Japanese writing instruments from Pilot/Namiki, Sailor, Platinum and especially Nakaya are regarded by collectors as outstanding in quality and function and are partly perceived as superior to European and American models. Nakaya sells its pens exclusively by direct sales via email, makes them to customer specifications (e.g. tamenuri lacquer work) and ships worldwide; on imports into the EU value-added tax and import duties apply. With nib widths it should be noted that Japanese designations run narrower than European ones: F corresponds roughly to EF, M corresponds to F, so true B or even BB widths from Japanese makers are rare. By contrast, makers such as Nakaya offer truly flexible nibs and on request even flexible stubs as well as music nibs, which are barely available in Europe any more. Collectors recommend paying attention to a suitable nib grade when ordering and being aware of the longer delivery times and possible customs formalities.