What is known about a Safety No. 00 long (Baby) in Email Rose in a red Osmia case, and is it a Montblanc piece?

The Montblanc Safety "00" or Baby is the smallest Montblanc model and was offered in various filling variants (eyedropper, safety) and with different overlays; email overlays are among the most beautiful and rarest versions. An original piece should bear a star with six points (symbol of the snow-capped Montblanc summit with six valleys). If the nib has only four points and the inscription "Warrantel 14 ct", it is not Montblanc but most likely Osmia, which also produced Babies and is occasionally confused with Montblanc. The accompanying Osmia case does not match a Montblanc original.


Is there an overview of Montblanc Special Editions like the Willy Brandt Edition, and by what criteria are such special editions issued?

A complete listing of these Special Editions does not exist. In the Corporate Gifts area, Montblanc offers possibilities to individualise Meisterstücks with company logos, engravings or special nibs; from a corresponding minimum order quantity, customers can have their own special editions issued. Packaging and inserts are designed partly directly by Montblanc, partly by external providers. Since the conditions are not communicated publicly, such editions can hardly be catalogued systematically.


What can be said about a Montblanc 246G in marbled brown tigers-eye decor with a Boehler steel engraving?

It is the then top model of Montblanc from the late 1950s, sold in a period when Meisterstücks 142, 144 and 146 were also being produced in striped celluloid. The colour designation is tigers eye; another rare variant is PL (platinum-lined). The model also comes in the smaller sizes 242G and 244G; the size-6 in particular is regarded as very sought-after. The pen mentioned was made between 1950 and 1954. A Boehler steel engraving indicates a special-order piece.


Are scented inks and high-quality inks also available as cartridges or only in ink bottles?

High-quality inks are also available as cartridges, e.g. from J. Herbin in various colours, as well as the Montblanc Seasons Greetings Ink. Sources are online dealers like Captain-Office or specialised providers like Rolf Thiel (missing-pen.de). At missing-pen, a direct enquiry about cartridge types not listed in the online shop is also worthwhile.

General questions on writing instruments


How can a Montblanc 146 be made workable again when the ink has dried up and the piston is blocked?

It is recommended to place the fountain pen without the cap with the nib pointing down in a glass and fill with lukewarm water (about 40 degrees) up to just below the turning knob. By the capillary action of the feed, the water is slowly drawn into the tank over several days; daily, the pen should be turned over once so that the water also reaches the piston. This method requires patience but usually succeeds. It is faster if the cone is unscrewed from the barrel with a special key and the barrel cleaned directly.


Is there a separate certificate of authenticity for insurance purposes for the Montblanc Limited Anniversary Edition 1924 (146 Solitaire LeGrand)?

For the Limited Anniversary Edition 1924 as well as many other high-priced Special Editions, Montblanc does not issue a separate certificate of authenticity; only the usual warranty card and the standard service guide are supplied. Some editions like Writers, Patron of Arts or Asia editions do have special packaging and service guides, but a separate certificate is unusual. For household contents insurance, in the case of damage, a proof through purchase invoice and photo is usually sufficient; the precise requirements should be clarified with the insurer. Additionally, household-contents documentation on a CD at an external storage location is recommended.


How greatly do the nib widths of various manufacturers differ, and are there experiences comparing Montblanc, Cross, Pelikan and others?

Nib widths are not standardised across manufacturers and differ considerably. A Montblanc M nib writes significantly broader than a Cross M; a Waterman F roughly corresponds to a Montblanc EF; with Pelikan, the M is between Montblanc F and M. With Aurora, an M nib can write like a Montblanc EF; Faber-Castell is comparatively closer to Montblanc. Since Montblanc nibs are hand-ground, even two nibs of the same width write slightly differently; the thinner the nib, the stronger the variation. Even with old nibs from the 1950s, considerable variations are common, which makes buying used pieces without test writing a lucky dip.


How is the book "Füllfederhalter" by Juan M. Clark to be evaluated, and is it suitable as a reference work?

The book is the German translation of a French original from 2001 and has the unusual format 14.5 x 14.5 cm. As a reference work, it is predominantly judged critically: the descriptions remain superficial, the sorting of the models is inconsistent (modern and 1920s models stand unordered next to each other), and on the photos the nib imprints are not recognisable. Anyone, on the other hand, looking for a pure picture book to leaf through and to orient oneself about classics like the Waterman Patrician will find usable material here. The original price was high, but the book is much more cheaply available second-hand and in the remainder section.


How old is a writing instrument of the brand Melbi with a screw-out 14-carat nib, and are all gold-coloured parts made of gold?

Melbi was a writing-instrument brand introduced by Friedrich Merz (Merz & Krell) in the 1920s; the name is a coinage from the initial letters of the family name Merz and the place name Bieberau. Pen holders, steel nibs, fountain pens and propelling pencils made of wood, metal, hard rubber and plastic were produced. Melbi was positioned as an inexpensive brand; in general, only the nib is made of gold, while the clip and rings are usually only gold-plated. A more precise dating of the model is hardly possible based on mere descriptions.


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.


Which Montblanc is more suitable for taking notes at university — the Mozart or the Classique — especially with small hands?

Both the Mozart ballpoint and the Mozart fountain pen are primarily stylish note-taking devices and are not suitable for prolonged writing; the narrow grip section leads to cramping when held for longer. The Classique ballpoint is also at most suitable for shorter notes, since ballpoints generally require high writing pressure. For intensive note-taking in lectures, a fountain pen like the Montblanc Chopin or, with a higher budget, the Meisterstück 146 LeGrand with a suitable nib width (often F) is recommended. Rollerballs are not recommended because of smearing ink and lack of writing control.


Why does Montblanc Permanent Blue stop flowing in a 146P after a short time, and is a service flat rate necessary?

Collectors report similar ink-flow problems with Montblanc Permanent Blue, which also occur in other normally wet-writing fountain pens; this points more to an ink problem than to a defect in the fountain pen. In the specific case, however, a hairline crack in the ink reservoir was additionally found, so that the service flat rate (around 88 euros) covers cleaning, reservoir replacement and other small parts; Montblanc gives a guarantee on the repair. Hairline cracks do not arise on their own but mostly through a fall. Shipping should always be insured, since shipments have already been lost.


What experiences are there with writing instruments of the brand Montegrappa?

Collectors report predominantly positively about Montegrappa: the writing image is praised, the writing instruments lie pleasantly in the hand, and the 18-carat nibs initially require a short break-in phase. A complete renovation of a silver case including a new nib was carried out without complication by Montegrappa itself. Models like Reminiscenz, Sophia or Roma Aeterna are regarded as high-quality; concrete statements about the quality of more recent models were not possible. For sourcing, reference is made to the forum penexchange.de.


What value does an inherited Montblanc Meisterstück L 139 G - M with 14-carat gold nib have, and is it a collector's piece?

The 139 was produced from 1939 to 1951 and is highly sought-after among collectors. Pure asking prices on eBay (e.g. 4600 USD) are not meaningful, since what matters are the actually realised sales prices, which fluctuate strongly depending on condition. Decisive for the value are in particular the colour of the ink window (as light as possible, the darker the lower the value), scratches and cracks, the condition of the cork, the nib type (e.g. ball nib, KOB imprint), the presence of packaging and papers, as well as whether the piece is NOS (never used). eBay reaches the largest collector target group for the sale.


How many pieces are produced per design of a Montblanc Annual Edition (Meissen porcelain), and are official figures available?

Annual Editions are Special Editions whose number is not officially published, since the limitation refers to the production period and not to a fixed number; Montblanc does know the produced quantities but deliberately does not disclose them. The assumption of around 7500 pieces per design (i.e. 22,500 per year) can therefore not be officially confirmed. Pictures of all three editions per year can be found in the catalogue "Montblanc Collectables, Creations of Passion" (autumn 2004), which is available in all boutiques worldwide. The official price per pen was 1350 euros in 2005; special offers can be requested from Scription (info@scription.de).


Which official Authors Sets of the Montblanc Writers Edition exist, and what status do the pieces offered in picture frames have?

The following Authors Sets were officially issued: Oscar Wilde pencil (09051), Voltaire pencil (09052), Dumas fountain pen (09053), pencil (09054) and 3-piece set (09055), Dostoyevsky fountain pen (09104 M and 09105 B) as well as Schiller fountain pen (09108 M and 09109 B). They were issued mainly in order to sell off remaining stock more quickly; a marketing strategy in the narrower sense did not lie behind it, and the edition sizes are not known. Writing instruments framed in picture frames are not official, but were partly produced by Montblanc for promotional purposes and never regularly sold; partly such frames are also home-made.


Can the nib of a Montblanc Masterpiece 142G still be exchanged today or replaced with another nib width?

Original replacement nibs for the 142G have not been produced for decades and are not available in normal specialist trade. Practical is only using another old 142 as a parts donor, which usually requires the beloved original pen as a donor. It is therefore often worthwhile having the damaged nib repaired by a specialist like HMS; nibs with not too severe damage can often be restored. A change to another nib width (e.g. from M to B) is practically not possible with the 142.


