Awhile ago, we discussed some Japanese pen recommendations on the podcast, by request of a viewer. We thought it would be useful to put together this assortment to guide you in your searches!
Japanese Pen Recommendations
Three of the big Japanese pen companies are: Sailor, Platinum, and Pilot. We really love the pens made by these companies, along with many others, but you’ll find a lot of pens by these companies in our personal collections.
Most importantly, these companies make some great nibs. The nibs from all run “a dress size smaller”, as Lisa put it, so these are particularly nice writers for those who like a precise writer. However, with the variety of nibs, you can have your pick. Both companies offer steel and gold nibs, so you have even more options.
If you want something ultra-fine, Platinum offers the UEF nib, and Sailor has a Saibi-Togi – a Super Extra Fine (EEF) that is hand ground by Mr. Nagahara . Not only are these nibs surprisingly smooth for being so fine, they also have consistent, steady ink flow.
Otherwise, you can browse stub nibs, music nibs, soft nibs, ultra-fine, broad, and even more. There are nibs for just about everyone, and for every need. Great every day writers – solid, reliable, consistent.
There are a variety of models, materials, and finishes to choose from, from the very simple and basic Platinum Preppy in plastic, to the Sailor 1911 Large resin, to the Pilot Metropolitan in metal. Let’s not forget the particularly stunning ones: Platinum #3776 Celluloid, Sailor Maki-E, Pilot’s Raden, and that doesn’t cover all of them. The Celluloids are rich and beautiful, the Radens are glittering and stunning, and the Maki-E pens are just works of art.
Platinum #3776 Celluloid
Pilot Vanishing Point Raden
Sailor Maki-E
Each company offers a selection of nibs, models, and finishes, so you can find what you’re looking for in a range of prices.
Pilot Pens
Sailor Pens
Platinum Pens
Ink it up!
Brian & Lisa