The Perfect 5 Fountain Pen Collection - How?

Join Me for The Perfect Five Fountain Pen Collection. If you had to choose only five, which ones would it be?
Also, we take a look at my wife's awesome, eclectic, and interesting fountain pen collection.
Won't you join us?!
Thank you to the awesome members of this channel.
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/ @hemingwayjones

[@cactusoverlord3975]

If I ever have a daughter, I'll tell her to find a man who loves her the way HJ loves the Montblanc 149.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hilarious! Thanks for that!

[@arsenikkkk]

My top 5 are the ones I have time to grab and run before the alarm goes off at the Montblanc store :)

[@HemingwayJones]

Oh My!

[@MickBenjamins]

😂😂😂

[@SrirachaSandvvitch]

I love your choices! My 5 are: 1. Lamy 2000 2. PIlot Custom 823 3. Kaweco Al-Sport 4. Waterman Carene 5. Pilot Vanishing Point I love your vintage pen, I've been itching to get a vintage pen of my own.

[@HemingwayJones]

Brilliant choices! I love the Carene!

[@SrirachaSandvvitch]

@jamesaritchie1 yes, so stunning! I think I might get another with a medium nib.

[@SrirachaSandvvitch]

@@HemingwayJones thank you! Yes, the Carene is such a good pen.

[@ztienapm]

Vintage Parker 51 Franklin Christoph Model 20 Lamy 2000 Kaweco Student with premium nib Sailor 21 pocket pen

[@SrirachaSandvvitch]

@ztienapm great choices! I want to get my hands on a parker 51 but I heard the newer models aren't that good.

[@carolyncoppola974]

Great top 5! I guessed the Montblanc, but my heart leaped for joy when I heard “almost perfect, fill mechanism, ink capacity and 14k gold nib”. I cheered like it was a touchdown! 823!!! ❤❤❤. I don’t even own one yet! I just ordered mine from Japan - so now the wait 🙃. Before I make my list of 5 keepers, I already know 823 is one of the them! ❤. Your wife’s collection is awesome! Love the vintage Chinese pen. It’s simple yet classy. Great job! Question: what advice do you have on what to know before buying a vintage pen. Maybe do a segment on that???? 😊. Thanks again! God bless you!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks very much! I am so glad you enjoyed this! Congratulations on an excellent pen!!!! Thanks so much! I haven't done a lot on vintage pens. I did one video. I'll think of how I can do this for you! Thanks!

[@davidanderson3425]

Hi Hemingway. A great choice of five. Thankfully we don't have to slim our collection down to this number of pens. It would kill me to only have five pens! 🤣

[@HemingwayJones]

Hi David! That’s what made it so difficult. It’s a fun exercise but I am glad that I don’t have to. Stay well.

[@jamespicht1128]

I'll never argue with anyone about their favorite pens or their perfect five, even if I don't like some of them (I really don't like the Lamy Safari!). My pens are tools, but they also represent my taste, and there's no accounting for tastes. My own Perfect 5 collection, using your categories, would include: 1. Heavy hitter/business: Namiki Yukari Royale (maki-e, medium nib); 2. vintage: Parker 75, sterling cisele pattern (fine nib); 3. go anywhere/metal: Diplomat Aero (medium cursive italic nib); 4. all around reliable workhorse: Pilot Custom 912 (flex nib); 5. all-around great pen: Onoto Magna (medium cursive italic). The Parker was a gift from my parents. The Aero, my go-anywhere pen, doesn't need to be as indestructible as yours, since I don't take my pens with me on walks in the woods; I take a camera and take notes on my phone. But it goes in my book bag and I don't worry about dropping it. The Onoto has a great plunger filling system, a beautifully ground and tuned gold nib, nice ink capacity, and it's beautifully crafted. It feels wonderful to write with. I wouldn't have chosen the Pilot 912 as my workhorse, but I accidentally left it in a shirt and sent it through the washer and dryer, it came out working great, and I love the nib, so it's earned its spot as a workhorse pen. Every one of these pens is a superb writer, and any one of them would be one I could use exclusively. But I'm glad I don't have to, and I'm glad I don't have to give up my Waterman, Waldmann, Montblanc, Sheaffer, Yard-O-Led, Omas, TWSBI and other pens to settle for a top five. My collection isn't large and never will be, but I intend to make it larger, not smaller.

[@HemingwayJones]

It’s a great list! You may like Lamy’s cursive nib, but you would want to attach it to something other than a Safari. All the best.

[@jamespicht1128]

@@jamesaritchie1 When I’m walking with my camera in the woods, I’m likely to end up on my hands and knees taking pictures of fungi and moss. And if I’m using a pen and notebook, they’re likely to end up on the ground next to me. So no, no fountain pens on my walks in the woods. A Bic ballpoint at best.

[@jamespicht1128]

@@jamesaritchie1 I’m not thinking about long writing sessions with a workhorse pen, though I’m not entirely clear on what I mean by “workhorse”. If I think of it as a one-pen-fits-all and long-writing-sessions pen, then I think that would be my Diplomat Aero. I love the nib, it’s a handy size, it’s supremely comfortable to write with, and it’s metal. Those are all things I want in a pen for all situations. When I decided on the 912, I was thinking of its surprising ruggedness in the face of the abuse I (accidentally) heaped on it, but also thinking of that flex nib as an EF. I rarely flex it deliberately. WIth no pressure on the nib, it’s the finest comfortable nib I have. I _could_ write with it for hours; it’s lightweight, and it puts zero stress on my hand to write with it, which for reasons is an issue. I can leave comments even between single-spaced lines of text with that thing. It’s literally a pen I can do all kinds of work with - a workhorse, the horse the best helps me get a job done. The italic nibs on my Onoto and Diplomat let me write prettier script, the Namiki is just a bold and flawless pen, I have other pens that are more beautiful and more interesting. They’re all wonderful for pleasure. The 912 is wonderful for work.

[@ginopagnani7286]

I agree with all your picks, especially as I have 4 of the same myself. I was very surprised your Egyptomania wasn’t chosen. Great video as always HJ !!!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much, Gino! It was between it and the 149 and I love the Egyptomania but couldn’t give up the 149. It was a tough choice.

