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Lamy Studio Black
I’ve been testing the Lamy Studio Black fine nib with Noodler’s Walnut for the past 2-3 weeks. This is my second favorite pen of all-time (behind the Jetstream).
Grade: A+
The superlatives are innumerable. This is one of the finest pens in the world.
First, the pen has a awesome, classic look. Like something from the 1940s. Just check the link above. The black matte finish feels great in the hand.
Second, the pen is heavy. It’s the heaviest pen I’ve ever used. The balance is nib heavy (the way all pens should be.)
Third, the chrome grip is not slippery. I don’t know how Lamy does this. But even with a crisp chrome shine, there is no slipperiness.
Four, the nib is like butter. Smoother than any nib I’ve ever used. It’s the like the pen is moving over ice. It lays down a nice compact, wet line.
Fifth, the clip has a unique, but surprisingly effective design. It’s designed like a propeller.
Negatives: Just one — No ink window to track the usage of ink. This is a requirement in high performance pens.
This is quite possibly one of the greatest fountain pens in the world. It comes at a premium price. But, it’s worth it for the discriminating fountain pen user who demands high performance and great style.
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Parker IM
just tested a Parker IM in a medium nib, inked with Parker Quink Black.
Grade:C
This is a really disappointing pen. First, the pen writes like broad nib. Second, the pen’s grip is slippery and too small. Third, the ink laid down by the pen is not smooth. There is a lot of skipping.
Some positives of the pen are that it has a nice weight and is made of a high quality durable stainless steel. The pen’s appearance is professional and definitely draws attention.
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Lamy Safari Vista
I just picked up a Lamy Safari Vista in a fine nib. It’s my first foray into fountain pen. All I can say is that I love it.
Grade: B+
The pen has a cool see thru outer plastic. It has smooth writing and a nice ink flow at the nib. The default ink included with the pen is not the greatest (I picked up some Noodlers Air Corps Blue Black. I’ll use it when the default ink runs out).
The pen is nice and light. It has good control and smooth acceleration on paper. Occasionally can feel a little scratchy if moving really fast, but otherwise smooth.
The major negative with the pen is the grip. It’s a strange three sided grip. It takes a while getting used to.
