FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Development of Fountain Pens
How long have fountain pens existed?
Since people have been using writing liquids, they have sought to develop a writing instrument which holds more ink, making it unnecessary to constantly dip the writing instrument (the nib) into the writing liquid. Feather pens (of reed) and quills (from geese) were the preferred writing instruments until the 19th century. Some developmental milestones of the fountain pen:
- 1636 development of the quill fountain pen
- 1809 first patent for a fountain pen in England
- 1878 first issued patent in the German Reich
- 1885 -1910: resettable and so-called safety fountain pens dominate (filling with pipette)
- 1929: the era of the differential piston fountain pens begins
- 1960: cartridge fountain pens start to be popular
Development of Fountain Pens
How long have fountain pens existed?
Since people have been using writing liquids, they have sought to develop a writing instrument which holds more ink, making it unnecessary to constantly dip the writing instrument (the nib) into the writing liquid. Feather pens (of reed) and quills (from geese) were the preferred writing instruments until the 19th century. Some developmental milestones of the fountain pen:
- 1636 development of the quill fountain pen
- 1809 first patent for a fountain pen in England
- 1878 first issued patent in the German Reich
- 1885 -1910: resettable and so-called safety fountain pens dominate (filling with pipette)
- 1929: the era of the differential piston fountain pens begins
- 1960: cartridge fountain pens start to be popular
Engraving
Can I engrave my Pelikan writing instrument?
Almost all fine writing instruments can be engraved. Depending on the surface materials used, engravings are possible on the cap or barrel of fountain pens and roller balls, and the upper part of ballpoint pens or mechanical pencils.
Filling Systems for Fountain Pens
Which filling systems for fountain pens are offered today?
Mainly, there are two filling techniques: the differential piston filling and the cartridge system (as a variation on the converting technique).
The differential piston filling system: the piston refill is moved using a filler knob at the end of the shaft. This guarantees that the ink is economically absorbed out of the ink bottle. After filling, release a few drops of ink back into the bottle and then turn the filler knob to the closed position.
The cartridge system: Easy and clean to handle. The most common kinds of cartridges: The small standard ink cartridge (Pelikan = TP/6) and the giant ink cartridge (Pelikan = GTP/5). The variant converter: Makes it possible for you to convert a cartridge fountain pen into a piston filling fountain pen. Instead of the cartridge, the converter is inserted into the shaft. The fountain pen can then fill like a piston fountain pen out of the ink bottle.
Document Proof Inks
Does Pelikan offer document proof ink that does not fade over the years?
We have three different types of ink in our collection, and all of them are document proof in varying degrees. Foremost, you have to be aware that the particles inside the ink which are responsible for creating the long-lasting effect can clog up the ink feeder (which is below the nib) or the ink tank if the ink dries out. You will find more detailed information in the “ink” category.
Ink Feeder
How does the ink feeder function?
The ink feeder regulates the pressure between outside and inside, and therefore it supplies the top of the nib with the right amount of ink. The capillary tube keeps an excessive amount of ink from flowing out.
Nib Widths
Nib Widths
The heart of every fountain pen—precision-crafted from 14- or 18-carat gold or stainless-steel nib. Each gold nib is tested by a master individually by hand. The smoother a pen glides across paper, the higher the quality of materials and craftsmanship that went into the nib. Only an exceptional nib can truly capture your personality on paper, your essence in ink. Unforgettably. Unmistakably.
Depending on pen model, the following nib widths are available. Please consider the specific commendations on the individual product sites:
- EF = extra fine
- F = fine
- M = medium
- B = broad
- BB = Double broad
- IB = Italic broad
Parts of a Fountain Pen
What pieces do the fountain pens consist of?
Fountain pens are manufactured in many manual steps using very precise technology. Generally, they consist of: the nib, ink duct, sleeve with ink reservoir and differential piston filling mechanism or a space for cartridges or converter, the cap and the clip.
Spare Parts
Are spare parts available for writing instruments, and how can they be obtained?
Spare parts and repair services are available for most of the Pelikan Fine Writing range. Please contact your specialist retailer or us for more information.
Delivery Times & Availability
Can I order specific models of fine writing instruments that may not be in stock in South Africa?
Whilst we look to make a large part of the Pelikan fine writing range available in South Africa, there may be models that we do not keep in stock. However, we bring writing instruments in nearly every week, so please contact us should you wish any specific items, or if you'd like to confirm availability on some of the rarer items.
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