--- title: "Identifying counterfeit pens" description: "How to identify counterfeit Montblanc writing instruments. Distinguishing features, tips, replica errors." language: en date_modified: 2026-05-19 date_published: 2026-05-19 license: CC BY 4.0 license_url: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ source_url: https://www.fountainpen.de/faq-chunks-en/05_faelschungen-erkennen.md landing_url: https://www.fountainpen.de/faq-llm-en.htm publisher: fountainpen.de author: Michael Steiner keywords: ['counterfeit', 'fake', 'authentication', 'authenticity', 'Pix logo', 'serial number', 'eBay'] entries: 353 --- # Identifying counterfeit pens > How to identify counterfeit Montblanc writing instruments. Distinguishing features, tips, replica errors. Knowledge base from the former fountainpen.de forum (anonymised, AI-curated). **353 entries** in this topic block. Full index: . ## Identifying fakes ### How can I tell whether a Montblanc writing instrument is genuine, especially when buying online (e.g. on eBay)? A reliable assessment can never be made on a single feature alone — it always comes from several indicators considered together. Top-tier counterfeits from Dubai and the Far East now imitate serial numbers, the Pix logo under the clip and even the warm glow of the precious resin, so practically every individual feature can be faked. The more details that line up, the more confident the verdict; for expensive pieces it is wise to have the instrument authenticated in a Montblanc boutique or by a reputable specialist dealer before purchase. The nib is the most important and most difficult feature to fake. Genuine gold nibs are stamped with 4810 (the height of Mont Blanc in metres), the gold-fineness mark 585 (14 K) or 750 (18 K), often a 14C or 18C, and a small Pix logo or MB. As soon as a nib is engraved with "Iridium Point Germany", "IPG", "Iridium Tip" or a bare "Made in Germany", it is almost certainly a fake — Montblanc does not use these markings. A real gold nib also has noticeable spring; an uncompromisingly hard, rigid tip points to a gold-plated steel nib. The slit on a genuine nib runs perfectly straight and centred, with both tines aligned exactly. Since roughly 1997 a small Pix logo has been on the inside of the clip. It is small, machine-stamped neatly and centred. Pre-war and older models do not carry it — its absence is therefore not a proof of forgery. High-end fakes now imitate the Pix as well, but a sloppy Pix is a clear warning sign. The serial number on the lower clip ring (cone ring) was introduced in 1991. Early numbers consist of two letters followed by seven digits in block lettering; later numbers use an OCR-style font. The engraving is uniform in depth, neatly centred and machine-precise. Blurred, crooked or unevenly deep characters are suspicious. Original pieces from before 1991 do not have a serial number — its absence does not necessarily mean it is a fake. The white star in the cap top is six-pointed with softly rounded tips, sits centred in the black precious-resin top and is inlaid seamlessly. Visible glue lines, an offset border, a printed or stick-on star, asymmetry, or a black instead of white star are clear forgery markers. The orientation of the star relative to the clip can be checked too — on the original it is clean. The three cap rings are trade-mark protected: a writing instrument with only one or two rings is not an original Meisterstück. The middle ring carries a clean engraving of MONTBLANC, often supplemented with MEISTERSTÜCK and PIX. The lettering is exactly centred and uniformly deep. The material is precious resin, a high-grade plexiglass derivative. Shining a strong torch through cap or barrel reveals a deep wine-red to ruby glow — the precious-resin test. If the barrel stays pitch black or shows a bluish tint, the material is most likely ordinary plastic. However, the resin of some other manufacturers also glows red, so this test alone is not conclusive. Painted or lacquered surfaces do not occur on Montblanc writing instruments; visible paint or distinct colour layers are an unambiguous sign of forgery. The Mozart range made of lacquered metal is an exception — the wall would have been too thin for precious resin. Finish should be flawless: threads run smoothly, the cap screws on with a defined stop in roughly 1.5 to 2 turns, the inner cap sits firmly and seals the nib, and converter threads run without play. Visible burrs, rough edges, ill-fitting parts, a wobbly clip or sloppily set fittings indicate a copy. Dimensions and weight of the 149 Meisterstück for reference: capped about 147 mm, barrel diameter around 14.9 mm, total weight about 29 to 32 grams (cap c. 12 g, body c. 20 g). The 146 measures about 142 mm and weighs around 25 g. Significant deviations — especially noticeably lower weight from plastic substitution — are a warning sign. On the Starwalker, a black plastic cap on the barrel end is a classic forgery marker — on the original this end piece is metal. The nib type must also match the model: a Starwalker fitted with a classic Meisterstück nib is a cheap mash-up. Rollerballs should not have an ink window; a rollerball with a window is obviously assembled wrongly. Packaging and papers complete the picture. The original box is heavy, with an embossed star, often containing a leather pouch. A service guide bearing the serial number, a warranty card and a certificate of authenticity are included. The print is high-quality, free of typos and poor image resolution. A cheap-looking cardboard box with thin print or spelling errors is suspicious. Missing papers alone do not make a piece a fake — vintage pieces in particular often change hands without the original box. On eBay and similar platforms, the seller's profile matters at least as much as the writing instrument itself. Suspicious markers include profiles with less than 99 % positive feedback, pawnshops and estate-sale resellers without obvious pen expertise, sellers using only stock photos or blurry images, very generic or obviously copied descriptions, and shipping from Dubai, China, Hong Kong, Singapore or Turkey. Unusually round prices like 215, 240 or 350 euros are also typical fake-seller markers. A price clearly below market value (a 149 for under 350 euros, a 146 for under 250 euros in used condition) is a clear warning. The complete-set trick is also popular: an original Montblanc is paired with fake cartridges, a fake converter, a fake box or fake pouch and the set is offered well above MSRP — the buyer focuses on the high price and the accessories and overlooks the fact that the actual pen is fake too. Conversely, originals are sometimes hidden in scruffy-looking sets to fly under the radar of standard searches. Safe sources are Montblanc boutiques and montblanc.com, large authorised dealers like Penboard.de, Drawe, Wilkening, Stilografica.it or Iguana Sell, and established collectors from the major forums (Penexchange.de, Fountainpennetwork.com) with long-standing reputations. Anyone buying via online auctions should additionally ask the seller for detailed photos of the inner cap, the nib from both sides, the underside of the clip and the cone ring — sellers offering an original supply these images without hesitation. Rule of thumb: a single conspicuous feature can also deviate on a genuine piece, especially with vintage instruments; conversely, a single matching feature proves nothing because top-tier fakes mimic it. Only the combination of correct nib engraving, clean finishing, correct dimensions and weight, a credible seller, and honest pricing allows a reliable verdict. When in doubt, the paid authentication at a Montblanc boutique or with a specialised repair shop is worth it. ### How can a fake of the Montblanc Star Walker Resin fountain pen be told apart from the genuine pen? When capped, a fake of the Montblanc Star Walker Resin fountain pen is barely distinguishable from the original. With the pen open, the clearest difference is at the nib. The original carries a 14-karat white-gold nib in a stand-alone, modern shape; the breather hole area is enclosed so that no slits are visible under the nib. The fake by contrast uses a bicolour-painted steel nib in white and gold, and slits are visible underneath. A typical marker on counterfeit nibs is the inscription "Iridium Point Germany" or "Iridium Point Paris". Another indicator is the use of piston converters which do not fit the original — Montblanc piston converters cannot be used in the original Star Walker. A weight comparison shows that the fake is heavier than the original. While the rollerball fake is hard to distinguish from the original, the fake fountain pen is easily identified by its typical counterfeit nib. ### How can a fake of the Montblanc Bohème Solitaire "Je t'aime" Sterling Silver be identified? On a fake Montblanc Bohème Solitaire "Je t'aime" Sterling Silver the typical counterfeit nib stamped "Iridium Point Germany" or "Iridium Point Paris" is immediately visible when opened. In a size comparison the fake is larger than the original. The clip stone on this model should be heart-shaped, but the fake carries a stone resembling the regular Bohème pens. The breather hole also differs: on the original Je t'aime Sterling Silver it is heart-shaped rather than round. The spaces between the rings are flat on the original, while the fake shows ugly notches. At the front of the section the fake has a deep notch that is shallower on the original. The thread at the rear part is plastic on the fake, metal on the original. Under the clip the original carries a "Pix" engraving missing on the fake; the clip itself on the counterfeit is simply bent and looks cheap. Initial identification points are therefore the nib, the clip and the typical notches. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Montblanc Bohème — model overview: https://www.fountainpen.de/boheme-en.htm ### How can a fake of the Montblanc Limited Anniversary Edition — for instance one offered as "Solitaire Platinum" — be identified? Montblanc never produced the Anniversary Edition in a Platinum variant with platinum-coated fittings; a pen offered as "Limited Anniversary Solitaire Platinum" must therefore be a fake. On the original, clip and rings are red-gold-plated, on the fake they are silver-coloured. On the three cap rings, between the rings of the counterfeit there are two black notches missing on the original; there the material between the rings matches the cap material — in this case 925 sterling silver. The nib of the fake often carries the imprint "Iridium Point Germany" or "Iridium Point Paris". On the cap top with the Anniversary ring and the diamond, the engraving on the fake is shallower; the serial number is stamped, while on the original it is laser-engraved. The Montblanc star on the fake also looks slightly jagged compared with the original. Overall this is a relatively easy fake to spot. ### Which features reveal counterfeit Montblanc Starwalker writing instruments? The original Starwalker fountain pen is purely a cartridge filler; a Montblanc converter does not fit. Auctions in which a converter is included are therefore very likely fakes. The counterfeit nibs frequently bear the typical 'Iridium Point' inscription instead of a genuine Starwalker nib. Visually, fakes can be spotted by a black (instead of acrylic-clear) snow-cap dome in the gift-box lid, a 'jagged' rather than clean star on the service guide, wrong proportions (e.g. an overly long grip section) and a different number of fine transverse grooves on the barrel — the original has ten milled rings between grip and clip ring. Boheme fakes use the same telltale nibs; the counterfeit packaging is becoming better, which makes detection harder. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Montblanc Bohème — model overview: https://www.fountainpen.de/boheme-en.htm ### Which colour variants exist of counterfeit Montblanc StarWalker rollerballs? Several counterfeits of the Montblanc StarWalker edition exist in differing quality. A red rollerball plagiarism is a relatively well-made counterfeit with an engraved serial number on the cap and a grip section that comes close to the original. The clearest distinguishing feature is the colour of the barrel. Original StarWalker rollerballs are currently offered in only two variants: as Resin in black precious resin and as Rubber Line with a rubberised surface and laser engraving. Counterfeits of both exist. Beyond that, additional colour variants are known among the fakes: red, blue, green, black, white and a rubberised gold version. ### Which variants of original Montblanc Fineliner refills exist and are they mutually compatible? Even though the Montblanc Meisterstück Fineliner was introduced as something of a small revolution, Finelliners from Montblanc existed before. Today two variants of the original Fineliner refills are in circulation: the older variant and the current version. Both fit the older as well as the new writing instruments. In addition there was another variant from roughly 1972 to 1990, namely the older version without thread, intended for the Montblanc Quickpen and similar models. ### Which features distinguish counterfeits of the Montblanc Kafka edition and how can they be recognised? Of the Montblanc Kafka edition counterfeits have meanwhile turned up as ballpoints and as rollerballs, although the Kafka never existed as an original rollerball. The fakes look comparatively high-quality compared with earlier plagiarisms; the cap top comes quite close to the original and the rollerball also looks well finished at first glance. The engraving of the serial number, on the other hand, is comparatively sloppy: on all known Kafka counterfeits the same serial number 04581/16500 always appears. Two easily checkable distinguishing features are particularly important: on the original parts of the cap and barrel are reddish-translucent, while the fake is not transparent at these points; on the ballpoint this is the only immediately visible criterion. In addition, fundamentally there has never been an original Kafka rollerball. The increasingly better quality of the plagiarisms makes purchase from a specialist dealer the only safe source. ### Which variants of counterfeit Montblanc piston converters are documented and how can they be recognised? Piston converters for Montblanc writing instruments are now also being counterfeited, with three main variants known. Counterfeit 1 comes very close to the older variant of the Montblanc piston converter; the differences from the original are barely perceptible, only on the rear grip section is a small deviation visible. Counterfeit 2 and Counterfeit 3 by contrast are very quickly recognisable as plagiarisms because quality and finish are clearly poor and show hardly any commonalities with the original. In a corresponding overview, two originals are set against three counterfeits, where above all material, finish and constructive details of the grip section deliver the essential distinguishing features. ### How can current counterfeits of Montblanc rollerball refills be distinguished from the original? Earlier counterfeits of Montblanc rollerball refills were easy to recognise because original refills did not fit the counterfeit writing instruments. Current counterfeits of the rollerball refills barely differ from the original. The only reliable distinguishing feature is a number on the back of the refill, present on the original and missing on the counterfeit. When turning the rollerball refill, hardly any differences can be seen; the Pix logo may appear somewhat larger on the fake, which, however, is only noticeable in direct comparison. Current counterfeits fit without problems into original Montblanc writing instruments and, conversely, original refills also fit current counterfeit rollerballs. ### Has there ever been a black star on Montblanc writing instruments, or is a dark-looking star always a sign of counterfeit? A black, printed star on print material or packaging is always a counterfeit feature. On the writing instruments themselves, however, the finding is more nuanced: between the 1930s and 1950s, on the inexpensive 3rd series (e.g. models 3-42 or 333½), the star was not inlaid but only engraved as an outline into the cap and not filled with colour. These pens were jokingly called 'Montblanc for the poor' at the time, since Montblanc reserved the fully filled star for the higher-quality models. A dark or black-looking star on a pre-war or early post-war 3rd series model is therefore not a sign of counterfeit but a period-typical execution. ### How can counterfeits of the Montblanc Menuhin Special Edition — in particular the non-existent rollerball — be recognised? Of the Montblanc Menuhin Special Edition there was officially only a fountain pen and a matching ballpoint, but never a rollerball. If a Menuhin rollerball is offered, it is therefore necessarily a counterfeit. The differences from the original are considerable: clip and fittings are gold-plated on the original, but made of steel on the counterfeit. The fake is clearly slimmer and rather rounder in shape, while the original is more powerfully designed. On the rear ring the original reads 'Philharmony of the Nations', while the counterfeit reads 'Philharmon / of the Nations'. The cap ring's open area differs: on the original it is patterned, on the counterfeit smooth. The clip shape is similar, but the front part of the violin ends earlier on the original; in addition, original clips are stamped, while counterfeits are mostly only simply bent. Under the clip the original bears the imprint 'Pix', missing on the counterfeit. Problematic is that the original Montblanc rollerball refills fit into current counterfeits, which is why owners of such a fake often only notice the fraud late. ### How can a counterfeit of a Montblanc Scott Fitzgerald rollerball be recognised? There is no Montblanc Scott Fitzgerald rollerball in the Writers Edition; the edition comprises exclusively fountain pens, ballpoints and pencils. If a Scott Fitzgerald rollerball is offered, it is therefore necessarily a counterfeit. The packaging is barely distinguishable on the plagiarism from the original; at most the fake one looks somewhat darker. On the writing instrument itself two main features are decisive: the Scott Fitzgerald exists only in white, every black, blue, green or red variant is a fake; however, white counterfeits also exist. The shape also differs: the counterfeit is clearly slimmer, the original looks more pot-bellied. On closer inspection the grip section of the counterfeit comes from a Bohème counterfeit; on it the imprint 'Bohème' is even recognisable. Montblanc does not reuse parts from other editions in the Writers Editions, which is also regarded as a typical counterfeit feature. The included rollerball refill is also counterfeit and barely distinguishable from the original. In the case described, the pen was acquired for 150 euros in a Milanese designer shop and broke after only a short time. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Montblanc Bohème — model overview: https://www.fountainpen.de/boheme-en.htm ### Are the engraving 'W-Germany' and a six-digit serial number on a Montblanc Meisterstück LeGrand signs of a counterfeit? From these features alone no counterfeit can be deduced. The clip engraving 'W-Germany' regularly appears on writing instruments before 1991, so the seller's statement that the piece is younger than ten years is incorrect here; rather, it is an older original from the time before German reunification. The number of digits in the serial number is also not an authenticity criterion, since the format and length of the numbers have changed several times over the decades. A reliable assessment requires meaningful detail photos of nib, cap ring, clip and ink window, which can be matched against the relevant collector sources. ### How does a counterfeit Bohème leather case differ from an original? Already shortly after the introduction of the Bohème leather cases counterfeits appeared that are of inferior quality and clearly differ tactilely from the original. A first difference shows up on the leather itself: the original leather has a clear texture, while the counterfeit leather is smooth. The Montblanc star also deviates; on the counterfeit it appears rather jagged and is surrounded only by a thin metal ring, while the original carries the usual Montblanc star with a clearly broader metal ring. When opened, poorly executed seams can be seen inside the counterfeit. The inside logo is also poorly defined on the counterfeit; the star is hardly recognisable as such there. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Montblanc Bohème — model overview: https://www.fountainpen.de/boheme-en.htm ### What option do specialist dealers have to borrow Montblanc plagiarisms for training purposes? Specialist dealers are offered the option of borrowing various Montblanc counterfeits free of charge for one week to train their staff. Only shipping costs of 6.70 euros for a corresponding parcel apply; after one week the writing instruments are to be sent back insured. Available as demonstration pieces are a Bohème Solitaire Silver fountain pen, a StarWalker fountain pen, a Menuhin rollerball, an Anniversary Platinum fountain pen, a Sienna case, a Bohème case, a rollerball refill and various piston converters. Dates can be agreed in advance, since plagiarisms are already on loan until early September. ### Which features mark counterfeits of the Montblanc Scott Fitzgerald as a blue rollerball? Counterfeit limited editions from Montblanc are increasingly turning up, including Scott Fitzgerald, Octavian and Imperial Dragon. A typical example of a Scott Fitzgerald plagiarism is a version as a blue rollerball. The essential counterfeit features are: the Scott Fitzgerald never existed as a rollerball, but exclusively as a fountain pen, ballpoint and pencil. The original colour is white; all colour variations such as red, green, black and blue exist only on the plagiarisms. The barrel of the original is clearly thicker than on the counterfeit. On closer examination it is noticeable that on the grip section 'Bohème' is engraved, indicating the reuse of Bohème counterfeit parts; Montblanc itself does not reuse parts from other limited editions. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Patron of Arts Octavian (1993): https://www.fountainpen.de/patron-octavian-en.htm • Montblanc Imperial Dragon (1993): https://www.fountainpen.de/asia-imperial-dragon-1993-en.htm ### By which features can counterfeits of Montblanc watches such as TimeWalker or Sport Steel chronographs be recognised? Counterfeits often give themselves away by missing or wrongly positioned date displays, e.g. when a TimeWalker Chrono is offered without the factory-placed date window between 4 and 5 o'clock, as well as by misshapen indices (e.g. an uneven 4 on the bezel) and cases whose strap connections do not match the typical TimeWalker connections. Sales behaviour also gives hints: when sellers do not clearly name brand and model but only suggest them via category and terms such as Meisterstück, or when the rest of the range is thematically incoherent, scepticism is in order. Counterfeiters are getting better, so meanwhile TimeWalker and SkeletonStar replicas are also in circulation; known sources such as replica-watch-town.com offer wide replica ranges. In the souks of Turkish holiday areas such watches are sold legally, which additionally drives distribution. ### Can a Montblanc Meisterstück 146 with a nib without a visible carat marking be identified as genuine, and how do you proceed when checking the nib? A missing visible carat marking is not necessarily an authenticity feature: on various transitional models, e.g. the 144 from the 1960s, the carat hallmark sits very deep on the nib body and disappears two-thirds into the section, so that without disassembly it is barely visible. Nibs from the 1980s also deviate in engraving and stamping from current nibs. Collectors strongly advise against pulling the nib out yourself, since the special slots on the body require a suitable tool and knowledge of the turning direction, and Montblanc uses a special sealant when reinstalling; a self-damaged nib seat can only be repaired in Hamburg. Instead, comparing the whole pen with the model overviews on fountainpen.de and, if necessary, an enquiry with Montblanc or an authorised specialist dealer is recommended. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Montblanc Meisterstück 146 (Le Grand): https://www.fountainpen.de/c-montblanc-meisterstueck-146-en.htm ### How can a Montblanc Bohème Platinum Doué bought on eBay be checked for authenticity? Collectors compare the piece with the documented Bohème Platinum Doué pictures on fountainpen.de; a brown crocodile barrel is not a regular Bohème Doué variant but a counterfeit, since this barrel was never officially offered. Black stripes on the Montblanc ring are present on the genuine Bohème and not a counterfeit indicator, contrary to initial assumption. Auction ident numbers like IY1073508 Germany alone offer no authenticity guarantee, since counterfeits frequently mark such numbers. With a misrepresentation in the auction text (also implicitly through category choice), the legal warranty claims to rescission and the right to challenge for mistake exist; even subsequent deadlines despite the exclusion clause of private sellers are enforceable in such cases. ### How can counterfeits of writing instruments from the 1930s and 1940s be recognised? Alongside counterfeits of current Montblanc products such as Meisterstück, Bohème or Scott Fitzgerald, counterfeits of older writing instruments from the 1930s and 1940s have increasingly been offered in recent years. Typical of these counterfeits are very well-executed imprints that correspond to the original writing instruments to nearly one hundred per cent. The base bodies used are often worthless older writing instruments fitted with the imitated imprints. The differences from the original are usually immediately obvious if one has at least a rough idea of what kind of writing instruments were produced at the time. Original comparisons show typical deviations in shape, material and finish. Anyone wishing to consult historical original writing instruments for comparison can orient themselves to documented collections. ### Is a Mont Blanc Meisterstück Pix in the version shown an original, and how can you proceed with eBay purchases when the piece turns out to be a plagiarism? Collectors classify the depicted Mont Blanc Meisterstück Pix as a counterfeit; Montblanc does not offer any model with this designation and design; the piece is a pure fantasy product of the counterfeiters, sold in China for very low amounts to tourists. To acquire it for around 100 euros is therefore a clear loss. With PayPal payment the buyer protection is available; a mediation procedure with subsequent refund is possible if the plagiarism can be proven, e.g. by a written authenticity assessment from Montblanc or an authorised dealer. Before legal escalation collectors regularly first attempt direct contact with the seller; a duty to disclose counterfeit characteristics also exists when the seller themselves claims to have known nothing of the counterfeit. ### How can Montblanc cufflinks acquired on eBay be checked for authenticity? A high number of positive ratings does not protect against counterfeits, since powersellers also occasionally sell plagiarisms, sometimes without knowing it themselves. Cufflinks are regarded as particularly counterfeit-prone products, and the quality of the plagiarisms is increasing. Authenticity features lie in the workmanship of the bolts (ribbed and solid) and the arrangement of the stars, which on originals are positioned in opposite directions on the two cufflinks. Packaging and materials can vary depending on batch, since these are bought-in items. A reliable authenticity check can only be carried out by a Montblanc boutique; the regular specialist dealer is not allowed to carry these accessories. In doubt, the legal right of return should be used. ### Are the high penalties for buyers of brand counterfeits in Italy proportionate, and how is the trade in plagiarisms tackled? Penalties of 10,000 euros for the purchase of single counterfeits are mostly criticised as disproportionate; pursuing the street vendors and commercial suppliers would be more sensible. Anyone who knowingly buys a plagiarism is generally not in the target group of the original brand anyway, so the maker hardly loses direct turnover; more problematic is the image damage from visible counterfeits in public spaces. More serious are sellers who offload plagiarisms at original prices to unsuspecting customers. On eBay a private report is legally insufficient, since only the trademark holder can have auctions ended via affidavit; eBay itself intervenes only hesitantly. Consistent exclusion of repeatedly conspicuous sellers by eBay is debated as a sensible solution. ### Is an unknown Montblanc Meisterstück rollerball an original or a counterfeit? The model shown is unanimously classified as a counterfeit, since Montblanc has not produced a comparable writing instrument. The star also looks atypical with overly angular tips, and the workmanship does not match the quality of platinum-plated or white-gold original parts. Such fantasy products are made in the Far East at production costs of about one euro and are also fitted with