The Pilot Custom 823 Fountain Pen: 5 Best Reasons It's NOT Worth It! 5 Why it IS!

[@theAmazingBlackbird]

I got my first 823 in a sale earlier this week, and I swear it's like I filled it with WD40 instead of ink. It's insane how smoothly it writes.

[@HemingwayJones]

Very well said!

[@psychophipps]

The Pilot Custom 823 is the best bang-to-buck in the fountain pen world. Classic shape (unlike the Lamy 2000), very nice #6-ish 14k nib, excellent balance, high capacity, great filling system that seals for reduced risk of travel incidents, and supreme fit and finish at the price point.

[@HemingwayJones]

All excellent points!

[@LisaPottinger]

The 823 is in my opinion the best pound for pound fountain pen on the market. You can spend more money on a Homo Sapiens or a Montblanc 149 but the writing experience will not be any better than the 823. I love the pen so much I have 5 of them! Overkill I know but they’re in different colours and nib widths. If your 823 is out of warranty it’s easy to clean by unscrewing the section and flushing the barrel out with water. There are several KZbin videos showing the disassembly of the 823, for cleaning, which would void the Pilot warranty, but once this has expired, it’s another way to clean and maintain the pen. The other alternative is to use one ink in the pen so that you don’t need to do a proper clean when refilling the ink. I have dedicated inks for each of my 823’s (Shin Kai, Yama Budo, Kon Peki and Tsukushi) and a light clean works fine. I bought the clear demonstrator with the Signature nib and I was really disappointed because it isn’t that different from a Broad nib. It hardly has any stub character at all. That being said it has a great nib and writes super smoothly. If you have a Broad #15 Pilot nib already I’d give it a miss. Shak-MD did a good video on the Signature nib that might be worth a look.

[@HemingwayJones]

All good points. Thanks very much for adding to the conversation.

[@maryannehommel103]

The vac filler stopped me from getting the 823 for the longest time and then came along the 743. It's glorious, easy to clean, easy to fill, classic design and in black so many nib choices! Yet the 823 is iconic, great video HJ!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you! Glad you liked it. Enjoy that wonderful pen.

[@luigig6256]

I just cleaned my 823. In some ways it’s easier than cartridges- about six cycles if water from a glass and done. Nothing to pull apart. Plus an incredibly satisfying vac mechanism.

[@ericwelch6842]

I have a pilot customer 823 in Amber and in clear and I have to agree with you. It’s a brilliant writer and would be the only pen I ever needed for just my everyday use. I still purchased a Montblanc 149 because that’s the pen that inspires my best thoughts. For a workhorse though the custom 823 is an unbeatable experience for not only writing pleasure but practicality

[@ZaarHai2]

If I really like Kakuno's F, should I go with M or F in 823?

[@Harrinoz]

I love my 823. It looks great. The writing experience is awesome - so smooth. Here in Australia the street price is around USD250 (except for the clear demonstrator which costs more). I’ve had mine inked for eight months and it still writes straight away every time, no hard starts, no skips. I travel frequently by air and take my 823 on every trip. Never had a problem. Yes, the vac filler is not a joy to clean. But neither are my Visconti vac fillers costing five times as much. Ironically, the 743 is about 40% more expensive here. While I think the pen looks great, if they made it in more spectacular resins it would a very hard act to beat.

[@HemingwayJones]

All excellent points! Thanks for contributing and for watching.

[@mwestb1959]

The moment I started writing with my Pilot Custom 823 I knew my collection was complete. And after that I indeed only bought another Pilot Custom 823! They were bought second hand for very reasonable prices, though.

[@HemingwayJones]

Well done!!

[@michaeldavis9693]

Every and I mean EVERY pilot comes in writing beautifully. From my experiences, not many other brands can say that. The price, yeah.. Pilot is able to give you an affordable grail, proving that it doesn’t have to cost a grand to have that level of quality and dependability. Boxster is a great car that saved Porsche.. and the gen one Boxster S had 250hp stock and was very capable and nimble.. and balanced as a mid engine car. Not bad for a “hair dresser’s” Porsche.

[@HemingwayJones]

I have a love letter coming up to Pilot that I think you will love. Stand by for that.

[@halfsourlizard9319]

Vac fill isn't the most practical, but it's a hell of a lot of fun (and you can eliminate most of the cleaning by just using the same ink all the time) ... And the 823 isn't going to turn any heads with its appearance, but the writing experience is about as good as it gets (given my preferences) ... For the feeling of writing with that nib alone, I'd pay pretty much any sum that Pilot asked.