Can cracks in the plexiglass of a Montblanc 146 cap be filled in oneself, or is a replacement at the service centre necessary?

Cracks, unlike fine scratches, cannot be filled in by polishing with products like Displex. A new cap from service costs about 49 euros; however, today's 146 caps are not compatible with those from the 1990s. In 2000, the LeGrand was changed: the diameter was enlarged, the blue ink window replaced by a corrugated one, and the bicolour nib introduced. Anyone who sends in the pen effectively gets back a completely new body (except for their own nib). Alternatives are the targeted search for an old cap (eBay, forums) or accepting the crack as long as the pen writes flawlessly.


How does Montblanc appear on the internet within the Signature For Good campaign as well as on social-media channels?

Montblanc is involved with the Signature For Good Edition (with blue sapphire and gold-coated UNICEF leaf in the cap, in a limited and a regular variant) for UNICEF and uses a Facebook widget campaign in which users can enter their signature. Accompanying this, there is a Twitter account (twitter.com/mysignature) as well as an official Facebook channel (facebook.com/montblanc), on which exclusive product announcements and campaigns are also announced. In addition, customers are occasionally invited to auction events (e.g. LE 1/1 in Los Angeles with pens of money gold and brilliant rings, starting prices 18,000 to 20,000 USD); invitation criteria are not public but are presumably based on purchase history.


Which ink cartridges and converters fit into an Elysee fountain pen?

Elysee fountain pens use standard cartridges; therefore all commercially available standard cartridges and corresponding standard converters fit without problem. Only Lamy, Parker, Sheaffer, Dupont and Cross have their own proprietary sizes. Montblanc cartridges have a slightly different shape but also fit into all fountain pens with standard cartridge intake. Today's Montblanc converters, on the other hand, have had a thread for a good ten years, which is why their suitability for other brands is restricted.


What writing instrument is an approximately 15 cm long combination of fountain pen and ballpoint without manufacturer's marking apart from a tiny "Germany" on the cap?

Such combo writing instruments with fountain pen and ballpoint were already available before the First World War, e.g. from Waterman; currently Diplomat or Visconti offer comparable models. The piece described comes design-wise from the 1970s and was probably made by Mutschler in Heidelberg; visually appealing, quality rather inferior. To change the ballpoint refill, this can usually be pulled out from the front, if necessary with pliers; with some models, a screw closure also had to be released from the inside, e.g. with the then popular combinations with digital watch in the upper part.


Is it worth swapping a Montblanc Meisterstück Classic 165 propelling pencil for a Meisterstück 144 fountain pen in Bordeaux?

The 144 has not been produced since the late 1990s; its new price was around 200 euros, a 165 propelling pencil about 180 euros, so the swap is reasonable in terms of price. The 144 uses cartridges or a converter and has no rotary closure on the cap — anyone who finds a rotary closure is in fact holding a LeGrand 146. Adding to the value is original packaging with warranty card (serial number and dealer's stamp are entered there); its absence reduces the collector value. Before the swap, authenticity, nib condition, piston mechanism and cracks should be checked; an assessment in the boutique or at an authorised dealer is the safest option.


How is the redesigned Montblanc website to be evaluated from a collector's perspective?

The new website is regarded as a clear improvement over the old one: it loads faster, products are easier to find, descriptions more detailed, and thanks to better search-engine friendliness, deep links to individual products are possible. Criticised are a still inadequate internal search, the missing German language version and the absence of individual editions like the "75th Anniversary Meisterstück Edition" and particularly small editions (88 to 333 pieces) in the Limited Editions area. The auction prices stated under "Collector's Information" (Patron of Arts) are not fantasy figures but average prices from three documented hammer prices of renowned auction houses such as Christie's and Sotheby's, but partly several years old. Factually wrong is the dating of the 149 to 1924 in the History section.


How does one gently remove the nib-width sticker (e.g. "M") from a new Montblanc 145 without scratching it?

The sticker can simply be peeled off without problem. Any adhesive residues are then removed with a microfibre cloth without damaging the material.


Why is the engraving "Made in Germany" on a new Montblanc 163P located under the clip instead of "GERMANY" on the clip ring?

According to information from Montblanc customer service, this is a deliberate change: on all writing instruments the engraving "Made in Germany" is now placed on the inside of the clip, no longer on the clip ring. This change was initially also unfamiliar to customer service and had to be coordinated with the specialist department. With repairs, however, it can happen that "old" clips with serial number and "Germany" engraving on the clip ring are still fitted. A counterfeit can thus not be deduced from the changed engraving location alone.


How do the Montblanc Meisterstücks 146, 147 and 149 differ in size, mechanism and nib colour?

The 149 is the largest Meisterstück and is available exclusively with piston mechanism and only in black. The 146 and the 147 are identical in size and diameter and differ solely in their filling: the 146 has a piston mechanism, the 147 takes cartridges. The 146 is additionally available in Bordeaux as well as as a Platinum version, while the 149 is not. Detailed pictures and further variants are documented on fountainpen.de under the corresponding model pages.


Does Montblanc offer factory tours in Hamburg, and how can these be booked?

There is no open day, but group tours are basically possible. The so-called Factory Tours now take place exclusively from May to July, on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 9:30 and 17:00; a maximum of eight people can participate. Enquiries should be directed directly to Montblanc from March onwards, with at least four people required. Between Christmas and New Year (from 23.12.) the factory is regularly closed.


Is a Montblanc offered for direct purchase on eBay genuine, and is the parallel offer for auction and direct purchase admissible?

The Montblanc offered looks authentic in the pictures; a definitive judgement is, however, only possible with the piece in hand, so a written authenticity confirmation before purchase can be sensible. eBay auctions may not be ended prematurely at will but only for a valid reason (e.g. damage, theft or error in the description); otherwise the highest bidder has a court-confirmed right to the article at the last bid price. In case of a description error, a contestation on grounds of error is possible; instead of ending the auction completely, the seller can also delete individual bids and correct the text. Against joke bidders, several legally binding judgments exist in favour of sellers (e.g. AG Bremen 16 C 168/05, LG Aurich 1 S 244/08), so a lawsuit can be quite promising.


Is a Montblanc 146 with ink-view window offered on eBay genuine, or is it a counterfeit or an older model?

What was initially taken for a viewing window was, in the specific case, the golden nib-width sticker. The 146 has been available with an ink-view window since the 1980s; a 146 without a viewing window is in fact a 147 Traveller. The shape of the sticker has changed over time (in the 1970s small and round); at the same time, earlier the nib width was additionally engraved on the cap ring or at the cap end. A combination of sticker and 146 engraving at the cap end is unusual. Older 146s from the late 1980s have a viewing window without ribbing and a full-gold nib without platinum inlays.


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.


Is there a website that fully documents all limited Montblanc editions such as Patron of Art, Writers Edition and Donations Pens?

A complete online overview of all editions since 1991 does not exist; the official Montblanc books and brochures list editions from a run of 333 pieces with text, pictures and launch prices, but are no longer being reprinted. An extensive, although not exhaustive, picture source is www.cruzaltpens.com (Paco Cruz), although predominantly in Spanish and only partly translated into English; the provider is regarded as serious. An older list maintained by Axel and Michael (up to 2006, available as a newsletter PDF on fountainpen.de) also shows that many editions with small runs (sometimes only four pieces) are publicly hardly documented. A central, current source thus remains a desideratum.


From what years does the Montblanc 215 ballpoint date, in which colours was it produced and which writing instruments fit as a set with it?

The Montblanc 215 dates from 1957 to 1959 and was produced in black, green, grey and red; the black examples in particular appear comparatively often on collector platforms like eBay or with specialised dealers (e.g. penboard.de), so that with patience working pieces can be found. Suitable pencils are the models 275 and 276; the matching piston fountain pens are the models 252, 254 and 256, which differ mainly in size and diameter (the higher the model number, the larger the writing instrument). Concrete value statements are difficult, since the price depends decisively on the state of preservation; flat-rate market values do not exist.


What does an unusual marking (a zero with a propeller- or gamma-like sign over it) on the turning knob of a Montblanc 144 Meisterstück from the 1950s mean?

An engraving in this arrangement and form on the blind cap of a Meisterstück is unfamiliar to collectors and is not described in the relevant literature (Rösler, newsletter). An unambiguous assignment of the imprint to a specific nib variant (e.g. nozzle or ball nib) does not succeed in the thread. It is recommended to post a photo of the turning knob and of the nib, since the unusual stamp could possibly be assigned to a special nib version.


Is a restored Montblanc 134 with steel nib suitable as an everyday fountain pen, and what must be considered with cork seal and ink?

A restored 134 is well usable as an everyday fountain pen, provided cap and barrel are undamaged; one should write a little more carefully than with modern models. With writing instruments made of celluloid, only water-soluble blue ink (e.g. Pelikan 4001 royal blue) is recommended, since other inks can attack the material. The cork seal must not dry out: with regular use this is unproblematic; with longer non-use, the fountain pen can be filled with water or ink so that the cork swells; new corks boiled in paraffin are largely insensitive to shrinkage. When carrying it, ink can occasionally leak at the grip section (more strongly with the 124 than with the 134). Compared to gold nibs, there are no special care instructions for the steel nib.