counterfeit refills that say nothing about authenticity. Even on plagiarisms of existing models, quality differences are clearly visible in detail shots. A definitive clarification is most safely obtained in a Montblanc boutique through direct comparison. Notes on typical counterfeit features are offered by the section 'Vorsicht Fälschungen' on fountainpen.de. ### How can the authenticity of a Montblanc Meisterstück 144 be checked, and which ink is suitable for the model? The 144 was produced until about 2000; the M label on the pen denotes the nib width Medium but is only present on new instruments. A missing serial number in the Montblanc system is not a definitive indication of a counterfeit, since not all data records are completely captured. Authenticity can be clarified using detailed photos, the original/counterfeit PDF and a boutique enquiry. As ink, any common brand like Pelikan 4001 is suitable; the rumour of clogging through third-party ink does not in practice apply, only Indian ink is to be avoided; some American specialty inks like Noodler's Ink are also discouraged. Pelikan 4001 is water-soluble and can be washed out without problems. On colour change, flush the pen with water until no residues are visible. ### Was there a Montblanc Bohème Steel as a Mid-Size variant with fixed nib and blue stone? The Bohème Steel never existed, according to catalogues of official collectors, as a Mid-Size with fixed nib; the Mid-Size format had a screw-out nib unit or converter without safety mechanism. Steel/Noir models always had a black onyx in the clip; models with blue stone belonged to the Bohème/Silver line with grain guilloché, not the smooth steel version. The Big-Size variant always had a retractable nib and was only available in black precious resin with platinum-plated fittings. Solitaire models were generally delivered in France with 18-carat nibs; a 14-carat nib in such a Solitaire is therefore conspicuous. Authenticity features like the word Pix under the clip ring speak for an original; presumably a tinkering from two Bohème devices or a non-official special model is at hand. An authenticity check in the boutique is recommended. ### How can a counterfeit be recognised on a Montblanc Le Grand ballpoint, and are clicking sounds from the refill a warning sign? Clicking sounds from the refill are also known on Meisterstück ballpoints in originals and are no reliable authenticity indicator. An upside-down engraving on the centre ring does not necessarily speak for a counterfeit, since even disassembled originals can be wrongly assembled on reassembly. Decisive for the assessment are shape, proportions and detail features on high-resolution photos. Final certainty is offered only by sending the pen to Montblanc in Hamburg, where an official authenticity check is carried out free of charge and answered with written information. ### Is a Montblanc ballpoint for 30 euros a bargain or a counterfeit? A Montblanc ballpoint for 30 euros is with certainty a counterfeit. Such models do not exist in the official range at all but are classic own creations of Chinese counterfeiters that are traded as tourist goods for one or two euros. As a rule of thumb: if a price is unrealistically low, it is not original goods. ### How do you deal with counterfeits in eBay auctions, and how do reputable sellers behave on suspicion? Counterfeits on eBay occur regularly, and not only with writing instruments but also with attaché cases and key fobs. It is worthwhile pointing out the suspicion to affected sellers, since many sellers themselves do not know they are selling counterfeits and in this case usually end the auction immediately. Buyers should check auction details carefully and consult in case of suspicion. ### How do you recognise on eBay listings whether a Montblanc rollerball (Stainless Steel or Platinum rollerball, model 163) is genuine? From the photos the Stainless Steel and Platinum rollerballs of the Classic size (model 163) mentioned can be identified as originals. An important authenticity feature: all Montblanc rollerball refills have a screw thread; if refills without thread are supplied, this is a clear warning sign. With sellers with few ratings caution is warranted, and an escrow service should be clarified beforehand. Detail photos and critical enquiries help to reduce risks. ### Is the 'light test' (red transparency when held against a light source) a reliable authenticity test for Montblanc writing instruments? The precious resin of Montblanc Meisterstücks shows under direct light a characteristic red transparency, similar to looking through a glass of red wine; this effect counts as a usable authenticity indicator. It is, however, only reliable on Meisterstücks, Starwalker and Bohème, since Generation and Noblesse are made of other material. The light test is not the only authenticity feature but should always be used in combination with further checks (form, proportions, engravings, mechanism). ### Are sufficient precautions to avoid acquiring a counterfeit when buying a Montblanc 145 P online, and does Montblanc check purchased writing instruments for authenticity? For a reputable purchase decision a dealer with high rating count and almost consistently positive ratings, a direct comparison with a verifiably genuine model and typical authenticity features like correct engravings and proportions speak. Discounts of twelve to sixteen per cent are usual on online purchase, but the manufacturer warranty and free nib exchange fall away; the two-year statutory liability for defects continues unchanged. An MB boutique is primarily a sales outlet and not an official testing point; only Montblanc itself (Hamburg) can carry out an authenticity assessment bindingly. Despite unclear roles of individual actors, it is in Montblanc's interest to take action against product piracy in online trade. ### How do you recognise the authenticity of a Montblanc Starwalker Rubber ballpoint, and what does the position of the serial number say about the model year? On the Starwalker Rubber two variants of serial-number placement exist: on older models the number is on the clip at the height of the clip ring; on newer ones directly on the clip ring. Both variants are original-typical and no counterfeit indicator. A discrepancy between the serial number on the pen and in the Service Guide is mostly due to an accidental enclosure of the wrong guide by the seller and should be enquired with the seller. A systematic attribution of the serial number (e.g. starting with XD) to a concrete production year is not known; only Montblanc customer service can give information. ### How can one act on eBay against sellers who repeatedly offer Montblanc counterfeits, and how do you recognise typical plagiarisms? eBay reacts to reports from private collectors hardly effectively, which is why it is more sensible to inform the maker (Montblanc) directly, who as trademark holder can take legal action. A collegial direct approach to seller or bidder is also used but rarely leads to reactions. Typical plagiarism features on the Meisterstück 145 are a swapped nib coating ('yellow gold' inside, 'platinum' outside instead of vice versa), slip caps instead of the original screw threads and inconsistent cases and nib engravings ('Iridium Point Germany/Paris'). An 'iridium nib' on the 145 is also a clear counterfeit indicator, since originals have gold nibs. ### Is a nib swap on a Montblanc Meisterstück 142G from the 1950s worthwhile, and what about authenticity probability? Of the 142 from the 1950s no counterfeits are known, so on an heirloom or flea-market find an original is to be assumed. Replacement nibs are no longer kept by Montblanc for such old models; a matching nib change works only with an original 142 nib, alternatively a (more expensive) 132 nib. The change requires warming the barrel, unscrewing the grip section and pulling out feed and nib; from this beginners are urgently advised against, however, since the repair can damage the value of the writing instrument. Recommended are collectors' regulars' tables, specialist workshops or careful adjusting of the existing nib slit. The flat feed marks an early model variant with often more saturated ink flow but slightly increased leak risk. ### Is a green 'Copernicus' with mother-of-pearl star and unusual nib a real Montblanc edition or a fantasy product? The Copernicus exists exclusively with mother-of-pearl star and not in green; the writing instrument in question is therefore clearly a fantasy product or counterfeit. The nib too is recognisably poorly imitated; the star is missing and the engraving does not surround the entire nib face. Suspicious eBay listings can be reported via the help form ('Counterfeits and copyright violations' > 'Trademark violation' > 'Counterfeit clothing, sunglasses and accessories'). More effective is direct reporting to Montblanc, since only the registered trademark holder can take legal action against the seller and have eBay remove the listing. ### How should one as a buyer react when one has accidentally won a Montblanc counterfeit at eBay, and how can one act against the corresponding sellers? Counterfeit indications like a 'dark blue' Meisterstück ballpoint should lead to immediate contact with the seller with a request to have authenticity checked or to refund the purchase price; on delivery of a counterfeit, legal steps are advisable. A complaint directly to eBay brings, in experience, little, since the platform appeals to its mediator role and takes no responsibility for foreign goods. More effective is a polite letter to the seller as 'help' and reporting to the trademark holder Montblanc. Disguise spellings like 'Mont Blanc' instead of 'Montblanc' or warranty exclusively on an 'original refill' are widespread deception tricks, and empty packagings are also auctioned as supposedly filled writing instruments. ### Is a fully transparent (not striped) ink window on a Montblanc 146 a counterfeit feature? Striped ink windows are found above all on early 146 models up to about 1960; afterwards initially fully transparent windows were fitted; in the 1980s again transparent, then again striped. A smooth ink window is therefore no counterfeit indicator but refers to a model from the corresponding production phase. Safer than the ink window as authenticity features are the nib (counterfeit nibs often carry imprints like 'Iridium Point Germany/Paris') and the bicolour engraving on the clip ring. With eBay auctions, illustration with stock photos can lead to uncertainty; on commercial suppliers there is a statutory 14-day return right that cannot be excluded. ### Is a Montblanc pencil with only two gold rings (instead of three) automatically a counterfeit or a Meisterstück? The number of rings gives no reliable information about authenticity or model class. Earlier Montblanc had a 'class system' from one ring (cheap) to three rings (Meisterstück), which, however, was abolished in the late 1980s or early 1990s. A writing instrument with two rings is in many cases not part of the Meisterstück but the cheaper Generation line and, despite differing eBay descriptions, is not to be classified as a Meisterstück. For valuation, comparison with current sale prices via the forum database is recommended. ### Can a Montblanc Limited Anniversary 146 be checked for authenticity in a boutique without fearing that a counterfeit will be confiscated? Private possession of counterfeits is not punishable in Germany; only sale and commercial distribution are forbidden; a boutique may therefore not retain the pen from a private customer on its own initiative. With dealers, however, identified counterfeits are seized by police or customs and destroyed. At EU level, intervention possibilities for trademark holders against private persons have tightened in the recent past, so a certain residual risk remains and the legal situation can vary. Safer than visiting the boutique is therefore first posting good photos in a collector forum, where experts on the basis of nib details, imprint, clip ring and feed can give an authenticity assessment. ### Is an offered Montblanc 144 Solitaire Silver grain from the 70s genuine if the clip carries no serial number and no PIX, only 'Germany', and the 925 hallmark sits at the top instead of the bottom of the cap? The features described are completely normal for a 144 Solitaire of the 70s and speak for an original. Serial number and PIX engraving on the clip were only introduced later; older Meisterstücks bore only the '925' hallmark at the top of the cap and had a fully gold nib without platinum inlay. Comparison pictures can be found on fountainpen.de. A price around 250 euros counts as defensible in good general condition; before purchase the nib should be tested in writing, since repairs via Montblanc service can become expensive. ### Is a fountain pen with the inscription 'Monte Rosa', steel nib without star and hallmark 042/KF a counterfeit or a genuine Montblanc product? Monte Rosa was Montblanc's second brand and thus the cheaper variant; the piece is an original. The nib designation KF stands for 'Kugelfeder' (ball nib) in fine, which is a rather rare variant. Historically, an independent fountain-pen firm 'Monte Rosa' also existed in Zurich about 90 years ago; the connection with Montblanc is not unambiguously clarified. Anyone wanting to start collecting classic Meisterstücks should rather test and buy the first pen at a specialist trade than buy blindly via eBay, in order to choose the right nib width. ### Are counterfeits of Italian OMAS pens, e.g. the Ogiva model, meanwhile in circulation, and how is OMAS quality to be assessed in general? Robust reports of OMAS counterfeits are not available; what is known by contrast are variable quality standards of various production years. The OMAS models (e.g. Ogiva, Filarmonica, 360 Mezzo) are valued for their saturated ink flow, often traced to the ebonite feed. However, the strong flow can lead to wet writing behaviour at warm temperatures. A drawback from a collector view is that most models have only round nibs; stub or italic grinds are rare. Some collectors hold OMAS price-wise to be overpriced; others expressly contradict. ### How widespread are openly sold Montblanc counterfeits (replicas) on the internet, and how do you recognise originality on a privately acquired Meisterstück 144? Numerous replica sites can be found online; a Google search for 'Montblanc Replica' yields over 1000 hits, partly supplemented through advertising via Google AdWords. Some suppliers use 'liability disclaimers', which legally do not protect. If one site closes, others open under a new name. The 144 specifically described is an original; older 144s did not yet have outside feed lamellae and a fully gold nib without platinum inlay. Hard-rubber feeds were fitted up to about 1989; today's outside lamellae increase buffer capacity at pressure fluctuations. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Montblanc Meisterstück 144 (Classique predecessor): https://www.fountainpen.de/c-montblanc-meisterstueck-144-en.htm ### How can a Greta Garbo fountain pen acquired on eBay be checked for authenticity if the pearl on the clip looks glued, and is there official B-grade goods from Montblanc? Montblanc does not offer official B-grade goods; the pieces are therefore either originals or counterfeits. On the Greta Garbo described, everything points to an original; however, the pearl on the clip is from the factory not glued but firmly set. A glued pearl is therefore to be regarded as a subsequent repair by a craftsman and constitutes a defect; on a purchase declared as new this justifies a return. Collectors point out that even commercial powersellers often source their goods themselves via eBay and do not always have detailed knowledge, which is why complaint-worthy defects are by no means excluded. More reliable sources are collector shows or well-stocked specialist dealers. ### How do you recognise an original Meisterstück Solitaire Sterling Silver with Barleycorn guilloché, and which dating and care notes are to be observed? The Solitaire Sterling Barleycorn line was introduced at Pentecost 1992 with the New Dimensions event in Berlin and discontinued in mid-1998 because it came too close to the 75th Anniversary Edition appearing in 1999. Genuine pieces carry the 925 hallmark, a finely ribbed fine-grain guilloché and, since about 1997, individual clip-ring numbers; the model number for the ballpoint is 1646. The black case with red-marbled paper outer wrap was used between 1992 and 1995/96. For care a silver-cleaning cloth or an ultrasonic bath with cleaning tablets is recommended; polishes with abrasive bodies like Wenol Montblanc itself rates critically because they wear off too much silver. ### How do you recognise a counterfeit of the Montblanc Patron of Art Copernicus, and how do you handle suppliers of corresponding auctions? Typical counterfeit features on the Copernicus are a colourless instead of green gemstone in the clip, a straight instead of concave grip section, a simple white star instead of mother-of-pearl on the cap, a nib fully made of steel and a too short thread with an additional thin silver ring. Striking are also a clip not bent true to the original and an additional separation ring between grip section and thread that points to a converted converter mechanism. Additionally, fake suppliers often use stolen original pictures, partly with reversed nib colour, which can be due to old press photos. A Copernicus as a rollerball never existed; corresponding offers are without exception suspect of being counterfeits. Collectors should warn bidders and report the offer to the platform and to Montblanc. ### Is it worth, after acquiring an eBay counterfeit of a Montblanc 146, alongside a criminal complaint also informing Montblanc itself? A report to Montblanc is worthwhile, since the maker actively pursues cases of product piracy and welcomes such reports; often even the threat of this report towards the seller is enough, because a cease-and-desist letter turns out significantly more expensive than the purchase price. Contact runs via the contact form of the Montblanc website. In parallel one should absolutely use the eBay buyer protection, since purchases there are insured, and possibly involve PayPal. An own court procedure is mostly not financially worthwhile, because lawyer's fees exceed the dispute value. Before steps against the seller, securing evidence by photos, especially of the nib, is recommended. ### Which steps make sense in a Montblanc Mozart counterfeit case identified after eBay purchase if the seller does not agree to take back? A lawyer is rarely financially worthwhile, since costs usually exceed the value of the writing instrument. Instead a free criminal complaint for fraud at the police is recommended, reporting the case to eBay (risk of account ban on multiple offences) and — with PayPal payment — claiming buyer protection. In experience sellers, after announcing these steps, often quickly relent and refund the purchase price. Recognition features of a Mozart counterfeit are unclean star engraving, deviating middle rings and a different twist mechanism than on the original. ### Are experiences with the eBay seller topfitab40 available, and is a blacklist for eBay sellers sensible on the forum? A forum-maintained blacklist is rejected by the operator for legal and maintenance reasons; the responsibility for a constantly current list could hardly be borne. Instead it is recommended to use the eBay rating system, possibly enquire in eBay forums and always buy carefully. Concretely topfitab40 (Stefan Zeilinger from Nuremberg) counts as a reputable supplier specialised in purchase and sale of used writing instruments, offers his own repairs, publishes real name with address and phone number and accepts complaints without exception. Several collectors confirm positive transactions including originality confirmed by the maker. ### How do you recognise the Montblanc counterfeits from a German bankruptcy-sale offer, and how do you proceed most sensibly against them? Detailed indications for counterfeit recognition are found on fountainpen.de under 'Beware of Counterfeits' and in the PDF 'Counterfeits of Solitaire Meisterstücks — A Comparison', in which typical features e.g. on all-metal writing instruments are clearly documented. Reporting the auction to eBay by non-holders of the trademark right brings little; more effective is reporting to Montblanc as protection-rights holder, who gladly accepts such hints. A coordinated forum report is seen reservedly by the forum operator, since this is a private collector site and not an official Montblanc portal. ### How should one deal with the 285 various Montblanc counterfeits shown on a Chinese website, and which buying rules follow from this? The quality of Chinese counterfeits has meanwhile reached the point that even white stars in the packaging and Solitaire cap tops are credibly copied; pictures alone barely allow distinguishing originals from counterfeits. Original goods are therefore to be bought exclusively from authorised Montblanc specialist dealers; authorised dealers may not sell Montblanc writing instruments via the internet, so online offers are basically suspicious. With foreign eBay sellers in particular the risk of being handed a counterfeit is very high, with no practical reclamation options afterwards. Counterfeits of other luxury brands (S.T. Dupont, Cartier) are offered by the same maker. ### How reliable is the serial number of a Montblanc Bohème Noir rollerball from eBay as proof of authenticity, and does Montblanc still produce rollerballs at all? Montblanc continues to produce rollerballs; contrary statements from specialist trade are incorrect. An official end-customer-accessible serial-number database for authenticity check does not exist. On the Bohème, the Pix imprint under the clip is to be expected, and on fountainpen.de under the PDF boheme-vergleich.pdf typical counterfeit features for model comparison can be found. Online sales by authorised Montblanc dealers are forbidden; therefore eBay bargains under dealer purchase price are critical; suspicious are short eBay lifespan, few ratings and unusual purchase handling. PayPal protection is limited and only effective up to a maximum of 500 euros, possibly with additional own contribution; on more expensive pieces the damage in counterfeit case is mostly only partially covered. ### How can a Montblanc Meisterstück Le Grand 146 acquired on eBay with a small clip imperfection and a comparatively weak serial number be checked for authenticity? Piston pens of the Meisterstück 146 have so far not been credibly counterfeited in quality, so the described Pix imprint in the clip, the red to wine-red shimmering precious resin and the overall appearance speak for an original. The small bump in the clip is a manufacturing imperfection without influence on authenticity; only at the specialist trade would it be complaint-worthy. It looks different on cartridge models like the Classique 145, on which already very convincing counterfeits exist; a corresponding shift of counterfeit quality to ballpoints and rollerballs is only a matter of time. ### How do you recognise whether online shops or eBay providers for high-priced Montblanc writing instruments like the Starwalker are reputable? An authorised Montblanc specialist trade with shop premises is basically to be preferred for new purchase, since in case of complaint a direct contact is available. Collectors advise checking the self-presentation pages of eBay sellers carefully: sales counters from business closures or typical formulations like 'house warranty' and 'free special polish' indicate that these are not authorised dealers. Important to know is that such suppliers often deliver real goods but cannot grant a Montblanc factory warranty. Recommended is studying the rating history before purchase and only buying from sellers rated positively several times, ideally where own or others' experience exists. ### Should one actively inform bidders or sellers of Montblanc counterfeits on eBay, and which measures are sensible? The practice is debated: some collectors deliberately contact bidders and/or sellers; in rare cases truly unwitting sellers can thus be enlightened; but in nearly all cases it is conscious fraud, so the effort remains in vain. Other collectors basically contact no one with the justification that 'greed eats brain' and potential buyers should research themselves before purchase. If sellers do not respond to a first email, a direct report to Montblanc is recommended — the maker actively pursues such hints. On successful sale of a counterfeit the buyer can additionally file a complaint. ### How can a Montblanc Le Grand Platinum 146 acquired via the internet be verified as an original by packaging and nib details? The angular or oblong packaging with inner lining is typical of the period before 2006 and counts as an indicator of an original from this period. The small notch in the nib area is found on all Montblanc writing instruments from the mid-1990s and is also an authenticity feature. Information on concrete serial numbers is given only by Montblanc service directly; a photo with good resolution of the nib reverse, cap and case logo eases a remote-diagnostic assessment. Distortions on the case logo alone are no counterfeit indicator, provided workmanship and lettering remain clean. ### How do you recognise high-quality Montblanc counterfeits (e.g. Alexander Humboldt, Chronograph) on eBay, and how do you protect yourself as a beginner? On a counterfeit Alexander Humboldt the genuine silver inlays on cap and body are missing; the body is overall too thin and the nib does not match the original — the typical 'embellishment' is on the fake merely burned into the barrel; the piston is often missing too. On Montblanc watch counterfeits, a dial not available on the original and a qualitatively inferior movement betray the deception. Protection for beginners: check seller history precisely, only buy from verifiably positively rated sellers with writing-instrument experience and above all only acquire models one knows precisely. The wish to have handover at a boutique is generally not enforceable as a private buyer. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Patron of Arts Alexander von Humboldt: https://www.fountainpen.de/patron-humboldt-en.htm ### Which replacement refills fit a counterfeit Montblanc Starwalker rollerball? On counterfeits original Montblanc refills usually do not fit, since the holder does not match the original dimensions. In the forum it is recommended to try various standard refills in a stationery shop to find a fitting alternative. Collectors point out that knowingly buying, selling and partly even possessing brand counterfeits can be legally problematic. As a long-term more sensible solution, replacing the fake with an original writing instrument is regarded; repair or nib work on counterfeits is not carried out by Montblanc. ### Are eBay sellers like 'pen-seller' or 'vertrieb06' reputable for buying a Montblanc Starwalker? Sellers working with foreign or stolen product images count as not reputable and should be avoided. 