[@HemingwayJones]

I cannot take issue with anything you have said. Well done and thanks for watching.

[@WaskiSquirrel]

I own two 823 pens and one 743. While I may prefer the Lamy 2000...I absolutely love the 823. I love writing with it because ?I don't notice it. I just write with it and remember later why I love writing with it. It's not good for my writing at work where I frequently cap and uncap. But for a long writing session I think this is my favorite. The 743 has the same nib. And it will also outlast a long writing session. But the 823 has that precision engineering in its filling mechanism. Hard to clean for sure, but it's rare that I fill it with an ink that needs to be perfect: I fill it with long-term inks. And it's quick, in terms of my time, especially if I let it soak after a few flushes. And its balance is somehow better. And it's so good looking in all finishes with the demonstrator finish! The main advantages of the 743 are that it's easy to clean and that more nibs are available.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hi Jason, I love this concept that you introducing to the conversation here, and I think I will be reflecting on this some more, but the idea that a pen may dissolve completely when you use it. Thank you!

[@fleurafricaine5740]

The Pilot 823 is an impressive pen for sure. “Entry Level Grail” is an apt description. I find the nib has a lot of flex. That might be because the nib head makes a friction fit into the barrel instead of being secured by a more rigid threaded connection.

[@ingoweisspfennig680]

Thank you for sharing your passion about fountain pens. I bought the Custom 823 2 weeks ago and absolutely love everything about it. The classic look and feel, the clip and the vac filling system. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. This pen is a smooth writer, I enjoy writing with it as much as my Montblanc 149.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks very much! I’m glad you are enjoying that pen. It is brilliant.

[@GregoryCM]

I definitely plan on getting one, but I first need to decide on which ink, and whether it'll need it's own inkwell (if the design of the bottle is not friendly). Great video! I love how you show such care throughout it, and the music is superb, too!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much!

[@edwoodrow200]

Best review I've seen from Mr. Jones. Honest, insightful and, like the 823, well-balanced. Now where can I but a new amber 823 cap since mine fell and shattered? Well done, Sir Jones!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much for the kind words! I appreciate it!

[@ForTheLoveOfPens]

Great overview of one of my favorite pens. Many complain about cleaning; but if you are comfortable removing the piston unit, it is pretty quick and a straight forward process. Also regarding the shut-off valve, many people do remove the lower seal from the rod. This keeps ink flowing and eliminates the need to unscrew the knob. Doing these things may void Pilot's warranty, but that only lasts 1 year after purchase.

[@HemingwayJones]

Great points and suggestions. Thanks.

[@geckonia]

You’re right. I wouldn’t pay that much. I paid $225 shipped from Japan on eBay. 😅

[@RobRutherford]

I love my clear Custom 823 with an ebonite feed. As the FA nib is a bit of a different experience, I was considering getting another one with a medium nib. But I unexpectedly acquired a Custom Urushi so another 823 really isn't on the radar at the moment.

[@pherranine]

may I ask what an ebonite feed is?

[@RobRutherford]

@@pherranine Ebonite is a hard rubber material instead of the plastic that comes with the pen. And the feed is the part with the fins behind the nib. Ebonite may allow more ink to flow avoiding skipping when making longer strokes or lines. Beyond the material being more ink friendly, the ebonite feeds come with two or three channels in them which increases the ink flow even more than just ebonite.

[@pherranine]

@@RobRutherford really interesting thanks so much for explaining. Wonder if theres an affordable pen with ebonite feed, will look into it!

[@HemingwayJones]

Those sound like incredible pens. Well done.

[@RobRutherford]

@@pherranine I purchased my feeds from Flexible Nib Factory, they sell a variety of feeds and nib units in the $30-$60 range, but you'll have to do some research as to what pens are compatible with them. It's not unlikely that you already have a suitable pen.

[@K_rye]

"Short ink attention span". That's perfect! I've never understood why people will rave about the ink capacity of a pen. There are so many terrific inks out there that I want to try that I can't imagine writing with only one color for months at a time.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much. Love your enthusiasm.

[@hivona]

Haha I agree! I don’t try to fill my pens all the way! I want to use up the ink so I can put in a new color!

[@eternalmonsoon8103]

That's why they make so many pens!