[@philnaunton7181]

Yeah. I, too was waiting for the seemingly inevitable Egyptomania or the Mont Blanc Churchill.

[@HemingwayJones]

Conway Stewart Churchill, but yes, tough choices!

[@ChrisSaenz13]

Oh this was so much fun!!! I would really have to think and ponder what my 5 would be at this point. It brings to mind the way I feel when embarking on a flight home to Vermont ... and deciding what to take for fountain pens. Except I know I'm coming back to my entire collection. Which has grown a lot dine the last voyage! As a permanent down size I'd be super into pens I could easily replace the nibs for real versatility. But I'm primarily an ink person where I think (just in the short time I've been here) that pens are priority above inks for you? Am I right? Oh wow this is such a fun topic!!! I'd love to do a video on this if I could figure out which 5 pens I'd choose ... that might take me awhile!!!! 🤔 It was great seeing your wife's lovely collection too!!! I recently realized how awesome the Pilot Kakuno is in my bullet journal with black cartridge and now mine is never uninked!!! The nib is so smooth!

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello Chris! It is always a pleasure to chat with you. Yes, I think that I am more focused on pens than ink. I do enjoy inks though, just not as much. This exercise could be done with inks as well. Maybe that is next. It’s hard to distill things down and I am not sure i landed this one. I left out one of my favorites to not be repetitive, but that’s how it goes. I Jad to be tough. I am so glad that you enjoyed the video. This was fun to make. Thanks and speak soon.

[@richardzak2140]

Hello HJ. Trying to determine your 5 top pens is probably like trying to choose your favorite child. You love each in its own special way and never give up on any of them.

[@HemingwayJones]

It is such a tough choice! Truly! That’s what makes it fun.

[@johnclark1371]

I just finished reading The Secret History. I was thinking that the professor must be paid well to have a fist full of 149s. I recently found your channel and very much enjoy your content. I also very much appreciate the work that you put into the production quality. Great job.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello John, thanks so much for the kind comment. You are so right, Julian had some dough, although they were relatively less then. Still. By the way, I am putting the finishing touches on a new video called, “The Top Five Pens for Dark Academia” with a section on “The Secret History.” It’s as if I wrote it for you!

[@johnclark1371]

@@HemingwayJones Looking forward to it. I’m a late comer to Donna Tartt’s brilliant writing. Onto the Goldfinch next. Thanks for all that you do to build this community. It’s much appreciated.

[@HemingwayJones]

I just finished it. So relieved. That one took a lot out of me. I hope you like it.

[@shane6242]

Shocked the Egyptomania isn't in here! My 5 are: Pilot 823 FA, Jinhao X159, HongDian 100, Visconti Homo Sapiens Dark Age, Franklin Christoph 02 Antique Glass.

[@HemingwayJones]

It was so close! I love that thing Ng but I picked based on function. You have a solid list! Although you have better luck with Jinhao than I.

[@nitina8564]

Lovely list of pens, i loved the Waterman 5 looks like a fun pen and rightfully worthy of being in this list.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you, you know how great it is when you find a great vintage pen. They can be touchy. Thanks!

[@fossilimprint2954]

I admire your sound logic in determining why each of the 5 pens were selected. Of the pens you chose, I only have experience with the Lamy Safari (my daughter has 2) and the TWSBI (I have a Diamond 580 and a Vac700R). I found that the Lamy Safari dries out faster than the TWSBI pens, seems to me that the TWSBI cap is more air tight as my TWSBI can sit ignored for a month and then writes instantly when put to paper. The Safari will have a hard start after a couple of weeks on non-use. As for the other pens in your list, I will be adding them to my list of pens to someday own. Thank you!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much! I left one of my TWSBIs for months and it started right up. There is something special going on there.

[@janisstewart2217]

Thanks for another interesting video. For 1 & 5 it would be my Pilot Custom 823, vintage would be my Esterbrook LJ from the 1950s that belonged to my mother, robust pen would be my Kaweco Sport, and for my all-around daily pen it would have to be my TWSBI Swipe with a stub nib.

[@HemingwayJones]

Great choice! The 823 is so nice. And Esterbrook LJ are classic.

[@amyalphabet722]

I have watched this a few times and full stop, I couldn't pick five pens! It was fun to try to play along, but I just am not capable, lol!!

[@HemingwayJones]

It was not an easy exercise. 😂 ! That’s what makes it fun. Thanks so much for watching.

[@Myste28]

Hello, my five going according to your order would be: MonteVerde Invicta leather wrapped Conklin Mark Twain 25p (on one of my vintage Esties but the Conklin is my favorite vintage pen although I do have a Schaefer with a very nice nib) Karas Kustom Ink Twsbi Eco And I wish I did own a Pilot VP but instead MaJohn A1

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello Myste! That is a very interesting list! I am a huge fan of the Eco. I only just received a VP myself. My wife had one for the longest time. Thanks for sharing your excellent list!

[@thedirtygot9570]

My top 3: 1: Pilot custom 823 B nib. 2: Pilot Vanishing Point M nib. 3: Pilot Metal Falcon SF nib.

[@HemingwayJones]

Great list although I have issues with my Falcon. That may be on me.

[@thedirtygot9570]

@@HemingwayJones I did too at first, but the longer I used it and found its sweet spot, the better it got! mine prefers a very light touch! never skips a beat!

[@oscarcalva2189]

Might not be my best pens, but the 5 I should have first if I needed to start over: 1) Pilot Custom 823 (this would be my one pen collection), 2) Lamy 2000, 3) Wahl Eversharp Skyline 4) Sheaffer Imperial or PFM (with gold nib) 5) Schön Dsgn ultem pocket pen (love that thing and is almost undestructible)…

[@HemingwayJones]

That is a strong list! Yes, those Schön pens could survive anything.