'pen-seller' is mostly rated reputable in the forum, with positive ratings and, by his own statement, direct sourcing from Hamburg; several collectors have bought there without problems. Low prices alone need not be an indication of counterfeits, since dealers have different purchasing conditions. To safeguard, a detailed image comparison with the fake overviews on Fountainpen.de and a phone seller contact before purchase are recommended. ### How can the authenticity of a cheaply offered Montblanc 144 be assessed by photos? A 144 with 18-carat gold nib speaks for an original; the model line is no longer in active assortment and is aimed at small, delicate hands. Strikingly low prices in the 150-euro range can be reputable but should trigger additional caution and check of nib, fittings and inscriptions. The Mozart by contrast is a still smaller note-writing instrument and not to be confused with the 144. On remaining doubts a comparison with gallery pictures or presentation in a boutique is recommended. ### Are both the gold and the platinum edition of the Montblanc 145 Chopin counterfeited, and how do you recognise counterfeits? Both variants are counterfeited, with the quality of the plagiarisms meanwhile considerably increased. The most important recognition feature are the imprints on the nib: on fakes they look typically flat or under strong loupe 'scrawly', since they are lasered instead of stamped. Even complete sets including CD and packaging are now counterfeited, so original boxes are no longer an authenticity guarantee — fraudsters partly use original packaging acquired on eBay for counterfeits. For identification a detail comparison with original photos on Fountainpen.de is recommended. ### Are Montblanc Starwalker and Meisterstück with serial numbers starting with 'MBL' original writing instruments? Only Montblanc knows the exact coding of the serial numbers; deviations from the 'two letters + seven digits' scheme do therefore not automatically mean a counterfeit. Indications like inscriptions 'Made in Germany Metal' in the clip and 'Box made in China' on the case bottom are usual on originals. If the serial numbers are engraved instead of embossed, this should, however, be checked more closely. On ballpoints authenticity check without inspection in a boutique is fundamentally more difficult than on fountain pens. ### How safe is buying Montblanc writing instruments on eBay given professionally counterfeit auctions with stolen accounts? Fake distribution has developed from easily recognisable China offers into professional auctions with stolen accounts, real pictures and faultless descriptions. Red alarm applies on payment via Western Union; even pure bank transfer without PayPal protection carries considerable risks. Even specialists cannot identify every auction safely as reputable or fake — even experienced collectors have already fallen for account theft. A collector database for serial-number-bound Limited Editions can help with comparison but does not replace critical examination of seller profile, communication and payment route. ### How high is the quality of Montblanc counterfeits on fountain pens and ballpoints — are they immediately recognisable as plagiarisms? On fountain pens the quality difference is clearly obvious: already on first writing, scratching nibs, missing ink flow and weak workmanship strike. Ballpoint counterfeits are often constructively unstable, fall apart quickly, can only be reassembled by gluing, and the refills tear the paper rather than write. Even compared with high-quality watch counterfeits, the quality gap on writing instruments stays high. The raw materials look too light; mechanisms last only a few days; correspondingly fakes are quickly identifiable even without comparison with originals. ### How do you recognise a counterfeit Montblanc 75th Anniversary Edition, and which steps are sensible after a wrong purchase on eBay? The Anniversary Edition never existed in platinum-plated execution; further counterfeit features are an angular instead of round star, recessed cap rings in the black area and a housing of lacquered tin instead of resin. Such fakes are made in Hong Kong for a few euros. With a German seller one can act via buyer protection, a trademark complaint with Montblanc (service@montblanc.com or contact form) and, if necessary, lawyer or criminal complaint against the purchase; with foreign suppliers chances of success are small, so one should save time, nerves and further money. In future thorough research before purchase and a comparison with the counterfeit articles on Fountainpen.de are recommended. ### Is a Montblanc Slimline-like pen with angular clip without star inlay actually a counterfeit? At first glance the clip seems atypical due to its angular, cast-looking surface, which triggers suspicion. Nib, grip section and converter, however, show all features of an original, so it is not a counterfeit but the Montblanc Noblesse series III (not Slim Line or Noblesse Oblige). This model was produced around the year 2000; before 1991 Montblanc also covered the school and mid-price segment, which explains the unusual look. Caution with the grip section: it likes to break between thread and gold ring. ### How should one deal with eBay listings of counterfeit Montblanc writing instruments (StarWalker, 75 Years of Passion and Soul)? A direct report to eBay does little, because only the trademark holder can have auctions stopped there; it is more effective to alert Montblanc itself to the counterfeits. Directly addressing the sellers often has no effect, since many are either uncooperative or do not themselves recognize that the items are counterfeits. The collector community discusses a more consistent banning of relevant sellers by eBay, but this is not yet enforceable. Collectors therefore exchange typical fake characteristics among themselves to protect buyers. ### Is there an original Montblanc model for a Noblesse-like ballpoint pen of Chinese production? The writing instrument from Shenzhen is a fantasy product that imitates the look of a Montblanc Noblesse without being a licensed product. Genuine originals with identical form are not known; similar, likewise unauthorised variants exist in gold and gold/silver versions. Interesting is the question of the refill, since Parker-system refills with a subsequent Montblanc imprint are often used. The price difference compared to an original is typically a factor of around 50. ### Is a white Montblanc Noblesse offered on eBay genuine, and is the Noblesse series still produced? After comparison with the seller's offer, the piece offered is a Montblanc Noblesse Oblige, whose last regular retail price was 265 euros; in the 2004 clearance the models were sold off for around 130 to 135 euros. The Noblesse Oblige is no longer in the current range. Different arrangements of the 585 and 14 ct hallmarks on the nib are not in themselves a sign of forgery, but should in case of doubt be compared with further original features. ### Was the Montblanc Jules Verne available as a rollerball and in red, and how should the offers of a particular eBay seller be assessed? The Montblanc Jules Verne was only available as a fountain pen and ballpoint; a rollerball never existed. The model was furthermore only delivered in blue, since other colours would not have made thematic sense (reference to the sea); the original also has a larger diameter than the counterfeits. The pieces shown in the auction in question are clearly to be classified as counterfeits; the etui can be recognised as forged by its too-short flap. With the Bohème, authenticity is harder to assess from the pictures, but the included etui is also a fake. ### How can the authenticity of a Montblanc StarWalker Resin ballpoint pen acquired on eBay be checked? For authenticity checking, comparison with the fake articles on StarWalkers published on Fountainpen.de is recommended, e.g. the PDF guides there to typical counterfeit features. Indications of an original are a clean star, the imprint "Germany metal Pix" on the clip, clean workmanship and the serial number engraved directly on the clip (usual on the first series). With the original disassembled, threads on the front part, a removable coil spring and three rings can be found. In general, it is advised to buy high-quality writing instruments from specialist retailers in order to avoid problems of this kind. ### How can one distinguish on eBay between genuine and counterfeit Montblanc writing instruments, especially with a known seller of mixed assortment? Some sellers deliberately mix originals (e.g. a Mozart, a Montblanc 24 or a green etui) with counterfeits in order to appear reputable. Conspicuous features for fakes are forged packaging, wrong proportions (rollerballs often have to have a larger diameter) and implausible model variants. Notes to the sellers usually have no consequence; Montblanc itself, however, gratefully receives such reports. Buyers are advised to consistently compare with the fake overviews on Fountainpen.de before bidding. ### Is a Montblanc Meisterstück 149 with clip imprint "W-Germany" without serial number genuine, and from what period does it date? The imprint "W-Germany" on the clip indicates production before 1989 (pre-reunification period) and matches a white-gold nib with yellow-gold rim. Earlier Meisterstücks did not yet bear a serial number; this was only introduced later. Since counterfeits often also bear serial numbers, their presence is in any case not a reliable authenticity criterion. A definitive authenticity check is most safely carried out at an authorised dealer on the spot. Based on additional photos, the piece described looks genuine. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Montblanc Meisterstück 149 (Grand Format): https://www.fountainpen.de/c-montblanc-meisterstueck-149-en.htm ### Is a Montblanc Meisterstück LeGrand Ballpoint Pen Gold offered on eBay genuine, and how is the material to be interpreted? The piece offered is genuine, but is neither a "Parker original" nor a classic LeGrand. It is the Montblanc Meisterstück Solitaire Vermeil Classique in Faden Guilloche, manufactured from 1992. Vermeil means solid sterling silver (925) with gilding, hence the differently appearing colour tones and the stamped 925 mark. A central, maintained overview of current fake indicators is no longer regularly kept in the forum. ### How can one tell that a Montblanc wallet offered in an online auction is a counterfeit? Typical recognition features of a counterfeit are inconsistent packaging (Montblanc uses certain original packaging) and non-existent product lines such as a supposed "Solitaire Leather Collection" — the designation Solitaire at Montblanc refers exclusively to writing instruments with metal overlay. The logo on originals is not jagged, the star is always white (for the snow-capped mountain peak) and never gold-coloured or set off darker. Embossings, leather structure (too "wrinkly") and inaccurate typography also betray counterfeits. With auctions with notes like "illustration similar" or without PayPal payment, particular caution is required, since one then does not receive the article shown and buyer protection is restricted. ### How can offered Montblanc writing instruments be checked for authenticity when only photos are available? Some of the pieces shown are clearly counterfeits, because the depicted models do not exist as such (fantasy products) or are only roughly modelled on original models (e.g. Copernicus). Telling are nib engraving, sharpness of the contours (e.g. between star and black border) and the nature of the rings and clip; a two-step constructed cap must show a sharp-edged contour. A nib engraving "Iridium Point Germany" on imitation Montblancs is a clear counterfeit feature, while with other manufacturers it is common. With unsharp photos, a definitive statement is not possible; in case of doubt, a purchase is to be advised against and the post is to be placed in the matching forum section. ### How does one tell whether a Montblanc Meisterstück 146 with gold nib M from the 1980s is genuine if no serial number is visible on the clip ring? On a 146 from the 1980s, a missing clip engraving is normal; serial numbers were only introduced later. The typical reddish shimmer of the precious resin against the light is a good authenticity feature — if it is missing, that points to a counterfeit. An official, free nib exchange is only possible on new nibs with an invoice; a subsequent nib purchase from Montblanc typically costs at least 100 euros. If applicable, a swap among collectors offers itself. When posting pictures, the size and file-name guidelines of the forum (max. 499 × 499 pixels, 50 KB, no special characters in the file name) are to be observed. ### Does the Montblanc Meisterstück Solitaire Ramses II also come without a silver hallmark, and does the weight distribution of the vermeil and brass variants differ? Of the Ramses II there are two variants: an older one of vermeil (gilded sterling silver) with 925 hallmark and a later one of gilded brass without silver hallmark. Vermeil pieces tarnish unattractively over time and can become spotted; the brass variant does not show this problem and is even partly preferred. A Ramses without silver hallmark is therefore not necessarily a counterfeit. The material has hardly any influence on the weight; overall, however, all Solitaire writing instruments are heavier than the regular Meisterstücks made of precious resin. ### How can it be recognised on a Montblanc Writers Edition Jules Verne from an eBay auction whether it is an original or a counterfeit? Important authenticity features are the black (not metal) thread on the cap as well as the correct platinum-trim colour instead of an overly yellow-gold tone. The warranty card of the Verne is typically issued for a set, which is why this point alone is not yet a counterfeit indicator. A stamp of the responsible Köln fountain pen office speaks for an original, as does a long-standing reputable seller history. Picture displays can appear distorted depending on the monitor, so reputable sellers and complete papers are more meaningful than pure colour impressions. ### How can one tell on an auctioned Montblanc Meisterstück Classique rollerball whether it is a counterfeit, and are the matching refills also susceptible to forgery? By now, very well-made counterfeit Montblanc refills also exist, so the previously common statement that original refills only fit into original pens is no longer reliable. With some editions, e.g. Bohème rollerballs, original and counterfeit can hardly be distinguished from photos alone. Only an assessment at a specialist retailer on the spot brings certainty, where the refills can also be obtained as originals. Service guide, original packaging and a specialist retailer's stamp increase the probability of an original. ### How can one check on the basis of pictures and seller information whether a Montblanc StarWalker Doué offered on eBay is genuine? On the Doué, the characteristic feature is the multitude of fine notches on the doué element, similar to the Lennon, but not as thin; if these notches are missing or upper and lower part appear too plain, that is a clear counterfeit indicator. A serious purchase decision requires high-resolution photos as well as concrete information on the serial number in the clip and engravings on the upper part. With a sparse description and evasive seller answers, a purchase is to be advised against. With the StarWalker series, high-quality fakes are also in circulation by now, which is why caution is warranted. ### Which features speak in favour of a counterfeit on an eBay auction of a Montblanc Star 4810 watch? Several detail features identify the watch in question as a counterfeit: the case back is screwed with cross-head screws instead of the slotted screws usual at Montblanc; the rotor is simply semi-circular instead of the typical Montblanc form and additionally bears no manufacturer's engraving. The reference number 7069 stated also belongs to the Timewalker line, while the Star 4810 carries reference 7102; the serial number additionally appears inconsistent. In sum, it is a comparatively easily recognisable counterfeit. ### How does one recognise a counterfeit Montblanc briefcase made of calfskin? Several indications speak against authenticity: an RRP of around 679 euros, untypically low for Montblanc; an unusual leather appearance and unusual fittings; a Montblanc embossing that appears qualitatively inferior; as well as untidy seams with uneven distances to the edge. Reputable comparable offers of genuine Montblanc bags are rather around 800 euros and more. With these striking features, a purchase is to be advised against; a comparison with genuine Montblanc leather goods like a Meisterstück case shows clear differences in workmanship. ### Are a Montblanc Meisterstück 164 ballpoint and a 165 propelling pencil with the markings mentioned originals, and what does the pearl on the clip mean? Both writing instruments are most likely genuine; matching original refills as well as a correctly executed clip construction are central indications, since counterfeiters often use Parker mechanisms on the ballpoint. The pearl is the small spherical thickening at the lower clip end, which fixes the pen in pocket or case. At Montblanc this pearl is soldered on as a separate component, while on cheap writing instruments it is merely punched or pressed out of the clip metal. ### Which model is a Montblanc fountain pen with plug-on cap, gold ring with "Mont Blanc Germany" and a plain 585 nib engraving? It is a Montblanc Classic from the 1980s. On these older nibs, the inscription "Montblanc" was not necessarily engraved, only the gold alloy 585. During the production period, smaller model changes occurred, e.g. variants with only one instead of two cap rings, which strictly speaking belong to an earlier series. ### Are there now also counterfeits of the Montblanc Limited Edition Imperial Dragon? There are indeed plagiarisms of the Imperial Dragon Limited Edition. The counterfeits are, however, generally very crudely executed and can be recognised already from obvious errors such as the wrong spelling of "Montblanc" as two words. Attentive collectors should hardly fall for them. ### Are vintage Montblancs like the 344 also counterfeited, and what should one heed with suspicious eBay offers from China? There are indeed counterfeits of older Montblanc models that crop up at irregular intervals on Penbid and eBay. In the specific case, the photos had been stolen from another auction; what would have been delivered would presumably have been a StarWalker counterfeit. Warning signs are seller accounts with lots of "zero" ratings collected within a few hours, as well as sellers from China. PayPal does refund the purchase price in the case of a dispute, but not the often artificially inflated shipping costs through which the fraudsters profit. Collectors generally advise to be especially careful with Chinese sellers. ### Are a Montblanc fountain pen and ballpoint with a striking silver ring under the cap thread genuine? The writing instruments are genuine at their core but appear to be assembled from various parts; a silver ring under the thread could indicate a front part of a 145 Platinum that has been combined with other components. The nib tip seems asymmetrical and is presumably damaged; a blind engraving that was not mentioned in the auction description is also recognisable. The clip of the ballpoint is visibly bent. In combination with an inexperienced seller without a rating profile, collectors advise against the purchase and recommend waiting for a better offer. ### How does one recognise counterfeits of the Montblanc Writers Edition Jules Verne? Counterfeits exist on a larger scale of both the rollerball and the fountain pen Jules Verne, in the colours black, red, green and blue, and also of vermeil and StarWalker rubber variants. Recognition features: the nibs of the counterfeits bear the mark "Iridium-Point Germany". All fakes have the same serial number 14873 as well as an etched, blurred-looking, mattly shimmering Jules Verne inscription. The fountain pen is also delivered only with cartridge converter; the clip, on the other hand, looks relatively convincing. On relevant Chinese sites, the counterfeits are offered for about 60 US dollars. ### Which model is an unknown older fountain pen from family possessions? The piece depicted is an original from the Montblanc range 252, 254 or 256, depending on size; the exact model number typically stands at the rear on the turning knob. If this number is missing entirely, a sure assignment is difficult. The basic nib form fits this model range; whether the nib is bent or the iridium tipping is intact can only be judged with better photos. For value determination, reference is made to Axel's forum article on valuation principles. ### Why do some Montblanc writing instruments bear a model number on the cap ring and others not, and what is normal on the Generation rollerball? Model numbers like 146 or 161 are only engraved on the middle cap ring of Meisterstücks until the end of the 1990s; after that this practice was abandoned. On smaller writing instruments like Mozart (114) or the Generation, the number is also missing; there mostly only "Montblanc" or "Montblanc Generation" as well as "Made in Germany" stands under the clip. A missing model number is therefore no indication of a counterfeit. A serial number in the clip is found only on Meisterstücks, and there too not consistently in all production years. ### Are unusually cheap Montblanc leather goods (wallets) on eBay reputable, and does a national identity card fit into the Meisterstück wallet? Price reductions clearly above the VAT rate are regarded as untrustworthy, since they can indicate stolen goods or counterfeits; in addition, filled-in warranty papers are often missing, which is why later repairs would have to be paid for in full. A purchase in the boutique or at authorised specialist retailers (e.g. Haufler in Stuttgart) is therefore preferable, also for trying on wallets. Not all Meisterstück wallets have a slot for the German national identity card; models with an ID slot are, however, in the range, which is why a personal selection is recommended. Individual buyers do however report satisfactory experiences with the eBay seller mentioned. ### Is a Montblanc Meisterstück 146 LeGrand without model number on the cap ring an original, and how can a stiff piston be treated? Even without a model number on the cap ring, a 146 is most likely genuine; counterfeits of the 146 are hardly known, presumably because the piston mechanism is too elaborate for counterfeiters. There are simply two variants: with and without printed model number. A somewhat stiff piston often comes from dried ink and becomes smoother again with regular use; a smooth-running piston as on some other brands is, however, structurally not to be expected on the 146. ### Which new StarWalker counterfeits are currently appearing? StarWalker fakes circulate in untypical colours like red/metal, orange and white, partly also with inserted white middle parts from cobbled-together parts. The white variants are occasionally falsely offered as a limited Scott Fitzgerald. Such colour variants do not exist in the official StarWalker programme and are thus a clear counterfeit indicator. ### Which Montblanc model is a twist-action ballpoint with two rings at the cap end, and what value is appropriate? Owing to unsharp pictures, an unambiguous identification is difficult; in question come a Generation or models of the 28 or 281 series. The Generation was Montblanc's former entry-level series, has not been in production for years but can be obtained from remaining stock via dealers. The new price was, according to the Corporate Gift catalogue 2004/2005, around 145 EUR; used, the value is significantly lower. An auction price of around 50 EUR is in the normal range; a real bargain it is not, in the case of a Generation or 28 model. ### How did the seizure value of counterfeit branded articles develop between 2002 and 2003, and what factors explain the rise? The value of counterfeit branded articles seized by German customs rose, according to Wirtschaftswoche (No. 29), from 76 million EUR in 2002 to 178 million EUR in 2003. As reasons, increasing import quantities (especially through the internet) and grown buyer demand for apparently cheap luxury articles are discussed. Affected are not only luxury goods but also safety-relevant products like car parts. The worldwide damage from brand piracy is estimated at around 500 billion USD (Wiwo No. 30). ### How does one distinguish original from counterfeit on Montblanc ballpoints and cases from eBay auctions? A Montblanc ballpoint into which a Parker refill fits and on which the black separators between the cap rings are missing is unambiguously a counterfeit; further indications are inconsistent proportions and untidily worked cap rings. With the case, material quality and workmanship speak for authenticity; older models from the 1980s are regular. Trade in counterfeits is forbidden; buyers can insist on reversal and, in case of difficulties, turn to the eBay forums or the trust and safety area there. ### How does one recognise counterfeits of a Montblanc Bohème Silver in eBay auctions? A typical feature of such fakes is the simple iridium nib instead of the filigree original nib as well as a clearly coarser surface treatment. With the original, no smooth, non-guilloched piece of the barrel is visible when the cap is screwed on — with the counterfeit, it is. Some sellers mark the pieces as "deceptively similar to the original"; others deliberately omit the note. In hand, even a layperson usually immediately recognises the difference by feel and weight; Hong Kong sources are an additional indicator. ### How does one distinguish a real Montblanc Donation Pen "Menuhin" from a counterfeit, especially based on cap ring and inscription? A reliable indication is the spelling "PHILHARMONIA OF THE NATIONS" on the rear ring; the official counterfeit notes name deviating letter forms, e.g. an "A" without crossbar, as suspicious. On the original, the free area on the cap ring is not smooth but patterned. Since counterfeits with high-quality nibs and well-imitated clips exist, the pen should in case of doubt be presented in the original to a specialist retailer or boutique; photos alone do not allow a sure judgement. Variants of the Menuhin are not known. ### Is a cheap Montblanc ballpoint in silver look from eBay automatically a counterfeit? No, often these are original models of the Slimline series from the 1980s, made of stainless steel — not of silver. At that time, Slimline was Montblanc's cheap mass series; the retail price in 1981 was 14.50 DM (around 7.50 EUR), the matching fountain pen cost 24.50 DM. Slimline pieces are not comparable to Meisterstücks but are authentic Montblanc writing instruments with their own history. A blanket conversion of historical DM prices to today's euro collector prices is, however, not sensible. ### How does one tell whether a Montblanc Meisterstück LeGrand (ballpoint) is original or counterfeit, and which list prices are usual? On the LeGrand, the black cap rings are relatively wide; the area between them shows no recess, and the knob at the clip end is, on the original, soldered or welded on invisibly, not folded inwards visibly. If ring spacings, a visible fold or a bulgy clip tip are present, this points to a counterfeit. Since counterfeits are getting better and better, a comparison with original photos and, in case of doubt, a check by an authorised dealer is worthwhile. As a guide to prices, for spring 2007 was given: LeGrand fountain pen approx. €435 (gold) or €465 (platinum), ballpoint/pencil approx. €235 or €270; at authorised dealers, a discount is possible on enquiry. ### Is the online shop "montblancpens-shop.com" with conspicuously low Montblanc prices reputable, and how can one determine the owner of a web domain? It is a fraud site that is, according to whois enquiries, registered to an owner in China; the prices lie far below realistic market values, which is a clear warning sign. In the best case a counterfeit is delivered, in the worst case nothing at all. For checking domain owners, denic.de serves for .de domains and easywhois.com (or comparable services) for international domains; address, telephone and email data often give clues about the country of origin. Additionally, the Firefox add-on Flagfox helps, which displays the physical server location; for original Montblanc sites, the server is in Germany. ### Are a Montblanc Pix ballpoint and its unusually simple packaging to be evaluated as original goods or counterfeit? Collectors report that the ballpoint shown looks genuine and the apparently poorly finished packaging really comes from Montblanc: such packagings were used in the early to mid-1990s and were possibly intended as dealer packaging. They are not visually particularly appealing. Since counterfeits are increasingly better, a hundred-percent certainty can only be achieved through direct assessment at a specialist retailer. ### Are auctioned Montblanc baseball caps (with MB logo) generally originals, and are they official advertising articles? There were various variants of Montblanc baseball caps that are official promotion articles of the manufacturer. If the logo and inscription are embroidered, these are originals. At which event exactly they were originally distributed is not always documented; they are particularly suitable as a collector's item or for collector's meet-ups. ### How can one tell whether a Montblanc Meisterstück Classique 163 rollerball/fineliner is original or counterfeit? Collectors report that typical recognition features are the three cap rings (especially the middle one, which on originals should not appear bulgy), the inscription "Montblanc * Meisterstück * Pix *" including inner imprint "Pix" on the clip, as well as the round, not angular, bend of the clip; the points of the star should not be too sharp, and the gold closure ring at the cap base must have the right width. On the website fountainpen.de, detailed comparison PDFs ("Vergleich-Rollerball.pdf") as well as a newsletter article with recognition features can be found. With a clear counterfeit, the following procedure is recommended: notify the seller, inform eBay, notify Montblanc and, in extreme cases, engage a lawyer or file a complaint. ### Is a purchased Montblanc 144 with old feed and narrow nib an original, and which ink should be used to optimise writing feel and ink flow? The fountain pen described is genuine; the older model has an early feed without the lamellas typical today, which absorb ink under air-pressure changes. Narrow nibs (e.g. EF) tend to scratch more strongly than broader nibs, which glide more smoothly over the paper. The choice of ink does not influence the actual writing feel but the amount of ink on the paper: Pelikan ink (e.g. 4001) is regarded as thinner, Montblanc ink as somewhat thicker, Waterman ink as very fluid and good for ink-flow problems. With very old writing instruments, Pelikan is recommended because of water solubility, in order not to damage the feed. A nib exchange via the seller is sensible, since later nib exchanges at Montblanc are often very expensive. ### Is the English dealer penhome.co.uk trustworthy, and how can one remove sticky soiling from a Montblanc Madame Pompadour with porcelain cap? Collectors report that the owners of penhome (Simon Gray and Sean Lovell) are regarded as absolutely reliable and do not sell counterfeits; of the Madame Pompadour, no counterfeits are also known. Sticky residues, e.g. label adhesive, can if necessary be removed with cleaning benzine; as a gentler alternative, solvent-based transparent car wax ("paint protection") serves, which simultaneously cares — but not water-based, since this variant is ineffective here. With painted-on gold applications (as on the Pompadour), caution is advised, since solvents can dissolve unsealed lacquers; the same applies to ebonite and celluloid. In case of doubt, the manufacturer or a Montblanc boutique should be consulted for cleaning; for precise application, brushes of size 0 or cotton swabs are suitable. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Patron of Arts Marquise de Pompadour (2001): https://www.fountainpen.de/patron-pompadour-en.htm ### Are Montblanc Meisterstück 146s with real piston mechanism (without converter) counterfeited, and how does one proceed with a stiff piston? So far, no counterfeit 146s as real piston fountain pens are known; with a 146 with a working piston mechanism (without unscrewable end cap for a converter), an original is therefore most likely to be assumed. For final certainty, one can present the pen to a Montblanc boutique, which is mostly free; sending in to service entails a service flat rate. With a stiff piston, professional servicing is recommendable; self-removal of the piston is, with the matching key, possible but is advised against for beginners, since the damage in case of error is high. ### Which features currently help in recognising typical Montblanc counterfeits (StarWalker, Meisterstück, Scenium) on online platforms like eBay? Typical hints of counterfeits are poorly imitated packaging (e.g. with a black instead of white Montblanc star on the mountain symbol) as well as a characteristic notch on the cap rings that does not occur on originals. A well-founded comparison can be found in the Vergleich-Rollerball PDF on fountainpen.de. Counterfeit briefcases as well as Meisterstück, StarWalker and Scenium imitations are frequently offered by a few professional sellers. In suspected cases, it is recommended to inform both the seller and eBay. ### How can one distinguish between original and counterfeit on inherited Montblanc writing instruments (Scott Fitzgerald, Cervantes, further Meisterstücks)? Collectors report that a Scott Fitzgerald counterfeit can be recognised by the nib and discolouration, since the original is a piston filler, the fakes, on the other hand, cartridge fillers; a Cervantes fake stands out through non-gilded rings and clip of brass as well as a flaking surface. Pure fantasy products without a real model also occur. Writing instruments with the imprint "West Germany" on the cap ring come from the period before 1991 and are, provided no further oddities are present, generally genuine. ### How does one recognise a counterfeit of the Montblanc 145 by nib, serial number and converter? A counterfeit can be recognised by several details: the imprint on the nib is far too flatly stamped and only partially platinum-plated, the serial number is, on the original, laser-etched and executed in an unmistakably different font, and the converter differs clearly on originals from the converters used in counterfeits. These points alone allow an unambiguous identification in many cases. Filing a complaint with the prosecuting authority experience shows little — more sensible is the reversal of the purchase. ### Is a Montblanc Limited Edition John Lennon won at an online auction clearly under list price an original? According to the assessment of several collectors, it is an original; the seller mentioned is known as reputable. Low prices are explained by the fact that non-specialist dealers can offer at calculatively cheaper prices. For transport, a suitable case is recommended in order to avoid scratches. Pros and cons of specialist trade compared to online purchase are widely discussed in the forum. ### Are a Montblanc Meisterstück 146 fountain pen, a Meisterstück ballpoint, a Meisterstück pencil and a matching Sienna case to be checked for originality based on the inscriptions? The writing instruments mentioned are classified by experienced collectors as originals. Until the end of the 1980s, the clip read W.-Germany, then only Germany; serial numbers were only laser-etched later. Writing instruments without a serial number and with the imprint Germany can therefore be classified into the 1990s. The case presented is presumably also original but does not belong to the Sienna series and rather comes from the 1980s in a fairly simple version. ### Is a Montblanc briefcase auctioned at an online auction house with applied star, imitation-leather trim and unmatching pen loops an original? Several assessments see the bag clearly as a counterfeit; indications are the applied star, the foreign design, the deficient finishing as well as the absence of typical Montblanc embossings. Such imitations crop up regularly in online auctions. Buyers should immediately demand a reversal and, in case of dispute, use buyer protection as well as inform the brand piracy department of Montblanc; in extreme cases a criminal complaint is also possible. Experience shows that even the threat of further steps often leads to refund of the purchase price. ### Can it be judged from photos whether a found Montblanc Jules Verne ballpoint of the Writers Edition is genuine? On the pictures, no obvious counterfeit features are recognisable; however, of the Jules Verne there are very good counterfeits, which are hardly identifiable from photos. A reliable assessment is only possible through personal inspection, e.g. in a Montblanc boutique or via Montblanc customer service; there a chargeable authenticity check can be commissioned, with the writing instrument to be sent in. Market values should not be read from asking prices but from realised sale prices, e.g. eBay sales of completed auctions. ### Is a Montblanc Friedrich Schiller (Writers Edition) won at an online auction most likely an original, and what liability does the forum bear with such assessments? The Schiller shown looks, in the assessment of experienced collectors, authentic, since counterfeiters do not convincingly reproduce the typical design details of this edition. Generally, online remote diagnoses of authenticity can never be conclusive; in case of doubt, the specialist retailer or a boutique is the right point of contact. Forum operators are not liable for content of individual posts; an obligation of content review for communities does not exist according to relevant case law. Authors of individual posts can theoretically be held responsible for false statements, which, however, is practically difficult to enforce. ### Is a supposed Montblanc offered at an online auction a counterfeit, and what value range is realistic for a MonteRosa? The piece shown is not a fake but an original MonteRosa, the simpler sister brand of Montblanc, presumably from the 1960s; a nib exchange is no longer possible on this old model. Even with old Montblanc models there are by now many replicas, so that the warning about fakes also applies in the vintage area. Binding price lists for older Montblancs do not exist; the book Collectible Stars offers price and rarity classes; current market prices can best be derived at fountain-pen fairs or by observing online auctions. For a normal MonteRosa, depending on model variant, colour (export colours are rarer), preservation and nib material, a range of around 25 to 50 euros is realistic. ### Can it be said from photos whether a supposed Montblanc Solitaire Carbon Steel with Meisterstück imprint near the writing tip and a strikingly two-piece body is an original? The features described clearly speak against an original; a Meisterstück imprint near the writing tip does not belong on the Solitaire Carbon Steel; the cap ring, the star and the form of the clip deviate, and the gap at the lower barrel end does not exist on the original model. Montblanc has never made such a model. Only the packaging could be original. A definitive assessment is only possible through a boutique or an authorised dealer on the spot. ### Is a Montblanc offered at a US auction described as a Noblesse Oblige an original, and what distinguishes the series Noblesse and Noblesse Oblige? In the specific case there is a faulty seller description: depicted is a real Montblanc Noblesse of the third series, not a Noblesse Oblige. Both lines are different writing instruments: the Noblesse is significantly slimmer and has a metal core; the Noblesse Oblige consists of plastic and lies below it in quality and price. The faulty description presumably affects the result negatively. For a Noblesse with lacquer surface and 18-carat gold nib, a price around 119 US dollars is market-customary. When buying from abroad, customs and shipping are to be added. ### Did the Montblanc Meisterstück 164 ballpoints from 1980 to 2007 have the same length and what dimensions are documented? Dimensions of various model generations, including cap and barrel diameter, are documented in an older forum thread. With the terms cap diameter and barrel diameter, it is simply the diameter of the cap or the barrel. A complete technical overview in picture form provides the simplest comparison possibility for lengths and diameters across the production years. ### What possibilities for authenticity checking of a Montblanc does the manufacturer offer, and why does the question of originality nevertheless arise frequently in the forum? Montblanc boutiques check standard models directly on the spot free of charge; a sending in to customer service with photos and serial number is alternatively possible. In the forum, the question is nevertheless asked frequently because boutiques are only located in cities with about 80,000 or more inhabitants, and a journey is in many cases disproportionate. In addition, sales staff in boutiques know mainly the current range, which is why their assessment is not always conclusive especially with older models. Forum answers remain in any case remote diagnoses with limited reliability. ### Which current counterfeits crop up in online auctions around Montblanc models like Meisterstück, Scenium, Star Walker, Menuhin and Asian sellers, and is their sale in Germany permitted? Collectors observe increasing fake activities of Chinese and other Asian providers; affected are Meisterstück, Scenium, Star Walker and the Menuhin, the latter of which appeared in the original only as a fountain pen and ballpoint and never as a rollerball. Even self-labelled replicas may not be sold in Germany; distribution is generally forbidden. Recommended is purchase from a specialist retailer, since fakes are increasingly elaborately designed and even packaging with Montblanc stars is by now imitated, which complicates recognition. ### Is a Montblanc Meisterstück 144 with pure plug-on cap and without Pix imprint under the clip an original? Regular 144s are not screwed but only plugged; only individual Solitaire variants and very old 144s from the 1950s have a screw thread. The Pix mark under the clip is present on newer models but is partly missing on older versions. Nibs are technically the most difficult part; well-made original nibs therefore mostly speak unambiguously for an original. ### Do counterfeits of the Writers Edition Karajan crop up in online auctions, and which additional model types do not belong to the original at all? The Karajan was never made as a rollerball; an offered Karajan rollerball is therefore necessarily a counterfeit; likewise a Kafka rollerball. Collectors report increasingly well-made fakes, also in packaging design with a white star, which complicates recognition based on offer photos. Even pencils are not generally safe from fakes; collectors have already seen counterfeit Meisterstück mechanical pencils in the USA. Originality features such as the form of the star, the spelling of the word Meisterstück with ue, the number and form of the cap rings, the Pix embossing and the form of the clip end can be checked on careful inspection. Recommended is purchase from the specialist retailer. ### How does one recognise the authenticity of a Montblanc Meisterstück 144 with a single-colour gold nib, and is it really a piston filler? The 144, despite being widely called a piston filler, is technically a cartridge or converter fountain pen. For authenticity checking, alongside visual features like star form, Pix embossing and clean laser engraving on the clip, above all comparison with reference photos as well as assessment in a Montblanc boutique, e.g. on Munich's Maximilianstraße, are recommended. A thorough cleaning can often remedy existing function disorders, so that the pen is again usable as a writing instrument. ### Is a Montblanc Solitaire Doué Stainless Steel with somewhat darker-appearing grey rings an original? On the Solitaire Stainless Steel variants, differently produced rings occur, which often look sandblasted or powder-coated and often appear somewhat darker than the rest of the body. If the other original features (star form, laser engraving, clip, Pix embossing) are correct, that points to an authentic piece. A reliable judgement requires high-resolution detail photos of the ring section in question. ### Are two silver pencils Montblanc pieces, and what value is to be set? On the photos, only one of the two pencils is a Montblanc pencil in silver from the 1930s or 1940s; the second does not come from Montblanc. At that time the firm Fend, which held the patent for such multi-colour mechanisms, made similar pencils for many manufacturers. The sale of such pieces is sensible via eBay if the value is uncertain; meaningful photos and, where applicable, the reading of possible imprints are necessary for an evaluation. ### Are Montblanc spectacle frames offered on eBay counterfeited, and how can originals be recognised? Montblanc spectacle frames are now also being counterfeited, similarly to writing instruments, watches and leather goods. Aggravatingly, Montblanc has changed the spectacle licensee several times since 1997, so that older catalogues are no longer current and legitimate model differences arise. Conspicuously low prices and conspicuously fast direct-purchase processing are indications of untrustworthy offers. ### Are eBay offers from a seller with a strikingly large number of identical Montblanc Meisterstück 161s trustworthy? With sellers who offer multiple examples of the same model under similar-sounding account names and use pictures that demonstrably come from foreign websites, extreme caution is advised. If the buyer cannot be sure of receiving the piece shown in the pictures, the purchase should be refrained from. Such constellations with dozens of identical models in the seller history are a clear warning sign. ### Does the letterhead of a Montblanc letter suffice as proof of authenticity for a supposed Montblanc pencil that is marked with "M999 Other"? A letterhead alone is not proof of authenticity, and the internal model number M999 stands at Montblanc merely for "other" and says nothing about brand affiliation. If a writing instrument is submitted for repair and not repaired, it appears in the letter with this collective code without Montblanc thereby confirming its originality. The white dot alone does not make a no-name pencil into a Montblanc; decisive are the typical brand features on the writing instrument itself. ### Did the Montblanc nibs of the 1950s and 1960s, e.g. on model 3-44 G, always have an engraving of the summit star? On comparison pieces from this period, e.g. on the 342 or 344, the nib is identically worked and engraved with the summit star. A missing star engraving would therefore be untypical; the presence, on the other hand, no sufficient indication of a counterfeit. The evaluation should therefore always take place in the overall context of all original features. ### Is a Montblanc 146 Le Grand with a single-colour gold nib and blue viewing window an original from the 1980s or a counterfeit? Pens from the 1980s with a single-colour nib and blue viewing window are authentic and correspond to the construction state at that time; comparable examples are documented at fountainpen.de/old-80er-146.htm. The marking "W-Germany" indicates production before 1989. With remaining doubts about authenticity, the pen can be sent for assessment to Montblanc Hamburg; flat-rate remote diagnoses are unreliable. On seller statements about the duration of use one should not rely, since these often deviate significantly from the actual production period. ### What possibilities does an eBay seller have if, after the auction is stopped by Montblanc, it turns out that the offered ballpoint is a counterfeit? If an auction is stopped by trademark objection of the manufacturer, eBay refunds the offer fees to the provider; a sale does not come about. Plagiarisms can often be recognised by details like the groove between the engraving rings but are not always obvious for laypersons. Sensible is the personal handing over of the counterfeit for destruction at Montblanc, instead of keeping the piece in circulation. If, on the other hand, one is the buyer and the auction was stopped by the trademark holder, one can withdraw from the purchase and demand refund of the purchase price. ### How does one tell whether a Montblanc StarWalker rollerball bought on eBay is a counterfeit, and what can be done if no serial number is present? An original StarWalker carries under the clip the imprint 'Pix' or 'Germany metal pix'. Earlier examples had a longer inner cylinder for accommodating the refill; the absence of a serial number is therefore not yet an unambiguous proof of counterfeit. For reliable assessment, it is recommended to present the device to an authorised Montblanc dealer or a brand expert. A direct comparison with the comparison pictures published on the community page is additionally helpful. ### Is a Montblanc 144 offered as two years old with a jagged cap and 14K-585 nib genuine, and does the stated age correspond? The 144 shown is an original with a real 14K-585 nib. However, the age statement of two years does not match; the form with plug-on cap and the feed shown correspond to writing instruments from the early 1990s; the 144 in this version has not been produced for some time. Despite authenticity, the price asked on eBay is regarded as significantly too high. Collectors should therefore critically check descriptions and consult comparison pictures of older generations. ### Is a Montblanc Safety with a strikingly jagged star on the cap to be classified as a counterfeit? Even a star that looks jagged need not be a counterfeit indication. The Montblanc Diary & Collector's Guide depicts on p. 116 various historical snow-cap variants, including a correspondingly jagged form that occurs on originals. Before judgement it is therefore worth comparing the star form with documented original variants in the collector literature. ### Does a Montblanc fountain pen with the cap inscription 'Montblanc Germany - Classic' and a narrow gold ring belong to the Generation line? Yes, it is an early Generation: the line was initially produced under the name 'Classic' and later renamed to 'Generation' to avoid confusion with the designation 'Classique' of the Meisterstück range. The early variant has a narrower cap ring and a slightly deviating, less smooth clip. The bevelled cap form and the 14K-585 nib remain the same. Real originals are thus correctly designated 'Classic'. ### Is a Montblanc Meisterstück Classique 165 mechanical pencil with serial number 'IC 248523' and 'Germany' engraving on the clip ring an original? The example described is an original. On the ring at the clip, both serial number and inscription 'Germany' are engraved by default; reduced engraving quality compared to a piece bought in store need not be an authenticity defect. The exact coding of the serial number is, however, only known to Montblanc and cannot be assigned externally to a production batch. Even a missing logo print on the lead reservoir is no unambiguous authenticity indication. ### Is the model number (e.g. 146, 161) still engraved on the middle cap ring of Montblanc Meisterstück Le Grand writing instruments? On current Meisterstücks, on the middle cap ring there mostly stands only 'Meisterstück Pix Montblanc'; 'Pix' is an old brand designation. The model number (e.g. 146, 161, 164) has for some time no longer been engraved on the ring as standard, even if older catalogue photos still show this, because Montblanc often continues to use pictures over years. Serial number (PL...) and 'Germany' are, on the other hand, engraved on the clip. Collectors thus distinguish models not only by type but also by year of production. ### How does one tell whether a Montblanc Meisterstück Doué Stainless Steel ballpoint is genuine or counterfeit, especially with an unfilled warranty booklet? An unfilled warranty booklet alone is not a reliable indication of a counterfeit. More reliable is the packaging: with many known counterfeits, the case is fitted with a metal clip on the bottom and only covered with a cloth, while original boxes appear more solid. Older original boxes were lined with black satin cloth and not with foam, which does not automatically point to a counterfeit. Collectors confirm that a solid, high-quality finished box is a good authenticity feature. ### What consequences does the merger of the eBay platform with the Chinese Eachnet have for the market of brand writing instruments and counterfeits? China and Turkey only recognise trademark protection to a limited extent, so trademark counterfeits there were for a long time de facto tolerated. Since both countries belong to the WTO, however, they are officially obliged to combat plagiarisms, which in practice is inadequately implemented. Even an EU accession would not necessarily solve the problem, as experiences with the Czech Republic show. Collectors therefore expect a clear increase of counterfeit offers on the world market through the platform integration. ### How can counterfeit Montblanc keychains on eBay be recognised? The most important recognition feature is the packaging: with counterfeits the paper of the box looks differently glossy, since original boxes have a characteristic surface structure. The origin of the seller (e.g. Taiwan) alone is no proof of a counterfeit. A direct comparison of original photos and auction picture can reveal subtle deviations not recognisable at first glance. Collectors recommend, in case of doubt, placing a known original piece next to it. ### Which features do obvious Kafka ballpoint counterfeits show, and how problematic are crude plagiarisms compared to more precise reproductions? Crude counterfeits like the supposed Franz Kafka of rosin (precious resin) or as a water pen betray themselves through faulty descriptions, ridiculous material specifications and cheap finishing but are easily recognisable through their price and look. Collectors agree that less obvious, high-quality reproduced counterfeits are the actual problem, since they approximate the original ever more. This development is observable in plagiarisms in many sectors, e.g. also in the automotive area. ### How can one tell on an eBay purchase whether a Montblanc Meisterstück Solitaire Doué ballpoint is genuine, and which discounts are usual in specialist trade? Based on good auction photos, the authenticity can often be judged already; especially Solitaire models are well checkable due to detail-rich finishing. In specialist trade and in boutiques, list-price binding generally applies; a sale below it can lead to delisting of the dealer by Montblanc. With a friendly enquiry, discounts of 5 to 10 percent are quite possible, in rare exceptional cases also more. Anyone who does not know their way around should preferably buy in specialist trade, since there advice and authenticity guarantee are ensured. ### Does a Montblanc 149 with unusual look (e.g. overlay) exist as an official factory model? Such unusual 149s are mostly own constructions of skilled collectors or pieces reworked by third-party providers like Paul Rossi and were not officially delivered by Montblanc. The motive is often the restoration of damaged body parts or a pure refinement, e.g. with maki-e or gemstone overlays after the historical model of the jeweller's overlays. Such reworkings can significantly increase the market value, sometimes by triple or more. Important, however, is correct declaration as a special production, not as an original Montblanc. ### What to do if a Montblanc Meisterstück 144 writes well freshly filled but increasingly badly after days and finally shows failures? Such problems mostly arise through a worn or soiled feed, whose capillary action slackens. An air gap between nib end and feed can also interrupt the ink flow. The nib itself should under no circumstances be removed oneself, since the required tight reassembly only succeeds with special sealing material. At Montblanc a service with replacement of the feed costs about 49 euros, which is the most reliable solution. ### On which Montblanc writing instruments does the inscription Germany Metal PIX under the clip serve as an authenticity feature, and since when has it existed? The PIX inscription under the clip is found not only on Meisterstücks but also on many other lines like the Bohème and some Limited Editions. A complete list of affected models does not exist. The additional engravings like clip-ring number, Made in or PIX were introduced in the course of time into ongoing production, so no uniform cut-off date exists; the introduction did not occur synchronously for all models. A missing PIX is therefore alone no reliable authenticity feature. ### Why does no viewing window appear on a Montblanc 146, and how can its authenticity nevertheless be established? The viewing window of a Montblanc 146 is frequently present but barely visible; with a strong light source (halogen or LED) behind the barrel, body and viewing window can be clearly distinguished by colour, since the window shimmers through brighter. On old 146s from the 1950s, the celluloid body can be discoloured dark red to black by aggressive inks, so that the ink window also appears obscured. Today, too, with use of certain inks a thin coating can form. For authenticity checking, comparison photos, proportion comparison with documented originals and the serial number help. ### Which features do the increasingly high-quality Greta Garbo counterfeits have, and how does one recognise them? The first Greta Garbo counterfeits reach Germany and are visually so good that recognition is difficult. A central indication, however, is the model itself: no official Greta Garbo rollerball exists; an offered rollerball must therefore necessarily be a counterfeit. The same sellers often also offer other known plagiarisms, e.g. StarWalker Rubber fakes, which likewise serves as a warning signal. Collectors notify on suspicion directly the highest bidders and eBay. ### How does one recognise a counterfeit of a Montblanc StarWalker offered on eBay? Recognition features for StarWalker counterfeits are above all the nib and the rear barrel area: StarWalker models do not have a two-tone nib; a two-tone nib is therefore a clear counterfeit feature. In addition, the rear barrel part must be chrome-plated and shiny, not black. Even the packaging can be telling — boxes from the 1970s or 1980s do not fit a piece allegedly acquired in 2005. Such counterfeits sometimes reach three-figure amounts at auctions, which is why collectors point out corresponding offers early on. ### Is the depicted writing instrument a counterfeit or an original? Based on the photos provided, the answerers here see an original. In case of doubt, further and more detailed pictures should be requested from the seller in order to enable a reliable judgement. ### Are writing instruments of other manufacturers (Pelikan, Graf von Faber-Castell, Caran d'Ache, OMAS) also being counterfeited, or do counterfeiters concentrate on Montblanc? Counterfeits concentrate for economic reasons primarily on the market leader with high numbers and high shop price, in the writing-instrument area on Montblanc. Other brands like Pelikan, Caran d'Ache, Graf von Faber-Castell or OMAS hardly play a role in counterfeits; occasionally, however, fakes of Cartier or Louis Vuitton (LV) are also known. The phenomenon thus corresponds to that of other sectors, e.g. watches (Rolex, Breitling) or lighters (Dupont). ### My Montblanc 164 ballpoint squeaks on twisting, the clip looks more golden than the ring and at the same time bears W.-Germany and a serial number. Is it nevertheless genuine, and how do I get rid of the squeak? Based on the photos, it is an original. There were transition phases in which clips already bore a serial number and at the same time the engraving W.