Is a Montblanc Solitaire Vermeil ballpoint with clip inscription only "GERMANY" without serial number genuine, and what price is reasonable for the matching set?

On older writing instruments, only "Germany" is engraved; a laser engraving with serial number was only added later, so the absence of the serial number does not speak against authenticity. Solitaire sets of this kind are typically to be assigned to the 1980s. A price of 150 to 200 euros for the gold-plated 144 fountain pen alone is a clear bargain, since realistic market prices are rather around 240 to 280 euros. The 144, however, is for many too thin for prolonged writing and is more suitable for signatures; the collectability of a set is determined by the original packaging and impeccable condition (no dents, engravings or scratches).


Are the sets of Pelikan and Cross (Cross Verve Platinum, Pelikan 250) offered in the Karstadt anniversary brochure for "125 Years Karstadt" really bargains?

Both sets are discontinued models: the Cross Verve Platinum is a higher-quality model with 18-carat bicolour nib, with an RRP of around 435 euros (fountain pen) or 185 euros (ballpoint); the former retail price of 620 euros stated by Karstadt, on the other hand, is not comprehensible and problematic under competition law. The Pelikan 250 set in dark blue was discontinued by Pelikan. The price reduction to 199 euros (Cross) or 99 euros (Pelikan) appears plausible considering the RRP, but the stated crossed-out prices are partly misleading.


What edition sizes, prices and background does the Montblanc Limited Edition Mahatma Gandhi have?

The Mahatma Gandhi edition appears in two variants from the Artisan workshop: a run of 3,000 fountain pens each (price approx. 2,500 euros) and 3,000 rollerballs (approx. 2,200 euros) as well as a small Artisan edition with only 241 fountain pens at 17,000 euros each. The numbers refer to Gandhi's famous Salt March of 241 miles, on which 3,000 companions are said to have walked. Collectors criticise the edition of 241 pieces at this price level as too high for a really exclusive collector's piece and see it more as a marketing strategy. The look of the 241 variant, however, is described as very noble.


Is the red saffron ink from the Mahatma Gandhi series limited, and why do market prices fluctuate so strongly?

The saffron ink is a regular accompanying ink for the Gandhi edition and not an officially limited edition. After a phase of clearance sales, it was meanwhile again offered in regular trade, which is why partly very high resale prices on the internet do not reflect the real market value. Since the Hitchcock edition has meanwhile appeared as the successor, worse availability is to be expected in the long term; at the current time, however, the ink is still obtainable, depending on the boutique.


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.


Which blue ink is particularly suitable for a Montblanc Jules Verne?

Recommended above all are the Montblanc inks Royal Blue and Turquoise — the latter is described as fitting the character of the writing instrument and is not too garish. Anyone looking for a more special variant can fall back on the ink named "Jules Verne" from De Atramentis (Jansen). The choice ultimately remains a matter of taste; many boutiques offer matching turquoise ink directly with the fountain pen.


Is it normal that on a Montblanc 149, after turning the piston down, ink residues are still visible at the ink-view window?

The behaviour is normal: ink residues always remain in the tank and on the piston seal; when turning up, the seal pulls these residues with it, which makes the viewing window appear stained. As long as the same ink colour continues to be used, nothing needs to be done. With an ink change, rinsing should be carried out with water until the viewing window is clear; the same applies before longer writing breaks to avoid drying out. A professional cleaning is only necessary with stubborn deposits or problems with the ink flow; with frequent writing with water-soluble (royal blue) ink, the problem occurs less often.


Why does the ink flow on a Montblanc 149 repeatedly diminish despite using Montblanc ink and regular cleaning, and which repairs are sensible?

Most frequent causes are deposits from not fully water-soluble inks or writing with too much pressure, which can shift the nib tines. Once the ink is dried up, simply topping up with new ink does not help; saturation rises and the feed clogs. Recommended are exclusively royal-blue, water-soluble Montblanc ink, regular and thorough cleaning as well as light writing pressure. With repeated nib problems, a workshop repair by Montblanc is justified; an annual repair necessity, however, is not the rule.


Are a stiff piston mechanism, slight wobble of the turning section and water behind the piston on the Montblanc 146 normal?

A slight wobble of the turning section and a somewhat stiff extension are known on many 146s and 149s, more pronounced on one example, less on another — not a defect, but generally disliked. Stiffness often arises from dried ink residues; these can be loosened by an ultrasonic bath or by rinsing. Water or ink behind the piston does not belong there: it is mostly the result of solid ink deposits that produce a gap between piston and barrel. With modern writing instruments with a plastic mechanism, this is mostly uncritical; with older writing instruments with brass mechanism, this can rust. Hot water or DIY attempts should be avoided with celluloid models; in case of doubt, repair by professionals or with special tools (e.g. from penboard.de) is advisable.


How does one choose the right nib width (EF, F, M, B, BB) for a Montblanc 146 LeGrand when different boutiques give contradictory recommendations?

The choice of nib width depends on writing pressure, handwriting size and above all on the paper used; the broader the nib, the lower the surface pressure and the softer the writing feel. Tests in the shop should therefore always be carried out with one's own frequently used paper; ideal are smooth, satinated papers with about 90 g/m², unsuitable are laid and recycled papers. With Montblanc, the nibs EF, F and M are round-ground, B and BB on the other hand straight, which leads to a clearly different writing image — this can explain why a B nib is felt to be more pleasant. Blanket recommendations are impossible; many collectors use different nib widths for different applications (e.g. EF/F for notes, M/B for letters, BB for signatures) and therefore reach for second or third fountain pens.


What is a fully transparent Pelikan 400 worth, and when was it produced?

It is a demonstrator of the Pelikan 400NN from around 1956 to 1962, originally produced only in small numbers for demonstration and advertising purposes — in contrast to demonstrators issued today in larger series. There was also a green-transparent variant. Demonstrators are sought-after collector pieces today and achieve higher prices in good condition than the regular green-striped or tortoise-coloured 400NN. Reliable values, however, only result from realised auction prices, not from desired or asking prices of individual sellers.


Which carrier material lies under the platinum coating of the Montblanc Meisterstück Platinum Edition, e.g. on model 161?

On the Platinum writing instruments, the basic material consists, depending on the component, of different materials: the tip is copper-plated brass with platinum plating, the rings are made of rolled gold (thick gold layer on brass) and additionally platinum-plated, the clip is made of nickel silver (Alpacca, copper-nickel-zinc alloy). With extremely heavy use and frequent polishing, the coating can wear off; with normal use, however, no problems are to be expected even after years. Anyone wishing for a continuously metallic construction can reach for the stainless steel variant.


What experiences are there with the handmade fountain pens by Stefan Fink from Hamburg?

The writing instruments by Stefan Fink are handmade unique pieces that could be assessed during a visit to the workshop at the Hamburg fountain pen fair. They lie very well in the hand, feel like worry stones and have an exclusive gold nib. As expected, these pieces are correspondingly high-priced. The fountain pens are commercially available, among others, from Tom Westerich (penboard.de).


Is there information on the French fountain pen manufacturer Mor (or Mor's) from Paris?

The brand Mor or Mor's from Paris is not listed in standard literature (e.g. in the Lambrou book). It can be assumed to be a smaller French manufacturer; in the early 20th century (around 1925) many small workshops existed whose brand names are hardly documented today. Detailed historical information about the manufacturer cannot be ascertained in the forum.


Is it more worthwhile when collecting Montblanc Limited Editions (Writers Edition) to complete existing LEs, fill gaps in the year sequence or buy exclusively according to taste?

Increase in value should not be the primary goal in collecting, since writing instruments — similarly to wine, classic cars or watches — usually do not represent a reliable investment; one should buy primarily according to personal liking. Fountain pens are basically easier to resell than ballpoints or pencils. Anyone who nevertheless collects in a structured manner should first complete the fountain pen series and not put themselves under time pressure but rather observe the market and have patience. As a supplement, the Patron of Art editions with a quantity of 1,000 or 4,810 also come into question.


Can the worn silver or platinum coating of an old Meisterstück nib from the 1950s be restored?

A complete restoration of the original coating is only possible at disproportionate effort and is hardly economically justifiable. However, a new rhodium coating (alternatively palladium or platinum) can be applied through professional electroplating: for this, the nib is disassembled, cleaned, the gold parts not to be coated are masked with lacquer, then rhodium-plated and the lacquer removed again. Earlier nibs were, incidentally, never coated with silver but with metals of the platinum group (rhodium, ruthenium, palladium, platinum); commonly rhodium is used, which is particularly scratch-resistant and hard. Collectors disagree as to whether a restoration is sensible — traces of use are partly seen as part of the value.


From what period does a Montblanc safety fountain pen with stamp "Simplo – Original Montblanc", nib engraving "4 / 14 K" and greenish-discoloured barrel date?

These Safety models typically come from the mid- to late 1920s. The barrel is made of hard rubber, which turns greenish over time; originally the writing instrument was black. The cap top is usually made of casein. If a cap part, on the other hand, still appears deep black, this points to a later replacement. Clips were an extra on these models, which is why many Safeties were delivered without a clip. A definitive evaluation only succeeds through an expert like Horst Schrage (maxpens.de), who can restore the device.


