Parker Jotter Review

[@abc-wv4in]

I just ordered one from amazon, $20 US (much inflation in the past year), in royal blue. It comes with one very long Parker cartridge and is now made in France. I ordered some extra Parker permanent blue long cartridges, although I almost always use a converter and bottled inks. I wanted some permanent blue ink for a frequently used pen. I like the retro, almost mid-century styling too. I hope I like the pen. I'll try to edit my comment if I don't like it. Thank you for a great review!

[@EmirSyazwan]

I just bought an all chrome Parker Jotter and It is worth every penny. Matter of fact, it is probably the best thing I have ever bought value wise. Using the Jotter to write is the greatest pleasure I have experienced in writing. And to derive such a feeling of enjoyment and fulfilment from such a humble act like writing is infinitely priceless.

[@unmissable]

The nib on my jotter is really smooth. Its not scratchy at all. But it has always layed down a good level of ink, and it almost seems slightly broader then my other medium nibs. It dates to 2011, so it's not that old. Maybe you got unlucky, like the colour though. Give it a flush, it might improve the ink flow.

[@andreasfilis9001]

it is great for everyday use and writes well. i started with this pen and i still use it. thanks for the review.

[@MrPleers]

After hearing the intro music so many times, ,I almost can't resist singing it along.

[@kirstyweller4048]

The issue with the Parker Sonnet now seems to be resolved. The videos on nib smoothing and making the pen wetter in seconds were the answer. Writes beautifully now, so far. More fluid, no skipping or scratching. Lays down a nice spread of ink. Thank you very much.

[@sbrebrown]

You're very welcome! Glad the pen works more to your liking now!

[@themevi8824]

I have "full metal" Jotter (fountain and ballpoint). Those were sold in combo package gor about 12€. There were also a sleeve for pens and standard parker cartridge of black quink. I like jotter because of it's size and because it is cheap (if you loose or broke one)? And writing experience is also nice. (And ballpoint feels quite quality stuff.)

[@iSaiRAS123]

Thanks for the Suggestion i will try it tommorow. Shaking the pen sort of helped but not the smoothness

[@solasburst59]

The Parker Jotter fountain is at it's best when used with Parker ink cartridges. While a modest design, it is a surprisingly smooth writing pen.

[@gregs.2679]

These pens have varied in quality and in some design details over the years. I guess I lucked out. The nibs on both of mine are smooth and skip-free, even in high-speed doodle tests that are far more demanding on ink flow than my fastest writing. My complaint about the last ones that were made in England for the decade or so before the factory moved to France is that the clips slide onto your pocket just fine, but when you pull the pen out of your pocket, the clips catch on, snag and damage knitted shirts! So you have to remember to pull the clip away from the barrel with your fingernail before removing it from such a pocket. This was not a problem with the ones made in the 1980s. Those clips glide over all types of fabrics in both directions. And the cap has a proper metallic finial, not that "black plastic thing," as Steven calls it, so they even look like a more serious pen than the price would suggest. The ones from the 1980s, interestingly, were already being made in France. It makes no sense to spend more more on a twist-operated piston converter than you spent on the pen, so I got a push-pull style piston converter made by Parker's factory in India. Only the ones that are marked "Parker" actually work well. The generic ones, which look the same except for the absence of a Parker logo molded into the plastic, cost about the same but are junk.

[@gregs.2679]

