brands

Aurora

Aurora, established in 1919 by Isaia Levi, is one of Italy’s most respected pen makers. All their writing instruments are still produced in-house at their historic factory in Turin. Unlike many European brands, Aurora does not offer entry-level gold nib pens—making even their starting models like the 88 and Optima feel substantial and refined. Their in-house nibs, including options like right oblique and stub, are known for their feedback and character. From our experience, the 18k gold nibs often provide a more consistent and satisfying writing feel than the 14k versions. Aurora pens combine tactile writing with Italian elegance.

BENU Pens

BENU is a contemporary pen brand founded in 2016 by Alex Semanin and Kate Dmitrieva, blending bold color, whimsical design, and handcrafted quality. Drawing inspiration from the mythical Egyptian Benu bird—symbolizing rebirth and brilliance—the brand brings fresh energy to the world of writing instruments. Many of their pens feature hand-painted finishes and eye-catching resin patterns. In our experience, their Schmidt nibs write smoothly with a firm feel and generous ink flow. BENU pens are playful, expressive, and unlike anything else on the market.

Caran d'Ache

Founded in 1915, Caran d'Ache is a Swiss company best known for its high-quality art supplies and stylish writing instruments. The iconic **849** ballpoint is a staple in the design world, now also offered in a sleek fountain pen form. With its clean lines and bold colors, the 849 reflects the brand’s love for precision and elegance. Though better known for ballpoints and pencils, their fountain pens—fitted with Bock nibs—offer reliable performance in a compact, modern package.

Cleo-Skribent

Cleo-Skribent began in a garage in post-war Germany and has grown into a respected name in writing instruments. Known for the **Cleo Messograf** and the piston-filled **Classic**, their pens combine German engineering with subtle elegance. They use Bock nibs, often tuned for a slightly softer feel. Based on our experience, Cleo offers reliable quality and understated charm at a fair price.

Conid

Conid is a niche Belgian brand revered for its **Bulkfiller** system—an innovative blend of piston and vacuum filling for maximum ink capacity. Designed by Francis Goossens (Fountainbel), these pens are sought after for their engineering and rarity. While production paused during the pandemic, limited releases now come through Penworld in Belgium. In my collection, few pens are as prized or as thoughtfully made as a Conid.

Conklin

A historic American brand, Conklin rose to fame in the early 1900s with its patented self-filling pens and an endorsement from Mark Twain. Revived in 2009 under YAFA Brands, the company blends vintage charm with modern reliability. The **Duragraph** is a standout for its classic shape and value. Earlier stiff nibs have given way to smoother **JoWo-made** ones, making Conklin pens more enjoyable to use than ever before.

Conway Stewart

A classic British brand, Conway Stewart was founded in 1905 and became known for refined pens that appealed to both professionals and collectors. After several revivals, it’s now operated by Bespoke British Pens. Recent releases include a commemorative pen for the coronation of King Charles III. Their pens are beautifully detailed, with elegant acrylics and Bock nibs that provide a smooth, balanced writing experience.

Cross

One of the oldest pen makers in the world, Cross is best known for its slim, elegant **Classic Century** and status as the official pen supplier to the White House since the 1970s. With a long legacy of innovation and design, Cross continues to produce reliable writing tools, including fountain pens with in-house nibs. Their clean, professional look appeals to both executives and everyday users.

Delta

Delta was founded in 1982 and quickly became known for vibrant Italian design and bold celluloids, especially the beloved **Dolcevita**. After a pause in 2017, Delta was revived in 2021 under the guidance of co-founder Nino Marino at the Maiora factory. The new **Signature Collection** reflects Delta’s soulful artistry, blending tradition and innovation. Their Bock nibs perform reliably, with excellent flow and balance.

Diplomat

Founded in 1922, Diplomat combines German precision with timeless design. Their **Aero** model, inspired by the Zeppelin, features an anodized aluminum body and grooved cap and barrel. Fitted with JoWo nibs, these pens write with smoothness and control. In our hands, the Aero stands out as one of the best-crafted modern pens in its class.

S.T. Dupont

Known for luxury goods, S.T. Dupont brings French elegance and refinement to the world of pens. Their **Line D** and **D-Initial** series combine lacquer finishes with Bock nibs for a smooth, elegant writing experience. With craftsmanship drawn from their legacy in lighters and leather, Dupont pens exude sophistication.

Eboya

Eboya is a boutique Tokyo-based brand specializing in ebonite fountain pens. As a division of Nikko Ebonite, the only ebonite producer in Japan, they offer refined, minimalist pens hand-turned on traditional lathes. I saw their pens in person at the 2023 Tokyo Pen Show—sleek, balanced, and deeply Japanese in spirit. The **Kyouka** model is a standout example of their understated craftsmanship.

