When a Montblanc pen normally sold in Germany with a 14-karat gold nib unexpectedly carries an 18-karat gold nib, the reason most often lies in the French market. In France only pens with 18-karat gold nibs are offered — including standard models like the 146, 144 and 114 as well as older pens. Even special editions like the Special Anniversary Edition come with a special 18-karat nib in France. A German pen of these models with an 18-karat nib therefore usually originates from France.