[@misswoodhouse5720]

Hey Mr Hem Jones, another great video love it. I've been considering the 823 for a while. While I like the amber-brown I don't use many brown inks, but maybe the smoke version would become an any ink pen. I have three custom 74's now and I love them but the bigger nib and the gold colour interest me as I love the colour of yellow gold. So, I might have to get one. Oh, but first I might be shopping for my vintage teacher wardrobe as I have some placements coming up. Chelsea

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks very much for watching and for the kind words. I hope you get one.

[@rextherunt3135]

Needs a comparison to the 743 mate. Particularly the balance.

[@HemingwayJones]

If I ever get one, I will. Thanks!

[@rextherunt3135]

@@HemingwayJones I'm sure it would be an endlessly popular video. It's a question that is asked every day by people for / against the 823.

[@mavleashutosh]

PC 743 comes with the same glorious #15 Pilot nib. You can get 15 different nibs with 743.

[@dailycharmaddict]

Smart, AND funny! Well done. And I’m definitely PRO!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you so much!

[@sruckel]

You inspired me to fill my 823 :) I realized I hadn’t inked it in a while, so I took the “plunge” into Kon-peki. Another FP video that goes beyond the cut and dried technical review. Let others do those, so that you can do your in-depth, challenging, and thought-provoking videos.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks very much, My Friend!

[@JefferyHall-ct2tr]

Hi HJ! The 823 is a pen that is on my radar. I REALLY wish they would make a translucent BLUE one! Might be tempted to spend that much for one. You are of course right when it comes to changing inks in a vacuum filler! I only have one that is a vacuum fill and I have never changed the color of ink in it!! Have a great weekend! Hope your foot is better!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much for the kind words. I’m on Prednisone now. That should do the trick. Thank you.

[@foxtrotelement]

I have been going over if I want an 823. It would be my most expensive pen (over my VP), and this video was great. I wonder how similar the Vac700R experience is compared to the 823. The head to heads videos between the two have been all over the place.

[@cebukitty]

i have the 823 and vac700. the nib on the pilot is sublime, the vac 700 is just okay.

[@pherranine]

my exact situation hmm

[@carolyncoppola974]

I recently had the opportunity to purchase both the Pilot 743 and the Custom 823. I am so excited - I’ve had them a month and have only inked the 743. I really am having a mental block as to what ink will be the First in my 823: Diamine Oxblood, DeAtramentis Jane Austen, Pilot Iroshizuku Asa Gao…..decisions, decisions! It’s a big thing for me! I do have other pens on my grail list, but honestly I’m not as excited as I am about the 823! Con of the 823 - the end cap not being completely covered - but that’s not a deal breaker.

[@LisaPottinger]

⁠@@carolyncoppola974the 823 is an awesome pen. You’ll enjoy it. I find Pilot pens write best with Iroshizuku inks. I use Shin-Kai, Yama-Budo, Kon-Peki and Tsukishi in mine.

[@halfsourlizard9319]

@@cebukitty I also have both and completely agree. My 823 is inked ~100% of the time; my Vac 700 is inked very occasionally.

[@joelhuston1881]

Proud 823 owner, and every single remark resonated with me!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks very much! It’s a fun video!

[@kjmav10135]

I considered the 823, but the whole vacuum thing (cleaning/keeping the ink going) seemed sorta like a pain in the butt. I got a 743 instead. It’s a piston filler, with the exact same 14 K nib. Same price. A little less hassle. I might still get the 823, but I am completely happy with my 743. it’s one of my favorites.

[@HemingwayJones]

I love Piston Fill Pens. What’s not to like. Sounds amazing.

[@anguswhite8233]

the 743 is converter not piston filler - agree that it’s a whole lot easier to clean, which suits me as I like to try new inks but the capacity of the 823 means you’re never going to run out of ink!:)

[@kjmav10135]

@@anguswhite8233 You are right! What was I thinking!

[@MinDeRien2658]

@@anguswhite8233that’s why I got mine!! No more ink bottles in my backpack! MassiveQoL upgrade

[@Hdhvvbm]

Agree that the 743 is much less hassle than the 823. Only hitch is that the Signature nib, which I think is great, comes only on the 823.

[@thepenman357]

I love my 823! I bought mine with a broad nib, and it is super smooth with no feed back. I will say, though, that I'm thankful that I bought mine when they were $288.00 USD. I'm not sure that I would be able to spend that much on a pen now. But, hey, that rabbit hole is deep, so who knows.