[@RobertMaguire67]

Great picks as your perfect 5 pens as they are the ones for you and your tastes. My perfect 5: 1) Sheaffer Targa Medium inlaid steel nib (from Grandma Vi for my B.Comm. graduation) 2) Montblanc 149 OM nib (from my spouse) 3) Visconti Opera Master LE Medium Nib (going out of business sale in Toronto great find) 4) Pelikan M1000 Broad Nib though the Fine it came with had some bounce if you like that. (Phidon Pens, Cambridge ON) 5) Esterbrook Junior Modern with the special journaler nib grind....for some reason it is continually inked and sort of a medium stub grind might just be all about the nib grinds. (Carey Yaeger Mr FountainPen Day picked me out a good one!). 6) Sheaffer's student pen ($10) with cartridges that started it all for me and likely 100's of others in elementary school cursive pen class time in grade 5.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks very much! That is a great list. We both have been gifted 149s by our spouses.

[@rmoraespinto]

I enjoy your videos very much, Hemingway. Thank you for making your reviews so interesting. Now, about the subject of a 5 pen collection, I must tell you that I have toyed with this idea from time to time, just to get to the conclusion that I cannot get to it... so painful it is to make choices amongst so many beautiful and trustful "writing instruments". Someday I will have my pen channel and then I could tell the stories of my collections. Back to your choices: 1. the 149. I had to surrender. After so many years rejecting Montblanc and other marketing-based brands, the 149 is my pen of choice; 2. Waterman #5 -- agreed any 5-pen collection should have a vintage pen and this one is a jewel; 3. the Kaweco Brass -- I love my K; 4. I would not chose the Safari for the sole fact that there are so many excellent pens in that niche... and 5. 823 -- last year I tried to write my journal, during 30 days, with just one pen and ink. And I succeeded! The 823 + Iroshizuku Tzukushi were my companions in that journey! So, we are on the same page! PS - have you ever tried one of those Ranga pens from India?

[@johntaylor8817]

Hi. Fabulous show as always. I totally agree with the Montblanc 149, Kaweco Brass Sport and Pilot custom 823, l have these pens in my collection. The final two could be problematic. I finally chose my Opus88 Jazz, it can also use Pilot Parallel blade units, and the Lamy 2000 with an Oblique Double Broad. That was great fun, I hope your not getting tired of your Egyptomania?, It not being on the list is certainly interesting.🤔🤗 Cheers from Australia.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much! I need an Opus! No, I love the Egyptomania! But I had to pick 5 and cover a lot of bases.

[@Liza-hx2zx]

I’ve really enjoyed your videos for some time. Big thanks for all your generous efforts! This is my first comment, actually. A great selection you made, and good categories! It inspired my to make my own (from my 40+ collection), so here goes: Heavy hitter/grail: Sailor x Hachimonjiya Pro Gear Kubozakura Bloom Pink - hard to get hold of, a gorgeous looking pen & a perfect writer. Love it! Vintage: Parker 75 Sterling Silver Ciselé from my Dad - for sentimental reasons, a beautiful, classy pen with a great nib. Robust/travel: Ystudio Portable Copper - my EDC: solid copper & snap cap, perfect for quick notes on the go. Workhorse/moderate price: Lamy Safari, for sure! I have 7 lovely colors, so hard to pick just one. Maybe the standard yellow, my first, or Savannah Green spec.ed. 2021, since an original & also a great color. All around great pen: Pelican M200 Café Crème spec.ed. 2015: this has to be on my list: gorgeous color combination & a glassy smooth writer. Love it & all my Pelicans! It pains me to omit Pilot, Kaweco, Waterman++, but as you say: tough choices! And luckily, it’s only a list 😉.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you, Liza! An excellent list. That Sailor pen is awesome. I’d like to try it. Thanks for commenting and watching. Stop by again soon! All the best.

[@getmartincarter]

I love the classical music . The mixture of Mozart and Beethoven is recognisable to most viewers however music credits at the end of each show would be terrific

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much! Sometimes KZbin adds the music credits, sometimes not. I wish they would always. It’s all KZbin free music library selections.

[@johnnyragadoo2414]

I would want to be prepared for paper of varying quality. My five would be my two Opus 88 Demonstrators in flex ef and medium, and Omar pens in broad and stub. That covers crummy paper through 90 GSM plus a stub nib for signing the odd affair of state. Given the state of the state, most such affairs could be odd. You never know. My new EDC shirt pocket pen is a Lamy AL-Star with a medium nib, similar to your Safari pick.That would round out the five for me. Or, I might leave the broad nib at home in favor of another medium in a Vac 700R with a different ink. Blue, probably, in my four pens of the line, and green for the second medium nib.

[@HemingwayJones]

All Excellent Choices!

[@shamus730ify]

Great video!!! Your choices didn’t surprise me, my choices 149, Esterbrook Estie with the journal nib, Kaweco brass, lamy vista and the 823. The only pen I didn’t match was number 2. I did struggle not putting in the pilot e95s.

[@HemingwayJones]

You know me well, My Friend! Oh the E95S, So Brilliant.

[@Wolverine3660]

A wonderful video, HJ. My pens of choice are as follows: 1) MB 149, 2)Kaweco Brass Sport, 3) Pelikan M-1000, 4) Parker Duofold Centennial, 5) Delta Dolce Vita Oversize. I have multiples of each of these pens, and I find I reach for one of these pens most of the time. Again, a wonderful video, thanks. Keep up the great work.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much, My Friend! Excellent list.

[@Wolverine3660]

@@HemingwayJones Thank you. :):)

[@Wolverine3660]

I tried my Parker Duofolds today to journal with. Used a vintage Parker Lucky Duofold Senior, from 1923!!!! It still has all original parts!!!! I realised how good the Parker pens are, both the newer Parker Duofold Centennials ( all from the mid to late 1990s) and the 2 vintage Duofolds from the early 1920s. How much they make the act of writing a pleasure. So, at least for the near future, I will be journaling and writing with my Kaweco Brass Sport pens and my modern Parker Duofold Centennial fps!!!:):):)

[@HemingwayJones]

@@Wolverine3660 Brilliant! Well done.

[@peterpuleo2904]

Actually, I am surprised you did not select your wife's Pilot vanishing point for your 5. I have the exact same pen and I commend your wife on her selection. The pen is unique in appearance, it writes flawlessly with the carry convenience and deployment ease of a ballpoint for any situation.

[@HemingwayJones]

I can’t steal her pen! Stealing only works one way in this family! 😂 I do have my own, in Matte Black and it would have been a great addition. It is an amazing pen.