Why do fountain pens often drip at the grip section in everyday use, and what can the cause be?

Dripping can have various causes: temperature fluctuations, a clogged feed, surfactant residues in the system after cleaning as well as low air pressure (e.g. when flying). Current writing instruments are tested in climatic chambers and under varying pressure conditions, so that modern models do not blot under normal use as a rule; with vintage writing instruments from the 1950s it occurs more often. Often the problem also lies in improper handling or wrong filling technique — instruction at the specialist retailer can help here. For frequent flying, the StarWalker is regarded as particularly insensitive.


How old is a Montblanc Monte Rosa 042 (G), and what value does it have together with original packaging from Simplo Hamburg?

The Monte Rosa 042 (G) was an inexpensive school fountain pen sold with or without a gold nib. With missing cap top and clip, the value of the pen itself is only around 15 to 20 euros. The accompanying original box with Simplo Hamburg imprint dates from the 1920s to 1930s and is quite interesting for collectors: boxes of this kind can fetch around 90 euros or more. It was further discussed that sellers might first offer their pieces to the forum community before an eBay auction in order to keep originals within the German-speaking area.


Which dark-blue, document-proof ink is suitable for an old Montblanc 342, and what should one look out for when buying ink for old fountain pens?

Basically, every fountain-pen ink from established manufacturers like Pelikan, Montblanc, Lamy or Sheaffer is suitable; exotic US inks should be avoided, since these are partly aggressive. Important is that the ink does not dry out in the fountain pen: rinse with water before longer breaks. Water-soluble inks are the safest, while document-proof or strongly pigmented inks can form deposits, eat into the material and discolour it. Since the 342 is not a high-priced model, a moderate risk with a dark-blue ink (e.g. Pelikan Sapphire) can be taken — regular rinsing is then particularly important.


How can one tell whether a Montblanc 144 or 164 is genuine, especially if no serial number is present on the clip ring?

A missing serial number is no proof of a counterfeit: only newer writing instruments bear a serial number; pieces from the 1980s and earlier have none, and some more recent special models (early Scenium, Rouge-et-Noir, Noir-et-Noir) too come without a serial number. A practical authenticity feature on Meisterstücks made of precious resin: when shining through the barrel or cap with a halogen spot, a reddish shimmer becomes visible. Detailed identifying features together with picture comparisons can be found on the fakes page of fountainpen.de; in case of doubt, photos should be posted in the forum.


Did the Montblanc 333 1/2 already exist in the 1930s, and what does the "1/2" designation mean in the model numbers?

The 333 1/2 actually existed in the 1930s (according to Rösler produced 1937–1948, already included in the 1936 catalogue); it was made in black, blue and green and often has a flat cap top with engraved star. The model designation should be stamped on the turning knob. Distinction from the 334 1/2 succeeds primarily via the nib size (3 1/2 or 4 1/2). The "1/2" ending was originally a price indication: with Safety models the model number corresponded to the retail price in Reichsmark (e.g. Safety No. 12 1/2 = 12.50 RM). In the 1930s the designation was then continued in marketing as a hint at a half-step better; models with intermediate steps are particularly rare today and accordingly in demand. Especially coloured 333 1/2 variants achieve high prices and should be assessed before purchase by an experienced collector.


Which manufacturer is behind writing instruments with the inscription "STANDARD 18. KR." and richly decorated gold overlay?

The brand designation "(Standard)" in brackets was used by a company that produced safety fountain pens; possibly it was a predecessor company of Standard-Matador in Wuppertal-Elberfeld. The construction with the designation "18 KR" alternatively points to an Italian origin — unusual are e.g. two eyelets, one on the cap and one on the rotatable barrel end, which is atypical. The gold overlays could come from an Italian jeweller; the basic body can come from any manufacturer. Without nib engraving and further clues, the brand cannot be unambiguously assigned.


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.


Did the Pelikan 400 from the 1950s really come with grey caps, or are these faded black examples?

In the standard literature (Dittmer & Lehmann, "Pelikan Schreibgeräte", p. 67) no grey caps are documented for the 400, which is why it is plausible that it is a faded, originally black cap. A special edition in grey is not documented. For more precise assessment, a Pelikan expert (e.g. Werner) can be consulted.


Where can one obtain spare parts for the missing black logo border on the cap top of a Montblanc 264 from the 1950s?

A professional restoration quickly exceeds the value of the 264 (depending on condition between 50 and 150 euros). It is more sensible to acquire on eBay another 264 or a damaged cap top as a parts donor, since this model is regularly offered. In everyday use, attention should be paid to the cork seal: with longer non-use, flush out the ink and fill with water; in operation use water-soluble, royal blue ink as far as possible and rinse at least once a month with lukewarm water, since aggressive inks can damage the fountain pen.


Where can one find lists with the original retail prices of old Montblanc fountain pens from the period 1945 to 1980?

Comprehensive public lists for this period hardly exist; reliable sources are old original catalogues with price lists, which are occasionally offered on eBay. Online, only a few catalogues can be found, e.g. a Montblanc price list from 1973 on caprafico.com or in discussions on fountainpennetwork.com. A complete collection has so far not existed; the formation of a working group for systematic recording was suggested in the forum but not implemented.


What does the hallmark below the "750" engraving on a Montblanc 149 gold nib mean?

The hallmark relates to the gold content of the nib and is also found on other 18-carat gold parts of Montblanc, e.g. on the solid-gold fountain pen. It stands in the context of export regulations: for example, in France, fountain pens may only be sold as "with gold nib" if the gold nib has 18 carat and is correspondingly hallmarked. The nib is thus exportable without further adjustment. "Export nibs" therefore frequently have 18 instead of 14 carat as well as this additional hallmark.


How does a nib exchange on a new Montblanc 149 proceed, and what costs are to be expected?

Within the first weeks after purchase, a nib exchange at the specialist retailer is possible free of charge — the easiest is to make the complaint there. Alternatively, one can send the fountain pen oneself (insured!) to Montblanc Hamburg, but should coordinate everything by telephone beforehand. After the exchange period has expired, an official exchange is no longer financially worthwhile; cheaper is then to acquire a used model with the desired nib and to resell one's own. For individual adjustments or refinement, specialists like Horst Schrage (max@maxpens.de) come into question.


What advantages does the fitting of an individually made (customized) nib, e.g. by John Mottishaw, bring compared to a standard nib?

Customized nibs deliver perfectly tuned ink flow, no start-up problems and a clearly softer writing feel than series-produced standard nibs. A flexified EF nib too can noticeably change the writing character; writing an EF thereby feels more pleasant than one is used to from hard modern nibs. Providers are e.g. nibs.com (John Mottishaw); to be noted, however, are customs procedures with US orders, which require personal effort.


How does one classify an old Montblanc Safety with imprint "4M", octagonal overlay (585 hallmark) and heart nib?

The engraving "4" on the turning knob identifies the model as Safety No. 4; the trailing "M" denotes the original nib width. A nib with the designation "20" actually originates from the 20 Meisterstück and corresponds to nib size 2, so on model 4 with this nib there can be an inconsistency — possibly it was subsequently exchanged or the nib visually fitted afterwards. For unambiguous identification, dimensions (diameter at the grip section, length without cap with retracted nib) and any hallmarks on the overlay (e.g. "S" for Sarastro) are decisive. For maintenance and restoration, Horst Schrage (maxpens.de) is recommended.


Does a Montblanc pen stand with plug-on cap cause abrasion marks on the barrel of the 149, and how does one best store the fountain pen in it?

With plug-on cap pen stands, slight abrasion marks on the barrel cannot be avoided over time, since the rim of the plug rubs on the barrel. The previously usual thread solution was abolished because many users damaged the fountain pen when unscrewing it. Recommended is to place the 149 nib down in the pen stand and put the cap loosely on the back; this avoids friction on the polished barrel and saves a step. Frequent polishing of the barrel is not advisable, since the material thickness decreases and predetermined breaking points can develop.


Should one use various ink colours one after the other in the same fountain pen, or rather use a separate fountain pen for each colour?

The practice varies; common is the use of several fountain pens with different colours in parallel, because then one can switch as desired. Light inks come better into their own with broader nibs (B or larger) than with EF/F. Certain aggressive or strong inks — e.g. red, Pelikan brown or Montblanc burgundy — can especially in Pelikan demonstrators or celluloid models eat into the material and should as far as possible permanently be assigned to the same (possibly cheaper) fountain pen. Important are regular cleaning and trying out new inks first in less expensive writing instruments.


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.


Is a Montblanc Solid Gold 146 genuine that is stamped only on the cap with "750" and on the clip with a serial number?

Original solid-gold writing instruments typically bear the 750 stamp in several places: on the crown, on the cap, on the barrel, under the clip and on the nib; each of these parts is individually hallmarked, since otherwise an exchange would not be traceable. With early solid-gold pieces, however, partly only barrel and cap are hallmarked, and some early models still have the normal (non-gold) clip fitted, because the pure gold clip was mechanically unsuitable — the marking helps with classification here. Vermeil writing instruments, on the other hand, are marked with "925" (sterling silver) and partly the "StO" stamp. If both "750" and "925" appear on a piece, one should keep one's distance.