[@HemingwayJones]

It’s good to have a ceiling. I try to maintain mine, even with the Channel, and I can rationalize it all sorts of ways!

[@faniro4792]

What a gorgeous video! I enjoyed very much all your very sharp remarks, you did a real great job i think. I fully agree with you. I'm a fan of the 843. The only drawback for me is that it's not girthy. But vacuum fillers tend to be long and fairly slim for the plunger to work its way inside their bodies, right. Thanks again Hemingway!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you! I always enjoy seeing you in the comments.

[@sunnycharacter]

Out of my price range right now, but boy is it gorgeous! Love your lil kitty’s cameo appearance!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you! I need to get Ophelia into the mix more.

[@sunnycharacter]

@@HemingwayJones Absolutely! I can always use a feline fix! 😻

[@Agent_Orange_Peel]

Been wanting to add one of these to the collection. I’ll get one someday. Maybe next. Definitely if they increase the nib options.

[@John-vi4ys]

I have owned countless fountain pens of all makers and models ranging from $15 to $3,000+ over the years, all having pluses and minuses, some tangible and some that just grab you deep in your soul; and other than my Sailor King of Pens, my all time favorite is the Pilot Custom 823. I have contemplated this question for years, and If I had to choose only one pen and give up the rest of my collection, it would be the 823. And that is just “my opinion” of course.

[@HemingwayJones]

Love this testimonial!

[@cutecattheiii8216]

Got a Pilot Custom 823 today and it may be one of my worst pen experiences. The nib was very toothy using a wet ink and the writing was much finer than expected, otherwise, the pen felt great in the hand. I’m going to give it another go in the medium nib size. Wish me luck! Your video inspired me to see this through.

[@shane6242]

Loved the video HJ! As you know, I am a huge 823 fan...and I always leave the end cap fully loose :)

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks my friend! I’m glad you enjoyed it.

[@ichirofakename]

That feature is a deal breaker for me, but I got a 743 with the pedestrian but perfect filling system, cartridge/converter. Otherwise identical pen.

[@shane6242]

@ichirofakename I hear you. A lot of ppl don't like the con 70 but I like it personally. 743 is cool too :)

[@debbypodgorski4144]

I do like my 823! I got a couple of years ago in a sale. It does hold a lot of ink for sure.

[@HemingwayJones]

Well done! 👍

[@richardzak2140]

Hello HJ. Brilliant video. Love the format of the devil and angel on your shoulders, duking it out. For me, the clip ruins the entire look of this pen, so I'm in the no column on this pen. I would look forward to a nib face off. That would interest me. Keep them coming my friend.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much! I am glad you enjoyed it.

[@jolienkrispijn]

Great video! Loved seeing your cat 😍 she's beautiful! I like the 823, have a fine nib. Still not sure if I'd been happier with the M. This video is probably very helpful for those that are considering to buy it. And I agree with your viewpoints. Although I think I am a bit more impressed with the look of it (I have the amber)

[@HemingwayJones]

Aww, Ophelia! She is my little cutie pie. Thanks so much! I appreciate all your kind words.

[@jolienkrispijn]

@@HemingwayJones ❤️ cats are so much fun! I'm wondering if Ophelia and ghost cat know of each other's 'existence'. Maybe they are friends :)

[@pageeater]

Since I bought the 823 at the SF Pen Show as my Grail, I love this rundown - and love this pen - except - I agree with the con about the vanishing point screw/unscrew thing. Sigh. But is it still my Grail? Oh yes. My last Grail? I hope so. I don’t do well with more than six pens and I’m happy with my current six… Loved this vid!!!! Thank you.

[@bradbeth63]

I have an 823 with Journaler grind by Gena Salorino of custom nib studio. Highly recommend. Great pen

[@HemingwayJones]

Well chosen.

[@Mixed_pop_up_TV]

Best fountain pen. Exceptional smooth nib, stores more ink than most pens by far, low risk of ink leaks & mess. I started collecting fountain pens about 5 years ago. I got an 823 and gave my others away; my collection is complete. I like fine lines & often write very small - the Japanese fine nibs are very fine, and this one is a very fine fine indeed.

[@ThePenofaReadyWriterVarney]

Would it compare to the Montblanc 149 or is it a better option than the Montblanc 149?

[@HemingwayJones]

I feel it is in league with it. Not better but different and equally great.

[@mayneric]

I wouldn’t trade my 823 straight up for any modern Montblanc. I’ve tried several and never been impressed.