[@macmovieman1]

I absolutely fell in love with your waterman choice. The Lamie though was absolutely too cool, especially in the ox blood. My next pen will be the mount blanc 149 and I’m really enjoying some of my new pens. Loving your channel.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you so much! I appreciate the kind words.

[@davidprewitt1050]

Nice choices! I certainly agree with you last three…those would make my list, too. I have never written with your first two but imagine they are splendid.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks David! I hope that all is well.

[@manifunk1]

Fantastic choice Hemingway, here’s mine: Mont Blanc 146, Lamy 2000, Pilot Capless, Twsbi 580 and a Parker 51

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you so much, Brilliant list! Thanks for sharing it with us.

[@eddiecandelaria8691]

A well thought out collection Mr. Jones. Really digging that waterman #5 and the kaweco brass sport. Your wife's collection is not too shabby either. Like the obscure pink & green also the Chinese dragon pen . Very unique. As for my 5 they are as follows... (5) lamy 2000 e/f nib (4) italix captains commission with a cursive fine italic nib (3) Montblanc 149 m nib (2) waterman edson in the sapphire finish with a f/m nib (1) Sheaffer pen for men 3 with a f/m nib.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you! That is a good list, My Friend! Thanks.

[@larskamenec]

No Egyptomania?!?! I would have lost a bet on that one. I don't have my final 5 yet as I have not taken the plunge on my Grail pen yet (Visconti HS), but for now: 1. Pilot Custom 823 - it just has to be here 2. Lamy LX Marron with a gold Lamy nib - it is brown and rose gold, my wife's colors, so it makes me think of her. And I found a Lamy black and gold nib for cheap and it writes so smoothly. 3. Monteverde Invincia Deluxe in Abalone. A nice pen and it adds a little flash to the collection. 4. Kaweco Sport in Chrome. You convinced me I need a small travel pen. 5. Diplomat Excellence A2 in Oxyd Iron. This is the placeholder until I add that Grail Pen, but the nib is smooth and I love the look of it. Very solid and metal and I like that.

[@HemingwayJones]

I know! It was so close. It was a tough choice.

[@HemingwayJones]

Excellent list! I am a huge fan of the 823!

[@timewithtata8004]

Great choices Hemingway! Really enjoyed this video. Fun to see your wife's collection too!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you so much! I am so glad you enjoyed it. All the best.

[@UhOhsAndOhNos]

1. Visconti H.S. Bronze Age-a pen made from lava, gold, and brass…come on! 2. Lamy 2k-timelessly modern 3. Agree on the Kawaco brass 4. A custom pen I picked up at the Arkansas Pen Show made by Colombo Pens. Brass and Ultem super heavy, beautiful and unique. 5. I’m putting the Twisbi Vac 700r Iris in here with a 1.1 stub. So smooth. Also, my collection had too much testosterone in it and needed some balance :). If someone wants to send me a MB 149, I’d be more than happy to consider it! Great list BTW

[@HemingwayJones]

That’s a solid list. I love the Visconti. I have a bunch coming up on it. Love the TWSBI Vac!

[@Talkin-fr0g]

I love watching these type of videos to know what I should consider getting. I have a Lamy Al-Star that I got preowned, it’s a beautiful burgundy- and two cheap Platinum Preppy’s haha I was thinking of grabbing a brass pen like the sport or maybe Travelers Factory Brass (I’m a nerd for travelers notebooks)- but sport seems more customizable as you can change the nibs.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much. I am glad you enjoyed it. The Brass Kaweco is pretty great. Wish you all the best.

[@karidru5272]

Thought provoking question. It starts easy and ends hard. At first I'm like "I have two Auroras and three Benus. Done." While I use those pens far more than I use my others, there is a reason I have everything in my collection. I had to examine my life better than that. So, the more considered list goes: -Aurora Ipsilon (vintage). Medium nib, gold plated. It's been with me the longest and fits my hand perfectly. If I'm going to be taking notes all day long, it's the one I want. My best pen friend, I think much like your special MontBlanc. -Benu October Fall: Broad nib. Comfortable, unique. Feels made for me. Good workhorse but also a conversation starter. The design is relevant to my pen name. I could never give it up. -Sailor Shikiori Procolor Stardust Fine nib. I love the whispering feedback of the nib and it's the fine nib that annoys me the least. I need it for writing in my planner. It kind of fits the pocket pen niche. -I guess at least one of these things should have a gold nib... and I GUESS I have to go Pilot E95s. It has good vibes and gives me good handwriting. -Benu Skulls and Roses in gamma green, broad. I found it on an auspicious day and it stylistically pertains to some things I'm going through. Sometimes a thing comes into your life when you most need it. -Loophole: my calligraphy needs can be met by an extensive collection of dip nibs from the 1800s I was lucky enough to stumble into!

[@HemingwayJones]

Great list! I especially like the Benu Skulls & Roses!

[@karidru5272]

@@HemingwayJones Thank you so much!

[@georgemitchell1980]

Fantastic video! Your 5 are exactly my choices except for the vintage I would have a Parker 51 in plum.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much! I am glad we matched (mostly). Thanks for watching.

[@richardsimms251]

You seem like a real gentleman ( also educated ). RS. Canada

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you!

[@sajjadhusain4146]

I will always love such videos. Great to see you, HJ, and others pick their absolute top 5 pens. The indispensable ones. I have so many firm favorites in my 65 pen collection, that it’s a very tough call to choose and declare a top 5 ONLY. However, I reckon the following five come closest to being my exclusive perfect quintet: in random order.. Aurora 88 Sailor King of Pen Montegrappa Miya 450 Sheaffer PFM V Waterman Edson

[@ironmic9244]

Well Sajjad I did it. I pulled the beans on the KOP 1911. I'm still disappointed with that converter. Why didn't they just put a piston or house a larger converter, they don't use a standard international is beyond me. Unfortunately, I received the new style nib.... I lost out on the broad, but the medium is not as fine as expected. It will head out the Mike Masuyama sometime in the next year to stub it or perhaps a cursive italic.

