Montblanc Meisterstuck 149 Calligraphy Flex Nib Fountain Pen Review

[@Puviani]

The reason the 149 can't be called "Diplomat" is that there exists a German company called Diplomat that's been making fountain pens since 1922, and it would be a copyright infringement. But you still hear people colloquially calling the 149 "Diplomat". I've been wanting to try the calligraphy nib since it came out. I have the fine and it's one of my top three nibs, the two others being Pilot's larger #30 nib on the Custom Urushi and the Sailor King of Pen nib, which is of comparable size to the 149s.

[@BlakesBroadcast]

Good to know. That makes sense. I have to say the calligraphy nib is getting better and better as I use it.

[@gabemadorma2933]

I'd recommend an Iroshizuku ink, and can attest to Kon-Peki, Yama-Budo, or Shin-Ryoku for fast / flexy calligraphic writing.

[@BlakesBroadcast]

Thanks for the suggestion Gabe! I have all three of those, so that's perfect!

[@paulforkner2444]

Really enjoyed the video. I just stumbled on your channel and your reviews are very well done. I will definitely watch some more. Thanks!

[@BlakesBroadcast]

Hi Paul, thanks for the kind words! I appreciate it.

[@ed3432]

Excellent review. Have 149 flex nib and a 146. The former is a fun nib after you master the angles. It feels comfortable cap-less. It definitely can be used as an everyday writer. The latter is a bit more comfy to hold. Outstanding everyday use pen with no learning curve but less fun. Must have correct ink and paper for optimum results.

[@BlakesBroadcast]

Thank you! I have yet to try the 146 version, so it is interesting to hear how they compare. I do agree that these pens are ink and paper sensitive.

[@jungroe]

Thanks for a great review, enjoyed it. I have this pen, and been using it as my daily writer for the last 2 years since I got it. I think you will find as you use the pen more, the nib will open up and the skipping you mention will go away. When I first go it, the tines were so tight, under light pressure the ink flow would step, ,but after a few weeks of use, it opened up, and became my favourite every day writer, an awesome EF nib. Then of course the flex is wonderful. It is a lot like my vintage Waterman's 52V, in flex performance. Neither are wet noodles, but has the perfect balance of being rigid enough to make normal writing practical, and soft enough to flex up to 1.6 mm (BB) with ease. The ink flow I find increases the more you flex, so railroading is minimized. I agree, the best modern flex nib in the market.

[@BlakesBroadcast]

Thanks for the comment Jung! It does seem to keep getting better as I use it. I am glad to know that is your experience too. Also finding the right ink makes a difference.

[@donnarimmel4016]

Thank you! I very much enjoyed your video. I just recently acquired an MB 149 and I can attest tithe fact that it is well worth the hype!

[@BlakesBroadcast]

Thanks for the comment Donna. The 149 is definitely one of my favorites.

[@ILoveFountainPensCdn]

I bought the MB 146 Calligraphy Flex a year and a half ago. I was really excited for it, however it never flexed properly, it was really scratchy, would skip and railroad all of the time. I barely used it, partly out of frustration and more primarily because my life turned upside down and I was in survival mode. Fortunately, there’s a two year warranty so I’ve recently had it sent of to MB for servicing. Fingers crossed that when it comes back, that it writes exceptionally well like my other MBs.

[@BlakesBroadcast]

I am sorry to hear you haven't got on with your Calligraphy flex nib. I hope Montblanc can fix it for you. In my experience modern flex nibs tend to be scratchier than their non-flex counterparts.

[@ILoveFountainPensCdn]

@@BlakesBroadcast I appreciate the insight. Thanks! I hope they can fix it too! 🤞

[@Snick3927]

I like my 149 Calligraphy quite well, Blake-no skipping and nice flow, but …it’s like more than love. I was hoping the nib would be more fun to play with but that describes my 149 O3B nib more than this one (two different concepts, of course, but still). I agree that the 149 looks and feels better than the 146 but some of my 146-platform Writers Editions are pretty chunky, not least the Dumas and Homer, with their big #8 nibs. Thanks, as always, for this first-rate review.

