubt in this camp, MB. Writing experience is most important. There’s nothing like a big, light pen with a proper nib.

[@HemingwayJones]

Agreed! Thanks!

[@penthevision4706]

Great video. Really enjoyed it. Thanks for sharing. I have neither pen but I too would choose the Mont Blanc 149. Did you say it was made of resin?

[@HemingwayJones]

Yes, it is resin. Thanks so much!

[@leicaman]

How about 149 vs King of Pen? The ultimate nib face off?

[@HemingwayJones]

I would love that! But I don't have a KOP!

[@stef1196]

Great video! So much fun!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you!

[@jeremiemiller9165]

Great video, thank you. Never having used or touched either of these pens I am drawn to the Visconti as for me it is visually more interesting. Question: is your writing grip unique or is there a “name” for it that I could read about? I use a classic child of the 70s/80s educated pinch grip but the way you hold these pens looks comfortable.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello Jeremie! It is definitely more interesting than the 149. it has a lot going on. It is a marvel and slightly mad. I love it.

[@patrickblindeman5847]

Wow a thriller with a happy ending... phew, I got cold sweats :)

[@HemingwayJones]

Haha! Glad you liked this! It was super fun to make.

[@pedrorodrigues2566]

Hi, great video (again!). Quick question: which tarot deck are you displaying in the background in some of the shots?

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much! The Hieronymus Bosch deck of the Smyth Waite Gold? I need to watch it again.

[@HemingwayJones]

Looks like the Bosch. I do have some B Roll of the MB on the SW gigantic and Gold that I use often. Thanks!

[@BaasiBichar]

very neat $ clean comparison with facts, it would be great if you can add an information about the resale value, Thanks a lot, best wishes from Kathmandu, Nepal

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much. That’s a great suggestion. Wish you the best.

[@larrybenjamin2738]

What’s your secret for keeping the bronze on your Bronze Age so clean looking and gorgeous. I seem to remember my pen coming with a special cloth but I lost it ages ago. I’ve tried chamois as has been recommended, but not really having much success

[@HemingwayJones]

Hi Larry, it’s just new. I got it at Christmas from my wife. The letters are getting a little tarnished. All the best.

[@nitina8564]

I really like my Visconti homo sapiens and i own a Montblanc 146 and not a 149, but i would like to say the Montblanc is the winner for me all day long.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello, My Friend, the 146 is awesome. It has near perfect dimensions. You have chosen wisely!

[@nitina8564]

@@HemingwayJones thank you 😊, I've used the 149 but never thought of buying one as the 146 works pretty well for me.

[@HemingwayJones]

It is a brilliant pen and a brilliant choice.

[@gregchristopher1961]

Damn! Now i must have both. I am sure that one day my bankruptcy trustee will want to have a word with you.

[@HemingwayJones]

Oh no! 😂 Sorry Greg!

[@spacecat7715]

Have you handled a Pilot Custom Urushi? That pen practically dwarfs all other pens, and the nib is quite big. When I saw it in person, I couldn’t believe how big it was. It was like Andre the Giant big. 😄 I wanted it so badly, but I couldn’t afford it. Maybe someday. ❤

[@HemingwayJones]

That sounds awesome! I have never tried one. They are amazing pieces of art though.

[@spacecat7715]

@@HemingwayJones oh, definitely! 😃

[@barryday680]

I agree. I own both and I love and use both but if i had to depart with one then it would be the Visconti. The 149 is the best ever.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks Barry! I’m glad you enjoyed the video.

[@davidanderson3425]

Hi Hemingway. Well I was counting each round of this contest and I believe you owe the Visconti another point. The score should be 5 - 2. That said, there's no way I'd pick the Homo Sapiens as the winner. Just one look at the 149 writing sample and the MB is a much nicer writer (in my opinion). I would need to get used to the extra girth of the 149 but this would be a small sacrifice for a pen with such a superior nib.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello David! Did I really miss a point?!? That doesn’t surprise me. I do lists of top 5 pens and do 7 and no one seems to notice! On the scoring, the Visconti wins, but I pick the MB all day long because it writes better and is light. Another challenge would be the 149 v 146. Less girth matters. Stay well.

[@MartinRose-id6xu]

Great review, but for me the Homo Sapiens winsd hands down. I appreciate it is 10grams more but it's by no means a heavy weight, the nib gives some fantastic line variation and the vac filler is far easier to clean than the over priced, over hyped, precious resin (plastic) MB.