I have recently purchased two of these that I bought for the same reason that Mr. SBRE did: a huge discount on brand new ones. I guess I have lucked out, but both of mine have nibs that are not scratchy nor dry writers. They perform okay for such cheap pens, although I hate how the clips gouge into the cloth if I actually use them to secure these pens to my pocket, and they cannot be withdrawn back out of a pocket without damaging the shirt unless I tug outward on the clip with my thumbnail first! So I use them away from home only on days when I will be carrying a pencase anyway. This limits their usefulness for what I thought I wanted them for, which was to be able to have a real pen (as opposed to a ballpoint) at times when I don't want to risk losing or damaging a Montblanc or one of my pet Pilots. That "black thing" on the cap is a cost-cutting measure. The really old Jotter fountain pens used to have a button-shaped metal top on the cap that was a lot more attractive, and clips that did not damage pockets. I had one years ago, which I think they sold in those days as the Flighter, but the dog chewed up everything except the cap, so I saved that. I was surprised that it could be used to replace the horrid current caps, so I replaced the cap on the one with the metal barrel with this old cap, and now I finally have one that can be carried in pockets without worries, and looks a lot better too without that abrupt ending of the cap right at the top of the clip and further uglified with that black thing. One bizarre thing is that a single box of Parker cartridges costs more than I paid for both new pens and the old one that got damaged by the dogs combined! Parker converters fit, but the $13 European style ones that twist are also more expensive than all three combined. So my solution was to get two of the inexpensive push-and-pull bottle converters made by Parker India.

[@iSaiRAS123]

Thank you for all your great reviews, they are really helpful! Living in the UK, fountain pens are not so popular and hard to get unless off course its a Parker, but then there is amazon. Would you rather recommend a platinum preppy or this jotter as both of these pens sound great for me, ( eyedropper, cheap, easy to get). Are they Scratchy? Is there a better alternative for me?

[@kirstyweller4048]

I agree the Jotter is definitely scratchy in comparison to the Vector. The Vector I used all through school from age 11 onward. I figured I'd try the Jotter as it was a bit cheaper. I wish I'd stuck with the Vector. I'm trying the Parker Sonnet atm. I've just put the first ink cartridge in and after about two lines of writing, it's skipping like crazy and I have to shake it to get it flowing properly again. I had this reoccuring every two lines. Not just on initial start up. If you have any ideas on how to resolve this, I'd appreciate it.

[@sbrebrown]

The nib slit might be too tight, for example. Check out my playlist on fine-tuning a pen for some tips and suggestions (it's on my channel).

[@AllanEngelhardt0]

1. Did you try smoothing the nib a bit? If you could turn it into a smooth semi-flex, then that is not a bad deal, even at the full €5.00. 2. But I think the plastic model is discontinued (?) so is it worth the ~€14 they sell for now?

[@Parker51Guy]

Curious how you converted it to an eyedropper? Without seeing how to disassemble it I can only guess. Were you able to add a rubber gasket with a bit of silicone grease at a threaded neck, and still get the barrel back on the section? If you can comment further it would be appreciated. Helpful review.

[@QPrince2024]

What is the difference between the Parker Frontier and the Parker Jotter ?

[@morganbryant7899]

Just a sugestion, Perhaps you could say inexpensive? Rather than cheap

[@vanezcha]

The quick brown fox got a good deal on this pen

[@Rastrprahari]

which I well use in parker vector steal fountain or plastic fountain

[@iSaiRAS123]

Could you consider reviewing the J herbin Rollerball pen and if you can also review their sapphire blue ink ? Im searching for a good rollerball and a perfect blue

[@ProjectE2]

i got the jotter aswell :), and I changed the normal roller ball to a Gel one and the difference is Huge,smoother writing experience and better more vivid color(blue);D

[@DrNioky]

I have a Parker Jotter and the barrel is also made of metal. Can I still convert it to an eyedropper ? Also, the long parker cartridges and the Parker converter do fit in this pen.

[@mkglobetrotter]

I had no idea that Parker Jotters were that cheap! You got a pretty good deal for a pen with some flex and an eyedropper capability. I'm kind of curious: do your cheap pens often make it into your regular rotation? Mine generally don't... probably because they're often too dry and scratchy for me to actually enjoy properly.

[@dariuswidjaja5559]

Is it really okay to use that much pressure when writing with the jotter fountain? Or would it damage it?

[@sbrebrown]

Mine isn't damaged.

[@Tom_Bee_]

Love the old school KZbin vibe, filmed on a potato with audio recorded on wax, cleverly incorporating carefully crafted "digital" artifacts.

[@cslop01]

What was that "cap" you had over the cartridge? Cool idea.