[@BlakesBroadcast]

Hi Jack, what inks are you using in yours? I've been finding Aurora's blue to work pretty nicely. I don't think I would use Montblanc Burgundy or Irish Green again in this pen. I would love to get one of those triple broad nibs. They don't last long when they are up for sale. At some point I might do Montblanc's bespoke nib service and get a big italic nib. I was not aware that the Homer had a #8 size nib? I know the Hemingway and Dumas had #8 size nibs.

[@Snick3927]

Yeah, the Homer nib is a whopper, with a fantastic Achilles-type Greek warrior helmet imprint. I got my 149 O3B shortly after release from La Couronne du Comte where that nib was just a regular drop-down option, plus an extra couple of weeks to ship. I like MB Burgundy a lot but I can see it might not be up to the job in the calligraphy nib. I thought turquoise might be nice and MB UNICEF does flow pretty well for me.

[@dimitridiakovasiliou2453]

My vintage 149 with the 14C EF nib and solid ebonite feed is my most amazing writer; flexible, very fine and a juicy writer. Not easy to find this combination but I’m always modifying my nibs to get them to the ideal I prefer most. Yes the 149 C is a very fun pen to use and in many ways superior to the 146 C (I hope to one day own the 149 C). I have the 146 C and it is also a wonderful writer. I’m still adjusting it and experimenting with different inks and I’m told that with use it will become easier to use. The obvious difference when I’m comparing vintage nibs to my 146 C for example (I also have 146 EF from the 1980s) is that vintage flex is softer and easier to use. In the end people’s preferences vary but I’m still finding new and exciting variations of what I currently consider excellent writers.

[@BlakesBroadcast]

I have found my Calligraphy nib getting better the more that I use it.

[@knutvonheim3838]

Thanks for this review! It's still relevant as the pen is out there (at least in 146s). I suspect this is a nib and pen one would have to spend considerable amount of time with to get to know and acquire the necessary skills with practice to truly enjoy. It would be nice to see a follow up :)

[@BlakesBroadcast]

The 149 Calligraphy Flex nib isn't discontinued as far as I know. I think more stock will be available in the future.

[@knutvonheim3838]

@@BlakesBroadcast For some reason I envision this nib being better on the 149 than the 146 I see available here locally (Norway). Although I will go try (or at least look at :) the 146 in the next few days. Do you still use the pen you reviewed?

[@BlakesBroadcast]

I still haven't but I haven't used it in a few months. I have been meaning to re-ink it as it's such a nice pen. I have tried the 146 calligraphy flex in store but I haven't directly compared it with mine. I tend to always prefer the 149 nibs, they tend to be softer overall.

[@knutvonheim3838]

@@BlakesBroadcast I did buy the 146 Flex in stock at my local retailer (Norway). I was surprised that it was such a pleasant writer in general that I pulled the trigger. One day I will find financial room for a 149 :) Maybe even a flex nib.

[@Thearcherfl]

I used one in their store when they were in mall of America. I didn’t love it compared to my pilot Fa nib. However, the 149 is probably the most comfortable pan I’ve ever written with due to the girth. A lefty here that underwrites. So it’s hard for me to grip slim pens. I’ve got the 149 in fine and use it in my office daily. But I didn’t jive with the calligraphy nib. Maybe I just need more time with it.

[@glass3154]

As someone who correctly works in a MontBlanc boutique, I can say that the demo pens (especially the flex nib) can go through some trauma while in the store. From clients who are unfamiliar with how to use a fountain pen to others that press to hard and even employees who are unfamiliar with flexible nibs/calligraphy pens in general. I have used a new flex nib, myself and they can have a very very different feel from the one used as a tester in the boutique, especially for anyone familiar with these type of nibs.

[@BlakesBroadcast]

I don't think it is for everyone. I have an older 149 from the 60s with a XF nib and for general writing I find it more enjoyable than the calligraphy nib.