[@sajjadhusain4146]

@@ironmic9244 ..Hey, that’s swell to hear. The KoP is just one of a kind. I always say that the large, very sublime writing 21k nib alone makes me love the pen to death. I have three KoPs. I must have told you before that I totally second your opinion about the converter with its puny filling capacity in a king sized pen. The broad nibs, especially, on two of my KoPs (the other has the medium) means that the ink runs out in a hurry. A larger converter allowing a bigger film is absolutely necessary. If only Sailor heeded our demands. Sailor’s 21k medium nibs are very good and probably their most consistently satisfying ones. So, enjoy yours. Thanks for telling me about your landing the KoP. I’m just as happy as you are. 🙂 edit: And oh, good call on wanting to maybe turn the nib into a stub or cursive italic. I always like both those kinds of nibs. If you had a broad nib to have reground, that would be ideal. But the medium will be alright as well.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello My Friend! Thanks for the kind words and I am glad that you enjoy it. That is an excellent list. Thanks!

[@ironmic9244]

@@sajjadhusain4146 I wanted the broad nib, but just missed out. I am not a fan of fine lines, even with a ballpoint or rollerball, so I checked Goulet's nib nook and the medium didn't look so thin. Given the small converter capacity, it also does not irk so much to have a medium. It's nice to have finer stubs or italics than just the broader ones. I find that more suitable sometimes, especially for everyday writing. Also figured, Mike was the guy to do it. I mean others could too, but I believed he trained with Sailor.

[@ghostlightning]

I am a pen user more than a collector so I buy for use (wherein I will need only 3, but 1 is just for the pleasure of owning though it is also a joy to use) I have only 4 categories: 1. EDC, mine's a Pilot Capless Fermo M 2. For long writing sessions, Kasama Una Ultem M 3. Boardroom Pen (contracts, checks, officious matters), Pilot Custom Urushi M (my next and final purchase) 4. The grail (could be anything, any function, the point is to own it), Nakaya Dorsal Fin v2 Heki-Tamenuri M, since I don't have a CustomnUrushi yet, this serves the purpose of a Boardroom pen.

[@HemingwayJones]

This is a great framework. Well done.

[@sherrycohen1824]

I love both your collections. My husband loves Stipulas and has four. I love the cheap pens such as the Kaweco Perkeo (which, in my opinion, has the same great ink flow as the Kaweco sport, but is much more comfortable to hold), LAMY Safaris (which I have in many colors), and the Kakunos (which I have in pink and green). Thank you for telling us about Realm Pens. I never heard of them before. I'll send you the bill for today's purchase from them. LOL!

[@HemingwayJones]

Hi Sherry! Thank you so much! I appreciate the kind words. Keep those purchases under control!

[@sherrycohen1824]

@@globo-homo Only when he was careless with them. Yafa Pens sends them out for repair for him. They're great.

[@Vermiliontea]

- Tss! 🤪 - As if I would choose only 5 pens. Nah, I don't thinks so. 😁

[@HemingwayJones]

There is that!

[@Vermiliontea]

@@HemingwayJones I can't play this game. I used to have a functional need for more than 5 pens, when I was working, different inks, colors and document inks for some kinds of paper, different points for different purposes (F or EF for small digits). While I'm retired now, I've taken up studying again and I still have the same pen habits. And I need converter pens for some inks. So no, I can't get by with only 5 pens. I can play the game: 'which 5 pens would I choose for only journaling, letters and other basic writing, which pens also happen to be, or have been, production pens which anyone could procure.' That would be - the first four are easy -, my M800, my 149, my Medici LE, my HS Bronze Age. The fifth, dam, that's tough, so many choices... But as you can see, my choices would be based on personal attachment, not different roles like travel pen etc.

[@HemingwayJones]

Attachment is tough. I’m going to do a list of sentimental pens. I’m also going to revisit my favorites.

[@sepuleddy]

1. Pilot Falcon SEF 2. Pilot CH912 FA 3. TWSBI Eco Stub 1.1 4. Muji Aluminium 5. Sailor Fude De Mannen

[@HemingwayJones]

Very good list.

[@BlushnBlue]

Ahhhh, all great picks and so glad to see that my grail fountain pen was one of your top 5. Thanks for sharing.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much! Which one is your grail?

[@BlushnBlue]

@@HemingwayJones I have 3 Pilot 823 and looking to have number 4 with a medium nib. The Mont Blanc 149 may be the pen I choose when I graduate as a nurse practitioner. I'm still deciding between that or a Pelikan.

[@penthevision4706]

Re your top 5, the only ones I have are the Kaweco brass sport and the Lamy Safari and I share your views on both of those. Re your wife’s collection, I never knew that Cacherel made pens! Will Google this. Thanks for sharing 🙌

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much! The Cahcerel is charming, though not very robust. I am glad you enjoyed it.

[@tiantuatara]

Great list. Your last 3 would probably be on my list (except the Sport would either be a regular one or my AL-Sport). Not sure what my others would be. BTW, I like your tarot decks and runes.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much, Terri! The AL is a great addition. I am glad you like the B Roll.

[@technoraptor7778]

Nice choices...brass sport would be in mine too.

[@HemingwayJones]

That is an excellent one!

[@technoraptor7778]

I have found that some brass sports patina oddly...as in the cap completely separate from the barrel...and I'm not talking about posting it having hands make it darker or anything..im saying it's almost like it's two types of brass..even new the cap and barrel are different tones..one more yellow while the other is orange. Anybody notice this?

[@HemingwayJones]

I haven’t seen that. Maybe the materials are slightly different? This one is aging where you would think; where you touch it. I have always loved old nautical brass and see this pen in that context.

[@ichirofakename]

Delightful video, thanks. I love all your selections except the Lamy Safari, which I hate. For drawing, I like having the widest possible range of nibs. So here is my 5-Pen Collection: 1. Extra Fine/Flex - Pilot 743 . Slightly better in performance is my Waterman 52V, but the Pilot's ability to accept cartridges and converters wins out by a mile over the Waterman's lever filler. Only occasionally do I use the flexibility. 2. Medium - Rotring Primus. Technically an nib, but comparable to . All my medium nib pens are just fine, but the lowered grip on this guy seems to make it the most precise pen I have. Out of production, but not old enough to be called vintage. 3. BB - Kaweco Special. The only BB nibs I have are all Kawecos, but the others are in other-brand pens. I particularly like the Special. 4. Fude - Sailor Profit. The only comfy Fude I have. 5. Stub - Pilot Parallel 6.0mm. When you got a large area to fill in, this is the guy.