Esterbrook

Once the largest pen maker in the U.S., Esterbrook was reborn in 2018 thanks to Kenro Industries. Known for the **Estie** and vintage-inspired **Model J**, the brand blends retro charm with modern performance. Their pens feature custom JoWo nibs, including special grinds like the Journaler by Gena Salorino. At any U.S. pen show, you're likely to spot a tray of antique Esterbrook nibs—and now, a lineup of modern classics, too.

Faber-Castell

Faber-Castell is one of the world’s oldest stationery manufacturers, offering everything from pencils to high-quality fountain pens. Their beginner-friendly pens like the Grip and Loom combine playful design with reliable performance. These are great options for students, everyday writers, or anyone getting into fountain pens without breaking the bank.

Graf von Faber-Castell

Graf von Faber-Castell brings together luxury and minimalism like no other. Their use of materials like ebony wood, silver, and guilloché engraving is simply stunning. My personal favorite is their Perfect Pencil—a wooden pencil with a built-in sharpener and cap, elevating the simplest tool to art. The fountain pens feel equally refined, and the annual “Pen of the Year” releases are true collector’s pieces.

Gioia

Gioia is a brand that carries real emotional weight for me. Founded by master craftsman Fabio Cervasio, Gioia combines Italian elegance with heartfelt passion. Their pens—like the Partenope—feel like love letters to Neapolitan heritage. Crafted in-house in Naples, every Gioia pen reflects a balance of bold design and smooth writing. “Writing Emotion” isn’t just their motto—it’s what they deliver.

Jinhao

Jinhao offers incredible value for fountain pen lovers. With classic Western-inspired designs and smooth, dependable in-house nibs, they’ve become a popular choice for beginners and tinkerers alike. Their pens are surprisingly well-made for the price, making them a great introduction to fountain pen writing without a big investment.

Kaweco

Kaweco’s pocket-friendly designs have earned a permanent spot in my pen case. Their **Sport** model, with its iconic octagonal shape, is a true everyday carry favorite. I love their mix of heritage and modern touches—especially the exclusive colors we’ve co-created with them at Galen Leather. Compact, reliable, and effortlessly stylish, Kaweco pens never disappoint.

Laban

Laban pens are bold yet refined, with unique designs like the **Skeleton** and filigree series. Their acrylics and metal finishes feel substantial in hand. Based on my own writing experience, Laban’s JoWo nibs are smooth, reliable, and pair beautifully with their creative pen bodies.

Lamy

Lamy is often called the Bauhaus of the pen world—minimalist, functional, and innovative. The **Lamy 2000** is my personal favorite: a perfect balance of design and practicality. With their recent partnership with Mitsubishi Pencil Company, I’m excited to see where Lamy’s blend of German engineering and Japanese innovation goes next.

Leonardo Officina Italiana

Leonardo Officina Italiana is a name that makes me smile every time. Their **Momento Zero** is not just a pen—it’s an experience of vibrant resins, impeccable Italian design, and silky JoWo nibs. Collaborating with them on our Bohemian Twilight Magico Pen was a highlight for us at Galen Leather. If you want a pen that blends color and soul, Leonardo is the way to go.

Magna Carta

Magna Carta is a rising star from India, founded by the Hiren family and quickly gaining attention at pen shows worldwide. Their pens like the **MAG 600** feature true flex 14k nibs and ebonite feeds—something rare at this price point. I had the chance to meet Hiren at the Madrid Pen Show, and his passion was unmistakable. We're proud to stock their collection and share their story with a wider audience.

Maiora

Founded by Nino Marino—former Delta co-founder—Maiora carries forward the heart of Italian penmaking. Their pens, like the Ultra Ogiva, combine marbled resins and elegant trim with exceptional nib performance. Every time I pick up a Maiora pen, I feel the warmth of traditional craftsmanship with a distinctly modern soul.

Montblanc

Ask anyone to name a fountain pen brand, and chances are they’ll say Montblanc. The **Meisterstück 149** has become a symbol of status and fine writing, used by presidents and collectors alike. I still remember the first time I wrote with one—it had a weight, balance, and flow that made the experience unforgettable. A word of caution: due to its prestige, Montblanc is often counterfeited, so always buy from authorized dealers.