[@BlakesBroadcast]

This is a good insight. At a boutique you definitely get people unfamiliar with fountain pens writing with them.

[@just-inedc2381]

I think I would prefer pilot 912 with FA nib.

[@BlakesBroadcast]

I haven't tried that particular nib. I have had a 743 with a #15 FA nib and I didn't keep it long. It wasn't a great fit for me but I would be curious to try it side by side with the Montblanc.

[@murkser4149]

They don't call it the Diplomat anymore because they lost a lawsuit with a certain other pen brand that already uses that name.

[@BlakesBroadcast]

Ah, I didn't know that but that would make sense.

[@catchacoolbreeze]

I don't have the calligraphy nib but I have a few 149s and I love them for their size and weight. I think the grip section is the perfect size. I can't, for the life of me, understand why there are not more pens made with this size section.

[@BlakesBroadcast]

It is an interesting question. I know so many people that love the size of the 149. Pen companies would make a killing by introducing a competitor. If say Aurora introduced a jumbo sized pen would it make their Optima line and previous offerings less appealing? It might.

[@catchacoolbreeze]

@@BlakesBroadcast interesting question... But does the 146 take away from the 149? Plenty of people love the size of the 146 or m805 over their larger siblings and vice versa. I know I have wanted several pens because of their design that I have ultimately said no to because they were too small. The beautiful Aurora 88 is one of them! Also pens that have a cult-like following in the medium priced sector that I have passed on but would have loved to have in oversized like the Pilot 823 (or even a 912). A moderate priced and quality oversized pen would make a killing. There is nothing like it in the market! Or at least that is what I keep telling myself. :) I'm still on the hunt for a moderate priced offering that I don't have to worry about breaking in the vigors of commuting.

[@JP-ik3hr]

Closest I've found is the Pelikan M1000. In fact, that's the pen that makes me fall in love with fountain pens again every single time I use it.

[@catchacoolbreeze]

@@JP-ik3hr that has been on my maybe list for awhile now! I was a little disappointed when they took away the translucent stripes though.

[@orusmateo]

Thank you! Would love a review of the MB 149 Calligraph flex vs the FPR gold ultraflex vs the Magna Carta 600. ✒️🖋️✒️✍️

[@BlakesBroadcast]

I am looking into getting a Magna Carta 600. I have heard the FRP is more flexible.

[@DrDavidMLevy]

Thank you!

[@BlakesBroadcast]

You're welcome!

[@rds4629]

the pen is more designed for cursive writing in the style of copperplate or spencerian. Dr. Vitolo uses Yama-Budo in his Calligraphy pen. I had skipping at first and it has gotten better. MB permanent blue also works well in this pen. I don't do as much fast writing with the exception of signatures and don't have any issues w/ skips on that.

[@BlakesBroadcast]

Yes, I know that this nib isn't designed for italic but it is the only type of calligraphy I know. I am glad to hear that your nib got better with use. I am finding that is the case for me as well.

[@AtilioEscobar]

That flex is pretty darn good for a modern nib. I wish I would of picked one up when they were available. Now the damn things are over 2k. Ugh.

[@BlakesBroadcast]

I don't believe they are discontinued. I would just watch for new stock. Particularly in Europe. That is how I found mine.

[@ginopagnani7286]

Hi Blake, can the nib be purchased separately so it can be swapped on an existing 149?

[@BlakesBroadcast]

I don't think Montblanc sells nibs or any other parts separately.

[@llanbull]

Did your pen write better now? it's pisses me of mine write like yours. It skips or hard start. I have the 146 calligraphy version too and compared to this pen it's nice and day difference I wonder if we got a defective batch. I tried washing it. Used mb ink, then iroshizuku ink then waterman and parker and still the same. It got better than the first time but still. I notice when you flex it a bit and write a vertical line while flexing it stops writing I think it has to do with the feed. That's what I think. If you draw circles then no problem. But vertical likes down stroke then you get those skipping problem.