-Germany. That the clip optically looks more golden than the Meisterstück ring is typical on the 164 and no counterfeit indication; it can additionally be due to polishing. Against the squeak, the star can be unscrewed; afterwards clip and cap can be removed, and on the underlying black rubber ring as well as the milling of the twist mechanism a little Vaseline can be applied, which generally removes the noise. ### How does one proceed against obvious counterfeits on eBay, e.g. of a Montblanc Kafka, if the marketplace itself does not intervene? Even with private auctions, legally no counterfeits may be sold; the seller cannot here exclude a right of return. Concrete auction numbers can be reported to the eBay hotline; eBay forwards these to Montblanc as the manufacturer, which checks the auction. Helpful for one's own evaluation is the overview of typical counterfeit features at fountainpen.de/fakes.htm. Since counterfeits are getting visually better and better, the counterfeit problem on eBay, from the view of the forum members, remains permanently. ### How does one recognise that a Montblanc Meisterstück set offered on eBay is counterfeit? Recognisable is the counterfeit above all by the cap top and the cap rings. On the pieces shown, the cap top is executed entirely black, while on originals it consists about two-thirds of metal and only the star itself is set against a black background. The cap rings are also interrupted here by black fields, which is likewise not the case on originals. In case of doubt, additional sharp detail photos should be requested. ### Are the depicted Montblanc writing instruments (fountain pen and ballpoint) from the 70s/80s real, and which models exactly are they? Both writing instruments are genuine; counterfeits of these simple models are not known, since counterfeiters concentrate on Meisterstücks. The first fountain pen is the model CS from the 70s with gilded steel nib (then retail price 39.00 DM); the second is a Montblanc Turbo from the early 80s, sold as a school fountain pen for 19.50 DM. A blue cap top signalled at Montblanc in the 50s the presence of a carbon-copy nib that worked with high pressure on carbon paper and was correspondingly rigid and inflexibly designed. ### Is the Montblanc Patron of Art J.P. Morgan also available as a rollerball or ballpoint, and is an auction with limitation number xxxx/4810 for a J.P. Morgan rollerball credible? The J.P. Morgan officially exists only as a fountain pen; a rollerball or ballpoint version with limitation number x/4810 is not in the programme and thus most likely a counterfeit, even if 925 stamps and mother-of-pearl star can look deceptively real on photos. Occasionally there may be conversions, which however would not justify an official limitation statement. In the specific case, the seller himself stopped the auction after a hint in order to check the originality at a boutique. ### How does one recognise counterfeits of Montblanc rollerballs (e.g. a supposed LeGrand) on eBay? Several features expose such counterfeits very reliably. On the original Solitaire, the cap top is of the same material as the body with only the star at the front, while fakes often show a completely black cap top. The spaces between the cap rings on plagiarisms show recognisable indentations and are black, while on the original the body material shimmers through. Additionally, on a fake LeGrand the thread for screwing on the cap is often missing, which a larger rollerball should actually have. A comparison with pictures on the Montblanc website or relevant collector sites usually suffices to determine the differences. ### Is a strongly altered Montblanc 146 with overlay a counterfeit? The base model is recognisable as an original 146 from the 80s by the ink-view window and the nib and thus no counterfeit in the narrower sense. It is, however, an unauthorised customising, since Montblanc does not give permission for such refinements. In the collector scene it is known that, e.g., a Belgian collector occasionally fits 146s and 149s with sterling-silver overlays and engravings; such individual pieces do not violate trademark law but may not be sold. The pen is then no longer an original Montblanc but an individualised collector's piece. ### How can the authenticity of an eBay offer of a Montblanc Fitzgerald or Greta Garbo ballpoint be judged? Greta Garbo counterfeits are on photos often very well made and hardly distinguishable from originals, which makes an online judgement difficult. Suspicious are sellers who as private persons offer over a hundred allegedly new Montblancs, use poor or blurred photos and set prices far below 50 percent of the list price. Typical fake features like the inscription Iridium Point or a black star in the case should also deter buyers. With realistic observation, a Greta Garbo at a bargain price is neither plausible as genuine nor worth the price as a fake; in such cases, the purchase from a specialist retailer is the better option. ### Is a Montblanc Bohème with the inscription Rouge et Noir, two-tone 14K-585 nib, Pix clip and arched stone genuine, and what collector value does it have? Based on the features mentioned, it is a genuine Bohème Rouge et Noir, which was made only in a short production period and is correspondingly rare. The collector value is recognisably increased but not dramatically high; the piece nevertheless remains special and worth collecting. The model is also valued in writing behaviour and should therefore be kept, especially since it rarely turns up on antique markets. ### Is Commerzbank allowed in an advertising campaign to depict an altered fountain pen leaning on a Montblanc 146P, without violating trademark law? It is presumably a Photoshop edit, with which deliberate deviations from the original (e.g. three instead of one platinum ring, missing nib engraving) were generated to circumvent trademark-law problems. Without express permission of the manufacturer, protected brand articles may not be used in foreign advertising, since this is regarded as reputation exploitation; corresponding rulings, e.g. on Rolls-Royce, exist. As long as no identical trademarks like star or inscription are used and only an allusion to the design takes place, advertisers mostly move within the legally permissible area. The comparable applies also to advertising-gift ballpoints, which often take visual loans from the Meisterstück. ### Are the Montblanc push fillers with swastika overlay offered as 'NAZI Pen' genuine, or are they counterfeits? There were indeed original Montblanc push fillers with raised swastikas on the precious-metal overlay; such historical pieces thus do exist. The offers cropping up today on eBay or Penbid are, however, predominantly counterfeits, often from Eastern Europe, and in the workmanship poor. eBay often removes such offers quickly, which is mostly due rather to the swastika than to the counterfeit as such. ### Is a Montblanc Meisterstück 144 in aubergine or Bordeaux with a black grip section genuine, or is it a counterfeit? The fountain pen is genuine; the components are original Montblanc parts: cap and reservoir come from the 144 in Bordeaux; the front part from a black model of the same caliber (Classique). Bordeaux 144s were until June 1992 delivered by Montblanc basically with a black grip section and fitted with a single-colour gold nib; only from 1992 with the Solitaire Doué series were Bordeaux grip sections with bicolour nib uniformly fitted. The supplied gift packaging, however, comes from the 90s and originally belonged to the Generation and Noblesse Oblige series; it is therefore not necessarily original to the piece. ### Is a Montblanc Meisterstück Pix '10 Years Vodafon' genuine, can one use cartridges or ink bottle, and is the cinnamon ink still available? Based on the description and photos, it is a genuine Montblanc. Both cartridges and filling with the converter from the ink bottle are possible and equivalent in writing quality. The brown cinnamon ink is by current state presumably no longer in the range; a direct enquiry to a Montblanc boutique gives binding information. Alternatively, numerous other inks from other manufacturers are available. ### Is an eBay-acquired Montblanc 149 without serial number on the clip, with Germany engraving, 14K nib and a dash instead of the umlaut points on the word 'Meisterstück' genuine? The 149 is genuine; older Meisterstücks did not yet bear a serial number on the clip, and the deviating spelling of the Ü with dash instead of dots is typical for older models. The combined hints of the buyer (original nib, old engraving form, missing serial) speak for a real 80s model. For further use, another 146 need not necessarily be dried out: with current seals it is not necessary, and with writing instruments with cork seal it suffices to condition them with water some days before filling. ### Can one tell from a single photo and seller description whether a Montblanc Bohème Bleu Platin is an original or a counterfeit? A reliable authenticity assessment based solely on a single photo is, with the Bohème, not possible, since by now very good counterfeits circulate. On the concrete picture, no obvious defects were recognisable, but several description details were wrong: the Bohème does not have a white-gold nib but a platinum-plated yellow-gold nib, and it does not belong to the Meisterstück line. The spelling 'Mont Blanc' is also a warning sign, since the manufacturer officially appears as Montblanc. The mentioned RRP of 749 euros for a 149 was at the time excessive; in the boutiques rather 660 to 679 euros were charged. ### Can one judge on the basis of small, low-resolution photos whether a Montblanc Platinum Resin writing instrument is genuine? At a resolution of only about 53 by 70 pixels, no sensible statements on authenticity are possible; sensible are photos of about 800 pixels width or more. Especially with models from the StarWalker line, counterfeits are by now so good that even on high-quality photos frequently no unambiguous differences to the original are visible. In such cases only a direct authenticity check helps further, e.g. via an enquiry to Montblanc itself (montblanc.de) or via assessment at a specialist retailer. ### How can one tell from the online description and the photos in the clip area whether a Montblanc Bohème ballpoint is genuine? With too small or unfavourably lit photos, a reliable authenticity judgement is hardly possible; a broad selection of nib widths and the presence of a pencil in the seller's range can be indications of a reputable offer, since fakes mostly offer only one nib width and pencils are rarely counterfeited. A serial number alone is no authenticity proof, since even counterfeits by now bear serial numbers. The original has on the clip the embossing 'Pix'; characteristic are also the stone in the corresponding colour (e.g. 'bleu') and the finishing of the rings. Ultimately, only checking the piece in hand at a specialist retailer or in direct comparison with a known original brings certainty. ### How can one judge from an unsharp photo whether the clip of a Montblanc 146 is genuine or counterfeit? On the basis of an unsharp photo, a final judgement is difficult; the clip form of the 146 has slightly changed several times in the course of the decades, so deviating details do not necessarily indicate a counterfeit but can point to an older production period. As far as recognisable, the clip in the specific case appears plausible and fits a not-quite-current writing instrument. For a reliable judgement, a sharp, well-lit photo would be necessary, complemented by details like inner thread, serial number and nib engraving. ### Can one judge from photos whether a used-bought Montblanc StarWalker Resin is genuine? The StarWalker shown makes on the photos an authentic impression: the laser engraving on the clip, the Pix embossing under the clip as well as inside and nib speak for an original; striking counterfeit features are not recognisable. A last residual certainty, however, cannot be derived from photos, since better fakes can look comparable. As an additional practical test, the cap should be easily and evenly screwable on at the rear end; in combination with the visual features that is a strong indication of a real piece. ### Can one recognise from a photo whether a supposed Montblanc fountain pen is a counterfeit and which model it is supposed to be? The fountain pen shown is a poorly executed counterfeit of a Montblanc Solitaire Stainless Steel II. Several original features are not correctly implemented: the cap top has wrong proportions, the three rings are coarsely faked, the inner thread does not fit and the surface pattern of the cap recognisably deviates from the original. Comparison pictures of an original can be found on fountainpen.de under 'solitaire-steel2.htm'. From buying such a piece one is to be advised against. ### Is a supposed Montblanc 146 acquired on eBay genuine, and which nib width does it possess? Based on the posted pictures, the fountain pen can be identified beyond doubt as an original and model 146. The nib width is difficult to judge exactly on photos; the characteristic speaks here most likely for an M or F nib. For a reliable determination, comparison with unambiguously assigned nibs at the specialist retailer or at Montblanc itself is recommended. ### Is the Montblanc ballpoint presented an original or a counterfeit? Based on the submitted pictures, everything speaks for the ballpoint being genuine. A reliable judgement via photos has, however, limits; in case of doubt, presentation to the specialist trade or to the manufacturer in Hamburg is recommended. ### Is the brand 'Croco Romedile' or 'Crocodile/Crocodille' to be classified as a pure plagiarism brand that copies other brands like Montblanc, Parker and Waterman? The brand is unanimously classified as a plagiarist that takes over designs of Parker, Waterman and Montblanc; claim and actual quality lie far apart. The similarity, e.g. on the pen stand to the Montblanc Golden Dragon 2000 or to the Meisterstück Black Resin Collection, is obviously intentional. The internet presence is also linguistically strikingly poor, which further undermines the seriousness of the brand. In parallel, currently high-quality fakes on a larger scale are also being observed in the market; in Italy, for example, 130,000 counterfeit Montblanc Meisterstücks were once confiscated. Given this, the brand is clearly to be assigned to the area of recognising counterfeits. ### Why does a Montblanc 114 Solitaire Vermeil (Mozart) bear the stamp 'Ag925' and the marking 'France' instead of 'Germany' — are certain Montblanc models made in France? The body parts of the Solitaire Mozart were and are made in the former Cartier factory in France, which was taken over by Montblanc years ago. For this reason, according to EU legal requirements, the country of origin 'France' is to be applied to the writing instrument. The marking, however, concerns only these metal parts; central components like feed and nib remain of German manufacture. 'Ag925' stands for sterling silver 925 and is in content identical with the pure number 925. The fountain pen is thus a regular original. ### How effective are commercial providers that track down brand counterfeits at auction houses and online marketplaces? The effectiveness of such service providers is limited, because the detection essentially rests on writing to suspicious sellers; a large part of the fakes is in this way actually not captured. Brand owners formally outsource the problem via corresponding contracts but do not solve it systematically. A complete containment of counterfeits via such 'carefree packages' is therefore unrealistic. ### Does eBay actually advertise on its homepage with a counterfeit Montblanc 164, and are there other manufacturers that use similar three-ring designs? On the ballpoint shown in the advertising, the cap top is missing, and the clip also does not correspond to the original; that speaks clearly for a counterfeit or at least for an unauthorised third-party product. There are indeed hints of an American manufacturer that fits a similar three-ring configuration, but the three rings are largely protected by trademark law for Montblanc; known is e.g. that Diplomat's model 'Senator' could no longer be distributed because of too great proximity to the 149. Comparable plagiarisms are additionally regularly observed in Asian markets like Shanghai or Bangkok. Montblanc in cases of confusion danger generally consistently takes action against violations. ### Is a pen offered for purchase, which purports to be a 'Hommage à Mozart' edition with a flat (instead of arched) cap, an original? There was no alternative Mozart edition with a different cap form than the officially documented variant. The fountain pen in question is not a Mozart but a Montblanc Classic, which is externally related but belongs to another model range. A real Mozart edition is unambiguously identifiable via the official product pictures; deviating cap forms are a clear indication that it is another model or a confusion. ### Is a green Montblanc fountain pen from the 1950s with slightly loose cap rings an original, and how are these oddities to be classified? It is an original Meisterstück from the 1950s in celluloid; in this period there were two different green tones as well as a grey variant. Loose cap rings are typical of celluloid, since the material contracts over time; a repair specialist can press the rings and refasten them. The clip with lever mechanism is additionally regarded as one of the most robust and function-secure constructions Montblanc has ever made but is no longer fitted today. Strongly discoloured examples are frequent; well-preserved, little-yellowed celluloid Meisterstücks from the 1950s are rare and correspondingly high-priced. ### Are the supposed vintage Montblancs with 'Iridium Point Germany' nibs and silver decoration offered in the eBay auctions in question genuine or counterfeit? The depicted nibs with the imprint 'Iridium Point Germany' are unambiguously counterfeits; the matching silver bodies, e.g. the 'Silver Dragon', are also to be classified as fakes. They are the typical coarsely finished vintage Montblanc plagiarisms from Eastern Europe, whereby some of the pieces do not even carry Montblanc-typical nibs. Imprinted 'D.R.P.' numbers have nothing to do with the originals and serve merely the deception of potential buyers. The applied minimum bids of one euro or dollar stand in no relation to the actual value; even the shipping costs are hardly justified. Buyers have repeatedly bought in good faith via auction houses, which after clarification generally respond responsibly and end the auctions. ### How seriously are counterfeits of Montblanc watches from China to be taken, e.g. when they are offered on eBay with a Chinese description? The watch counterfeits from China in circulation are qualitatively significantly worse than the originals and generally immediately recognisable as fakes. In some auctions even a photo from the official Montblanc website is used, without the actual product corresponding to this picture. Anyone who imports the counterfeit goods from China and resells in Germany at higher prices is committing clear trademark violation. Overall, the concern about deceptively real Chinese Montblanc watch counterfeits is currently to be classified as low. ### Which features speak for a newly acquired Montblanc Le Grand 146 being genuine, and how reliably does the authenticity check by Montblanc itself turn out? Since counterfeits become technically ever better and circulate in numerous variants, originals cannot be unambiguously determined via one or two individual features but only via the totality of components. Indications for an original are, among others, the presence of various nib widths — counterfeits practically always carry the width 'M' — as well as the correct execution of clip, cap, star and engraving. The authenticity assessment by Montblanc based on submitted photos generally proceeds swiftly and competently; the query about an engraved ID serves here the internal assignment and is no indication of a counterfeit. On this basis, a presented 146 can without problem be confirmed as an original. ### How can counterfeit Montblanc StarWalker rollerballs and fountain pens with 'Iridium Point Germany' nibs be recognised, and which eBay auction patterns are suspicious? On the rollerball, the rear body part is, on the counterfeit, black instead of — as on the original — executed in metal. On the StarWalker fountain pen, the original carries a characteristic, clearly different nib that the counterfeits do not reproduce in this way. Generally, auctions are suspicious that run only one day, in which the sellers come from typical counterfeit regions like China or Poland, or in which the names of the highest bidders are hidden so that they cannot directly be warned. A direct reaction by eBay to hints is experience-based ineffective; whether Montblanc on direct contact intervenes faster is unclear. ### Is it unusual that a Montblanc Meisterstück 'Hommage à F. Chopin' (145P) was delivered with 18 carat / 750 instead of 14 carat / 585, and does that speak against authenticity? No, an 18-carat nib on a 145P does not necessarily speak against authenticity; writing instruments from the French market are factory-equipped with an 18-carat gold nib. The internet dealer presumably sourced the goods via French supply chains, or the nib was later regularly exchanged. Since the 145 does not exist in a Solitaire version, a model confusion is ruled out. The other authenticity features — magnifier star, belly band with 'Montblanc Meisterstück Pix', clip engraving with serial number and 'Germany' — fit an original. A counterfeit is therefore unlikely. ### How should one react to counterfeit Montblanc writing instruments at internet auctions? Direct mails to the sellers mostly have little effect but can become more effective if one points to the legal consequences from trademark protection law and links to corresponding information pages. More successful is generally the reporting via the official platform mechanisms or the trademark owner. Caution is in order, because some providers react aggressively; therefore it is recommended to formulate hints factually and without personal accusations. ### Is an unknown Montblanc-like model a counterfeit? Yes, it is a counterfeit. Counterfeiters often design pure fantasy products that cannot be assigned to a real Montblanc model, which explains the futile comparison with picture material of real pieces. The designation 'Montblanc' may therefore not be used for such a product. ### How can a business-card case of the Montblanc 'Platinum' series be distinguished from a counterfeit or another leather series? Montblanc made a complete range of leather goods in the Platinum line, including business-card cases. Decisive for the correct assignment is the colour of the corner reinforcement: a gold-coloured corner refers to the older Solitaire leather series; a silvery or platinum-plated corner to the Platinum series. Both variants are genuine; deviating inner fabrics compared to other leather articles are possible, since the materials between lines and across production years can vary. ### Is the box of a used Montblanc 146 with a whitish-discoloured logo in the lid genuine or counterfeit? The box is genuine; the waxy white substance in the lid logo is not part of the original finishing but was subsequently introduced by a previous owner, e.g. as 'customising'. Such colour residues can generally be removed without great effort, without the box taking damage. ### Is an offered used Montblanc 146 trustworthy and is the price appropriate, or should one rather buy a new one? The provider named (gidania, Jürgen Kuhse) is regarded in the collector scene as highly reliable; one can trust his statements. The price named for a 146 from the 1980s is fair and appropriate. If the pen, however, is intended as a gift for a beginner, it is recommended to buy a new 146 with full warranty and nib selection, since vintage pieces with specialist retailers do not entail the same service. ### Which typographies and digit counts exist with Montblanc serial numbers? Older writing instruments bear round digits; around the year 2000 Montblanc switched to an angular, computer-like font. Laser engraving is basically used with both variants. The number of digits varies: older or higher-quality models often have five-digit serial numbers; today's are generally six- to seven-digit; a completely consistent numbering systematics cannot be derived. ### How are Montblanc offers from China to be evaluated that apparently offer originals at striking prices? The pictures shown in the auction text mostly come from originals; the goods themselves, however, are either a counterfeit or after payment not even delivered. Striking indications are identically-sounding serial numbers, deviating nib engravings, black stars on inserts and wrong spellings in the designations. With high-quality ranges like Patron of Art or Writers Edition, nibs are by now very precisely imitated, which is why general caution is advised in buying Chinese Limited Edition offers. ### How widespread are counterfeits of older Montblanc writing instruments and how does an auction platform react to them? Counterfeits of old Montblanc pens, e.g. of the 1930s and 1940s, are rarer than with current models but, through high closing prices, particularly dangerous. Platforms like eBay cannot recognise such offers independently and can only intervene if the rights holder reports them as a plagiarism. Certain counterfeit types, e.g. those with Krupp nibs, turn up repeatedly in identical construction and are documented in specialised articles and forums. ### Are two found Montblanc Bohème ballpoints originals or counterfeits? Both pieces are modern counterfeits without collector value. Real Bohème writing instruments move price-wise in the range of about 850 to 1,000 euros at the new price and can hardly be expected as coincidental finds in larger numbers. A sale as an original would thus be ruled out. ### Does the Montblanc Meisterstück Solitaire Doué 144 also exist with a gold-plated silver cap and what does 'Metal 2' on the clip ring mean? The Solitaire Doué exists regularly with a gold-plated cap in the model sizes 144, 146, 163, 164 and 165, each with thread-guilloched decoration; the 144 has the ID number 03495-98 or 14144 with a list price around 535 euros. The gold-plated variant is mainly known from the Bordeaux writing instruments, on which the cap is of gold-plated sterling silver and the body of dark-red precious resin; a black-body variant with gold-plated silver cap is rarer. The meaning of the imprint 'Metal 2' on the clip ring is not finally clarified in the collector circle. ### Is a Montblanc Miguel de Cervantes as a rollerball with detachable cap genuine? Of the Miguel de Cervantes, never a rollerball was produced; the edition comprises exclusively fountain pen, ballpoint and pencil. A piece designated as a rollerball with detachable cap is therefore a counterfeit. Anyone owning such a variant should not rely on an authenticity confirmation and can cross-check the official model statements on the Montblanc website. ### How does one recognise counterfeits of the Montblanc Writers Edition Franz Kafka? Real Kafka pieces show a slightly reddish shimmer of the surface and bear on the box an attached strip with the individual limitation number; on counterfeits, both features are frequently missing. A clear exclusion criterion is the construction: the Kafka does not exist as a rollerball; every such offer is therefore necessarily a counterfeit. Packaging and accompanying material are by now very elaborately copied, so the exact comparison with documented original material is recommended. ### Is a found ballpoint with the inscription 'Montblanc-Noblesse-Germany' genuine and which refill fits? The ballpoint is most likely a real Montblanc Noblesse I of stainless steel with gilded trim. In contrast to the more recent Noblesse range, the model works with a click mechanism whose spring-mounted clip triggers the retrieval function via a nipple; the deviating mechanism is thus typical and no authenticity indication against Montblanc. Matching refills are available via every Montblanc specialist retailer; before ordering, the exact construction or refill should be checked. ### Is an old Montblanc Meisterstück ballpoint without a clip-ring number with 'W.-Germany' stamping genuine? Older Meisterstücks from the period before the fall of the Wall bear the marking 'W.-Germany' and do not in all cases have a number on the clip ring; the absence of this number is therefore no counterfeit indication. There also exist W.