Montegrappa

Montegrappa is known for its ornate, collectible fountain pens, but don’t overlook its daily writers. The **Venetia** quickly became a favorite of mine—vintage style, balanced feel, and a nib that glides. While the **Extra 1930** remains the crown jewel for collectors, Montegrappa proves that Italian flair and functionality can coexist beautifully.

Monteverde

Monteverde has always impressed me with how much style they pack into their accessible price range. Colorful, practical, and well-balanced, their pens like the Prima are perfect everyday writers. Since switching to JoWo nibs around 2020, the writing experience has become smoother and more consistent—making their pens even more enjoyable.

Namiki

Namiki is where fine writing meets fine art. Their **Emperor** model is the dream pen of many collectors—giant nib, urushi lacquer, and exquisite maki-e details. Each pen is signed by the artisan who made it, and writing with one is like holding a piece of Japanese cultural heritage. These pens are more than instruments—they’re heirlooms.

Nahvalur (Narwhal)

We met the Nahvalur team at our first DC Pen Show in 2019 and were instantly impressed. Frank and Samuel were passionate about building a brand from the ground up—with in-house nibs, piston fillers, and bold, modern designs. Since then, we’ve collaborated on three exclusive pens. Their rebranding from Narwhal to Nahvalur may have changed the name, but the quality and spirit remain stronger than ever.

Nettuno

Nettuno was the first pen company in Italy, and under Nino Marino’s guidance, it has been revived with the same devotion to craftsmanship. Their pens feature bold Italian designs and solid JoWo nibs. I admire how Nettuno blends heritage and modernity—just like their sibling brands Delta and Maiora.

Noodler’s

Noodler’s is best known for its inks, but their pens—especially the **Ahab**—offer an affordable entry into flex nib writing. Made of vegetal resin and designed to be fully disassemblable, they’re ideal for tinkerers and calligraphy beginners. I’ve always appreciated how expressive these nibs are, and the Ahab was my first real introduction to flex.

OMAS (Officina Meccanica Armando Simoni)

OMAS holds a special place in the world of writing instruments—and in my heart. The **Paragon**, with its 12-faceted body and vintage celluloid, is pure Italian elegance. After closing in 2016, the brand was revived in 2023, and we are honored to offer their pens once again. In my experience, OMAS nibs are unlike any other—expressive, tactile, and full of soul.

Onoto

With over a century of heritage, Onoto is a British brand once favored by figures like Winston Churchill. Today, they produce elegant, vintage-inspired pens in small handcrafted batches. Their gold nibs offer an outstanding balance of smoothness and subtle feedback—perfect for long sessions. Onoto pens offer timeless design and quiet sophistication.

Opus 88

Opus 88 is best known for popularizing eyedropper-filled demonstrator pens with shut-off valves, combining generous ink capacity with modern aesthetics. The Omar and Koloro models are especially loved for everyday use. Their JoWo nibs are reliable and smooth, offering great performance right out of the box.

Otto Hutt

Otto Hutt embodies the precision and elegance of German design. Their pens, especially the Design 04 and Design 07, are known for clean aesthetics and exceptional craftsmanship. If you enjoy minimalist design with top-tier performance, Otto Hutt deserves a place on your desk.

Parker

Parker was founded in Wisconsin in 1888 by George S. Parker who sought a reliable, no‑leak pen. Their iconic models like the Parker 51 and Duofold have shaped decades of writing history. Parker holds Royal Warrants, including one renewed by King Charles in 2024. I find their pens dependable classics—balanced, elegant, and durable. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Pelikan

Pelikan started in 1838 as an ink company, launching its first fountain pens in 1929. The classic green-striped pens in the Souverän line have been icons since the ‘50s. I personally love the piston-fill mechanism and the soft yet controlled feel from their in‑house nibs. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

PenBBS

PenBBS is a Chinese brand popular for vibrant resin pens and piston-filling models. Enthusiasts often mention owning many PenBBS pens due to their reliability and value. I’ve experienced their trim and build punch well above its price point. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Penlux

Penlux began as a Taiwanese OEM before launching its own brand around 2015. Their Masterpiece Grande pens are notable for generous barrels, smooth Jowo nibs, and quality finishes. I find their size and polish appealing to writers who enjoy more presence in hand. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Pineider

Pineider traces its heritage back to Florence in 1774, evolving from a high‑end stationery house into a maker of Italian luxury pens and leather goods. Their modern designs—like the UltraResin **Avatar** and the elegant **La Grande Bellezza**—combine innovation and tradition. With nibs made by Bock and striking finishes, Pineider creates pens that feel like art in motion. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Pilot

A Japanese giant in writing instruments, Pilot blends precise engineering with elegant simplicity. From the affordable **Metropolitan** to the iconic vacuum‑filling **Custom 823**, they offer pens for every level of writer. In-house nibs are smooth, consistent, and reliable.