[@HemingwayJones]

Love the enthusiasm! It’s a brilliant pen.

[@Penfreaq]

Great video sir, I enjoy your shows and collection so much. I was looking at this pilot pen but then I discovered the pilot custom 74 which came with a 14 karat gold nib, and I got it for less than $120 so I think I got a good deal and it looks almost the same. The custom 74 is my first fountain pen that features a solid gold nib I'm very happy

[@HemingwayJones]

Good choice! Congratulations! Thank you for watching.

[@alanpareis734]

A cool video, thank you. I guess I’ll have to put it on the list and get one some day. In my opinion the best thing going for it is that it is a vac filler. In my perfect fountain pen world there would be only two kind of filling systems piston and vac. But I am neither a serial ink changer, nor a compulsive pen cleaner. Have a great rest of the week and week end.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much, My Friend. Thanks for watching.

[@psychophipps]

If you want a more traditional fill system that is easier to clean and swap colors for your fountain pen ink ADHD, the Pilot Custom 743 has all the same dimensions and that same fantastic Pilot #15 14kt nib. Put in the Con-70 converter, do 3-4 presses, and it will be good for a decently long writing session without filling the whole large converter.

[@johntaylor8817]

Hi. The 743 is the way to go, same feed and nib as the 823.🤗 Cheers.🦘

[@hivona]

Love the BladeRunner writing sample ☺️

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you! I load up my videos with tons of fun references like this! Thank you!

[@hivona]

@@HemingwayJones then I had to listen to the track on the soundtrack and watch a clip of that heartbreaking moment!

[@hivona]

@@HemingwayJones also, I don’t have this pen yet but the clear version is on my wish list! Thanks for the great content!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks for the kind words.

[@HemingwayJones]

Nice! It’s powerful and moving.

[@waylon_willie]

HJ, what is that ink at 1:25?? I've got to have it! Looks similar to Robert Oster Fire & Ice. Great video, I've been waiting to hear your thoughts on this pen!

[@elizabethevans5931]

Great video…especially love your OCD comments! This pen is on my list to acquire!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much!

[@davidottman9501]

I like how you like to make compelling arguments on both sides of a debate. 😂 It's fun but also very informative, so thank you for putting this together. 3 days worth of groceries is a significant investment!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much! It’s a lot of fun to argue with myself and to agree with myself onto opposing points. Thanks so much for watching.

[@lawrencelizewski9625]

Bought one with the Signature. Slight line variation. Fun. I love it. And got a deal at less than $225. Which I really love.

[@HemingwayJones]

Very nice. I tried one in DC.

[@Bushviking]

I agree with your pros and cons. I think Diamine Writers Blood or Oxblood are great matches for this pen, but I keep wanting to use it with blue ink, which looks a bit funny in this smoked brown demonstrator. But I still love my 823 to bits.

[@ragesipikm5169]

Have you used diamine oxblood in it? Im thinking of getting the pen and wondering how would that ink behave in it.

[@HemingwayJones]

I have and it was a great combination. Thanks!

[@FrodeNygard]

I'm using diamine writer's blood, which is a perfect combination

[@andreas9119]

hi Hemingway Jones, what's the ink at @1:25 looks almost like a petrol blue or Montblanc Glacier blue

[@HemingwayJones]

I put J Herbin Eclat de Sapphir in it, but it looks really dark in that clip, unless I filmed that before. Then it is either Blue de Profundaire or MB Blue Black. Thanks! Sorry I am not sure.

[@christophermckellar1352]

Always fun and insightful. Thanks!😊

[@HemingwayJones]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@FountainPenNews]

I was not interested in the 823 for a long time but then I got one for $150. Now I have three of them and I love each one.

[@HemingwayJones]

You have chosen… wisely!

[@joebaker5421]

I used to want an 823. I love a great writing pen and everyone seems to love this model. But I leapfrogged the 823 and got an “entry level” Namiki. This pen is so amazing that I don’t feel a need for an 823. As you said, it’s an uninspiring design and at this point, that drives my purchases more as I have a week’s worth of great writers. To anyone seriously considering an 823, don’t hesitate, you need a good Pilot nib in your collection!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much for watching!

[@eternalmonsoon8103]

I thought I was done looking for the right pen after my Lamy 2000 (SS) but the cap isn't secure enough to carry around in a pocket, it's only flaw but quite a big one. Agree with your points about piston fillers although I don't have any issues other than some bottles not being suited to these thirsty pens. So I've got one of these in the post as I type. Don't mind a bit of work when cleaning a pen but do wonder if pen flush makes much of a difference in easing the process. I've had a couple of TWSBIs VACs and they are just as fiddly to clean.... until they crack, Problem solved!