-Germany pieces with clip-ring number, the practice was not entirely uniform. A reliable authenticity feature is compatibility with Montblanc original refills: into typical counterfeits of that time, only Parker-system refills fit, so a ballpoint that takes a Montblanc refill is most likely genuine. ### Does a writing-instrument stand acquired at a flea market, which fits the Montblanc ink bottle, come from Montblanc? The stand does not come from Montblanc, even if the Montblanc ink bottle is precisely accommodated. Comparable matching reception is rather of coincidental nature; use with the original ink bottle is independent of this possible. ### How can originals and counterfeits be reliably distinguished on the Montblanc StarWalker? Indications of originality are, among others, a clip ring whose 'Germany' embossing was, in the early period, stamped and not laser-engraved, as well as a clean and correctly engraved nib. Counterfeits often reveal themselves through faulty inscriptions like 'IRIDIUM POINT PARIS', which do not occur on a real Montblanc. The StarWalker officially exists only in two colour variants, Resin Black and RubberLine; deviating versions are not authentic. In case of doubt, assessment at the authorised specialist retailer or comparison with documented examples is recommended. ### Are older Montblanc pencils with odd model number and 1.18 mm lead as well as associated butterfly-nib pens authentic originals? The writing instruments mentioned are actually originals, even if they do not correspond to today's high-price expectation. Until into the 1980s, Montblanc produced alongside the Meisterstücks also much mass goods in middle price ranges; only under Norbert Platt was the brand decidedly positioned in the luxury segment. The mentioned pencil 164 is led as an official Meisterstück, in the 1960s and 1970s recognisable by the 'bishop's hat' at the cap ring. The nib named is correctly to be designated as 'butterfly nib' (German Schmetterlingsfeder), not as 'wing nib'; the latter refers to certain models of the 1950s like 252, 254 and 256. Further information can be found in the book 'Collectible Stars' by Stefan Wallrafen. ### How can one judge relatively reliably on a Montblanc StarWalker on eBay whether it is an original? A reliable recognition feature is the nib, which counterfeiters have so far not been able to imitate with high quality. Since Montblanc does not sell any replacement nibs to end customers and repairs only run via the authorised service, it is additionally uneconomical for counterfeiters to fit individual original nibs into imitations. A purchase from a commercial provider with a 14-day right of return additionally allows checking with the specialist retailer. A personal pickup additionally enables visual inspection of further details before purchase. ### How can a Montblanc W.A. Mozart and Chopin from an auction house be checked for authenticity and warranty claim? On the photos provided, it was, according to the assessment of experienced collectors, originals. Important, however, is the status of the service guide: if it is not delivered filled in by an authorised specialist retailer, the possibility of the free nib exchange in the first two weeks as well as the full nib warranty falls away; a pure dealer's guarantee on the article can indeed exist but does not replace this. Safety-oriented buyers should therefore prefer specialist retailers or Montblanc boutiques or have a planned Mozart/Chopin directly checked by Montblanc. Even with reputable dealers like Handelshaus Rheinländer, authenticity is given, but without automatic nib warranty. ### How can a counterfeit be recognised on a Montblanc W. Faulkner ballpoint, and how is the eBay dealer to be evaluated? An unambiguous list of features that only originals show cannot be drawn up, since counterfeits have very different qualities. An indication is the inscription Pix highlighted under the clip, which is present on many originals but not on all, which is why the absence is no sure exclusion criterion. With commercial sellers with positive ratings, the risk is manageable through the legal right of return; nevertheless, purchase from the authorised specialist retailer is recommended, since internet dealers are neither tolerated nor authorised by Montblanc. In case of doubt, a staff member of a boutique can subsequently judge the authenticity. ### Can it be judged from the eBay pictures whether an acquired Montblanc set is genuine, and how is the use of foreign sale photos to be evaluated? The depicted pens appear, based on the pictures, most likely genuine; however, the nib shown in the gallery picture fits rather a 149 and presumably does not come from the offered piece. The use of foreign pictures in eBay auctions is legally problematic, since pictures are part of the offer and bidders have the right to original photos of the concrete article. Adopted photos are often a warning sign for counterfeits or unclean sales and lead to no valid sales contract coming about. A reliable estimate only succeeds after receipt of the goods based on one's own photos. ### Is a Montblanc Copernicus offered on eBay a counterfeit? With an instant-buy price of 95 euros and multiple availability, a counterfeit is to be assumed with almost one hundred percent certainty. Even if the photo is unsharp, several anomalies speak against an original. It is not unusual that counterfeiters use original photos for their offers, which is why the photo alone is no authenticity proof. On relevant fake platforms, numerous Montblanc imitations from standard models to Limited Editions are offered. ### Is the 75th Anniversary 1924 Solitaire series by Montblanc by now being counterfeited, and how is the imitation to be evaluated? Counterfeits of this series too exist, in which black rings and jagged star were adopted. The imitation, however, is poorly executed in craft, e.g. recognisable by the crooked positioning of the brilliant. Despite the deficient quality, for such fakes prices over 100 euros are partly bid. ### Which rare model is a small black Montblanc about 7 cm with 14-carat nib, star with the number 00 and hexagonal star on the cap? It is a very rare, absolutely genuine Montblanc Double Zero Baby Safety with a long cap from the period about 1920 to 1924. A counterfeit can be excluded, since counterfeiters generally do not bear the effort of an original gold nib and use glass nibs instead. Complete model lists of Montblanc do not exist, which is why rare early pieces are hardly to be found in the literature. In restored condition with the star shining again, the model reaches a considerable collector value. ### Is a Montblanc Meisterstück 146 with bicolour nib, striped ink window, Germany embossing without serial number and a visible metal screw inside the cap genuine? Without a photo a reliable judgement is not possible; the described features sound, however, inconspicuous. The metal screw inside the cap is found on all Meisterstücks; on newer models it is additionally hidden by a blind cap and therefore not visible. The described appearance is thus no indication of a counterfeit. ### Is a Montblanc rollerball won at eBay, allegedly originating from the Bohème range, an original? It is a counterfeit. A typical indication is the black Montblanc star on the inside of the packaging, since this is on originals never black. Additionally, the pen is not a Bohème but a counterfeit of a StarWalker RubberLine. If already the packaging is unambiguously imitated, most likely the writing instrument itself is no original goods. ### Is it worth bidding on eBay on a Montblanc Solitaire Nikolai I, and is the offer despite unsharp pictures to be judged as genuine? The pictures allow an original to be recognised; several assessments confirm the authenticity. Whether a purchase is economically sensible depends on the highest bid and personal collector interest; in regular clearance sales, prices around 685 euros are called up for this model. Buyers report very good writing properties of the model. ### Is a Montblanc 146 with a strikingly thick middle ring a Wedding Pen or an Anniversary variant? The thick middle ring consists of 585 gold; the pen is a Wedding Pen. The Wedding Pens were historically presented in boutiques as a set consisting of a 144 and a 146, which points to the paired sales idea. The narrower 144 was intended for more delicate hands, the somewhat larger 146 as the counterpart. In black both variants also exist, which regularly causes surprise among collectors who previously knew only the 144. ### Is a Montblanc Meisterstück 149 from 2014 genuine if on the nib Au750 instead of 18K and under the clip Metal Germany Pix is engraved? The pen is genuine. The inscription 18 kt is found only on older nibs; newer nibs bear the marking Au 750 or Au 585, which is why this marking indicates the age and not the authenticity. The additional inscription Pix under the clip or on the cap has been applied more frequently in recent years, because Pix is in many countries protectable as a brand, while Meisterstück cannot be protected everywhere. The combination of the named features is thus a normal characteristic of current production. ### Does Montblanc offer its own jeans collection? With the pictures of alleged Montblanc jeans in circulation, it is a fake, and a poor-quality one. An official jeans line does not belong to the Montblanc range. ### Is a fountain pen offered as a Montblanc Noblesse genuine, and how can pictures be uploaded? The pen described is an original. The design corresponds to the taste of the 1970s; comparable writing instruments also existed from other manufacturers like Markant. For picture upload in the forum, a maximum resolution of 499 by 499 pixels applies; larger pictures cannot be uploaded. ### Is a Montblanc case won at eBay with an unusual logo a counterfeit, and how can the purchase be reversed? The case described is a counterfeit; the deviating logo is an unambiguous recognition feature; original cases typically show a clamping for holding the fountain pen. For reversal, the path via PayPal buyer protection is recommended, since the effort is small. With proven counterfeit, the fake status can be confirmed by Montblanc and, if applicable, a complaint filed, since the sale of counterfeits in Germany is punishable. Buyers should carefully check cases before payment, since counterfeiters often make obvious errors on the logo. ### Is a fountain pen acquired at an auction a known Montblanc model? The pen is a counterfeit. Striking are, among other things, black spaces between the rings as well as a cap form not occurring on originals. In comparison with the original Solitaire Silver Doué or Solitaire Steel Doué, the differences become clearly visible. ### How can I recognise whether my Montblanc Meisterstück Classique ballpoint is genuine, and of what does the material really consist? The Meisterstück writing instruments consist of so-called precious resin, that is, a plastic (similar to plexiglass), not of real natural resin. An exception is the Mozart series, which due to the small wall thickness is made of lacquered metal. Originals typically show a plastic body with metal tip, while counterfeits often consist entirely of lacquered metal. A small chipping behind which yellowish-shimmering material appears can be attributable to the metal tip or simply to ingressed dirt and is no unambiguous authenticity feature. Based on the length and the detail photos, the model number (e.g. 116) can be narrowed down. ### Is it normal that a Montblanc 145 Meisterstück appears slightly reddish-transparent when held against strong light? Yes, the precious resin of the Meisterstücks is slightly transparent against a strong light source and can thereby show a reddish shimmer; this is an authenticity feature. It is to be noted that the material is additionally sensitive to heat. Counterfeits typically consist of lacquered metal and are thereby opaque. ### How can oddities on a Montblanc Classique Platin Line ballpoint 164P be evaluated, e.g. position of the clip engraving, type of engraving and missing PIX logo? The engraving under the clip reads on current models 'Made in Germany' instead of 'PIX'; that is therefore inconspicuous. The position of the serial number on the clip edge has been changed several times in the course of production and is therefore no reliable authenticity criterion. The inscription should regularly be a laser engraving; however, current counterfeits also use engravings, so this feature has lost meaning. With the large-capacity refills, variants existed over the years too. For concrete authenticity check, an enquiry to Montblanc Service via the contact form on the website with the complete serial number is recommended. ### How can one tell whether a Meisterstück from an unknown source is an original or a counterfeit? If the writing instrument shown does not correspond to any documented Montblanc model, it is beyond doubt a counterfeit. Typical recognition features of plagiarisms are unusual spaces between the cap rings, deviating inscriptions like 'MONT BLANC' (instead of Montblanc), occasionally even with spelling errors, and nib inscriptions with general terms like 'Iridium Point'. Such pieces are produced in Asia in large numbers at low prices. The designs resemble no really existing model, which eases identification as a fake. ### Is a Montblanc pilot's briefcase No. 30860 offered via an internet dealer an original model, and which pilot's briefcases existed at all? The offered briefcase comes from the years-ago discontinued Solitaire leather collection in matt black soft leather, which should not be confused with the nappa leather of the Platin line. Gilded corners on small leather goods were usual in this series and no indication of a counterfeit. Alongside, pilot's briefcases existed from the 4810 Eastside collection (No. 07578, dimensions 47x35x19 cm) as well as from the Meisterstück line. The Solitaire variant is significantly smaller. Current pilot's briefcases are no longer led by Montblanc in the regular range. ### Has Montblanc ever produced a travel trolley, or are corresponding offers counterfeits? A Montblanc travel trolley does not belong to the official range; corresponding offers are unquestionably counterfeits. At Asian leather-goods fairs, e.g. in Shenzhen, Montblanc-printed bags, cases and trolleys are produced in container loads and distributed via eBay as well as at border markets in Europe. Even sellers with a high rating can offer such plagiarisms commercially; a high rating count is therefore no authenticity indicator. ### Did a Montblanc Platinum ballpoint from the series '75 years Passion and Soul' exist, or is it necessarily a counterfeit? A Platinum variant of the Anniversary Edition '75 Years Passion and Soul' was never produced; offered were exclusively steel and black versions. Further typical fake features are the black case in the packaging, the inside white box (originals are inside black) as well as blurred product photos. Such writing instruments are produced at manufacturing costs of about 10 euros and offered for 100 to 150 dollars as originals. Caution: counterfeiters partly also use real original photos, so pictures alone are no authenticity guarantee. ### How risky is the purchase of a Montblanc Meisterstück 149 from a Turkish eBay seller without ratings? The risk is high regardless of whether the auction photos show a real 149. With sellers without ratings from abroad, there is a considerable danger that the delivered goods do not correspond to the description or fail to arrive entirely. Disreputable providers also regularly use foreign photos found via image search, so the illustrations have little meaning. A comparable 149 in coral costs in specialist trade around 900 to 1000 euros; with doubtful offers, distance is to be kept. ### How does one tell whether a Montblanc Generation ballpoint acquired via eBay is genuine, and what does the supplied plastic packaging mean? Based on the features shown, the ballpoint can be classified as an original; obvious counterfeit features are not recognisable. The transparent plastic packaging is an internal shipping packaging that Montblanc uses for delivery to dealers and boutiques; dealers are actually required not to pass it on in sales. An unfilled warranty card is therefore no indication of a counterfeit. Original refills can be reliably obtained via established online shops like missing-pen.de. ### Is the gold nib of a Montblanc 246 only with the inscription '4810' and star, without further information like '14C' or '585', original? The nib depicted is likely genuine but does not regularly belong in the 246: it looks like a Meisterstück nib from the 1930s, recognisable by the small logo hallmark under the main logo. On a regular 246 nib, 'MONTBLANC', the logo, '14C', again 'MONTBLANC' and '585' should be stamped. An exception are France models: since France only recognises gold from 18 carat, writing instruments sold there were delivered with 18-carat nibs, partly by drawing on old stock of Meisterstück nibs. Thus the nib can also be correct in a 246 destined for France. ### How is a Montblanc StarWalker Rubber Line offered on eBay at a strikingly low price to be evaluated, even if the pictures look like an original? Strikingly cheap offers are most likely counterfeits or fraud attempts. Sellers often use original photos but deliver plagiarisms; especially Chinese online shops use picture material of real writing instruments. A second variant is identity theft: hacked eBay accounts are misused for mass phantom sales; the money goes to the perpetrators. Indications are many identical expensive sets with one seller with few, exclusively buyer ratings. If needed, payment should be made exclusively via PayPal with credit card in order to keep both refund routes open; in case of doubt, the purchase is to be refrained from. ### How can serial fake sellers be recognised on eBay who distribute plagiarisms over a longer time? Repeat offenders are often recognisable by using the same product photos for months and only changing the seller name. Occasionally, providers combine an original photo with a second shot that, however, shows a plagiarism; decisive are fine differences e.g. in the grooves or inscriptions. Even sellers who unintentionally take over picture material from foreign auctions can distribute plagiarisms. A careful picture analysis and comparison with documented originals are therefore indispensable. ### How can the Montblanc 75 Years of Passion and Soul (Ballpoint 164) be verified as an original, and are the unfamiliar imprints on cap and clip typical of authenticity? With the Anniversary Edition 75 Years of Passion and Soul, there are body and nib versions whose engravings do not look exactly like the standard Meisterstück. Thus the Pix imprint on the inside of the clip can appear with an inconspicuous (R) and the cap embossing read only 'Montblanc-Meisterstück-' without the Pix addition. These features are confirmed as correct through comparison with the sister model 144. With remaining doubts, an authenticity check in a Montblanc boutique is recommended, which brings final certainty. ### Is a Hommage à Chopin with silver instead of gold trim a counterfeit, and how can a hesitant ink flow on broad nibs be remedied? The Hommage à Chopin also exists as a Platinum variant with platinum-plated/silver-looking trim; a silver-banded Chopin is therefore not necessarily a counterfeit but often the more expensive Platinum version. Problems with the ink flow can generally be adjusted in a Montblanc boutique. Before that, the attempt with other inks (e.g. blue from Lamy, Pelikan or Montblanc) is worthwhile, since the flow properties vary significantly. Failures with broad nibs (B/BB) are frequent at first, since Montblanc nibs are flat and not strongly rounded ground; 'breaking in' concerns rather the hand than the pen. If the problem remains after several weeks, an examination by service is sensible. ### How does one recognise high-quality Montblanc counterfeits, e.g. of Special Editions like the Writers Edition? Even optically deceptive counterfeits can be identified by detail features: non-gilded cap and body rings, wrong feed, steel instead of gold nib as well as a packaging not matching the edition. Even individually-appearing clip numbers and nearly correct stars are now being imitated. Counterfeits predominantly occur with cartridge fillers; piston fillers like Writers Edition models are more elaborate to copy and thus comparatively rarely counterfeited – but occasionally yes. To minimise risk, purchase from a Montblanc boutique or an established specialist retailer is recommended instead of from unknown online providers. ### How can the authenticity be secured when buying a Montblanc Solitaire Carbon/Steel ballpoint on eBay if the seller has only few ratings? Even if the photo shown depicts a real Montblanc, that says nothing about the goods actually sent; more problematic than crude counterfeits are today virtual offers (sellers with few ratings, prepayment, identical texts/pictures). Sensible safeguards are the express question about originality, the offer of cash payment on collection and the written authenticity guarantee. If the seller refuses collection and gives no clear authenticity assurance, a purchase at higher amounts is to be advised against. ### What should be considered when buying a Montblanc Chopin (M145) as a gift, especially regarding nib width and eBay risks? Decisive for later use is the right nib width that fits the writing habits of the gift recipient; otherwise the fountain pen remains unused. Before purchase, an inconspicuous test with other fountain pens is therefore recommended to determine the preferred line thickness. When buying from an established Montblanc dealer, the nib can typically be exchanged within 14 days; on eBay this safety net is not given, which is why caution is advised with private sellers and especially with providers with few ratings. ### Are older Montblanc Meisterstücks without serial number (146 converter, ballpoint, pencil) necessarily counterfeits, and what does the clip engraving 'W-Germany' or 'Germany' mean? The absence of a serial number is no indication of a counterfeit, since Montblanc introduced serial numbers only relatively late; counterfeits today often even bear fictitious numbers. A 146 without platinum intarsia on the nib usually indicates production in the 1980s. The clip engraving 'W-Germany' stands for manufacture before reunification 1990, 'Germany' for later production. Further detail features can be compared via the historical model descriptions on fountainpen.de. ### Does a Montblanc Bohème Steel ballpoint exist, and what price is appropriate for a used example in mediocre condition? The Bohème Steel ballpoint exists; compared to the black precious-resin variant, it is significantly more expensive (new price around 690 euros). The value on the second-hand market depends strongly on the polishing condition: if scratches can be polished out, the purchase can be worthwhile; deeper damage on metal models can expose the coating, and a complete replacement by Montblanc is in such cases very expensive. For a near-scratch-free example, a price around 240 euros counts as a bargain, while offers in worn condition are to be critically checked. ### How can an S.T. Dupont money clip in palladium be checked for authenticity, and is a price around 300 euros for four pieces realistic? S.T. Dupont counterfeits, especially in lighters and accessories, are technically often very high-quality, which is why a missing serial number or precious-metal hallmark alone is no unambiguous authenticity indication; the 'Made in England' stamp is, however, unusual for a French brand and should be questioned. Since the model is to be found neither via Google nor in the official product database, it is likely an older or already discontinued variant. For verification, it is recommended to send photos directly to S.T. Dupont or to involve specialised accessories forums before a purchase in larger quantities. ### Is a Montblanc with only "Montblanc Germany" on the cap edge a 121, and did it also exist as a cartridge filler? The Montblanc 121 was, according to the relevant literature (Collectible Stars by Stefan Wallrafen), made exclusively as a piston filler. A cartridge-filler variant is not documented; therefore the suspicion is close that it is a mixed assembly, e.g. with a body of a 220 and a cap from the 121. A counterfeit is with these editions practically ruled out, since they are uninteresting for counterfeiters. Ultimately the variant remains difficult to unambiguously assign. ### How is an eBay offer of a Montblanc Mozart set from a dealer without specialist-trade status to be evaluated? On the photos, no signs of a counterfeit are recognisable; the set appears original. The assured two-year warranty, however, is problematic, since this can actually only be granted by authorised specialist retailers, who may not sell on eBay. Such offers often come from foreclosure sales of former specialist retailers or from clearance sales of office-furnishing houses that have discontinued the writing-instrument business. A warranty via the manufacturer is in such cases not to be expected. ### How can one tell whether a Montblanc StarWalker with eight transverse grooves on the body auctioned on eBay is genuine? The StarWalker fountain pen can above all be unambiguously distinguished from the fake by the characteristic original nib; comparison photos can be found on relevant collector sites. The discussion about the transverse grooves primarily concerned the ballpoint, on which original and counterfeit are harder to separate. Important: an original StarWalker fountain pen can, by design, only be filled with cartridges, not with a converter, since the rough grip section contains a special component inside. If a converter fits, it is a fake. ### Are the depicted Montblanc ballpoints Ballpix 780, Carrera 570 multi-colour and Junior 690 originals? All three depicted pieces are originals. Important for the classification: Montblanc has only been a pure luxury-goods manufacturer since 1991; before that, the entire spectrum from cheap school writing instrument to luxury product was made. Owing to today's perception as a luxury brand, even used simple models from that time often achieve more than their original new price. ### Is an older lever filler with overlay an original Montblanc when a letter of Montblanc service from the twenties is available? Despite the available letter, most likely no original is present. The letter from Montblanc is linguistically cautiously formulated ("writing-instrument type that we have made") and does not rule out that the concrete piece does not come from Montblanc. The overlay shows rather English production features; the clip could point to Pforzheim or an English manufacturer like Swan. Also the lever does not fit in this form to Montblanc production and would originally have been gilded. Additionally, the typical Montblanc star in the characteristic form is missing. Caution when buying such pieces is advised despite the accompanying letter. ### Can a supposedly old Montblanc fountain pen without model number and with an inconspicuous nib be identified based on photos? The piece is a Montblanc SlimLine (SL) cartridge fountain pen, built between 1979 and 1982. It has a brass core with plastic surface, gilded trim and a gilded steel nib; the then shop price was about 49 DM. The SlimLine series was settled in the lower price segment, intended for school pupils and students, and lay below the Noblesse and the Meisterstück ranges. A rough model determination based on clear photos is mostly possible; with rare pieces a personal assessment is necessary. ### How does one recognise counterfeits of the Montblanc Lalique 4810 Limited fountain pen stand, which partly turn up without obvious features? Recognisable are counterfeits, among other things, by a black star on the packaging as well as by the inferior packaging quality overall. There have, however, also been very well-made fakes without these obvious hints sold, e.g. by an American provider who earned around 160 US dollars per stand. Even experienced collectors have already fallen for well-made fakes like the Greta Garbo. Therefore: always compare carefully and inform oneself thoroughly before purchase. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Patron of Arts Lalique (1991): https://www.fountainpen.de/patron-lalique-en.htm ### Is a Montblanc Rouge et Noir fountain pen without a serial number on the clip ring despite the presence of Pix genuine? Yes, the predecessor variants Noir et Noir and Rouge et Noir were delivered before the Bohème series without an identification number in the clip ring. The missing serial number is therefore no indication of a counterfeit. The writing instrument is therefore to be regarded as original. ### How can two inherited, supposedly original Montblanc writing instruments (Karajan ballpoint) be verified based on poor photos? The pieces depicted are presumably Montblanc Donation ballpoints of the Karajan series. Owing to the dark, unsharp photos, a reliable authenticity confirmation is not possible, since well-made counterfeits are known. A typical indication of fakes is a thinly stamped clip pin instead of a massive original clip; therefore a detail shot of the back of the clip is recommended. Without better pictures, the final judgement remains open. ### Has the Montblanc Bohème ever existed as a gilded variant with a black onyx stone? The Montblanc Bohème actually exists with a black stone on the clip; this is even one of the most-sold variants of the series, which formerly bore the name Rouge & Noir. The trim consists, however, not of white gold but is platinum-plated; a gilding with white gold Montblanc has never offered on the Bohème. The pieces described in the offer are most likely genuine; only the seller's material description is misleading. For a final judgement, meaningful photos are helpful. ### How is one to deal with professional sellers who auction obvious counterfeits of old Montblanc writing instruments and do not react to hints? Even experienced professional sellers occasionally offer counterfeits, e.g. from a normal 136 and celluloid assembled supposed rarities that can achieve high prices in the high four-digit range. Especially with old writing instruments, counterfeits are often so well made that even collectors do not recognise them at first glance. If a seller is pointed to a counterfeit and does not react or only refers to the previous owner, this behaviour is to be classified as bordering on fraud and damages his credibility. Buyers should exercise particular caution with such providers and have offers in case of doubt checked by experienced collectors. ### Are there at Montblanc counterfeits with plastic housings or are the counterfeits restricted to lacquered metal housings? Montblanc counterfeits with resin or plastic housings have existed for some time, even if lacquered metal housings are more frequently encountered. A known example is the counterfeit of the Limited Edition Kafka, which also consists of resin. With the counterfeit of the Greta Garbo, even a new, significantly improved nib variant was discovered that comes very close to the original. The quality of the imitations thus continuously rises also in the area of materials and nibs, which makes identification for laypersons increasingly difficult. ### Can one judge from unsharp photos whether a Montblanc 144 is genuine or a counterfeit, and can converters from other manufacturers fit? A reliable authenticity check is not possible without sharp, detail-rich photos; especially the imprints on the nib must be clearly recognisable. A clear warning sign in the present judgement was a converter that unambiguously did not come from Montblanc. Converters of other makes can mechanically fit but do not speak for an original set. Imprints like Germany on the clip alone do not deliver authenticity proof. ### Is the Montblanc Soulmakers 100 Anniversary Bohème offered on eBay a counterfeit? The writing instrument is genuine; it is the officially issued Bohème 1906 Edition for the 100-year company jubilee of Montblanc. Further information and illustrations can be found at fountainpen.de on the page on the Anniversary 100 Bohème 1906. The model is actually comparatively little known, which can cause uncertainty in sales. ### Can a Montblanc pen bought as Edition Chopin with 18-carat gold nib be identified as an original and the correct model? The fountain pen described is genuine, but it is not the Meisterstück 145 Chopin but the cheaper, meanwhile discontinued Meisterstück 144. An 18-carat gold nib indicates that the piece was originally intended for the French market, since 14-carat gold nibs are not permitted there. The longitudinally ribbed feed without lamellas is typical of older models; newer devices have lamellas on the feed. A matching piston converter can be bought in specialist trade for under 10 euros. On the 144 it is also normal that the cap bears neither a serial number nor a Pix embossing on the inside of the clip. ### Which Montblanc leather case from an eBay auction could it be if it is not findable online anywhere? An unambiguous identification of the case was not possible in the forum. The supposition that it could be the leather sleeve for the Leonardo Sketchpen was rejected based on a direct comparison photo. Possibly it is a free case from a special campaign, which given the unfindability in the regular range appears plausible. For large writing instruments above the LeGrand, such cases offer anyway no sufficient protection. ### How is one to deal with sellers who suddenly offer counterfeit writing instruments from apparently hacked eBay accounts? Currently, hacked eBay accounts are being used in increased numbers in order to offer, often inferior, counterfeits originating from China; affected are not only Montblanc writing instruments but also brand products like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Fendi and Nokia mobile phones. eBay can hardly keep up with deleting such auctions, and help for affected account holders is primarily only offered via English-language live chat. Striking is when an account suddenly offers completely different articles than before, which points to a takeover. Recommended is a daily check of one's own eBay account in order to recognise unnoticed third-party activities early. The eBay toolbar is said to offer some protection but does not replace regular checking. ### Does an enquiry of the serial number to the manufacturer offer certainty whether a Montblanc bought in a shop is genuine or a counterfeit? A mere enquiry of the serial number to the manufacturer does not deliver certainty, since even counterfeits can be provided with fictitious serial numbers and Montblanc, without inspection, gives no authenticity statement. Certainty is given only by sending the writing instrument to Montblanc; genuine pieces are returned, counterfeits disposed of. By now also very well-made counterfeits exist that are not distinguishable from originals at first and second glance but hardly turn up in reputable shops. An experienced specialist, however, reliably recognises these counterfeits. ### Why do buyers bid on obviously counterfeit Montblanc writing instruments on eBay partly high amounts, and how should one behave as a buyer? Even clearly recognisable counterfeits regularly achieve three-figure bids on eBay, because buyers often do not inform themselves sufficiently or deliberately speculate on a supposed bargain price. A geographical concentration e.g. in the new federal states cannot be evidenced; location indications can be set arbitrarily. Basically, prepayment on eBay bears a high risk, since the effort to enforce rights in case of dispute mostly exceeds the goods value. Anyone not wanting to pay the boutique price must calculate the risk of being cheated. Safe procedure are careful checking of the pictures, research of the model features and avoiding obvious plagiarisms. ### How can one judge after an eBay purchase whether a Montblanc Meisterstück 144 is genuine? Based on the posted auction pictures a tendency can often already be recognised; a serious authenticity check, however, requires the pen in hand. In the specific case, the piece depicted on the photos seemed original, which however does not rule out that after shipping another example is delivered. Therefore one should after receipt carefully compare the delivery with the auction pictures and, in case of deviations, use the eBay buyer-protection deadlines. ### Does the Montblanc Meisterstück No. 149 exist with both 14-carat and 18-carat gold nibs? On the Meisterstück 149, both 14-carat and 18-carat gold nibs were actually fitted. The variant depends on the year of manufacture and country of destination and can also overlap within a series. A 14-carat nib is therefore no indication of a counterfeit. Overviews of the various 149 variants can be found in collector databases like pentrace.com as well as in older forum posts. ### Are the briefcases shown in a particular online offer really original Montblanc products or counterfeits? The briefcases linked in the post are counterfeits. They are sold via corresponding dubious sources. A purchase of such pieces is therefore advised against. ### Is a Montblanc Meisterstück ballpoint acquired on eBay with a serial number on the upper ring and Pix engraving genuine? Based on the pictures shown, the ballpoint appears genuine. Authenticity features are, among others, the Pix engraving, the clean rotary mechanism for extending the refill as well as correctly seated rings and engravings on the upper ring. For reliable confirmation, high-resolution detail shots of all relevant spots are necessary. ### Did Montblanc actually have service guides in the unusual get-up shown in the eBay auctions? The packaging depicted and the service guide correspond to a variant used by Montblanc in the early 1990s. The combination is therefore consistent and no indication of a counterfeit. ### Is the leather of a particular offered Sienna case an unusual variant or the normal version? The case shown is the normal Sienna leather version in Italian leather and looks genuine. Really rare are, by contrast, variants of ostrich leather (Anniversary 75) as well as of mastic leather; the latter never officially came on the market and existed only as a prototype at Seeger. ### How is an eBay shop to be evaluated that uses the same original pictures for many models and demands payment via Western Union? From such providers it is urgently advised against. eBay expressly warns against payments via Western Union, since via this no buyer protection exists. Even the promise of a purchase-price refund in case of complaint helps no further if the goods are not even shipped or a postal address is missing. The uniform use of pictures for all models (e.g. regardless of the plating) is a typical feature of disreputable shops. Even if the depicted original pictures look genuine, one should refrain from such auctions. ### Which model is a Montblanc piston filler with converter bought on eBay, is it genuine and how does one remedy failures during writing? Based on the pictures, it is a Montblanc 145 (Chopin/Classique) with piston converter; a counterfeit it is not according to the pictures provided. Writing failures often arise through ink deposits, especially if black ink was used previously, since it contains more suspended particles than blue ink. Helpful is, at every ink change, to flush the fountain pen with warm water and thereby keep the ink channels free. With longer writing breaks, it is recommended to fill the converter halfway with water and insert it, so that the ink line does not dry out. Platinum-plated 145s are very sought-after on the second-hand market and accordingly achieve high prices. ### Are Montblanc Solitaire Doué fountain pens now also being counterfeited, and how does one recognise a counterfeit? On a Solitaire Doué shown in the discussion, the star on the cap appears unusually angular and "jagged", differently than on the original with clearly rounder points. A comparison with the cap of a guaranteed genuine Solitaire 144 Stainless Steel confirms this difference. Added to this are a hardly credible nib design that rather recalls models of the 1950s, an unsharply taken photo and a seller with only few ratings. Before a purchase, additional detail photos should be requested; in case of doubt, the auction is to be advised against. ### How can one judge from photos whether a Montblanc rollerball is genuine? Based on the posted photos, the rollerball shown appears original. A final authenticity check is, however, beyond pictures only safely possible in hand, since details like engraving depth, material weight and mechanism must be judged. ### Is a "Mont Blanc Meisterstück ballpoint, near-new" offered on eBay genuine or a counterfeit, and can Montblanc legally proceed against sellers of counterfeits? The ballpoint offered under eBay article number 112440688012 is unambiguously a counterfeit; in particular, the engraving shown does not exist in this form, and the rings are not correct. Sellers of such pieces are often "newcomers" without sales history who know exactly what they are offering. Montblanc does not proceed against every auction but forwards, after targeted hints, auctions with counterfeits to lawyers, which can become very unpleasant and expensive for sellers. Buyers should consistently keep their distance from such offers. ### Are the Montblanc perfumes and face waters offered in eBay auctions in strikingly simple packaging really original goods or frequently counterfeits? The plain, cheap-looking packagings do not correspond to the usual get-up of Montblanc fragrances as can be seen in official channels like Douglas or on the Montblanc website. Original fragrances like Individuel, Présence or StarWalker are described in full there and labelled with product names. On eBay, the proportion of counterfeit perfumes is generally very high, and the imitations including packaging are by now so well made that they are hardly recognisable on photos. With the offers mentioned, counterfeits are therefore most likely to be assumed; in fact, often only water with Montblanc imprint is sold. ### From what time did Montblanc introduce the serial number in the clip ring, and why does an older 165 Solitaire silver pencil bear only the inscription "W.Germany"? On this recurring question there are already several forum threads in which the introduction of clip-ring serial numbers has been discussed in detail. Answers can be found most quickly via the search function with the keyword "Seriennummer". A missing serial number is not unusual for older examples and no authenticity exclusion. ### Can a Bordeaux Montblanc 146 Le Grand already bear a serial number in the clip ring, or does this variant basically exist only without a number? The 146 in Bordeaux existed not only until 1990 but significantly longer; production ran for at least ten more years, and in the trade corresponding writing instruments often still lay for many years. Therefore real Bordeaux Le Grand models exist both without and with serial number in the clip ring, and a serial number is no indication of a counterfeit. The acquisition of a Bordeaux 146 with serial number is thus unhesitating. ### Can one ascertain solely on the basis of the serial number of a Montblanc Meisterstück Solitaire Stainless Steel whether the writing instrument is genuine? The meaning of the serial numbers is secret; therefore only Montblanc or an authorised specialist retailer can bindingly check the authenticity. Counterfeits also frequently bear serial numbers, so the mere existence of a number has no meaning. A positive indication is when the serial number is laser-engraved ("grey") and not stamped; certainty, however, is only brought by presentation to the specialist retailer. If the number begins with an "8" instead of with the letter "B", a counterfeit is to be assumed, since originals use corresponding letter prefixes. ### Can a gifted Montblanc Meisterstück with the engraving "Pix" and "Montblanc Meisterstück Pix" on the ring be classified as an original despite a missing serial number? The writing instrument is most likely an original, presumably a Montblanc Meisterstück 164 (ballpoint), available, among others, in gold and platinum version. A missing serial number can have various reasons: on writing instruments made before 1991 there was not yet consistent numbering; occasionally the number was simply forgotten to be laser-engraved during production. The engravings "Pix" under the clip and "Montblanc Meisterstück Pix" on the ring are characteristic features of an original. ### How can a Montblanc 144 acquired on eBay be reliably verified as an original, and which inks are unproblematic? An authenticity check most likely succeeds through careful comparison with documented features as well as assessment based on clear detail photos; in the specific case, the fountain pen was classified from description and pictures as 100 percent genuine. A reputable eBay purchase including personal handover is quite possible, even if the risk of counterfeits remains real. Unproblematic are water-soluble standard inks like the original Montblanc ink; non-water-soluble inks can on longer idle time clog up the feed. Iron-gall inks (blue-black) are also to be seen critically, since they can contain acidic components (formerly even sulphuric or hydrochloric acid). ### Is an offered Montblanc that at first glance looks like a counterfeit actually counterfeit or a real Mozart? On closer examination it is an entirely normal, original Montblanc Mozart from the Meisterstück range. The optical similarity to known counterfeits stems from the fact that the model is shown on many relevant comparison sites together with plagiarisms. Anyone who does not know the model can therefore easily mistake it for a counterfeit, which in the specific case led to a misjudgement. ### How can it be explained that a Montblanc Meisterstück 144 in Bordeaux with solid-gold nib is engraved on the clip ring not with "W-Germany" but only with "Germany"? The change of the engraving from "W-Germany" to "Germany" took place in October 1990, while the black-grip-section variant with solid-gold nib was mainly made in the middle of the 1980s. A plausible explanation is that within a repair by Montblanc the clip or the entire cap was exchanged for a then-available spare part; writing instruments with temporally "mixed" components are therefore not unusual. A subsequent cap exchange by a dealer is also conceivable, especially since the cap of the 144 is susceptible due to its thin material. The writing instrument thus basically remains a real Montblanc but combines components from different production phases. ### How can one recognise a supposedly old Montblanc set that was actually subsequently "Montblanc-ised", and how does a seller deal with corresponding hints? Indications of a subsequent brand counterfeit are, among others, a logo that does not correspond in size, placement or plasticity to the known Montblanc conventions, as well as a star with a white ring that has only been used in recent times and therefore does not fit a declared old set. Complementarily, comparison with Montblanc stickers from today can indicate pure sticker application on old pieces. Atypical style elements that fit no documented original product of the stated era are an additional warning sign. If a seller reacts to corresponding factual hints demonstratively dismissively or insultingly, this is a further indication that it is not a reputable original auction. ### Is a Schiller set offered in the USA via an Italian provider an original good, and is the price reasonable? The Schiller set shown looks authentic based on the pictures. The called-up price of over 1100 euros is, however, too high, since the Schiller edition is regularly still led in many shops and is thus cheaper to obtain. Even the shipping costs of around 27 euros and the unclear exchange rate in US dollars speak against the purchase from this provider. The same seller had previously offered a complete display box of 146s for 1500 euros without finding a taker. A purchase in Germany is therefore safer and generally cheaper. ### Can it happen that on eBay offers only the packaging is counterfeit but the fountain pen itself looks genuine? In the case described, not only is the packaging with black star counterfeit but the fountain pen itself too. Unambiguous indication is the nib with the inscription Iridium Point Germany, which would never be found on a real Montblanc. Structural details like the missing thread on the grip section (only plugged in instead of screwed) also expose the counterfeit as a typical LeGrand imitation. More difficult is recognition with StarWalker or Bohème counterfeits, which are on photos hardly distinguishable from originals but in hand are immediately noticeable. Pleasing is that Montblanc and eBay are increasingly successfully removing such offers. ### How should one evaluate an eBay fountain pen whose packaging is obviously counterfeit but the pen itself on the pictures still looks genuine? If the packaging is recognisably counterfeit, one should basically keep one's distance from the purchase, even if the fountain pen still appears genuine on the mostly deliberately detail-poor photos. On closer inspection, e.g., the grip section often does not look original-true, and the assured properties cannot be verified based on poor pictures. Even if the seller acts in good faith, that does not protect the buyer legally and financially. The risk of receiving a fake is in such cases simply too great. ### Has Montblanc produced briefcases from the Meisterstück series also in brown, or are all exclusively black? The leather bags from the Meisterstück series were made exclusively in black. Brown leather articles by Montblanc do indeed exist in other collections like the West or Eastside line, but a briefcase from the Meisterstück line in brown is not known. The brown bag offered in the concrete case on eBay is therefore most likely a counterfeit. ### How does one recognise on a Montblanc 149 (or 146) offered on eBay whether it is genuine, especially when the nib embossing appears unusual? If the description does not clearly identify the model as a 149 and the nib does not fit the rest of the construction (for example 14C embossing on a supposed 146), one should for safety reasons keep one's distance. With real new Meisterstück nibs, the edges are covered with gold and the centre with platinum. Particular caution is in order when a seller uses foreign photos, e.g. pictures stolen from fountainpen.de; such auctions are ended via the eBay VeRO programme. Generally it is recommended, when buying, to accept only own photos and plausible seller histories and in case of doubt rather to acquire from trustworthy collectors in the forum. ### Is an eBay rollerball with strikingly pointed star corners despite a serial number and heavy weight an original? A star with unnaturally pointed corners is a clear counterfeit feature; equally typical are visible furrows between the three cap rings. Despite a serial number and higher weight, it is therefore a counterfeit. Detailed comparison overviews of typical counterfeit features can be found on fountainpen.de, e.g. in the PDF comparison of rollerball counterfeits. Anyone buying a Montblanc at strikingly low prices or from disreputable providers should reckon with counterfeits. ### Is a cheaply offered, near-new set of the Writers Edition Fitzgerald on eBay trustworthy or rather a counterfeit? Based on the available hints, nothing speaks against the Fitzgerald set being genuine. The inner packaging equipped with cloth and holding clamps was standard at Montblanc until at least 2006 and is therefore no counterfeit indication. The original retail price in 2002 was around 1310 euros; the Fitzgerald edition does not count as particularly sought-after, which is why the currently called-up auction price is to be classified as market-customary but not as a bargain. To be noted is that the white material of the edition can over time yellow to an amber tone. With uncertainty, it is recommended to suggest the handover directly in a Montblanc boutique. ### How does one recognise today a very well-made Montblanc Hematite counterfeit? Even high-quality-looking Hematite counterfeits show classical weak points that stand out on closer examination. Typical indicators are a not-original-true designed body end, deviating rings, a poorly executed star and an unusually-looking nib. Even if the counterfeit deceives in overall impression, these detail differences can be used for recognition. Concrete proof photos of such auctions are generally only briefly available and protected by copyright. ### How can one with an eBay purchase of a Montblanc 146 with an unusual nib constellation have the authenticity checked? The model described is a real Montblanc 146 with a barrel as was fitted until into the 1980s. The deviating nib indicates that it was exchanged over time, e.g. in favour of another nib width. A missing or strokeless ink window combined with a bicolour nib is therefore no necessary counterfeit feature. Anyone nevertheless wanting a final assessment can turn to a reputable vintage specialist retailer or an experienced collector. ### How can a layperson check whether a Montblanc 149 acquired on eBay is genuine? Based on clear detail photos, the authenticity of a 149 can generally be reliably judged. In the specific case it is an original from the 1980s and not the current model. Older examples are thus not automatically suspicious but can quite well be authentic. With uncertainty, it is recommended to post additional close-ups and compare them with reference pictures. ### Can one judge from photos whether a used-bought Montblanc 145 Chopin is genuine? On the available shots, no features are recognisable that would indicate a counterfeit, so the pen is most likely an original. Since complete sets together with original packaging are also being counterfeited, for reliable judgement preferably more than one detail photo should be presented. Ink flow and writing behaviour are with a well-preserved original generally flawless. In case of doubt, the direct comparison of the nib with documented features of real pieces is worthwhile. ### How can an older Montblanc fountain pen without platinum intarsia be identified and checked for authenticity? The piece depicted is an original, namely a Meisterstück 144 Classique from older production that does not yet show platinum intarsia on the star. Such models appear at first glance different than the current versions but are authentic writing instruments. Comparative detail shots from collector sites and earlier forum posts help with unambiguous assignment. The 144 Classique counts as a very beautiful and popular fountain pen. ### Is a Montblanc pen auctioned for 120 euros an original or a plagiarism? The piece depicted is a real Meisterstück 145, which at this price counts as very cheaply acquired. The nib quality is still the clearest authenticity feature, since counterfeiters here still lag behind the original, even if the plagiarisms overall are getting better and better. The material is actually plastic or plexiglass, which Montblanc markets under the term precious resin. On any cracks in the cap, attention should nevertheless be paid to safety so as not to reduce the value. ### Is a Montblanc 121 with 750 gold nib and amber-coloured viewing window from the 1960s genuine and what value does it have? The Montblanc Meisterstück 121 was produced from 1970 to 1973/74 with thick feed and from 1974 to 1979 with flat feed; a dating to the 1960s therefore does not quite fit. It is an original and not a counterfeit; no plagiarisms of this model are known. The collector value is rather low, because the model is still too young for a pronounced collector demand. As a reliable daily writer, the 121 is, however, still usable. ### Is a leather case offered at an auction from older production a real Montblanc case? The leather case shown is a real Montblanc product from the 1970s or 1980s. The workmanship, however, is comparatively plain and simple and not comparable to current Montblanc leather cases. Anyone valuing the model above all for visual reasons can acquire it without authenticity concerns. An expectation of today's quality level is however inappropriate. ### From what production time does a Montblanc ballpoint 77 acquired on eBay come and is it genuine? The Montblanc 77 is an original and was produced according to the standard work Collectible Stars between 1960 and 1961. It is thus an authentic vintage writing instrument and not a counterfeit. Further authenticity features can be traced based on the illustrations documented there. ### Do the Montblanc Greta Garbo fountain pens bear a serial number, and if so, at what place? Of Montblanc three versions of the Greta Garbo models exist: two limited editions with 100 or 1905 pieces as well as the unlimited model with an ivory-coloured cap and matching ballpoint. The limited pieces always bear their individual edition number including the total edition as engraving. On the unlimited models, only a very small identification number, only legible with a magnifier, is located in the clip ring. A classical serial number as on old Montblanc writing instruments no longer exists on today's models. ### Does Montblanc actually produce unusual products like knives and are such pieces unrestrictedly worth collecting? Such unusual products are generally not made by Montblanc itself but by commissioned third-party firms that either produce exclusively for Montblanc or only apply name and logo. Therefore, these pieces do not have a special manufacture-related value, since they did not arise in the Montblanc manufacture. A certain collector value they nevertheless retain, because they officially belong to the brand world. Whether a particular concrete piece, e.g. from an auction, is original should be checked case by case. ### How reliable is an eBay seller for a Montblanc StarWalker Special Edition Ballpoint Pen 38302 and are there counterfeits? Description, instruction and positive ratings as well as a stated phone number and a more than two-year-long membership at eBay speak for a reputable handling. The seller has additionally in the past already sold Montblanc articles with positive ratings. Based on the photos, the offered writing instrument appears authentic. For additional safeguarding, payment via PayPal is recommended, since buyer protection thereby applies. ### How is the quality of current counterfeits of Montblanc vintage rollerballs to be assessed? The quality of the counterfeits is significantly improving, so current vintage-rollerball plagiarisms are visually no longer easy to expose. Striking are partly contradictory detail engravings, e.g. inscriptions like Hemingway on a cap that does not fit the model designation. Generally, as a rollerball there are anyway no comparable originals from the corresponding vintage range. Anyone valuing the characteristic tie clip finds as a legitimate alternative e.g. the Astoria models, which also show such a clip. ### Is a Meisterstück 146 auctioned on eBay with the engraving Montblanc Meisterstück No. 146 genuine? The writing instrument depicted is one hundred percent genuine and comes from the 1980s. The engraving Montblanc Meisterstück No. 146 is typical of this production phase and therefore differs in size and form from later models like the Traveller of 2001. The condition is additionally described as very good, the purchase price as appropriate. There is thus no suspicion of counterfeit. ### How does one recognise a counterfeit of a supposed Montblanc wallet from eBay stock? A wallet offered on eBay with an unusual division is likely actually a counterfeit, since Montblanc has not produced an article with this inner division. Typical indications are coarse, untidy seams, a formless-looking workmanship as well as the absence of usual equipment features like a hard-money compartment. Suspicious are additionally providers who sell several supposedly gifted branded articles in short