TWSBI Diamond 530 Fountain Pen Review
TWSBI Diamond 530 Review
The heralded TWSBI Diamond 530 is a fountain pen born out of input of the Fountain Pen Network community. The Taiwanese manufacturers aimed their design as a pen for fountain pen enthusiasts. And their aim was true, as the Diamond 530 demonstrator was voted as the Goldspot Pen of the Year for 2010.
History of TWSBI Diamond 530 Fountain Pen
The one question on many pen enthusiasts may be, "what is a TWSBI?" Sure, it's not a brand name like Parker or Waterman, but was able to best every established competitor by staying true to the needs of writers. TWSBI has 50 years of manufacturing experience in metal-stamping, metal-turning and plastic injection molding. For 25 years, they have been making OEM writing instruments for well-known brands. Now, their aim is to make their own products under the name TWSBI, starting about a year ago.
Features of the TWSBI Diamond 530 Pen
The Diamond 530 is certainly a great first endeavor for TWSBI. It is a piston-filling fountain pen, offered in a stainless steel nib in Extra-Fine, Fine or Medium point sizes. The most unique concept about this project is the encouragement to disassemble and reassemble the pen. Fully-illustrated instructions, a wrench and a bottle of silicone grease is included with every pen to give you the knowledge and tools necessary to do your own pen maintenance.
When I first heard of the Diamond 530 piston-filling fountain pen, it was a knee-jerk decision to get it. Piston-filling fountain pens are hard to come by at such an affordable price. I would not have high expectations on the nib, but was pleasantly surprised at the writing quality and smoothness. The piston mechanism works perfectly, smoothly drawing up the ink through the nib without much loss of suction. The tank holds about 2 1/2 weeks worth of writing ink. Since the pen can be completely disassembled, thorough cleaning between fills is easy.
My only criticism of the pen is that writing with the cap posted is not an option (at least for me). The length of the pen with cap posted is just about 7" long, which throws off the balance of writing with the pen and makes my hand more tired after writing.
How Does the TWSBI Diamond 530 Fountain Pen Write?
The TWSBI Diamond 530 Fountain Pen stands out for its exceptional writing quality, primarily due to its stainless steel nib. Available in Extra-Fine, Fine, or Medium point sizes, this pen caters to a wide range of writing preferences. Users can expect a smooth, even flow of ink, ensuring a seamless writing experience. The pen's piston-filling mechanism is designed for efficiency, smoothly drawing ink through the nib with minimal loss of suction. The ink tank's capacity is generous, holding approximately 2 1/2 weeks' worth of ink, which speaks volumes about its practicality for regular use. However, it's worth noting that the pen's balance may be affected when writing with the cap posted, as it extends the length to about 7 inches, potentially leading to quicker hand fatigue for some users.
Is the TWSBI Diamond 530 Fountain Pen Worth the Investment?
Considering its price point of $59.95, the TWSBI Diamond 530 offers remarkable value. If a comparable pen bore the Pelikan brand, it could easily fetch twice the price. The pen's build quality, coupled with its writing performance and the unique ability to disassemble for maintenance, positions it as a wise investment for both fountain pen enthusiasts and those new to the world of high-quality writing instruments. Its cost-effectiveness, combined with the high-grade materials and functionality, makes the TWSBI Diamond 530 a standout option in its price bracket.
Who Should Buy the TWSBI Diamond 530 Fountain Pen?
The TWSBI Diamond 530 is ideally suited for fountain pen aficionados who appreciate the intricacies of pen maintenance and the joy of a smooth writing experience. Its user-friendly design, which allows for easy disassembly, makes it a perfect match for those who value the ability to perform their own pen maintenance. Additionally, its affordable price point and high-quality nib options make it an attractive choice for students, professionals, and anyone looking to elevate their writing game without breaking the bank. Whether you're drafting letters, jotting down notes, or indulging in the art of calligraphy, the TWSBI Diamond 530 meets a broad spectrum of writing needs.
Buy Your TWSBI Diamond 530 Fountain Pen at Goldspot Pens
Goldspot Pens is your premier destination for acquiring the TWSBI Diamond 530 Fountain Pen. As a trusted retailer, Goldspot ensures that each pen is authentic and meets the high standards expected by fountain pen enthusiasts. With a commitment to customer satisfaction, Goldspot Pens offers this exceptional writing instrument, complete with its range of nib sizes and the comprehensive maintenance kit. Purchasing from Goldspot not only guarantees you receive a genuine TWSBI Diamond 530 but also supports a seamless shopping experience, from browsing to delivery. Elevate your writing collection by securing your TWSBI Diamond 530 through Goldspot Pens, where quality meets unparalleled service.
Summary:
- Writing Quality : Stainless Steel nib delivers with smoothness, even wet flow. (grade A-)
- Aesthetic Quality : Injection mold plastic is crystal clear. The diamond pattern body interacts beautifully with the ink inside the tank. (grade A)
- Utility : Unique ability to take apart and put back together is very useful for minor repairs and cleanings. Cap does post well, but becomes a bit too long to write with. (grade B+)
- Price : Available in extra-fine, fine or broad nib sizes for $59.95 at Goldspot Pens. If this pen had "Pelikan" on the cap ring, it would easily be sold for twice the price. (grade A-)
Final Grade : A-
After hearing all the fan fare, TWSBI Diamond 530 is certainly worth the buzz and the title of Pen of the Year. You can read up on other reviews of the Diamond 530 at the following sites :