[@HemingwayJones]

I was a hair’s width away from the TWSBI. I love your nib criterion. That is a brilliant way to approach it. Excellent choices.

[@getmartincarter]

From my collection I have chosen my Mont Blanc 149 ( purchased in 1976 for £71 duty free at London-Heathrow ) , Parker Duofold , Pilot 72 , Sailor Progear ‘Cafe Latte ‘ and finally a Lamy Safari Lx . I’ve chosen the Lamy as a knockabout pen I’d be prepared to lose on a trip , the rest remain at home at all times. The Pilot 72 is an engraved version of the Pilot 74 and I chose this over my Pilot 823 or Pilot e95 S , an almost heart breaking decision

[@HemingwayJones]

Absolutely Brilliant Choices, My Friend! Thanks so much. That vintage MB sounds brilliant.

[@ZolaneG]

So fun and very interesting! As someone relatively new to the hobby and delights of fountain pens, I’ve got a lot to learn, so I appreciate the details you gave with each pen choice. I enjoyed seeing your wife’s collection as well! Of those that I currently own, my top five in random order would be my Pilot Vanishing Point Decimo (navy), Kaweco Sport (dark olive),Twsbi Diamond 580 mini (clear), Platinum 3776 (chenonceau white), and my Esterbrook JR (orange sunset). Thank you again for another wonderful video! As a new subscriber, I look forward to not only watching upcoming videos but your previous videos as well!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much! I am so happy to have you here. I am happy to see you in the comments!

[@impish22]

can't wait to watch..!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you!

[@williamforester9848]

Great 5. I have 4 of them. Good video.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much!

[@NickT6630]

Hi Hemingway, Lovely choice of pens you and your wife have. Mine would be my Pelikan M1000 which I think is a bit of a rival to the MontBlanc 149. Next up it would be my vintage Conway Stewart 76 celluloid green herringbone pattern with gold nib that I won in an ebay auction. Next it would be my Kaweco Sport which I carry around with me in my back pack. Then the Sheaffer Taranis which is not made any more but is a durable metal pen with an unusual very small steel fine nib that sticks out the front of the section and is lovely to write with. And lastly I have the Pilot Custom Heritage 92 with the gold nib and is just amazing to write with.

[@HemingwayJones]

Pelikan M1000 is top shelf! Vintage CS are amazing. Wonderful list!

[@maximilianschwab9668]

The Pilot Custom 823 and the Montblanc I like them both a lot.

[@HemingwayJones]

They are awesome, both!

[@matthewperegrine208]

Very cool video. My choices would be 1.Lamy 2000 stainless 2. Visconti Mirage 3. Gravitas Ultem 4. Parker 51 (1960) 5. I would love to care for a visconti Homosapiens dark age.

[@HemingwayJones]

Excellent Choices! Thanks so much!

[@brandonbrittle1482]

Yikes, I'll go for it though. Not in front of my collection right now, but here's off the top of my head. 5. Kaweco BRASS Sport, medium 4. Pilot Vanishing Point, matte black, medium 14k 3. TWSBI Vac700R Iris, medium 2. Traveler's Fountain Pen, fine 1. Nahvalur Original Peter Draws, 1.1 stub

[@HemingwayJones]

That is a great collection! Brass Sport & TWSBI especially. Thanks so much.

[@donbrownist]

You are going to love your Waterman Carene as it is apparent from your list that you don't already own one. Seriously, a pocket pen that is not a Sheaffer'S Tuckaway with a Triumph nib? Enjoyed seeing your choices and hope this video generates lots of comments.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you, Don! I appreciate the interesting comment. I do have a Carene in Amber. Lovely pen. I could do a whole video on embedded nibs.

[@vincentsantacroce2131]

Just purchased the Kaweco Sport after your review. Looking forward to it !

[@HemingwayJones]

Wonderful! Let me know what you think.

[@getmartincarter]

Please ask your beautiful daughter to choose her favourite fountain five pens from the total collection and ask for her reasons . Just for extra fun ask her to chose a different ink for each and then publish her answers in another programme . Don’t forget to video her as she makes her innocent decisions for inclusion in the edited version !

[@HemingwayJones]

That would be brilliant! I should get her more involved. Thanks so much!

[@bluejchou4404]

What a cute idea!

[@georgeluke1883]

Hemingway, I'm really surprised your Montblanc, Egyptomania isn't on the list.

[@HemingwayJones]

Tough, tough, choices! I anguished over that one!

[@HemingwayJones]

The choice was between the Egyptomania and the 149. I tried to choose based upon categories and not my favorites. My 5 favorites now would be interesting. I should revisit this.

[@mickiebudny7731]

I love this video idea! Your choices were so well thought out

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you!

[@ukaszbiniek493]

Nice collection and inspiring choices!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you!

[@dacksonflux]

Honestly? I need my Kaweco Sport, too. That pen grew on me so fast. I was thinking about getting the brass version and you kinda sold me on it.😂 I also can't imagine life without my Pelikan M205. It's quickly becoming a bit of a workhorse for me and then nib feels so good.

[@HemingwayJones]

Those are excellent choices! I am so glad that I could help point the way to th Kaweco Brass Sport. It is so amazing.

[@kanck7909]

If I can only have 5 FPs, I'd want a theme to it and I'll let roller balls be the travel/knock-around pens, so that I can have more nicer pens haha Here are my picks (you can probably tell what the theme is): 1. Montblanc 145 glacier white 2. Pelikan M605 transparent white 3. Pelikan M205 white 4. Platinum 3776 ivoire shape of heart 5. WalltownPens a hand-turned pen, which takes the #6 Jowo housing (that's my cheat to still have different nibs🤭😆)

[@HemingwayJones]

Wonderful list and flawless aesthetic!

[@mrcat3493]

Another great video Hemingway. Given your love for the MB 149, have you compared it head-to-head with the Sailor King of Pen nib? That would be a great video.

[@HemingwayJones]

That would be a great one. I wish I had that pen!