[@echoa110]

HJ - I have a fountain pen recommendation (not sure if it's up your alley, but I'd love to hear what you think about it): The Graf von Faber-Castell Guilloche Rhodium. It has a metal barrel with a gorgeous guilloche pattern and a sublime 18k gold nib. Only one downside is that it's a slim pen and (for better and/or for worse) uses a cartridge converter.

[@HemingwayJones]

I’d probably love it. It sounds amazing. Thanks and all the best.

[@justanotherdropwmatt1290]

My 823 is my favorite pen in my collection. I had recently been trying out other pens and hadn't picked it up in a while. After months of non-use it took 1 second of open chamber for it to write as smooth as glass. My 14k Nahvalur will barely write after much coersion, my dialog dries up in 2 days. In price range, my esterbrook raven is near as good but has a small hickup before it starts in good. It handles octopus dragon good though and only stainless steel.

[@HemingwayJones]

Great testimony on how great of a pen this is. Thanks!

[@ChrisGVE]

Funny video :) I own three of these (one with the signature nib) and I couldn’t agree more with you except maybe for the “plain” description 😊 I find them beautiful even though I own multiple Benu 😂 Note that buying from Japan via eBay will cost a good 100 dollars less than 335.

[@hopemurray5834]

The first video I saw on your channel highlighted the 823 and i got it on Ebay for $180 in February '24. Best eBay purchase ever. I think it's so classy and i love it with Birmingham Pen Co Rotted Cork ink! Would i pay $336 for it? Probably... Glad i didn't have to though!

[@HemingwayJones]

So glad I could inspire you and that you connected with this awesome pen.

[@robertcalkjr.8325]

Thanks, HJ. The 823 is a nice pen. Glad to see that Yorick made it into the video!

[@HemingwayJones]

He is in them a lot these days.

[@arlenealennox3136]

I love mine for travel. It’s been flying several times. I’m glad I bought it when it was $270 in 2020.

[@David-fo6oy]

I also hated cleaning this pen. But I was wrong. I watched a couple of videos showing how to disassemble it and it is so easy, and makes cleaning it one of the easiest I own. Of course, it does void the warranty, but I think it’s worth it.

[@HemingwayJones]

That’s a strategy. I am not a tinkerer personally. I am one who wrecks things! But for most, excellent idea.

[@inkstainedadventure747]

A little late for me...I own 3 of them, including one with a FA nib purchased in Tokyo. Soooo I think they're worth it lol.

[@HemingwayJones]

Very nice! I hope you enjoyed this!

[@andrecohen2790]

My LL Bean mens sunwashed cotton canvas shirt comes with a pen slot on the left side pocket and I wear my Pilot Custom 823 on my trip to the local health food store i n my town and the Safeway a few towns away. So I am writing to tell you that one time a gentleman approached me as he knew for sure I was the store manager. On another occasion a lady I knew had her credit card jeopardized and was scurrying for a pen to write a check, and sure enough I saved the day! When I told her the price she quickly handed it back after writing her check, shocked. I love Hemingway Jones, I love my Fountain pen. I love having fun and not taking life too seriously.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much for the delightful comment! Your life sounds charming.

[@Alliejay-C]

Pilot nibs are some of my favorites ❤

[@HemingwayJones]

Me too. Love that whole company.

[@annerisgin5037]

I almost thought your were going to make it to the end without mentioning the unprotected plastic at the edge of the cap.

[@HemingwayJones]

I hope I mentioned that! It bugs me. Thanks!

[@michaelbradley6488]

I removed the front safety stop O-Ring, this sits ahead of the Rubber Stopper. I like the idea of the stop but I find the that the ink flows better without the stopper. I have the Charcoal Gray with a medium nib and I may pick up the brown model with a fine nib. Nice review.

[@lizpilgrim1]

The delicacy of the pen is the #1 reason that gives me pause. I have a Kakuno, and it underwhelms me. I think I much prefer a Preppy, and I have 4. Can you think of another pen that is roughly $300 with a beautiful design, robust construction, an easier filling system, and is comparable to the Pilot 823 nib?