[@BlakesBroadcast]

My pen is better now. I am still having good luck with Iroshizuku inks. There may be a break in period with this nib.

[@llanbull]

@@BlakesBroadcast my 146 didn't even need a break in period so I was frustrated with the 149. I even both a montblanc ink and iroshizuku ink just to see if it improves. How long was your break in period? did you write 1 page a day or something? I'm gonna try my shinkai again or midnight blue

[@BlakesBroadcast]

@@llanbull I generally write a few pages a day and over a month or so it seemed to get better. You could see if Montblanc would adjust nib as it is not performing correctly.

[@Shiruvan]

7:00 I'd be mad at the service for not only polishing until it stripped the plating, it also wore down the stamp-engraving

[@BlakesBroadcast]

I was annoyed that they touched the nib even after explicit instructions not. I did know that it was high risk to send them an old pen but they did do the repair for much less money than anyone else so I can't complain too much.

[@zenrazor659]

I have the 149 Medium nib but it wrote very bad at every angle. It need 3 regulations to work well. What abou a F nib review on 149?

[@BlakesBroadcast]

I have a 149 with an F nib but it is from the 1960s. I will do a review of this pen but it doesn't write quite the same as a modern one.

[@Addwrite]

Would it be necessary to send the pen back to Mont Blanc if the barrel needed regreasing? I've regreased my TWSBI'S several times over the past few years so, at that rate, a Mont Blanc would not only be inconvenient to service it would also be expensive.

[@BlakesBroadcast]

I've had my '70s 149 for about 10 years and the piston has always worked flawlessly. I don't think they require regular service.

[@Addwrite]

@@BlakesBroadcast That's good to hear. I was obviously ranking all piston-fillers as the same.

[@dashsunil]

I liked the finer lines this nib produced. I wish they offer this nib in regular 146s. 149 is too big fir my hands. Thanks for the video, Blake. 😊

[@BlakesBroadcast]

Hi Dash! Thanks for the comment. They do offer the "calligraphy flex" nib on the 146 now.

[@user-gl5ld9vm7i]

Did you purchase the pen, or was it borrowed?

[@BlakesBroadcast]

I bought it.

[@yominrak7975]

@@BlakesBroadcast Thanks to your video, I can fulfill my curiosity of this pen despite not owning it, and the recent Montblanc rule about not exporting out of Europe I cannot get the Montblanc 149 at a good discount from Appelboom....

[@bellerophon9116]

From which dealer did you get your pen? I’m having trouble finding one.

[@BlakesBroadcast]

I bought this pen from Iguana Sell. I believe they are based in Spain. They have good prices and are a MB authorized dealer. I am not affiliated with them in anyway, just a happy customer.

[@ichirofakename]

In passing you mentioned this is not your best writing pen. I'll bite: which IS your best writing pen?

[@BlakesBroadcast]

I meant that it isn't the best for everyday writing. The best writing pens I have had are vintage pens from Montblanc, Pelikan, Omas, Soennecken and Waterman. For modern pens, I couldn't say.

[@yominrak7975]

@@BlakesBroadcast Pelikan M800/805 for the win! The King of EDC in my opinion :D

[@BlakesBroadcast]

@@yominrak7975 I've yet to experience an M800. I have had the M1000 and M600 which are both excellent pens.

[@Cortesevasive]

How much the servicing for MB149 cost ? Not into MB, but if its only 100bucks more expensive than regular one it kinda makes it interesting addition over regular version. MB burgundy is on the drier side, maybe wet ink would work better?, no idea about these flexy pens I have Pilot912FA and never really understood how the flex works.

[@BlakesBroadcast]

I have never found their service costs to be particularly expensive. They replaced the whole barrel on my old 149 for about $100. The nice thing about Montblanc is that they are relatively quick to service a pen compared with most other European brands. I have Aurora Blue in the pen now and it is happier with this ink.

[@SynthRockViking]

Nice 'lex, off-topic ik

[@BlakesBroadcast]

Thanks