[@Alliejay-C]

Oh wow! No egypto mania? 😂. Great video! The 823 is definitely on my wish list.

[@HemingwayJones]

Heartbreaking! Thanks so much. It was a fun and tough exercise!

[@ostensibly531]

That last pen looks a lot like a 英雄100 (Hero 100).

[@HemingwayJones]

You’re probably right about that. Thanks! I love the decoration.

[@bluejchou4404]

What a fun video! You sounded especially relaxed and conversational in this one. Great job. Music cuts were timed really well too IMO. When I carry only a few (5 or less) pens with me for trips away from home I have to really think through the places I am most likely to write and what characteristics the pens should have to fit those needs. I found this out by trial and error. To my husband this sounds like too much work for writing but to me it is part of the joy in the experience of fountain pen life. I continue to enjoy your videos but still can't find the 'join' button on KZbin. Could it be that I am on an ipad?

[@HemingwayJones]

Hi Jessica! Thanks so much for the kind words. This one was filmed a little differently. I did the A Roll in front of the camera and basically talked about my choices then edited it later. It’s a bit more laid back. Each video has its own life. Hmmm, maybe being on an iPad is different. Try this. Type this into your browser: www.KZbin.com/HemingwayJones/join This should bring you right to it. I would love to have you join us. All the best and thanks.

[@emmaythegray]

I'm a new subscriber and enjoyed seeing your picks. And, as someone who wandered into pentube from tarottube, nice to see the Bosch Tarot, RWS and some runes make an appearance. 😉

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello Emmay! Thank you for noticing! I appreciate it very much. You are very welcome here. Thank you.

[@tomshult3044]

Beethoven 5th for a 5 pen colletion. Great choice!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you!

[@darrelmorris808]

A lot of great choices. It would be tough to choose between the TWSBI and the Safari.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello My Friend! Always a Pleasure!

[@kilianhzh]

1. Kaweco AL Sport black with the DLC Black nib (I do not like the metallic smell of Copper, Brass or Bronze on my fingers) 2. Muji Aluminium Fountain Pen (simple design, writes surprisingly nice and at 20€ I do not care if it breaks) 3. Rotring 600 4. Pilot Vanishing Point 5. probably the 149 MtBlanc

[@HemingwayJones]

That is an awesome list! Thanks so much!

[@billkittle]

Hey HJ. I greatly enjoyed this video! If I may ask, what size nib do you have on the MB 149? Also, are there any particular companies or websites that you would recommend for me to look for a good (and reliable) Waterman 5? Thanks so much for your channel and the tremendous effort you put into it. It has literally resurrected my old passion for fountain pens from long ago…Bill Kittle. P.S., I’m also strongly considering becoming a member of the channel.😊

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello! It’s a medium on the 149. It’s a great nib. I like Peyton Street Pens. I really like them. They have one on there now and it’s flexible, but I think it’s a medium. They do get them from time to time. Thank you so much for your very kind comments. We would love to have you join the channel. You are most welcome! I appreciate you being here! Thank you!

[@justicefranke3318]

Use a blunt tip needle with just a minimal amount of silicone grease on the inside of your Lamy converter and they’ll be smooth.

[@HemingwayJones]

Sounds good! Thanks.

[@TheUndecidedFrog]

My top five at this moment are: 1. Pelikan Souverän M805 2. Sailor Professional Gear 3. Pilot Custom 823 4. Pilot Custom 912 w/ FA nib, and modified ebonite feed 5. Waterman Carène

[@HemingwayJones]

Love the Carene! Great list!

[@peterclyne2480]

The Chinese pen is cloisone - a form of enamel on brass, a Chinese technique.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks yes, Thanks for watching this.

[@rohandey2092]

Sir could you do a video where you'll pick maybe like best budget pens for persons who are not able to afford these prohibitively expensive pens?

[@HemingwayJones]

Yes, absolutely! I would be delighted to.

[@donhall-aquitania1025]

Fantastic list.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you!

[@mikej.8885]

1. Namiki Raden Galaxy Vanishing Point 2. Pilot CH 912 (FA Nib) 3. Pilot Black Matte Vanishing Point 4. Lamy Al-Star Petrol 5. Namiki Falcon Burgundy Honourable Mention: Custom 823 and Montblanc 144.

[@HemingwayJones]

That is an excellent collection.

[@amoledzeppelin]

From the more down-to-earth perspective of someone who just occasionally writes in pocket and not-so-pocket notebooks, I can tell about my current collection (exactly 5 fountain pens) vs. what I want it to be. What I have: Parker Jotter *Originals* CT FP F, Pilot MR EF (Euro version), Kaco Edge EF and two Jinhao 35 EF (one silver, one black). What I want it to be: Parker Jotter *SS* CT FP F, Pilot MR EF (Euro version), Kaweco Al-Sport F/EF (or Ensso XS if they make them in F/EF), Kaweco Lilliput F/EF and probably Pilot Capless (Euro version). The irony of the situation is that Pilot Capless is easier to find where I live than any Kawecos except Kaweco x Moleskine collab.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello and thanks for watching. That is a great list. I am a huge fan of the Pilot Vanishing Point. Wish you all the best.

[@amoledzeppelin]

@@HemingwayJones Thanks a lot! As you can see, my current 5-pen collection and my wish 5-pen collection already match by 1 position. :D I also see a huge practicality potential in the European versions of Pilot pens, so grateful they actually produce them. Great videos by the way, atmospheric and somewhat inspiring!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much. I am glad that you enjoy them. Stop by again soon.

[@teresaharris-travelbybooks5564]

Oh I can't pick five, unless you narrow the choice to; top five most attractive, top five easiest to write with, top five most economical, etc. My most recent, best to write with, is the Narwhal Key West. The way it rests comfortably in my hand, the nib size, everything, is perfect for me. Bought; on sale; for $40. So it's also one of my most economical.

[@HemingwayJones]

That pen sounds wonderful! This is a very tough exercise. That’s what makes it fun, but difficult! Thanks so much for watching.

[@vinnieandvincent]

#5 is cloisonné, enamel on flattened metal wire.