[@HemingwayJones]

I love the MB and it is an extraordinary, but HS has a lot going for it. If only they’d sort out their QC. That is their Achilles Heal. Thanks very much for watching.

[@chrisb012]

I’ve got the HS Dark Age and a 146. Love them both, and really find it hard to choose between them. Though the weight of the Visconti does tell after a day of constant writing. But there are worse problems to have! 😊

[@HemingwayJones]

I agree completely! It is a heavy pen yet magical!

[@cktommy]

I got both but the Visconti nib was horrible on the paper had to get it retune and the montblanc wrote nice out of the box. Prices wise the Visconti is a few hundred cheaper. Forgot to say Sailor king of pen is also a great contender.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello Kahold! The nib is everything! I need to get a KOP soon. All the best.

[@sajjadhusain4146]

The KoP is really the King of them all! 🙂

[@HemingwayJones]

@@sajjadhusain4146 I need to try it!

[@nommh]

I happen to not like the look of the upstart Visconti pens I‘ve seen. But that is just taste. However, when it comes to writing experience there should never be a moments hesitation, so I knew you would chose the Montblanc. I would not like the 149 because it is to big for my taste, but I‘m happy to own 3 vintage Montblancs, one was my mothers and she gave it to me when I was still in my teens, the other I inherited from an aunt and the third came to me recently from the estate of an author I was acquainted with. This last one is not a Meisterstueck, but it writes beautifully and I think it may be from the 1950s. The cork piston no longer works properly so I‘ll have to have it serviced. That will be so worthwhile, because the nib is bouncy.

[@HemingwayJones]

Those sound like amazing pens! Thanks so much for watching!

[@ichirofakename]

1. This was both informative and very entertaining, thanks. 2. As neither of these two pens is really in my wheelhouse, my opinion is not worth much. But I find the Montblanc boring and pretentious, and the Visconti unique and fun, so Visconti it is. 3. I do enjoy grail-offs - I would do one between the M1000 and the KoP, but I own neither.

[@HemingwayJones]

I owned neither of those pens as well. Great idea though. Thanks so much for watching. Always a pleasure.

[@milchpuder]

It's a difficult choice. The Homo Sapiens is a better fit in my hands due to the narrower section. The 146 is a more comfortable pen for me, and if you find one with a monotone nib with an ebonite feed, writes just as nicely as a 149. The nib on the 149 looks stunning though.

[@HemingwayJones]

I agree with everything here. Thanks!

[@Lucan1n1]

I was 200% certain you'd keep Montblanc 😀😃😉

[@HemingwayJones]

Exactly!

[@illustratedjournal]

If you want to sell your Homo Sapiens I'm interested! I have a 1911 Sailor Realo, which is a beautiful 21k gold nib writer, so I don't need an MB. It posts (or not), it has a viewing window below the cap (this is a big deal), it's a piston fill and holds 1ml of ink, so I never have to mess with a converter. As an aside, it has a bit of flex too! But, and this is a big but, I want to write with, I need to write with a Homo Sapiens. I need a Homo Sapiens! Oh how I need a Homo Sapiens. (Beautiful review)

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks Dave! I am glad that you enjoyed the video. That Sailor sounds awesome.

[@DoodlingTom]

I really do enjoy the MB 149 (I've only used some newer models) but I much prefer MB vintage pens, which I am starting to collect. I absolutely love my Homo Sapiens Bronze Age with the 18k Fine nib. There aren't many pens that have the same look and feel as the Visconti and not the same could be said for the MB. That gives a a lot of grail points to the Homo Sapiens for me. Honestly speaking though, nothing comes close to Pelikan for me.

[@TeensierPython]

I prefer the visconti. Mostly because I have one. Never thought paying Mont Blanc money for a plastic pen was worth it.

[@HemingwayJones]

I think we all have our comfort pens. The VS is a mighty pen and an excellent choice.

[@harryleigh982]

If you want a nib larger than the #8 nib on the MB149, take a look at the nib on a Namiki Emperor. I believe it is around 1cm in diameter to the MB149's 0.8cm.

[@HemingwayJones]

That is insane! I cannot imagine one that large. Wow. Thanks!

[@ichirofakename]

I do believe that is the largest nib you can buy.

[@HemingwayJones]

@@ichirofakename This makes me instantly want to buy one, but I am going to moderate my impulses!