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.


Which Montblanc inks are currently and were formerly in the range, in particular Permanent Blue-Black and Emerald Green?

In the ink-bottle range one finds, among others, the colours Black, Royal Blue (washable), Turquoise, Blue-Black (permanent, document-proof), Burgundy Red, Sepia Brown and Emerald Green (dark green); discontinued are, among others, Ruby Red, Smaragd Green, Love Letters and Season's Greetings (chocolate, scented). The cartridges largely correspond to the bottled range, without Turquoise. Permanent Blue-Black and the dark Emerald Green are regular components of the current range, even if availability in individual boutiques can vary.


What can one do if a Montblanc 320 no longer delivers ink despite cleaning?

Before a complete disassembly, ultrasonic cleaning is the most productive step; on many 320 models, dried ink residues are the cause of a blocked ink flow. On model 320, nib and feed cannot, as on the 22 or 24, be pressed out backwards, since grip section and feed are made of one piece. If when filling rattling noises occur and bubbles form on the piston shaft, this points to a hairline crack on the body — in this case no further cleaning helps; the writing instrument should be carefully examined for cracks before purchase.


What information is there on the Montblanc Limited Edition "Meisterstück 149 – 25 Years Fall of the Wall"?

The Special Edition celebrates the 25th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall and is based on the Meisterstück 149. The hand-finished 18-carat gold nib shows an engraving of the Quadriga of the Brandenburg Gate; the fountain pen is delivered in individually designed packaging with a black ink bottle. A more precise figure on the run was not given in the thread; further pictures and discussions can be found in the Fountain Pen Network. The edition is regarded by some collectors critically as a commercially motivated extension of the LE programme.


Where can one obtain a replacement nib for a Montblanc 32?

Montblanc usually still keeps spare parts for models of this series; an original replacement nib, however, costs almost as much as a used complete fountain pen. It is therefore more economical to bid on a complete 32 on eBay (rough guide: at most 25 euros for well-preserved pieces; defective examples with good nib can be had for as little as 20–30 euros) or to buy from a collector. Since this model is frequently offered, with some patience almost any nib width is available.


Which metal (yellow gold or platinum/silver/white gold) do collectors prefer for the trim of their fountain pens?

The choice is predominantly a matter of taste and is closely connected with personal colour type: spring and autumn types tend to warm gold tones, summer and winter types to cool white metals. With black Meisterstücks, yellow-gold trim is often preferred; with silver-heavy models like the Kafka, gold elements would seem out of place. Writing behaviour also influences the choice: heavy writing instruments with massive metal sleeves tire faster during long writing, which is why lighter models like the Doerrbecker Quintessenz or the StarWalker RubberLine are regarded as more everyday-suitable. Heavy devices like the ST Dupont Olympio Large are more suitable for signatures.


Is it normal that black ink (Cross/Pelikan) loses gas in the bottle and the colour particles flocculate?

A change in this form cannot be reproduced in own comparison samples; usual black inks from Montblanc, Visconti or Pelikan remain stable even after long storage. Possible is spoilage by microorganisms (mould) or a chemical process through contamination. Sometimes light shaking before opening helps, since movement reincorporates the particles. Anyone who writes little should rather buy smaller ink quantities so as not to store whole large bottles; with ink from Made-in-Germany glass (Cross ink presumably comes from Pelikan) it is worthwhile checking whether the second bottle shows the same problem.


What experiences are there with the online dealer www.fuellhalter.de (Blankenhorn, Frankenthal), especially as an official Montblanc dealer?

Experiences with Blankenhorn/fuellhalter.de are consistently positive: fast, well-packed shipping, friendly telephone and e-mail contact as well as proper service in the shop in Frankenthal too. The company is an official Montblanc dealer, so the warranty papers are delivered fully filled in. In individual cases there can be typing errors with the serial number on the warranty papers — in case of warranty it is therefore important to check the entry immediately to avoid later problems.


Are the nibs of the Montblanc models 12, 22 and 32 interchangeable, and how does one repair a damaged nib on a 32 with the appearance of a 12?

The nibs of models 12, 22 and 32 are largely identical in form and largely compatible; they differ, however, in material: the 12 has 18-carat, the 22 14-carat gold nibs, the 32 generally gilded steel nibs. A repair of a damaged nib seldom pays off financially — cheaper is the purchase of another 32 as a parts donor. Fitting a gold nib from a 12 or 22 into a 32 is also possible. The first port of call for used nibs is Maxpens (Horst Schrage).


Which fountain pens under 350 euros are suitable as a poppy, monochrome red or yellow second pen with piston filling alongside a Montblanc 146?

Collectors point to colourful models like the Kaweco range Blues, Tango, Samba and Mambo, which, however, only offer converter systems with low ink capacity and are placed below a Meisterstück 146 in quality. As a high-quality alternative with striking colours, Conway Stewart is mentioned, whose revived English models are available in many special colours. The Faber-Castell Pen of the Year 2008 in satinwood is also brought into play as a yellowish, high-quality candidate. With the desired brands Omas and Aurora, one has to reckon with significant price differences depending on the model.


How can an inherited Montblanc safety pen from the 1920s with overlay and heart-shaped hole in the nib be identified and classified?

A serious evaluation is not possible without inspection or meaningful photos, so collectors always ask for pictures by e-mail or in the forum. For uploading photos, there is a separate guide in the help area of the forum. Safety pens by Montblanc from the 20s with a gold overlay are well known as jeweller's commissions and can be valuable, but an assignment to specific designations like Sarastro requires reliable image material.


Which Montblanc Limited Edition is a hard-to-recognise skeleton fountain pen depicted in a magazine?

Collectors discuss as candidates the Asia Golden Dragon 888, the Beethoven & Bernstein, the Max Reinhardt as well as the Sakura 333. The Golden Dragon is excluded because of the missing flames on the body, the Max Reinhardt because of differing cap motifs and stronger body images. A certain similarity to the Annual Edition 2006 Pantalone is perceived as motivic resemblance. Because of the unsharp source, the determination remains speculative; a better source would be needed.


How can a Montblanc click ballpoint be identified that is said to come from the early 1950s and was presented together with a 142 fountain pen in a leather case?

Push-button ballpoints were only produced at Montblanc from the late 1960s; a model from the early 1950s is therefore ruled out, even if the accompanying 142 fountain pen actually comes from the 50s. An overview of the numerous later models can be found in the book Collectible Stars. For a concrete determination, a visit to a writing-instrument get-together is recommended, e.g. the monthly meeting in Hamburg, where collectors keep corresponding folders with comparison pieces ready.


Which manufacturer is behind a colourful ballpoint, bought in the 1980s, with a striking pattern whose cross-section is reminiscent of the Montblanc logo?

It is not a Montblanc, but the Parafernalia Flirt from the family of the Italian brand Parafernalia. Montblanc writing instruments in the 70s and 80s, even in the entry class, always bore classic forms as well as the logo and brand name; if these markings are missing, the writing instrument is not a Montblanc. Further information can be found on the manufacturer's site parafernalia.com.


Which leads fit into an old Welt Pen 4-colour pencil and how does its lead feed work?

For the Welt Pen 4-colour pencil, lead and coloured-pencil leads with 1.8 mm diameter are most likely required. Ballpoint refills are unlikely, since Welt Pen disappeared from the market before the spread of 4-colour ballpoints. The pen should under no circumstances be opened, since reassembly hardly succeeds. Coloured leads in 1.8 or 1.9 mm are practically no longer regularly available today; only pencil leads in this thickness are still available from some manufacturers.


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 a bent OB nib on the Montblanc Le Grand arise and what can be done about it?

Modern Montblanc nibs are very stiff and hardly bend by themselves during normal writing-in, so it is more likely that the nib was not optimally set up at the factory or that there was transport damage. With obliquely ground nibs (O nibs) like OB or OBB, the nib angle to the paper is particularly critical; if they are not held at the right angle, they scratch and only deliver their typical incisive writing image when held correctly. A slight correction can be made oneself with experience; otherwise the piece should be returned via the dealer to Montblanc.


What is the first impression of the Montblanc Writers Edition 2012 Jonathan Swift and from when is it commercially available?

The Jonathan Swift is regarded as a visually very successful edition with an impressive triangular cap and finely worked nib. Despite its large appearance, it lies well in the hand thanks to a surprisingly pleasant weight and is comparable in size roughly to the Toscanini. The precious resin appears slightly reddish-translucent in the light. Delivery to dealers occurred, depending on region, between August and September 2012; the matching green ink was at the time of the first sightings partly not yet available.


Why does the ink of a Montblanc 145 dry up significantly faster after a warranty repair of the grip section, and how can the writing flow be restored?

The cause typically lies in the fact that the nib was not correctly seated on the feed after the repair and the nib slit is therefore too narrow or too tight. A complaint at the dealer is the right path; an experienced specialist retailer can loosen the nib tension and remove any foreign bodies, e.g. a hair between the tines. Today many repairs have to be sent directly to Montblanc, since only few dealers from the old guard are still allowed to carry out such nib work themselves.