intervals in parallel. In case of doubt, the authenticity should be compared to known originals or the purchase refrained from. ### Is a Montblanc case with the designation "Oxford" an original? The case "Oxford" is a real Montblanc product from the 1970s to 1980s, qualitatively however clearly settled below the later Siena cases. It was intended as a cheaper variant, among others, for the Slimline and Noblesse models. The designation can be found on an enclosed cardboard strip together with the model number 2450 and the article number 12067. On the official website, this older range is no longer documented. ### How reliable are warranty slips on eBay auctions for Montblanc writing instruments? Warranty slips too are being counterfeited; not seldom one receives a complete counterfeit including packaging and service guide. A warranty slip and an original packaging do have their own value but do not replace an authenticity check on the writing instrument itself. Important is not to be impressed by externals, since the combinations range from genuine pen with false slip to false pen with genuine slip. Initialling without a clearly recognisable seller's stamp is therefore no reliable authenticity proof. ### How does one recognise that a found Montblanc ballpoint is a counterfeit, and what value does it have? Often the counterfeit is already recognisable at first glance, because the model has never existed in this form at Montblanc. A typical example are poor copies of the StarWalker; for comparison the section "Counterfeits" of the relevant collector sites helps. Economically, such pieces are worthless: in China they cost 2 to 3 euros for tourists; in Germany the distribution is anyway forbidden. A sale on eBay is therefore not permitted and should not take place. ### Is a Montblanc Meisterstück Solitaire fineliner in carbon look with finely laser-engraved serial number an original? The model described corresponds to the Montblanc Meisterstück Solitaire Silver Fibre Guilloche, which is documented on the relevant information pages of the collector community. The features like finely rounded logo corners and the laser-engraved serial number speak for an original. Visual deviations from current collections, e.g. missing ridges on the cap, can be explained by the older model range. For detail comparisons, a look at the product-related pictures in the collector archive is recommended. ### Can one judge from pictures whether a Montblanc 144 is genuine? With a Montblanc 144 assessed via pictures, in particular the appearance of the nib speaks for an original; counterfeit Montblancs with real nibs are not known. A reliable confirmation, however, additionally requires the assessment of further details like clip, engravings and serial numbers. In the concrete case described, the piece is assessed as very likely genuine. ### How can one recognise that a pen allegedly coming from Montblanc is a fantasy product and thus a counterfeit? With pieces unambiguously recognisable as counterfeits, the model has never existed in this form in the original range; the entire design is a fantasy product. Apart from the applied star, in such cases no detail fits a real Montblanc model, which points to cheap reproductions without serious imitation intent. Helpful for one's own assessment is comparison with documented original ranges on collector sites. Missing certificates are an additional warning sign. ### Which recognition features exist on current counterfeits, e.g. on the StarWalker and on the Meisterstück? Frequent counterfeit variants comprise the StarWalker with rubber surface, easily recognisable by the black end piece, as well as versions in red and white that were not offered like this in the original. On the Meisterstück too, fakes turn up repeatedly, both as individual pieces and as sets. The counterfeits look generally optically inconsistent and in workmanship clearly below original quality. Before purchase, a comparison with the corresponding collector sites on original models should take place. ### How can one judge the authenticity of a Montblanc Octavian? Important indications are a complete documentation and especially matching numbers on the warranty card and on the fountain pen itself. If these papers with correctly assigned edition number are present and pictures and description match known originals, an authentic piece is most likely to be assumed. Especially with rare Limited Editions like the Octavian, such proofs are a central authenticity criterion. In case of doubt, an additional assessment by a specialist should take place. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Patron of Arts Octavian (1993): https://www.fountainpen.de/patron-octavian-en.htm ### Does a Montblanc Meisterstück Solitaire Faden Guilloche bear at the tip the engraving "MONTBLANC", and what does that say about the authenticity of an eBay offer? The piece offered in the named auction is a counterfeit, even if a comparatively well-made one. The engraving at the tip does not agree with the original conventions. Generally, when buying branded products on eBay, caution is in order, since counterfeits are difficult to recognise for laypersons based on photos. Collector sales of reputable providers are by contrast quite a source, provided seller profile and description are critically checked. ### Has Montblanc actually produced simple imitation-leather cases with snap-button fastener, or is it a counterfeit? Even a simple, black imitation-leather case with snap-button fastener and star logo can be an original. Until the repositioning as a luxury manufacturer from 1991, Montblanc produced the entire spectrum from the cheap school fountain pen to the high-quality Meisterstück and correspondingly also simpler accessories. Cases from the 50s therefore often appear "cheap" compared to later leather versions but are nevertheless authentic. A simple visual or material impression does not suffice to rule out originality. ### How can the authenticity of a fountain pen auctioned on eBay be assessed, and is the price paid appropriate? Based on the pictures, only a first authenticity suspicion can be formulated; absolute certainty exists only when the actually delivered piece can be checked. If the seller is known and respected in the collector scene, the risk drops considerably. Compared to the official new price of around 425 euros, eBay prices can lie significantly below, which with renowned providers can nevertheless be a fair deal. An additional check by a specialist retailer or experienced collectors is always recommendable. ### Is a Montblanc Meisterstück Solitaire Ceramics Black Prisma with shifted serial number and clip engraving "Made in Germany" genuine? A slightly offset serial number on the cap ring does not speak against authenticity; on Montblanc such tolerances occur. The clip engraving "Made in Germany" is also regular: on older writing instruments there the engraving "PIX" is found; on newer models it was replaced by "Made in Germany". If the other details match, the piece can be classified as an original. A definitive authenticity confirmation can however only be given by Montblanc itself. ### Does it speak against the authenticity of a Montblanc 163 rollerball if only "W-Germany" stands on the clip and no serial number is laser-engraved? Serial numbers were laser-engraved into the clip as standard at Montblanc only from about 1991. The engraving "W. Germany" indicates that the writing instrument was made before reunification 1989, so the missing serial number is in this case normal and does not speak against authenticity. Without pictures, however, no final judgement can be made. In case of doubt, the piece should be presented to a specialist retailer. ### Is a reddish-brown leather case in the style of a Montblanc Siena without metal ring around the logo an original or a counterfeit? At first glance, much speaks for an original, since imprint and further details fit Montblanc cases of this type. Unusual, however, is the absence of the metal ring around the logo, since this was actually standard. A definitive authenticity evaluation can only be given by Montblanc customer service, e.g. via the contact form on the official homepage. To be noted is that there is no "one" counterfeiter but many different sources with strongly varying quality, so no individual detail reliably proves authenticity. ### How can counterfeits of Montblanc writing instruments be reported on eBay? Ebay has under the section "Contact" a reporting tool with which auctions of plagiarisms can be directly reported to the platform. After entering the report, the reporter automatically receives a confirmation to the deposited email address. In practice, such offers are frequently removed by eBay after a short time. The active use of this tool is recommended in order to make market access more difficult for plagiarism providers. ### Is a non-centred hyphen between "Meisterstück" and "Montblanc" on the cap of a Meisterstück 144 a sign of a production error or a counterfeit? Neither one nor the other: with the imprints by Montblanc there have been and are numerous different variants, and the positioning seems partly inconsistent. It can be assumed that this aspect was not strictly standardised in production. A decentralised hyphen is therefore no reliable authenticity criterion. An official authenticity guarantee can exclusively Montblanc issue after sending in the piece. ### Is an older-looking Montblanc ballpoint from an unknown model an original? The model mentioned is an original ballpoint that was produced in the period 1961 to 1970. Such pieces are relatively frequently to be encountered on the market. For this reason, the collector value remains within manageable limits. ### Do counterfeits of the Montblanc Document Marker exist, and what significance does the black dot in the clip have? The black dot in the clip is a regular marking that serves to distinguish the Document Marker in the case from same-format pens. If this dot is missing, that indicates in doubt that it has fallen off; the piece remains, however, genuine. Older Markers of the LeGrand series originally did not have different clips, so examples without dot can also be original. Specific counterfeits of the Document Marker are not widespread. ### What should be considered with a first Montblanc purchase, e.g. a Platinum Line 165 mechanical pencil from eBay classifieds, regarding authenticity? There are numerous counterfeit features, which vary depending on the model. A helpful indicator for an original is the inscription "Pix" under the clip, which must not be engraved but executed as raised protrusion. Basically, it is recommended before purchase to thoroughly study original photos on the Montblanc homepage and only to buy models that are visually beyond doubt familiar. A definitive authenticity evaluation based on photos, however, remains restricted. ### Which Montblanc model is the Meisterstück Ceramics Black Prisma, and is there a counterfeit risk? It is the Ceramics Black Prisma variant of the Montblanc Meisterstück, a special variant of the regular model. On the pictures presented, no counterfeit can be recognised. An official guarantee for authenticity can however only be given by a specialist retailer or Montblanc itself. To be noted is that the barrel of these models scratches relatively easily; with a suitable cleaning cloth, surface traces can however be remedied again. ### Is a Montblanc 139 with a flawlessly yellow ink window without visible stripes a counterfeit or an assembled body? A yellow-looking, freshly appearing ink window without recognisable stripes is striking: if the fountain pen had been little used, the stripes would have to be present; if it had been heavily used, the window would have to be darkly discoloured by ink residues. Both speak against an unchanged original body. Also the nib looks compared to the rest of the older components like the D.R.P. number possibly younger. Overall the piece thus appears dubious and suggests that at least the body or parts of it were subsequently made or brought together. ### Is a Montblanc set offered on Willhaben with strikingly-looking stars an original or a counterfeit? The set described is a particularly crude counterfeit. A clear indication are the Montblanc stars, which look glued on instead of inset or integrated. Such plagiarisms are made in China for only one to two euros per piece. The purchase is unambiguously to be advised against. ### Is a Montblanc Solitaire Vermeil offered on eBay with unambiguous hallmark to be regarded as an original? Based on the pictures, especially the recognisable hallmark, the Solitaire Vermeil looks very credibly like an original. The auction itself also makes a reputable impression. The risk thus appears overall low. An on-site collection from the seller would be the safest variant; if it is not possible, shipping with a reliable service provider is an acceptable alternative. ### Is a Montblanc StarWalker Resin fountain pen with a striking thread and visible plastic on the grip section possibly a counterfeit? Nib and feed of a StarWalker Resin sourced from online trade can quite correspond to the original, even if the thread visually deviates from examples in authenticity guides. A definitive evaluation of the grip-section material is difficult without inspection. For safeguarding, an authentication enquiry to Montblanc with the serial number is recommended. ### How can one tell on eBay whether a Montblanc StarWalker Rubber ballpoint is genuine? Based on auction photos, the authenticity of a StarWalker Rubber is mostly not unambiguously to be judged, and the risk remains that the depicted goods do not correspond to the delivered ones. Additionally, the rating history of the seller and the lack of a manufacturer's warranty in the eBay purchase are to be heeded. A provider known as reliable who only carries original goods can significantly reduce the risk; in case of doubt, the purchase from a specialist retailer is to be preferred. ### Is a Montblanc Le Grand without PIX inscription on the back of the clip necessarily a counterfeit? Older Meisterstücks, e.g. until the middle of the 1990s, do not yet bear a PIX engraving under the clip, so its absence is no unambiguous counterfeit feature. Counterfeit piston fillers in Meisterstück style are also extremely rare; most counterfeits concern other models. A final confirmation of the authenticity can be made by a Montblanc boutique. ### How can the authenticity of a Montblanc Cervantes offered on eBay be checked when the provider uses replica photos? With the Cervantes, counterfeits frequently occur that are partly even visually confused with the Copernicus, because the counterfeiters themselves mix up the models. An authenticity check based solely on foreign or replica photos is not possible; in such cases the purchase is risky and not recommended. Replicas are sold for very low prices freely on the internet, which additionally aggravates the counterfeit problem. ### Is a Montblanc Meisterstück ballpoint with dedication engraving a rarity, and how does an engraving affect the value? The offered ballpoint is genuine but not rare; a new, unengraved cap is at Montblanc available for at most about 49 euros. An individual name or dedication engraving is on pure utility pieces mostly regarded as value-reducing. It can however quite be value-increasing if the engraving documents a prominent owner and a comprehensible proof of ownership is available; in a concrete collector project, additionally, only 25 instead of the stated 1000 pieces were engraved. ### Is a Montblanc Meisterstück fountain pen with a plastic-looking, gold-coloured thread a counterfeit? Such a piece is generally an original, however frequently not a 146 but the smaller 144. The 144 was made until the end of the 1990s; the example described should be based on the feed about from the late 1980s to early 1990s. The supposedly painted plastic on the thread is actually gilded brass. ### How can one recognise that a supposed Montblanc Copernicus is a counterfeit? Comparing the piece with real pictures of a Montblanc Copernicus, obvious differences are immediately noticeable, e.g. a red, gilded surface instead of the original decoration. The nib of such counterfeits is generally of very poor quality. Such plagiarisms are made in China for a few euros; in Germany their sale is not legally permissible. ### Is a Montblanc Meisterstück 147 without box and receipt genuine, and is the asking price reasonable? Based on the pictures, no indications of a counterfeit can be recognised, so the piece is most likely an original. The list price for the 147 is currently around 600 euros including travel case; a used example without warranty and original accessories for 275 euros is to be classified as ambitious but compared to other online offers still the cheapest. Anyone who does not urgently need a 147 generally fares better with some patience, since Traveller models are indeed rarer than 146s but are nevertheless offered repeatedly. ### How does one reliably recognise on eBay auction photos counterfeits like a false Scott Fitzgerald rollerball? A reliable authenticity evaluation based on poor auction photos is for beginners often hardly possible; safer is the purchase from a specialist retailer or at collectors' fairs. Concrete recognition features for individual models and counterfeits are extensively described in the forum section Fälschungen erkennen. Anyone who internalises the topic can better assess typical weak points but should rather forgo online auctions with uncertainty. ### Is a case offered as Montblanc Sienna case 906/2 from the 1970s to 1980s genuine? The case shown comes from the 1970s to 1980s and is most likely an original, although a simple model from that time when Montblanc still carried a broad product range from school fountain pens to Meisterstücks. With the Sienna case, however, it has nothing to do; the designation in the offer is wrong. Anyone who ordered a real Sienna case should therefore insist on delivery of the correct model. ### How can it be judged whether a Montblanc fountain pen offered on eBay is genuine? The piece shown looks largely genuine in the pictures; however, several indications speak against a reputable sale: hints of a Vietnamese lacquer presentation box, the separated spelling Mont Blanc instead of Montblanc and deliberately unsharp photos are typical warning signs. There is also the danger that a pen other than the one depicted is shipped. From bidding it is therefore to be advised against. ### How does one recognise on an old Montblanc No. 22 with a delicately engraved nib inscription and a piston insert inside whether an original or a counterfeit is present? A delicately engraved nib inscription on a Montblanc No. 22 is no indication of a counterfeit but corresponds to the original version. If in the ink chamber instead of a piston mechanism a component with Montblanc imprint is located, it is a so-called piston converter. This converter can be removed and replaced with normal ink cartridges; the fountain pen is thus suitable for both filling types. Both pieces described thus count as real Montblanc pens. ### Is a StarWalker Resin Black with a hollow clip inside without Pix embossing a counterfeit, or did that also exist on the original? A StarWalker Resin Black with a hollow clip inside without the typical Pix embossing is most likely a counterfeit. Further indications are an unusually designed nib, an unscrewable star, striking rings on the grip section as well as a poor script quality on the clip. A direct comparison with a guaranteed genuine piece brings in such cases quick clarity. Buyers should note that even large auction houses often do not sufficiently control the sale of counterfeit branded goods and in case of dispute mostly only refer to the sellers. ### How can a Montblanc ballpoint acquired via eBay and the matching case be checked for authenticity? For an authenticity check it is necessary to post well-resolved pictures in the forum, since only thus an assessment is possible. Hints on correct uploading and on picture size can be found in corresponding forum posts that are linked in the forum helps. Indications like a matching Parker refill already point on a ballpoint to a counterfeit. Before a final evaluation, clear photos of pen and case should in any case be available. ### How can the authenticity of a Montblanc writing instrument be assessed based on unsharp eBay photos? A reliable authenticity check based on unsharp photos is hardly possible. On the available pictures the pen looks basically genuine, but additional risk factors like a low seller rating (e.g. 90 percent) and a present engraving are to be heeded. Before the purchase, sharp detail shots should better be requested. Ultimately the decision lies with the buyer, who must weigh the risk. ### To whom can one report brand piracy of writing instruments and lighters, and does a slightly altered spelling of the brand name suffice to be legally non-attackable? Brand counterfeits can be reported directly via the contact forms of the manufacturers like Montblanc or S.T. Dupont. Alongside, associations like the Aktionskreis gegen Produkt- und Markenpiraterie (markenpiraterie-apm.de) or the international Alliance for Gray Market and Counterfeit Abatement (AGMA) exist, which however mostly only act for member firms. A slightly deviating spelling (e.g. "Dupon" instead of "Dupont") legally does not protect: with high confusion danger in the same product group, trademark protection still applies; a counterfeit remains a counterfeit. Even semantically similar designations like "Volkswogen" have been judicially objected to. ### Is a significantly smaller and front-heavy Montblanc rollerball with "W-Germany" embossing and "Meistersück" inscription an original? A reliable judgement is only possible based on sharp photos; a textual description is mostly not enough for the experts. A smaller size and a slight imbalance need not be an authenticity problem, since Montblanc has built differently dimensioned models. Striking spelling errors in the engraving (like "Meistersück" instead of "Meisterstück"), however, would be a clear counterfeit feature and should be precisely checked. A check at a Montblanc specialist retailer is usually free of charge and quickly possible. ### How does one deal with the fact that a Montblanc Meisterstück 146 Le Grand auctioned on eBay is documented only by unsharp photos, and how does one recognise authenticity? Even with unsharp auction photos, decisive authenticity features can be recognised, especially the transitions between the cap rings. On originals the spaces are cleanly worked; on counterfeits typical "notches" are found there. A dealer's stamp in the service document, e.g. of Montblanc Deutschland GmbH in Hamburg, gives additional security. Anyone wanting as a beginner to be entirely sure is, on the first purchase, however better off in a Montblanc boutique. ### Is an inherited gold-coloured Montblanc Noblesse pencil with thread guilloche pattern genuine, and in what period was it made? The Noblesse pencil described is an original from the period end of the 1970s to 1980s. A peculiarity of this line is that the Montblanc logo in this phase was not executed in white but in black, which makes the pencil also interesting for collectors. However, the model was produced in larger numbers and is therefore regularly to be found on the second-hand market. The collector value remains correspondingly within limits. ### Is an older Montblanc Meisterstück ballpoint without "Pix" inscription on the middle ring a counterfeit, and what does a slight red shimmer mean? Older Meisterstück ballpoints were partly made with, partly without the Pix inscription on the middle ring; the absence is therefore no indication of a counterfeit. The Pix inscription was added in the course of the model history and is on newer writing instruments often to be found on the inside of the clip. A slight reddish shimmer on black Montblanc pens is even a reliable authenticity feature and arises through a very high concentration of the black dye in the plastic. Many counterfeits do not show this property. ### Is a supposed Montblanc Greta Garbo ballpoint stemming from a household clearance genuine? The writing instrument found in the household clearance is, according to assessment in the forum, a counterfeit. Own research on the internet showed indeed similar models but no exact equivalent, which is already a warning sign. Detail pictures were due to the 150-KB restriction of the forum hard to post, which made a more detailed assessment more difficult. ### Is a Montblanc Solitaire Vermeil offered on eBay with correct hallmark genuine, and does the model belong to the size 144 or 146? The Solitaire Vermeil offered is an original; the hallmark confirms that cap and reservoir are made of vermeil. With the size question, caution is in order, since the Solitaire Vermeil as a small 144 Classique model is widespread. A clear distinction feature is the grip section: with the 144 Classique Vermeil it is typically gilded, which is not familiar to every provider. A dealer statement "surely a 146" should therefore be checked based on the dimensions and the design of the grip section. ### Are on a ballpoint offered as Montblanc Meisterstück 164 with engraved serial number and unusual box oddities to be expected? On the writing instrument itself, no obvious authenticity defects are recognisable; the rings and the engraved serial number look consistent. Striking, however, is the high retail price, which lies for the model significantly above the usual level. The unusual packaging is also explicable: such boxes are frequently used by airlines like Lufthansa as gift packaging and are no original Montblanc cases. That is, however, uncritical if the ballpoint is intended for writing and not as a collector's piece. ### How does one recognise a particularly well-made counterfeit of the Montblanc Annual Edition on eBay? Even visually successful counterfeits of the Annual Edition can be exposed by several details. A clear indication is the packaging with black star and further typical fake features. Additionally, the Annual Edition never existed as a rollerball, so every corresponding auction is necessarily counterfeit. Even the depicted swords and the missing year deliver further hints; only the housing itself comes visually close to the original. ### Which typical features expose Montblanc counterfeits on eBay, and does a purely gold nib automatically make a Meisterstück 146 suspicious? Designs that Montblanc has never made as well as a wrongly positioned or missing cap ring or a missing ink-view window are clear counterfeit features. A completely gold nib alone is by contrast no indication of a counterfeit; there are quite genuine 146s with a pure gold nib. Very well to be recognised are fakes frequently by the nib engraving: counterfeit nibs typically bear the inscription "Iridium Point". Striking is additionally the concentration of counterfeit StarWalker models with some sellers. ### Have on the early Montblanc Writers Editions like Hemingway, Agatha Christie and Oscar Wilde counterfeits already turned up? On the early Writers Editions Hemingway, Agatha Christie and Oscar Wilde, no counterfeits are so far known. A complete certainty does not however exist with brand counterfeits. If fakes do turn up at some point, they can so far reliably be identified based on the nib. It is on these editions the most reliable authenticity feature. ### How does eBay deal with the massively occurring Chinese Montblanc counterfeits, and how effective are reports to manufacturers and platform? On eBay, numerous counterfeits turn up daily, from professionally made to poor plagiarisms, often from ever-new seller accounts from abroad. Reports to Montblanc lead, according to collector experience, to about 70 percent of the fake auctions being ended prematurely or after the end of the auction. eBay itself shows itself rather restrained in combating, since already the listing of the auctions brings fees. Striking is additionally that counterfeits, e.g. on the StarWalker Rubber, are getting significantly better in quality, which complicates recognition; Meisterstück counterfeits, however, are mostly obviously poorly executed. ### How can one ascertain to which Montblanc series a ballpoint belongs that was given as a gift but shows indications of a counterfeit? A ballpoint that resembles a Copernicus model is most likely a counterfeit, since the Copernicus exists exclusively as a fountain pen, and only in the variants 4810 and 888. On counterfeit nibs, the inscription "4810" or with very bad fakes only "Iridium Point" is frequently found, while packagings of counterfeits often stem from other models like the Bohème. Original Copernicus pens cost new around 1,700 euros; counterfeit versions are sold for 20 to 50 euros online and for 2 to 4 euros in China. For reliable clarification, the comparison with original photos on the Montblanc website or at fountainpen.de as well as the visit to a Montblanc boutique is recommended. ### Is a Montblanc Ramses II fountain pen offered on eBay genuine, and how high lies the market price? The auction photos show a real Montblanc Ramses II in original version. In near-new condition, the market price on eBay usually moves around 400 to 420 euros. To be noted is the nib width BB of the specifically depicted piece, which is primarily suitable for signatures and not for longer texts.