[@ichirofakename]

@@HemingwayJones I'm more intrigued by the SMALLEST nib you can buy.

[@HemingwayJones]

@@ichirofakename Do you know what that is? The old Ideal nibs were pretty small, but there must be smaller. I saw some old Cartier pens that were ladies purse pens that were tiny. I may have to research this. Do you know?

[@impish22]

thanks again Hemingway

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you!

[@timdt1792]

I happen to have both of these pens but f I could only keep one, Montblanc for me.

[@HemingwayJones]

Me too! Well chosen.

[@sokosteve]

The Visconti HS is in the mail for me. Maybe someday I'll get an MB 149, but I just feel the extra you pay for the name is too much.

[@HemingwayJones]

Congratulations on the Visconti HS! I hope that you enjoy it!

[@michellek649]

No question for me, Montblanc 149.......to be honest I haven't tried writing with a Homo Sapien. I bought a Visconti Van Gogh and the pen was so overpriced for what you get and the nib needs a nib master out of the box. I don't know what is wrong with it because I haven't cared to have someone look at it. I was so unimpressed. So I won't be checking out any other Visconti's at this point. Fun video!

[@HemingwayJones]

I am so glad that you enjoyed it. Thank you!

[@joemarcotrigiano5872]

Both pens are great. However, my 149 is always inked while my Visconti HS Bronze Age isn’t. The balance and performance of the 149 are just better, at least for me.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello Joe! I agree completely. Both great, but MB has the edge!

[@joemarcotrigiano5872]

Yes it a better pen. Also, it’s a classic. The 149 has been produced since the 1950’s with some modifications along the way. There aren’t many other pens that have been continuously made for 70 years!

[@chuckkolb1270]

Humans function with emotions and that is the crux of the matter. I understand your choice but as I had the Mont Blanc at one time I no longer do. It's a long story but methinks I shall go with the Visconti HSBA not just for the value but we so enjoyed our trip to Sicily that the idea of having a piece of it in a fountain pen plays on my heart strings to loudly to ignore. Twas an entertaining, informative video. I did hang on to the small, burgundy. Mozart fountain pen. It does flow beautifully. Alas, I do not carry it in a pocket as I fear I should lose it. P.S. viewing some of your videos reveals that you are a snappy dresser. Thanks.

[@masoodkhan427]

Lovely vlog…sir where is the sweater from

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much! It’s from LL Bean, thanks!

[@khk5723]

Thank you for the great video. I own both of them but unfortunately, I rarely use them... well, honestly, I don't use them. The Montblanc 149 has certainly established the benchmark that many other manufacturers have studied and tried to imitate or develop similar designs. It is not that I have small hands, but for me, when I grab the Montblanc 149, it feels like I am holding a child's big crayon... it's a kind of weird feeling to write with a big, fat pen, even though it is not that heavy to hold. The Montblanc 146 and the Pelikan M800 have better ergonomics and balance. And regarding the Visconti Homo Sapiens... well, it is heavy and especially back heavy which makes my writing to be unbalanced and unusual. I would like also to mention how ridiculously heavy it is to clip it in my front, shirt pocket, hahah... Don't get me wrong: both are lookers but for me, they are not suitable to my writing. Nevertheless, it is just my own personal feedback as an owner of both pens. Thank you again for your great videos. Cheers!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much, KHK! You make excellent points! Thank you. I think this is the first time I am seeing you in the comments. I hope that you stop by again soon. Thanks!

[@JacksonGorilla]

I myself will always pick the Visconti HS bronze age. For me, the weight and even how quickly I can get nib to paper plays a massive role. I like a large heavy pen and have written for hours with my HS without fatigue, and I love it. But that fraction of a turn to release the cap beats out nearly every other pen for me unless it matches the HS or is a click FP. The 149 will always be a classic outstanding FP. Also, I only post my HS. In fact, I have never not posted it. This is partly because I grip the pen further back than most people. So, in many cases, I must post the cap, or I won't be using the pen. I think the Namiki Emperor still beats all FP's for the largest nib, but I may be mistaken.

[@gautam9]

Is this with the single reservoir safe for air travel when screwed down or does it not seal? As in don’t need to unscrew to write?

[@Avocado818]

Pilot custom urushi has a noticeably larger and better nib, so did the pilot Namiki emperor which uses the largest nib

[@HemingwayJones]

Excellent choices!