[@user-gr3rk6ur2p]

brings back old memorys

[@iSaiRAS123]

I assume this pen is quite similar to my vector. When i was first given it i didnt like it as much as my lamy safari hence never used the cheap vector. However recently when i got out the vector it was very smooth and wrote quite wet. It was great but when i had to refill the pen it just went back yo normal. Any ideas?

[@jruelas11]

Could you do a review on the Parker Sonnet pen?

[@retro51fan]

@sbrebrown You're welcome. I wish there were a way to distinguish the 2000 date code from the 2010 :)

[@FanVidder72]

I also live in the UK and I would love it if we had the same sort of choice as the US, such as Goulet pens. Thank God for places such as Cult Pens. Also, if it wasn't for Pure Pens, (another UK site), I would not be the proud owner of my first Noodler's Flex.

[@MR2Davjohn]

Is the Parker Jotter the cheapest pen that Parker makes, or is the Parker Reflex cheaper?

[@waasiqmasood5944]

Is the writing of Parker Vector Medium nib and Parker Jotter Medium nib same?Just bought one:-)

[@pauldavid30]

oh man is very cheap ...the prize and the quality is amazing at first that I heard you said about the prize I never think the nib can be flexible so impress, and I will looking for this pen of cause ,maybe tomorrow...and I just recive my noodler flex creeper green which I really love now .

[@dniede24]

this plastic thing on the cap is supposed to be some sort of breathing hole. because of the cheap price parker assumed that kids would write with it and if they swalloed the cap (which kids might happen to do) they don't stifle and die. i think i read that while informing myself about parker. sounds possible ;-) love your videos btw!

[@heartofg.6462]

Which did you prefer? Jotter or frontier?? Which one is lighter?

[@sbrebrown]

The Vector is lighter but I prefer the Frontier.

[@heartofg.6462]

Thankyou!

[@mellow-jello]

Sbrebrown, common sense, the dimensions of the Jotter is not optimal for big hands, avoid it. Eyedropper is unwise, since the housing is metal, not great with water based inks. Now in 2022, the Parker Jotter Bond St is well made for an entry level FP for modern use. Just use quality paper, do not try flexing, practice writing smoothly, store in a proper case, great EDC use for home/office. Try it with better FP inks, and you get more joy writing with it.

[@ZeusParauas]

I have the Parker Jotter ball point version. It is indeed a good pen, for a low price

[@markcaldwell2831]

Don't mock a pen just because it's cheap. After all we can't all afford a Montblanc and tbh there's sod all nice about those. Parker will always be the best and there's a generous price range of various models and I have over 300 Parker pens. Whether it's a Jotter or a Premier....just having a Parker is a special thing.

[@atosov]

0:40 "So then I go, 'PENS!'" Gave me a chuckle. The color of your sweater is CERULEAN! See *The Devil Wears Prada*, v=KwYZVEjlQ5Q In the USA, the Parker Jotter is available only as a ball-point pen. I don't much use ball-points any more, but the Jotters that I've got are over 30 years old (refills too) and work very well. The one design flaw is the clip, which easily bends away from the cap and does not spring back.

[@nikolt2000]

What is the name of your local supply store ?

[@ajwad1943]

Just 1.25 euros... it cost me around 20 uk pounds.. however, the one I got has a barrel of stainless steel just like the cap. The rest is the same

[@bekki2308]

Is that a furret KD in the background, if so do you have a hamster?

[@andrerieu100]

WHAT... you got that for 1.25 euros! in australia they are $30

[@margessw]

Hahahahaha !! "Pens !! ... and I can soo picture your face smacked on the window !!! Hilarious !

[@EamonnDoylePhotoFilm]

what ink are u using in this video?

[@Mizar88]

anybody succeded in disassemble the "clicky" part of the pen?

[@FanVidder72]

I have a couple of these Jotters and a few of the Vectors. I prefer writing with the Jotter.