Platinum

Known for its reliable writers and elegant design, Platinum’s **#3776 Century** is revered for its subtle nib feedback and moisture‑resistant slip seal mechanism. A fountain pen powerhouse built entirely in-house.

Retro 1951

Retro 1951 combined vintage inspirations with playful designs in ballpoints before reentering the fountain pen world in 2019 via the **Tornado** model. Designed and manufactured in the US with JoWo nibs, it offers fun character and solid performance. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Sailor

Sailor offers some of the most precise, finely tuned nibs in the pen world. Their **1911** and **Pro Gear** series are known for buttery-smooth flow and exacting standards—making them a favorite among Japanese writing purists.

Santini Italia

Santini Italia crafts ebonite piston‑fill pens with a timeless artisanal feel. The **Libra Voyager**, with its bronze trims and 18k rose gold nib, is both elegant and expressive. I found the nib lively, smooth, and excellent for extended writing sessions. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Scribo

Scribo was born after OMAS closed, with its former artisans continuing the legacy. Their nibs are expressive and generous in flow—some of the smoothest I’ve ever written with. The **Feel** model, with its sculpted body and piston fill, is a true writer’s pen. I often reach for my Scribo when I want to get lost in writing for hours.

Sheaffer

Sheaffer is an iconic American pen brand from the golden era of fountain pens. Their modern models like the **Legacy Heritage** pair vintage-inspired styling with smooth performance using both in-house and Bock nibs. A reliable choice for traditionalists.

Signum

Signum is a small Italian maker working with Bock nibs and distinctive barrel materials. While less widely known, their craftsmanship stands out for clean finishes and thoughtful color palettes.

Stipula

Stipula is a boutique Italian brand known for pens with unique filling mechanisms—like piston-plunger hybrids—and ornate resin colors. Their nibs are supplied by Bock, but the custom cap styles and magazine fillers make them unmistakably Stipula.

Taccia

Taccia is one of those under-the-radar brands that blends Japanese artistry with Western accessibility. Their urushi lacquer and raden finishes are gorgeous, and many Taccia pens use nibs made by Sailor, offering signature smoothness with character. I find them to be beautifully balanced pens—both in weight and design.

Tibaldi

A revival brand that honors the Italian Tibaldi family pen-making roots, Tibaldi offers elegant piston-fill pens with classic Italian styling and in-house nibs. Their craftsmanship reflects vintage values with modern consistency.

TWSBI

Founded by Ta Shin Precision in 2009, TWSBI quickly earned respect for high-capacity piston-fill demonstrators like the **Eco** and **Diamond 580**. Their engagement with the pen community and tool-less maintenance design helped them redefine affordable fountain pens. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Visconti

Visconti blends bold Italian design and innovation—inventing the high‑vacuum filler, double reservoir systems, and elegant celluloid finishes. Founded in 1988, they expanded globally in the 2000s. Pens like the **Homo Sapiens** and **Opera Masters** push the envelope in both style and engineering. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Waldmann

Waldmann is a German maker offering pens with elegant finishes and reliable JoWo nibs. With a long tradition in writing tools, they offer both classic designs and modern luxury models that feel refined in the hand.

Waterman

One of the original luxury pen makers, Waterman has crafted elegant French fountain pens for over a century. Pens like the **Carène** and **Expert** shine in both design and writing feel, with in-house nibs delivering consistent wetness and polish.

Yard‑o‑Led

Yard‑o‑Led is a heritage British brand famous for its propelling pencils, but also offers beautifully turned fountain pens in sterling silver or vermeil finishes with Bock nibs. Their craftsmanship has been trusted by royalty and connoisseurs alike.

Ystudio

Ystudio stands out with its minimalist design and raw brass construction. Their pens are meant to age with use, developing a patina that reflects your journey. The **Classic Revolve** is one of my favorites—it feels both like a tool and an object of art. Holding a Ystudio pen is like carrying a piece of thoughtful design in your hand.