[@michaelbradley6488]

Perhaps a Pelikan M800 purchased used on eBay or even new for slightly more than the 300.00 price point, I think it is money well spent. I would recommend a fine nib which will write a bit more on the medium size as Pelikan nibs tend to run broad. The Pelikan will be easier to maintain, and as a bonus they are very well made and will last decades.

[@ichirofakename]

I think if you want a Pilotesque nib, you'd best buy a Pilot. I believe they have a few different models at lower price points, with similar if not identical gold nibs. I'm pleased with my Custom 67 with a Coarse nib.

[@LisaPottinger]

I’ve had my 823’s for years and I wouldn’t say that they’re particularly delicate. I store them in a leather case and I’ve not had a problem with them cracking or breaking. Alternatively, you could try the Pilot Custom 743. It has the same Pilot #15 nib, It’s cheaper and essentially an opaque Custom 823 but it’s a cartridge converter not a vacuum filler.

[@lizpilgrim1]

​@@michaelbradley6488In Canada, it's far more than that used on E-Bay.

[@michaelbradley6488]

@@LisaPottinger Good suggestion, that way the individual would experience the same nib at a likely lower purchase cost. I am with you on the 823 not proving to be delicate in my experience.

[@Mr-Merchant.]

If I bought a 823 I know I would love it but I do worry about cracking issues and from stories I have read Pilot will not help you much if it does. I’d rather buy a good used Montblanc 146 personally. Will be in Japan next year and it’s a romantic idea picking up a 823 from a little family own Japanese pens shop. Great in depth video as always.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you for watching! That is always a consideration.

[@clive1539]

Definitely the smoothest fine nib pen I own, black with black ink never going to change inks. Cost…. They’re good straight out of the box, Chinese pens can be hit and miss, yet to find one of a comparable quality. Mind you I have a bunch of Twsbi 580 pens, never had a bad one.

[@HemingwayJones]

I agree completely!

[@MinDeRien2658]

I got mine yesterday and I cannot believe how good it is. I’ve been wanting it for a long time and I am not disappointed Edit to add: as one of the few students that take handwritten notes in class, having a pen that can write comfortably for ten hours a day without having to refill it is so so good. Massive upgrade from my pelikan m205

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks for sharing! I hope you enjoy it. Thanks for watching.

[@geomancer6371]

Here in Asia, I got my Custom 823 for just over $200 brand new. I have it in medium nib. When I first wrote with it, I was completely blown away. It glides through the paper like a skater on ice. One thing though - I have to remember to unscrew the back end, because I have long writing sessions. Once, I thought it went ďefective, until I remembered oh heck, I have to release more ink (this was when I was away and not using my 823 for a month).

[@HemingwayJones]

Yes. There is that one small thing. Great pen and excellent choice.

[@albertpuig6273]

You can just leave it unscrewed all the time, that's what I do. It won't leak.

[@geomancer6371]

@@albertpuig6273 Good to know. Thanks for the tip!

[@ginopagnani7286]

Great video HJ !! Dollar for dollar, for what it is and does, it’s a bargain !!!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks very much.

[@josephcamosy1999]

Pilot Custom 743 over the 823 any day.

[@LisaPottinger]

@@josephcamosy1999 I’m interested. Why do you prefer the 743? I love mine but I prefer the larger ink capacity of the 823. My Verdigris 743 BB is an absolute beauty but it is an ink guzzler and I can get about a page and a half of writing done before I have to fill the cartridge converter again. I’ve gone through a bottle of Robert Oster Tranquility in a few months! The B nib is not as bad but still goes through ink quite quickly.

[@sara_7]

Your bad my friend 🙂

[@nccastro653]

i have finally ordered mine !!!

[@HemingwayJones]

Congratulations!

[@Lumpy_Peter]

Just watched this 10 min after purchasing the pen. I've been wanting one for years and could not resist it for €260/$274 🤷🏻‍♂️ We'll see.

[@HemingwayJones]

You have chosen... Wisely!

[@karenholden4740]

I love my 823

[@karenholden4740]

Great video HJ!!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much!

[@JamesLFilms]

I have no regrets buying this pen. I have yet to find one that writes as well.

[@HemingwayJones]

Once you have it, you need not buy another. Well chosen.

[@MolassesCreekWoodcraft]

That's why the Custom 743 is a better pen.

[@1487marta]

Mine stops writing even if the stopper is unscrewed. It drives me crazy!

[@HemingwayJones]

That would drive me to distraction. So sorry.