[@dwhisk11]

Where did you manage to find the 1.1 stub nib? Not sure if that is the same as B or BB, but I can't find the 1.1 stub. I really like the way that writes. Thanks for the video. Slowly but surely, I'll be adding these five pens to my collection.

[@HemingwayJones]

It’s out there. I just googled and it’s on Jet Pens. I am sure it is elsewhere. They call it their Calligraphy Nib. Google Kaweco Calligraphy Nib 1.1mm and I am sure you will find it. You just screw it in.

[@dwhisk11]

@@HemingwayJones Thank you much! I was looking for the pen with that nib already on it. I'm guessing I will need to buy the pen and the nib separately. I shall find it. I'm looking forward to writing with it.

[@HemingwayJones]

@@dwhisk11 Oh gotcha! This plus a Brass Sport is epic.

[@sathishrao7926]

Even though I don’t have as many as 100 pens, It’s tough for me to narrow down to 5 best pens.. Of late I’ve bought quite a few low priced India and China made pens which have made me wonder whether those pricier pens from top tier companies are worth their price !

[@HemingwayJones]

I love pens from India. They make awesome ones and great inks and paper. I haven’t had as good of luck for ones made in China. I remain optimistic.

[@geslinam9703]

Platinum 3776 M and B Platinum President M and B Pilot Custom 742 (like the 823 w/o the pesky hard to clean vac fill) F and M Lamy LX M and B ….and Benu Euphoria, F and M, when I need a little BLING!

[@HemingwayJones]

Excellent list!

[@jondowee]

Cloisonné pen, Beijing-produced. Have visited a factory there.

[@HemingwayJones]

The yellow one?

[@ibpopp]

I'm a Catholic, so much happier with 15 or more 'children.' Can't see myself having only five. Thanks for a very interesting view of your choices and of your wife's pens.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks very much! I am glad that you enjoyed it.

[@iscse]

Hero did that kind of pens and also Wing Sung, but in China you never know: there could be dozens of pen makers, all of them producing the same kind of pen.

[@SauceSensor]

Which pen would I use to send a love letter to you?

[@HemingwayJones]

Probably a Montblanc. Seems apropos! You are too kind.

[@philnaunton7181]

I don't know about you, but my choice of ONLY FIVE PENS changes with weather. Plus it would never include a Lamy Safari even though I have six with a variety of nibs. They don't last long enough for life; broken clips, finials, perished "o" rings such that the caps fall off, etc. They just do not wear well and look really care worn after a year of regular use. But cheap enough to replace bi-monthly. More plastic in the land fill.

[@HemingwayJones]

It’s all about how the relate to each other for me, but there were some tough choices in their. 149 or Egyptomania, TWSBI or Lamy. I may revisit this. All the best.

[@pinkpandamiranda]

Not sure if you've said this in previous videos, but are you wiccan/pagan? I see tarot cards and rune stones in this!

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello and thanks for the great question. I love Tarot Cards and often use them as a structure for conversation. The small grouping of them to the right of screen are mine, but the 100+ decks to the left of me are my wife’s. We both have a collection of esoteric writings. As for my beliefs, I am not Wiccan or Pagan and neither do I believe in a god or any sort of devil. I am a Philosopher. I follow facts and logic, and keep an open mind while I do. I’ve been on quite a journey from Catholic school kid to how enlightened I feel now. Thanks for noticing and for watching the channel. Stop by again soon.

[@HemingwayJones]

Really???? You should seek out alternative views not hide from them.

[@Sago18]

I Expected Visconti Homo Sapiens Bronze Age. My five are Conid Bulk Filler FPR 14k Flex Nib Leonardo Momento Zero Grande Pura 1.5 Stub Steel Pilot Vanishing Point 18k Medium Ratnam (an Indian Pen with a very historic background) a pen I keep swapping nibs frequently as No. 6 nib fits it Sailor Pro Gear 21 k Zoom.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello Siva! It’s so hard doing a list like this. It’s like picking between children. You have an excellent list. I am going to seek that Pen from India. India makes some of the best pens, inks, and paper. I love Ranga, Krishna, and Ayush. I am always looking to learn more.

[@bharatc.sampat6406]

Wonderful Wonderful

[@HemingwayJones]

Many thanks

[@brimerrydeath]

I think the Parker 61 has a similar inlaid piece of metal on the section like the one on your wife's Chinese dragon phoenix pen.

[@HemingwayJones]

I believe you are right!

[@sunnibird]

Bought a faber castle emotion kind of impulsively today. Was planning on a twsbi as a first fountain pen. An expensive start.....

[@HemingwayJones]

Congratulations! It sounds like a brilliant start. Let me know your thoughts once it arrives. Good Luck!

[@keekeefries6298]

Advice on traveling ink? Are there options for that or are you better off just bringing extra pens fully inked?

[@HemingwayJones]

Either really. Any ink will travel. There are cool traveling inkwells. I often bring a small bottle with me and multiple pens. Depends on how long you are traveling, where to, and how light you want to travel.

[@thpeter]

Fun video! My 5: Lamy 2000 (M) with Waterman Serenity blue. A custom made Edison Herald Grande pump filler (M but feels more like a MF). Lamy Safari Terra or Terra filled Noodler’s Southwest Sunset and Montblanc Irish Green respectively. Both in B. Sure wish Lamy would smooth out their M’s and F’s! A vintage Parker 51 (F) with Quink blue black. What a revelation - super smooth and a pleasant non scratchy feedback! Finally a Nahvalur Peter Draws edition, don’t remember the name in B. Such a beautiful design and fantastic writing nib!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much! Excellent list. It’s a fun exercise, isn;’t it?

[@carlosrastel5466]

For me: Best ball point pen ever cross century made in USA Best fountain pen ever Pilot Justus 95

[@TheDarivan]

3/5 not bad for me. 😁👍

[@HemingwayJones]

Hi, at having them? Which three?

[@TheDarivan]

Hi!, Kaweco Sport Brass, Pilot 823 and Lamy Safari. Great selection video.

[@HemingwayJones]

Great choices! Thanks. I’m glad you enjoyed it.

[@frankmarek9921]

Very great video.on yrs and your wife's collection.mind sailor large lamy studio black cross Townsend Noel Nadia's bronze lamy safari.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you so much!