The (Wish) List 2023

I usually acquire pens based on impulse and circumstance (i.e. dumb luck), which has introduced me to a variety of odd pens. Some contemporary, some vintage, but all speak to me. These are pens that have caught my eye; struck my fancy, and now I have a penchant for owning them.

Last year, my list consisted of five pens; three I acquired; the Parker 51, the Benu Skull, and The Kaweco Student, while two I did not. Of these two, one is no longer of interest (the Scrikss – Heritage Black GT) while the other makes an appearance on the current list.

Without further ado, in no apparent order, let’s start the new year with a new wish list ….

Platinum Curidas

Curidas is a coined term created by combining the Japanese word Kuridasu referring to extending the pen tip and the word Curiosity. This new fountain pen was brought to life to fulfill people’s curiosity.

All the convenience of a click rollerball but with the smooth writing experience of a fountain pen. Instead of a traditional cap, the Curidas uses an internal seal to protect the nib and keep the ink from evaporating when retracted into the pen.

Fascinating pen, I am interested in the mechanics more than the pen. Reviews say it is “fluffy” (a euphemism for fat) but I’m willing to overlook that. Instead of a cap, there is a clicker button at the opposite end which will force the nib out through a rubber door. Yes, it is similar to a Pilot Vanishing Point but at half the price (well depending on the Pilot model).

Irish Pens – Black Carbon Fiber

“At 66 grams, Rhodium and Titanium wrapped in Black Carbon Fiber and with a Peter Bock nib at the business end this is a serious fountain pen, a fountain pen that will feel at home in the most exclusive boardroom, business setting or in your personal writing space, its gravitas will not go unnoticed whenever it is used. When the written words really matter! this is the fountain pen to use.” – Irish Pens.ie

Irish Pens is an Irish indie pen company specializing in pens made in County Cavan, Ireland of Irish native woods. I was originally drawn to their pens made from bog oak, but I saw this one! You have to admit, it takes your breath away. Since it is a new year and I didn’t buy the pen last year, I may revisit the bog wood pen options.

Pilot Cavalier*

Named for a character in Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker, the term “cavalier” is used in ballet to refer to a ballerina’s male dance partner. Like a skilled dancer, this slim and stylish pen will sweep you off your feet with its ability to transform your thoughts into fluid, effortless motion on the page.

What draws me to this pen is its similarities in appearance to the Waterman Hemisphere. As both pens appear to polarize the user base, they love them or hate them. I’m feeling a future love affair. The pen is readily available on eBay and some pen shops.

*The link I have included is to Yoseka Stationary. They have an impressive selection of Japanese pens and inks normally not readily available in the US.

My Quandary

Yes, I have a problem, there are really no other pens I am Jonesing for. Yes, there are a bunch I like, but I am not speechless about them, except possibly the Prera.

• Opus 88 Koloro is interesting but at the bottom of my quandary list,
• TWSBI Diamond it reminds me of the Prera,
• Lamy Vister is on the list more so for the availability of nib choices,
• Pilot Kakuno is dirt cheap on Amazon at $10, why is it on a wish list?
• Pilot E95S appears to sport a Sheaffer Targa-inspired nib,
• Pilot Heritage 92 is a contemporary take on a classic fountain pen,
• Pilot Prera in solid ivory. It is so pretty but I have 2, why do I need a third?

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