How does one change the refill in the Montblanc Leonardo da Vinci click ballpoint and which refill fits?

On the back, beneath the engraving, there is a small button that is pressed in together with the new refill; this allows the click button together with the mechanism to be removed upwards and the old refill pulled out. The new refill must necessarily be fitted with an extension adapter, otherwise it does not fit. The usual Montblanc Ball Pen Refill is used, provided the adapter is present. If no adapter is left in the pen, it must be obtained separately.


How does one tell on a blindly auctioned Montblanc whether it is a 146 Le Grand with M nib, and what costs arise for a later nib exchange?

The 146 Le Grand is identified, among other things, by the viewing window, which is missing on the 144. When buying at a specialist retailer, there is the possibility, within a certain period, to have the nib width exchanged free of charge. A subsequent nib exchange outside this period is significantly more expensive; currently the costs are around 187 euros, earlier lower amounts in the region of 50 euros are no longer current. On the nib itself, the nib size is usually stamped as a small letter.


How long does a piston filling on the Pelikan Souverän M600 last for everyday student use with longer exam papers?

A piston fountain pen like the Pelikan Souverän is basically well suited for studying, since fountain pens deliver a more legible writing image than ballpoints or rollerballs. The exact writing duration varies; a viewing window as some models offer makes monitoring the ink level considerably easier. For longer examinations, it is generally recommended to carry a second writing instrument as an emergency reserve.


Can a rollerball from the Montblanc Masters for Meisterstück Porcelain Black & White series be converted to a ballpoint, and what is the availability of the pieces?

A conversion of the rollerball to ballpoint mechanism is not possible. The black models of the series were quickly removed from the programme by Montblanc due to repeated cracks and are hardly available any more. The white variants are likewise scarce; the white fountain pen is offered, among others, by the Meissen online shop, list prices are around 2050 euros for the fountain pen and 1940 euros for the rollerball. Anyone wishing for a ballpoint of this design must turn to another edition.


In which colours were the Montblanc Carrera ballpoints with stainless-steel tip produced between 1971 and 1979?

Known are, among others, yellow-orange, blood-orange, red, purple, turquoise, light green, green, dark green, olive, brown and black. According to references from former Montblanc employees, a wine-red variant additionally exists. About the existence of further blue tones such as light, medium or dark blue, there are no confirmed sightings in the forum, so the collecting series overall apparently comprises significantly more than ten colours. The writing instruments from the 1970s are regarded among collectors as underestimated.


Which early Montblanc safety pens, lever fillers, compressor fillers and eyedroppers are regarded as particularly rare and where can they be obtained?

In the collecting focus are old pieces such as Safeties with overlay (outside Italian production), lever fillers, compressor fillers, eyedroppers as well as coloured Meisterstücks from the years 1924 to 1938. Particularly sought-after and hardly offered are the rare coloured 23x and 33x models from the 1930s, while the 12x Meisterstücks are mostly not for sale. Trading among collectors is common in this segment. Pictures and background can be found in the book Fountain Pens of the World by Andreas Lambrou.


Which Montblanc Solitaire model numbers exist in fine-grain (Feinkorn) version and since when have these been produced?

The Solitaire Meisterstücks of the newer construction were only produced from 1987; the model numbers 1443 (fountain pen) and 1633 (rollerball) in vermeil fine grain fall in this phase. In 1999, the fine-grain models were discontinued, and later, on the Faden models, the vermeil version was replaced by gilded brass. Gilded fine-grain writing instruments without 925 stamp would be untypical for the 1970s and must be examined more closely on photos in order to rule out confusion or later modifications.


Where on the Montblanc StarWalker Soulmakers for 100 Years fountain pen from 2006 is the individual limitation number located?

On the Special Edition of this series, the serial number is engraved on the clip ring, while on the Limited Edition variants it is mostly placed at the end of the pen. The rollerball also bears its number at the end of the pen. A complete absence of the number would be untypical; usually the supposed absence is simply an overlooked engraving. The 1906 edition comprises correspondingly numbered examples, which secures the authenticity check via the correct numbering.


Which Montblanc fountain pen is regarded as the most expensive and what distinguishes it?

Regarded as the most expensive series model so far is the Mystery Masterpiece, a cooperation with Van Cleef & Arpels, of which there are three examples each in red, blue and green; the price stated was around 558,000 euros. The piece is set with numerous diamonds and coloured precious stones. Upwards, however, individual pieces or later editions are basically open, so this price does not represent a final upper limit. Further details can be found on the official Montblanc page for the model.


Which high-quality fountain pens with a wooden barrel are recommended as a first acquisition and how easy to care for are the woods used?

Frequently mentioned are Faber-Castell models with Pernambuco or ebony, the Caran d'Ache with rosewood, the Waterman Sérénité Wood, newer wooden fountain pens by Omas as well as writing instruments by Cartier and Stefan Fink. Manufacturers usually use specially selected wood that is largely insensitive to sweat and stains. Price-wise, Faber-Castell is the cheapest entry, while Omas and especially the models by H. Fink, with prices from around 700 euros, are significantly higher. For targeted advice on Omas, the dealer Tom Westerich (penboard.de) is recommended.


Which scent characterises the Montblanc Seasons Greetings ink 2007 and how can the aroma be classified?

The red Seasons Greetings ink 2007 contains, according to the American refill page of Montblanc, a vanilla note. Collectors describe the scent as floral-warm with a recognisable cinnamon note and thus overall Christmassy, but significantly less aggressively cinnamon-heavy than the previous year's ink. The perception of the individual components is subjective and varies between floral, vanilla and cinnamon-like impressions.


How does one filter an old Pelikan iron-gall ink from the 1950s of small clumps without impairing the writing flow of an M800?

Suitable for filtering are common coffee filters or blotting paper, which reliably retain the solid clumps. A light powder sediment of pigments may well remain desirable after filtering. In general, manufacturers advise against mixing different inks, since chemical reactions can occur; with old iron-gall inks, the deposits are typical components that have thickened over time and are usually not mould. With filtered old IG ink, good writing results can still be achieved on suitable paper.


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.


To what extent does a collectors' forum risk losing its character through increasing sales offers from outsiders, and how could this be curbed?

Forums are only of limited suitability as a sales platform, since regular collectors know the market prices well, and exorbitant prices are hardly achieved here. In other forums, sales are only allowed from a certain number of posts or after manual approval, which is an effective measure against purely sales-oriented new registrations. Overall, the impression prevails that brazen offers do attract attention but are rarely successful in the collector environment.


What are the causes when a Parker Sonnet smears at the front gold ring and the cartridge loses leaking ink during non-use?

A blanket remote diagnosis is not possible without inspection; a visit to a renowned specialist shop is recommended. Generally, every cartridge and piston filling condenses during longer storage, which can lead to ink emerging at the grip section, without there being a defect. Truly remaining residual ink quantities can often only be determined when rinsing. Specialised help on Parker is additionally offered by the Penexchange forum with its own Parker section.


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.


Who still repairs Elysee fountain pens after the brand was taken over by Staedtler about ten years ago and production discontinued?

Since Elysee has not been produced for about ten years, the legal successor Staedtler usually no longer keeps spare parts; a direct enquiry to Staedtler is nevertheless worth a try. Alternatively, the path to specialised independent fountain-pen repairers is worthwhile, who also work outside the manufacturer's service chain with old parts and self-made fabrications.


What is behind the article on writing culture in the Rheinischer Merkur and which materials such as galalith are mentioned therein?

The article in the Rheinischer Merkur arose after a detailed conversation with a collector during the Landpartie exhibition at Burg Adendorf near Bonn and is aimed at the more discerning readership of the paper. Background information on fountain-pen materials including galalith is provided by the book Schreibgeräte sammeln by Dietmar Geyer on pages 127 to 131. Galalith is a historical plastic made of casein, which was used in the construction of writing instruments before the spread of celluloid and modern resins.


How do the nib widths M and B compare with each other at Montblanc, Pelikan and Caran d'Ache?

With gold nibs, test writing is indispensable, since these are individually hand-ground and show recognisable differences even within the same nib width of one manufacturer. Tendentially, Montblanc nibs write somewhat thicker than Pelikan nibs of the same designation. The B nib of a Caran d'Ache Ecridor writes considerably finer than the B nib of a Montblanc Meisterstück Classique, which makes clear the manufacturer-specific character of nib widths.


Where can the Montblanc Donation Pen Leonard Bernstein still be obtained?

The Leonard Bernstein is occasionally offered on the private collector market, but is no longer regularly available in normal trade. Forum members occasionally arrange contacts to collectors who are giving up a complete Bernstein set including original packaging and papers, both as fountain pen and as ballpoint. Direct contact with the webmaster of the collector site or enquiries in collector circles are the usual source.


Which Montblanc model is a fountain pen with satinated grip section, silver-shiny barrel, relief-like star and 585 gold nib?