[@dniede24]

@sbrebrown Yeah just researched it again and found some confirmations ;-) Unfortunately i'm not allowed to post the link but its called "ISO 11540" If youre interreste, you can google it, the fourth page is english ;-)

[@retro51fan]

Thanks for the review. Well, you can't go wrong at € 1.25, eh? The Parker Jotter fountain pen currently available is also known as the Parker '15' (if you're interested in its history, check out the entry for under this name at Parkerpens (dot) net---a great website). The date code on your pen might be Q.11 (not O 11), indicating a 2010 (or 2000--most likely the former) date of manufacture.

[@TonicLime1]

I dont think I heard you say "cheap" enough....lol..good video :)

[@sohamderoy2505]

Watching this in 2023😊

[@ndubstar]

School/Work pen. You dont bring yo duofold centenial to college class or work, unless if you are a bank owner at work and then you might.

[@FanVidder72]

I don't think the Vector nib is the same as the Jotter.

[@espaghetti99]

I LUV Parker Jotters!

[@michy22100]

I LOVE cult Pens and Pure Pens. Far too much of my money goes to them! :)

[@Zehstal357]

Well, in Brazil a fountain Jotter is around US$30, too... And a Lamy Safari US$100~125... Meanwhile, in ebay: 'bout US20...

[@Thisath100]

I have two of these, both of which I didn't have to pay for (thank god). I start this comment on a negative note. This is the WORST PEN I've ever written with. the problems: 1. My hands are by no means big but the pen is very, very uncomfortable in my hand. After about 4 lines this gets slippery, and feels even tinier. This partially because of this: 2. The pen is too light! I don't know I that is problem but heck, it's like air! My pen is the full metal version, so I don't know what I'd feel if I wrote with your Jotter. Many of my friends write with my pens, the Vector, Pelikano, and Franklin Covey, and they all agree that they hate this pen and refuse to write with it. One positive comment on this pen; the nib is nice (my one is medium), but unenjoyable because of the rest of the pen. I feel so unsatisfied with this pen. The Vector is SO much better!

[@sbrebrown]

This is a very small pen, I agree. I recently got a steel Jotter, so I'll review that soon.

[@Thisath100]

That was a sudden burst of anger of anger on behalf of me. But still I agree what the 'angry division' of my mind says. I don't think there is much of a difference between the steel and plastic except for the material. The difference is 2-3 grams but I think that would make a big difference to the mind, considering how light the plastic one is. But overall the problem might also depend on me as I've been a using a little 'on the big side' pens. But then again you have too, because you have used even larger pens. Oh, dear I'm going around in circles. Let's just say you should do a review of the metal Jotter.

[@sbrebrown]

Robert Salsman I will :-).

[@Lukergamer]

I shouted at someone for using this the other day O.O

[@themevi8824]

(Sorry about those typos (gor = for etc), writing with my phone).

[@jackhanson1713]

Cheap but nice :)

[@ProjectE2]

haha maybe i will get one ;) but for now i got the new vector;)

[@nikolt2000]

thanks

[@Zehstal357]

Abusive taxes... The only cheap fountain pens here are the Hero 616 [R$15,00 = US$7,50], the Pilot 78G [R$50], the Parker Jotter, Vector, Reflex [R$60] and the brazilian brand Crown [fountain pens are between R$60 and R$180]... Not a good place to us...

[@cogito931]

In Poland it's cost 10 euro :/

[@william_2610]

Cost £10 here as well (Near enough €10)

[@xlrslasher6440]

Ah Man! There is a huge difference between Jotter & Jotter Bond. Don't waste your money on Jotter. Buy Jotter Bond. It is not much Scratchy nor It has the feeling of cheap...

[@pilotmaster132]

Sad thing is, Park corp. Is dead. Its not in production anymore.

[@klanny22]

The pen?

[@gregs.2679]

It has been resurected and production has now been shifted to France. The company as a whole, I mean. I don't know about this specific pen. I own two of them for the same reason that Mr. Brown bought his: I got a huge discount on a couple of brand new ones. My plastic barrel / metal cap version is old enough to be marked UK and the one with both the cap an barrel in metal is marked France.

[@ryanmorrissey88]

probs fake :s

[@darkangel1994ify]

first viewer xDee

[@samsowden]

Oh, but this one *is* cheap.