Underwhelmed by a recent watch purchase. Is there anyone into fountain pen?

Hi fellow crunchers, I would like to tell my story about a recent watch purchase.

A few weeks ago, I shared my admiration of Montblanc's 1858 Geosphere. I mentioned that it is getting better and better when compared to the earlier references. I followed this model line-up when it was first launched back in 2018. I normally don't make impulse buys when I do proper research. So I decided to go ahead and I bought my Montblanc Geosphere 1858 zero oxygen model in bronze.

As expected, I liked it because of the design and the worldtime function that give it a unique appeal. However, I am now giving it a second thought as I felt a bit underwhelmed by the product strength. Although it is definitely getting better, I still feel that it is not worth the premium just yet.

Instead, I am looking at their Montblanc FP collection. As a watch enthusiast, is it normal to feel it this way? Besides, it is very refreshing when I now have the opportunity to look at other collectibles as a separate interest that complement my watch hobby.

Is there anyone who is also into fountain pens?

What is your approach to FP collection.

I would appreciate it if you were able to shed some light on your FP collection journey.

A side note: I find a sense of peace when I put the ink on paper. It releases much of the day-to-day stress and I enjoyed it totally in an unexpected way!

Reply
·

Fountain pens are like watches to me in that I have too many, don't really use them all that often during the day despite carrying a different one around each day, and most are firmly in the affordable end with a good showing of vintage.

I could tag known culprits, but I'll just link to previous threads.

https://www.watchcrunch.com/Jandrese/posts/watches-and-fountain-pens-anyone-4300

https://www.watchcrunch.com/IvanRomero/posts/watches-and-fountain-pens-show-me-your-photos-25826

·

The Geosphere is awesome. MB has some legit watch chops now, especially the Minerva-based pieces. What makes you feel otherwise?

If it is the lack of hype, or buzz, that is a win. Screw the minds that will tell you they are pen company. Those are the same uneducated minds who will try to convince you Hermes and Harry Winston are just fashion brands.

As far as pens? I have a few, love them, but they are the Rolex of pens, great products and the first brand that comes to mind when one thinks of luxury pens, but of course, there are arguably better pens at the same or lesser price points.

·
PoorMansRolex

Fountain pens are like watches to me in that I have too many, don't really use them all that often during the day despite carrying a different one around each day, and most are firmly in the affordable end with a good showing of vintage.

I could tag known culprits, but I'll just link to previous threads.

https://www.watchcrunch.com/Jandrese/posts/watches-and-fountain-pens-anyone-4300

https://www.watchcrunch.com/IvanRomero/posts/watches-and-fountain-pens-show-me-your-photos-25826

Thank you 🙏 I will look into it. 🙂

I woud like to build probably a collection of 3-5 pens as a start. Perhaps my approach is to jot my journal and writing is almost like a lost art in this AI world that opt to be preserved. It is part of our human culture.

·
AllTheWatches

The Geosphere is awesome. MB has some legit watch chops now, especially the Minerva-based pieces. What makes you feel otherwise?

If it is the lack of hype, or buzz, that is a win. Screw the minds that will tell you they are pen company. Those are the same uneducated minds who will try to convince you Hermes and Harry Winston are just fashion brands.

As far as pens? I have a few, love them, but they are the Rolex of pens, great products and the first brand that comes to mind when one thinks of luxury pens, but of course, there are arguably better pens at the same or lesser price points.

Well said! The Geosphere is cool. I particularly like their approach in mountain adventure. Similar to #norqain

I guess it is because of the modified Sellita movement as well as the overall product package when compared to their pen department. It is seriously underwhelmed when you place them side by side. You don't need a professional and any layman can tell the difference immediately by the lack of attention to detail.

I guess MB has still a mile ahead to catch up.

I always like their pens. So now it is an opportunity for me to seriously consider some of their fine FP. I'll get 1 for collection and 1 for everyday writing.

Appreciate your feedback 😃

·

I have a few, and by that I mean I have a lot.

·

I haven't bought pens in a while but still have a pretty sizeable collection. My FP collection mostly boils down to buying whatever I like. I tend to prefer Japanese pens over German/Italian pens. Mont blanc is pretty good and I do have a 149 that's older than me that's still writing well till this day.

·
Matt1972

I have a few, and by that I mean I have a lot.

Having a few still means a lot to some of us who don't even use a fountain pen 😍 Getting more intrigued on this new interest...

·
ihatenames

I haven't bought pens in a while but still have a pretty sizeable collection. My FP collection mostly boils down to buying whatever I like. I tend to prefer Japanese pens over German/Italian pens. Mont blanc is pretty good and I do have a 149 that's older than me that's still writing well till this day.

It's no surprise that the Japanese usually outdo themselves when it comes to the pursuit of excellence. Thanks for the great sharing!