The writing instrument corresponds to the Montblanc Noblesse 1128, which was made from 1976 to 1980. It is a comparatively low-priced model of that time; the last shop price was around 98 DM, before that around 120 to 125 DM. Owing to the high production numbers, the collector value has not significantly increased today. A 585 hallmark on the nib confirms the gold material of the nib tip.


How can ink from small ink bottles like the Montblanc Collodi or Ink of Joy be drawn as completely as possible into a large fountain pen like the 149?

Practicable options are: pour residues into another bottle of the same ink, transfer them to a smaller container, or tilt the ink bottle strongly when filling so that the ink can be taken up directly at the back of the nib instead of at the feed. With this, the loss of residual ink can be significantly reduced without special tools being necessary.


Is a Montblanc Safety pen No. 25 with a golden snake on the clip an original piece?

The Montblanc No. 25 is a common safety pen from the 1920s and 1930s in two variants: an early one without and a later one with cap bands. Golden snakes on the clip are not entirely unknown, but extremely rare and, in the specific case discussed, very probably a later jeweller's addition; the seller himself accordingly designates the element as an add-on clip. The claim that the No. 25 is the largest Montblanc Safety ever built is incorrect. With safety pens, a personal inspection is essential, since only that allows the tightness to be checked.


How can small scratches and dull surfaces on modern Montblanc precious-resin writing instruments be polished up again?

A polishing wheel of about 300 mm diameter and 80 mm width at around 500 revolutions per minute, combined with various polishing and shine pastes, is recommended. With deeper scratches from about 0.12 mm depth, fine polishing paper of 1000 to 2000 grit should be used as preparation before machine polishing. With this, precious-resin surfaces can largely be returned to a near-mint condition.


How does one identify an old Parker Vacumatic nib as Oblique, and which modern fountain pens and nib widths come into question as a replacement for a Gothic handwriting?

A visibly obliquely ground Parker Vacumatic nib is most likely an Oblique variant, presumably OM. Gold nibs are individually ground in, which is why with a replacement only extensive test writing provides meaningful insights. Pocket-suitable models are basically all modern fountain pens, preferably not made of metal in order to avoid scratches from keys; as a smaller classic, the Montblanc Mozart 116 is suitable. Special grinds such as Italic Oblique or Fine Italic, e.g. via mrpen.co.uk, offer interesting options especially for tabular and mixed-script needs; further explanations can be found at nibs.com.


How is the Parker IM Blue to be evaluated as a beginner's fountain pen and which alternatives exist under 40 euros?

Today's fountain pens generally write reliably across brands, so individual feel, weight and ink flow are more important than the brand. In the area below 40 euros, Pelikan, Lamy, Faber-Castell Loom, Kaweco and Online are recommended; complementarily, a look at used writing instruments on eBay is worthwhile. From online buying without test writing it is advised, since the writing feel should be judged personally; for example, a metal grip section with sweaty hands can be unpleasantly slippery.


Which leads fit the Montblanc Pix 72 propelling pencil and how can the poorly working press mechanism be made workable again?

The Pix 72 needs pencil leads of 1.18 mm diameter; these are still available today from Yard-o-Lead via the Filofax trade or from Caran d'Ache; an inexpensive offer also exists at memo.de. Coloured leads in this thickness are de facto only obtainable via collector exchanges. With a finicky ejector, the centring claw can be carefully cleaned with a bent-open small paperclip, since abrasion accumulates in the grooves of the claw over time. Spare parts for defective mechanisms are no longer kept by Montblanc.


Is it worth buying a Montblanc Artisan Edition Picasso when only a particular individual number out of 91 examples is available?

The buying decision should depend primarily on personal liking, not on investment considerations. Only a few Limited Editions have actually risen in value; at the same time, the sheer quantity of Limited and Artisan editions is now so large that the term limited has lost meaning. If the piece is subjectively worth the price to one, nothing speaks against the purchase; as a pure investment, however, it is not to be recommended.


How can a supposedly golden Kaweco fountain pen from the 1940s with 585 stamp and WARRANTED nib be classified and evaluated?

Kaweco collecting is a niche field, which is why information is best obtained directly from today's manufacturer Gutberlet. The expert answer from there points to inconsistencies between the clip outer diameter and housing, which should not normally occur on a high-quality gold housing, which can indicate a later clip exchange. Gold overlays of such pens generally did not come from Kaweco itself but from jewellers, often from Pforzheim. A serious evaluation requires sharp, detail-rich photos; a general guide for value determination is available in the forum.


What distinguishes the new Kaweco AL Sport Roh model, what does it cost, and is it recommendable despite the smooth grip section?

The Kaweco AL Sport Roh is in the trade from 1 October 2012 and costs about 67 euros; due to high demand the delivery time was initially seven to ten working days. The raw aluminium surface proves pleasingly scratch-resistant, even when carried together with keys in trouser pockets. As a point of criticism, users mention the very smooth grip section, which can be uncomfortable during longer writing but is unproblematic for short writing. Overall, the fountain pen is regarded as a recommendable model of the AL Sport range.


How suitable is the Pelikan M205 Duo with marker ink as a highlighter substitute and what alternatives exist?

The Pelikan M205 Duo is known as a concept and quite usable for marking purposes. Anyone who already owns several M200 models can fall back on alternative luminous inks, e.g. the Namiki Pilot fuyu-gaki mandarin ink. Special marker inks from the ink booklets by Michael Richter (available on Penexchange and Fountainpennetwork) are also an option. Thus it can be prevented that other valuable fountain pens have to be loaded with aggressive marker ink.


Are proprietary ink-cartridge formats sensible or do they harm the consumer and writing culture?

The position of the proprietary advocates argues that manufacturers are entitled to sell their own accessories for their products, and that standard formats can lead to quality problems. Counter-positions see proprietary cartridges as a declaration of war on the customer that unnecessarily restricts the choice of ink; piston fillers or converter systems that allow free choice of ink are therefore preferred. A pragmatic stopgap was formerly the refilling of empty cartridges with syringe and cannula, as was usual e.g. with Geha pens.


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.


Is it normal that on the Montblanc Jules Verne the cap shows a different colour tone with a reddish tint than the barrel?

The Jules Verne has a special lacquer coating that produces strongly varying colour impressions under different light, partly even up to a purple shimmer. Slight colour differences between cap and barrel are therefore frequently due to lighting; a clear reddish tint independent of lighting only on the cap, on the other hand, is untypical and suggests a later exchange of a component. Original packaging with intact seal makes a subsequent exchange unlikely but does not necessarily rule it out. Recommended is a comparison with further Verne examples in very bright daylight or white lamp light.


How does the lead loading on the Montblanc Oscar Wilde mechanical pencil work and where does the rattling inside come from?

Operation is exclusively via rotation; an additional lead is not drawn in by the rotary mechanism but introduced from the front via the removable cap. The audible rattling comes from spare leads that lie loosely in the mechanism and can be taken out and reinserted as required. The mechanism is therefore, due to its function, not entirely silent acoustically.


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.


What features, edition size and availability characterise the Montblanc Limited Edition Brandenburg 89?

The Brandenburg 89 is the first Montblanc Limited Edition produced exclusively for German boutiques, with a total run of 89 examples. The skeleton of transparent dark-blue precious resin carries an 18-carat solid-gold overlay reminiscent of the Brandenburg Gate, is set with 108 brilliant-cut diamonds (total approx. 0.75 carat) and shows the Quadriga in relief on the cap as well as the Victoria on the 18-carat nib. The piece was exhibited, among other places, in Heidelberg and Hannover; due to the high price, it is not affordable for most collectors. A picture appeared in the magazine Kult am Pult No. 4-2004 on page 25.


How can a Swan Self Filler in Grey Marbled be classified by age?

The Swan Self Filler in Grey Marbled dates temporally from around 1940. Often the section on these models does not sit correctly in the housing, which can usually be corrected without intervention on the fountain pen itself. Swan fountain pens of this era are characterised by striking designs and particularly pleasantly flexible nibs, which makes them popular among collectors.


How does one polish precious-resin surfaces of Montblanc fountain pens without damaging them?

For current Meisterstücks made of precious resin, Xerapol and Displex have proven themselves; both deliver comparable results, Xerapol is cheaper. Polywatch (actually for plastic watch glasses) is also successfully used. With the corrugated ink windows of newer 146s and 149s, caution is advised, since the polish slightly attacks the surface and the window can darken slightly. Important: never apply these polishes to writing instruments made of celluloid; there they are not suitable.


Where can one obtain the book "Der Kugelschreiber – Prêt-à-porter der Schreibgeräte" by Werner Meier?

The book apparently contains no publisher's reference in the imprint and is not easy to find either via Amazon or via usual antiquarian booksellers. More promising is the search in specialised internet antiquarian booksellers like ZVAB or Eurobuch. Even there, however, the hit rate is not certain; some collectors have struck lucky, others not.


How can an inherited A.W. Faber pen 922 EF and a Faber-Castell pencil be classified and dated?

The Faber model series 922 was produced in various variants and colours; grey is rather rare, black the more common version, and there were size variants like the 994. The plastic housing speaks for production from the mid-1950s onwards. Clip and rings are gilded, not solid, since no hallmark stamp like 585 is present; the gold nib, on the other hand, is real gold, the material value, however, low. Special collector literature on Faber-Castell is hardly available; a direct enquiry to Faber-Castell customer service is recommended.