Fountain Pen Brand Comparison

Brand	Country	Price Range	In-house Nibs	Status
Pilot	Japan	$30–$500+	Yes	Active
Kaweco	Germany	$20–$100	No (Bock)	Active
Lamy	Germany	$25–$400	Yes	Active
Sailor	Japan	$100–$800	Yes	Active
Platinum	Japan	$50–$600	Yes	Active
Pelikan	Germany	$150–$800+	Yes	Active
Montblanc	Germany	$400–$1000+	Yes	Active
Aurora	Italy	$150–$800+	Yes	Active
Leonardo Officina	Italy	$120–$500	No (JoWo)	Active
Nahvalur	USA	$50–$150	Yes	Active
Conklin	USA	$40–$150	No (JoWo)	Active
TWSBI	Taiwan	$30–$100	No (JoWo)	Active
Opus 88	Taiwan	$80–$180	No (JoWo)	Active
Esterbrook	USA	$100–$300	No (JoWo)	Active
OMAS	Italy	$400–$1000+	Yes	Revived
Scribo	Italy	$400–$900	Yes	Active
Diplomat	Germany	$100–$250	No (JoWo)	Active
Cross	USA	$30–$200	Yes	Active
Sheaffer	India	$30–$150	Yes	Active
Parker	France	$25–$200	Yes	Active
Visconti	Italy	$250–$1000+	Yes	Active
Montegrappa	Italy	$250–$2000+	No (JoWo)	Active
Faber-Castell	Germany	$20–$50	No (JoWo)	Active
GVFC	Germany	$300–$1500+	No (Bock)	Active
Magna Carta	India	$150–$500	Yes	Active
Maiora	Italy	$150–$350	No (JoWo)	Active
Ystudio	Taiwan	$80–$200	No (Schmidt)	Active
Taccia	Japan	$150–$300	No (Sailor)	Active
Gioia	Italy	$100–$250	No (JoWo)	Active
Benu	Armenia	$100–$250	No (Schmidt)	Active
Conid	Belgium	$700–$1200	No (Bock)	Limited
Onoto	UK	$250–$600+	No (Bock/JoWo)	Active
Delta	Italy	$300–$800	No (Bock)	Revived
Dupont	France	$300–$1000+	Yes	Active
Eboya	Japan	$250–$500	No (Bock)	Active
Caran d'Ache	Switzerland	$200–$800	No (Bock)	Active
Cleo-Skribent	Germany	$100–$250	No (Bock)	Active
Conway Stewart	UK	$300–$1000+	No (Bock)	Revived
Graf von Faber-Castell	Germany	$300–$1500+	No (Bock)	Active
Jinhao	China	$2–$15	Yes	Active
Laban	Taiwan	$80–$200	No (JoWo)	Active
Monteverde	USA	$40–$120	No (JoWo)	Active
Namiki	Japan	$500–$10000+	Yes	Active
Nettuno	Italy	$150–$400	No (JoWo)	Active
Noodler's	USA	$20–$40	Yes	Active
Otto Hutt	Germany	$200–$600	No (Bock)	Active
Penbbs	China	$30–$60	Yes	Active
Penlux	Taiwan	$100–$200	No (JoWo)	Active
Pineider	Italy	$200–$600	No (Bock)	Active
Retro 1951	USA	$40–$100	No (JoWo)	Active
Santini Italia	Italy	$400–$800	Yes	Active
Sheaffer	India	$30–$150	Yes	Active
Signum	Italy	$100–$300	No (Bock)	Active
Stipula	Italy	$200–$600	No (Bock)	Active
Tibaldi	Italy	$300–$700	Yes	Active
Waterman	France	$50–$200	Yes	Active
Waldmann	Germany	$150–$400	No (JoWo)	Active
Yard-o-Led	UK	$300–$800	No (Bock)	Active

Fountain Pen Brands by Country

🇯🇵 Japanese Fountain Pen Brands

Pilot, Platinum, Sailor, Namiki, Taccia, Eboya

🇮🇹 Italian Fountain Pen Brands

Aurora, Leonardo Officina Italiana, OMAS, Delta, Maiora, Montegrappa, Gioia, Pineider, Scribo, Stipula, Signum, Tibaldi, Santini Italia, Nettuno

🇩🇪 German Fountain Pen Brands

Lamy, Kaweco, Pelikan, Faber-Castell, Graf von Faber-Castell, Otto Hutt, Cleo-Skribent, Diplomat, Waldmann

🇺🇸 American Fountain Pen Brands

Esterbrook, Cross, Conklin, Monteverde, Noodler’s, Retro 1951

🇬🇧 British Fountain Pen Brands

Conway Stewart, Onoto, Yard-o-Led

🇫🇷 French Fountain Pen Brands

Waterman, Parker, ST Dupont

🇹🇼 Taiwanese Fountain Pen Brands

Opus 88, Penlux, TWSBI

🇨🇳 Chinese Fountain Pen Brands

Jinhao, PENBBS

🇮🇳 Indian Fountain Pen Brands

Magna Carta, Sheaffer (currently manufactured in India)