[@johnnyragadoo2414]

For an entry into that class of nib, it's probably worth it. Sadly, it is out of my budget - but I shall remain at my post, TWSBI in hand, valiantly guarding the ramparts against forces of evil. At least in a fictional sense.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hear hear! If I see one 2nd hand, I’ll let you know.

[@ichirofakename]

Don't other Pilots have the same or similar nibs for less money?

[@johnnyragadoo2414]

​@@ichirofakename Most intriguing. The only Pilot I have right now is a Prera. It's a steel nib, but very nice. I need to check out their catalog.

[@ichirofakename]

@@johnnyragadoo2414 Good candidates include the 74, the 91, and the Falcon.

[@halfsourlizard9319]

@@ichirofakename afaik, the 743 has the same nib.

[@DownUnderTarot]

Hey HJ, great video! But you left out the number 1 reason why the Pilot Custom 823 is not worth US$336... It's because you can get a Wing Sung 699 for US$33.60 or thereabouts. Same appearance; same filling mechanism and a pretty good nib.

[@HemingwayJones]

I'm glad you put that out there. Personally, I've never tried one, so I cannot say. Thanks so much for watching!

[@jamespicht1128]

Brilliant pen. I have vac and piston fillers and cleaning them is a chore. So I make a point of not changing the inks I use in them. Pilot/Namiki makes my favorite gold nibs; I've never owned owned a gold nib that felt nicer or wrote better. Not terribly pretty or interesting to look at? Fair complaint, but people don't say that about the Montblanc 146, about as boring a pen as there is, aside from the beautiful nib. Given the choice, I'd go with the amber version of the 823, which is more attractive than the MB 146 and which, in my opinion, offers a lot more bang for the buck. For travel, I think one's better of with a metal pen.

[@HemingwayJones]

Great comments! Thanks for watching.

[@Calcprof]

I'll probably pick up another one next time I'm in Tokyo

[@HemingwayJones]

Very nice! That’s the place for it.

[@JonDiPietro]

You could have stopped the video after reason number one. 😊 This is by far the best nib for the price on the market, imho. But kudos for a commendable effort to come up with five reasons not to buy one.

[@HemingwayJones]

Couldn't agree more!

[@foxbenwell7941]

Haha, $335 dollars is 2 weeks of groceries for our household of 4! (It's absolutely the workhorse grail pen of my heart, I desperately want to add it to the LAMY 2000 I already adore, but it's a loooong save for some of us.

[@Oldandinky]

Great video as usual. I may be odd but for me the vanishing point is a better pen.I have owned an 823, just not for me.

[@HemingwayJones]

I love that perspective. Because there is a VP video coming soon! Yay!

[@kurtgeisinger2012]

I have owned an 823 for two months and can attest that it is one of the smoothest-writing pens I own. However, cleaning it is an entirely different story. 🙂

[@HemingwayJones]

So true! All the best My Friend.

[@wojciechbudnarowicz6684]

Mam wiele piór - okręty flagowe najważniejszych producentów. Pilot 823 kupiony wczoraj. Nie mogę przestać nim pisać. Jest fantastyczny ! Mont Blanc, Montegrapp i Graf von Faber-Castell idą do szuflady.

[@ShawnMT111]

I saw it as low as $227 on Amazon. I own two of them.

[@davyj5216]

US$211 on other sites, so at that price a pretty damn good proposition.

[@HoytRoberson]

Got mine for around $200.

[@HemingwayJones]

Wonderful!

[@janisstewart2217]

Great and entertaining video. Pro pilot 823 all the way.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you!

[@Hdhvvbm]

On a side note: “Éclat” is pronounced “aye - CLAH” (not “aye - CLAY”).

[@HemingwayJones]

I’ll still pronounce it six different ways within a span of five minutes.

[@TWTourist]

I’m new to the fountain pen rabbit hole. I’ve own a Mont Blanc ball point/roller ball for years. So I am not interested in the 149/146. I will pick up a 823 in the near future but it’s not a grail pen for me.

[@HemingwayJones]

You are making wise choices! Thanks!

[@kevinlandon7578]

I bought mine when it was $288. If I had known about the Pilot Custom Urushi then I would have put the price of the 823 towards the Custom Urushi.

[@TumescentPuma]

@@kevinlandon7578 The Custom 845 Urushi in medium is a dream to me, out of the box, no tuning.

[@ericwelch6842]

Great video Timothy!

[@davidjackson7675]

What would you recommend in the $100 price range?