How does one change the nib of a Parker 75 Sterling Cisele and where does one get replacement nibs?

The nib of the Parker 75 is only plugged into the grip section and can be removed without problem by simultaneous pulling and turning along the longitudinal axis, without anything being damaged. Replacement nibs are difficult to obtain today; common standard widths are often sold out, and one frequently only finds exotic widths at high prices, e.g. via US eBay. An alternative is the purchase of a defective 75 for cannibalisation; here attention must be paid to the matching feed, since various variants existed. Repairs and nib exchange are offered, among others, by Thomas Watkinson as well as the Kontor SchreibTischKultur in Münster.


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.


How does one restore and repair a Montblanc 146 from the 1950s with a celluloid body, damaged clip and broken screw thread?

The narrow cap ring of the 50s models is correct by design. For gilding the clip and refurbishing old writing instruments, Tom Westerich (penboard.de) and Lutz Fiebig (interpens.de) are tried-and-tested points of contact; local goldsmiths can also gild clips. When polishing the body, restraint is required, since only a thin black layer is applied to the celluloid and excessive polishing causes the yellowish celluloid to show through. With a break of the body at the screw thread, one should not undertake one's own glue attempts but contact specialists like Horst Schrage (maxpens.de), who can also renew defective cork seals. On planes, old pens with lamellar feeds are problematic, since they easily leak.


Is it worth redeeming a Montblanc Meisterstück Platinum 145 via the Lufthansa Miles & More programme, and is the model designation correct?

It is the Montblanc Meisterstück Platinum-Line Classique 145 with platinum-plated trim, which appears more modern and discreet compared to the classic gold variant. The designation "Platinium" on the Lufthansa page is a typo; correctly the model is called "Platinum". Collectors often advise against redeeming via the Lufthansa Worldshop, since the mileage conversion is economically unfavourable; anyone who has surplus miles anyway can however use the offer. A purchase from a specialist retailer has the advantage that the nib width can be tried out and individually selected there.


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.


Can a company engraving be removed from the clip of a Montblanc StarWalker or polished out?

Polishing out a clip engraving is advised against, since the coating of the clip is very likely damaged in the process and the clip then has to be exchanged anyway. It is more sensible to ask Montblanc directly about the costs of a clip exchange. Alternatively, leftovers of defective writing instruments including clips are occasionally offered on eBay, which can serve as parts donors.


Is it normal that the spiral or spring in the converter of a Montblanc 145 rattles loose after cleaning?

Yes, the spiral in the converter is, by design, loose and must be freely movable; that is not a defect. It serves to support the ink flow at low fill levels through movement and to mix ink residues in the chamber.


How does one store fountain pens with cork seals over a longer period so that the seal does not become porous?

Writing instruments with cork seals should be stored permanently moist, ideally filled with distilled water to avoid limescale deposits. Storage can be lying flat; with piston fillers also upright, but with the nib up, so that the seal remains wetted; the feed does not have to be kept moist. With fountain pens with rubber sac, it is recommended to remove the sac and only renew it when needed, since the plasticiser can cause discolouration on the material. Independent repairs should be avoided; defective seals are best renewed by specialists.


Were there genuine demonstrator models of the Montblanc 244, and can celluloid be deliberately lightened or made transparent through sun exposure?

Real demonstrators of the 244 looked different: a piece had been milled out of the body so that one could look directly inside. Examples that have become transparent arise through excessive polishing, which removes the black outer layer. The two-colour appearance of some bodies comes from ink-induced discolouration of the celluloid; originally the material at undiscoloured spots was yellow. Ink windows of the 50s and 60s Meisterstücks were originally striped with internal stripes and a yellowish base tone; the lighter the window, the less the pen was used, which significantly increases the collector value. Wilfully altering old pieces is advised against, since the vintage character is thereby lost.


What does the illustrated volume "Im Schreiben zu Haus. Wie Schriftsteller zu Werke gehen" by Herlinde Koelbl offer in terms of content on writing habits and writing instruments?

The large-format volume "Im Schreiben zu Haus. Wie Schriftsteller zu Werke gehen" by Herlinde Koelbl weighs over 1,600 grams and has a format of about 24.5 by 29.5 centimetres. The book appeared in 1998 from Knesebeck GmbH und Co. Verlags KG in Munich, comprises around 260 pages and bears ISBN 3-89660-041-9. The author documents in interviews with 42 writers their writing habits and places of work, whether study, atelier, train or café, and which tools — pencil, fountain pen, typewriter or computer and laptop — are used. The interviews were partly conducted shortly before the death of individual authors and give insights into the inner emotional life of the interviewees. The text is accompanied by numerous black-and-white photographs of writing samples, workplaces and writing instruments. Thus a picture shows Sarah Kirsch, who is holding her seven pens in both hands above a handwritten manuscript. The various working methods are also described: some workplaces are meticulously ordered, others, like that of Friederike Mayröcker, chaotic; individual authors let no one into their study or separate private apartment and work apartment.


How does one make a stuck rotary mechanism of a Montblanc 334 1/2 or 332 workable again?

With a dried-up or stuck piston mechanism, prolonged soaking helps in many cases: place the fountain pen with the nib part for several hours to days in lukewarm water, so that dried ink and resinified residues dissolve. In the "Care/Repair" section of the forum site, a detailed guide on this can be found under the keyword "Tipp bei eingetrocknetem Kolbenmechanismus". Force should under all circumstances be avoided, since otherwise the mechanism breaks; if the soaking is unsuccessful, a visit to a specialised repairer is worthwhile.


What to do with a new Pelikan Souverän M600 with M nib that shows writing problems despite good ink flow?

The problem is mostly to be assigned to the nib itself, not to the fountain pen as a whole. At the specialist shop where the M600 was bought, the nib can be exchanged without complication; a return or complete exchange of the writing instrument is not necessary. The M600 is generally regarded as a recommendable writing instrument.


Which letter paper is suitable for fountain pens with a broad nib if the writing image on structured laid paper is unsatisfactory?

There is not the one ideal letter paper; writing feel and writing image depend on nib width, writing angle, pressure, ink and writing direction. Tried and tested are Gohrsmühle Bütten as well as Conqueror in the variant Smooth Satin CX22, ideally in cream; on these papers the pen glides silently and the writing image remains clean. Structured laid paper can be problematic with broad nibs. Conqueror bright white seems to some collectors too much like copy paper; ribbed variants can again cause writing problems.


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.


In which original packaging was the Montblanc 149 with silver rings from the 1950s delivered?

The 149 with silver rings, produced from 1952 onwards, was delivered in various cardboard boxes (presentation boxes), typically in the largest variant used at the time. In the 30s and 40s Bakelite boxes were still common; in the late 50s, boxes of celluloid and covered hinged boxes followed. In the early 50s, that is, fitting the early 149 with flat feed, simple cardboard boxes were used, which were primarily intended as gift packaging and one-time transport. Anyone who valued a more exclusive case could acquire separately available leather etuis; proper presentation cases by Montblanc only came up later, when the 149 already had lamellar feeds.


What is the background story of the Montblanc edition limited to 5 pieces, presented in 2011 in the Paris fashion shop Colette?

The correct name of the edition is not "Montblanc Nike" but "Montblanc Marinière for Colette". The striped pattern quotes the then jersey of the French national football team, and the blue corresponds to the colour of the Colette logo. As part of the campaign, the Paris fashion boutique Colette invited several brands (e.g. Longchamp, Montblanc) to reinterpret one of their leading products. The fountain pen was made of white Meissen porcelain and limited to 5 pieces at 2500 euros each.


How can one tell whether a silvery-looking vintage pen is actually made of silver?

Decisive is the hallmark on the clip or barrel: if it says "900" (or another common silver hallmark), it is real silver. If, on the other hand, "Alpaka" is stamped, it is silver-plated nickel-silver alloy (copper-nickel-zinc) and not a precious metal. A more precise determination is only possible with knowledge of the concrete hallmark.


How does one prevent the barrel of a plug-on cap fountain pen like the Aurora Optima from coming loose by itself in the inside jacket pocket?

Collectors report that the problem occurs especially when driving, through repeated movement, fastening the seat belt and getting out. It has proven helpful to carry the pen by clip exclusively in the narrow, shorter left inside pocket of the jacket, not in the wallet pocket. With plug-on cap constructions, the risk is basically higher; models like the Bohème or a Pilot Capless are safer here. Bent clips can in many cases be bent back without disassembly.


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.


Where can one find a Montblanc ballpoint from the "Eleventh Finger" series as a replacement for a stolen heirloom?

The "Eleventh Finger" series was an advertising claim by Montblanc for ballpoints whose centre of gravity was clearly at the tip and which therefore lay particularly well in the hand. They existed exclusively as ballpoints in gilded version in price ranges from about 4.95 to 30 DM; solid-gold variants did not exist. Since ballpoints are usually used as utility objects until end of life, the search is difficult; the best chances are offered by collectors' meet-ups and fairs, where ballpoints are often offered along at low prices.