For the average person pens are simply a tool that is used to write something with. To someone that is a pen collector or lover of pens it holds special meaning to them. If you've ever been able to hold in your hand a nice Sheaffer or Cross pen you will understand that there is no comparison to a typical ball point pen. To own a fine quality fountain pen shows that you have impeccable tastes and quality. So how do you pick a quality pen?
First you need to understand the history of the pen. The fact that the only way you could write was with a pencil or a pen that didn't hold any ink provides you with the innovations that were made by pen manufacturers. Most of the best developments in pen design and use happened after 1900. There are currently three types of pens now: fountain pens, ballpoint pens, and dip pens.
Fountain pens have a nib that is a small piece of metal that can be steel, gold, or gold alloy. It will be diamond shaped with a point for you to write with. There is also a feed that presses the nib and allows the ink that is inside the pen to flow down onto the paper. It should provide a nice even regular flow that doesn't leak. You can find many name brand fountain pens that have luxurious designs or limited editions. The price range varies from a few dollars to many thousands. There are even vintage collections that you might be interested in that are no longer made but still in original shape and packaging.
Many pens were used for calligraphy and special written documentations. In the past it was very tricky to be able to refill your ink in the pen. You had to carry around ink to be able to write. Many were very messy and leaked out of the pen or didn't hold much ink at all. There are now cartridges that are included inside of many fountain pens that alleviate this problem.
Dip pens match their description. You have to continue to dip the pen in a well of ink to write. You were considered someone of great importance if you had a dip pen or fancy fountain pen in your possession. Today pens are bought as luxury purchases rather than as essential items.
If you decide that owning a fine fountain pen is a requirement then you should figure out your price range, and what type of design that you want. Many companies will provide pens in more than one basic color so you might be able to get something besides basic black. The next thing to decide upon is your choice of nib. If you want superior quality then you don't want a plain steel nib. Try something with 18k gold and a special engraving. If money is not an option then picking a vintage or limited edition pen may be the perfect choice for you.
