Opus 88 Pens

All Opus 88

Since 1988, Opus 88 Pens have earned a reputation for excellence. With an exacting high standard and painstaking quality control, The OPUS 88 Collection of fine writing pens includes the Opus 88 Jazz and the Opus 88 Koloro, as well as many other beloved Opus 88 fountain pens and supplies!

Opus 88 Pen Brand Overview

Michael Hsu, Opus 88 pen company founder, has handcrafted these gorgeous fountain pens for enthusiasts of fine pens and fine writing. The Opus 88 fountain pen was first handcrafted in 1988 when Michael began the company, Opus 88, which would go on to produce these beautiful writing instruments.

Michael Hsu and Opus 88 are also an OEM manufacturer for other famous fountain pen brands on the luxury market.

Which Nib Size Should I Get For My Opus 88 Fountain Pen?

Choosing the right fountain pen nib can be a tough decision. Our advice for starters is to go with a fine or extra-fine (EF) nib. Opus 88 nibs are a little bigger than other brands like Pilot or Sailor, so we suggest to order an extra-fine Opus 88 nib if you are looking for letter writing size.

Where Are Opus 88 Fountain Pens Made?

Opus 88 fountain pens are made in Taipei, Taiwan.

How To Fill An Opus 88 Fountain Pen?

These modern fountain pens use an eyedropper filling mechanism, which is one of the oldest methods to fill a pen with ink. Watch the below video we produced for a step-by-step instruction to how to fill an Opus 88 fountain pen with the eyedropper filling method. The video will start at our section on eyedropper pens. This will be the same process for all Opus 88 fountain pens.

Opus 88 Bela

The Bela, part of the Opus 88 collection, is a generously-sized, eyedropper-fill fountain pen built from beautiful, swirling acrylic. Fitted with a number 6 size stainless steel nib from Bock, it epitomizes the quality and design excellence of Opus 88 pens.

Opus 88 Demonstrator

Opus 88 Demonstrator, a notable series among Opus 88 pens, allow you to see ink levels of the pen when capped or uncapped. These beautiful pens come in a variety of colors and are available exclusively as fountain pens.

OPUS 88 Harmony

Take delight in the richness and luxury of OPUS 88 Harmony fountain pen. Beautiful rose gold-plated trims and nib accent the pen's swirling acrylic body. These high-capacity, eyedropper-filling pens draw inspiration from vintage Japanese pens.

Opus 88 JAZZ

The Opus 88 Jazz fountain pen has a classic design which is available in a variety of colors. The semi-translucent resin portion of the pen allows you to see both your current ink level.

Opus 88 Koloro

The Opus 88 Koloro has a notable ink capacity for long writing sessions. This fountain pen is one of few that have a shut-off valve, regulating ink flow, to perfect the writing experience.

Opus 88 Mini

Mini, yet mighty - these pocket-sized Opus 88 fountain pens have an extra-large capacity for ink thanks to their eyedropper-fill design with built-in, shut-off valve.

Opus 88 Minty

A refreshing take on an eyedropper-fill fountain pen, the Opus 88 "Minty" incorporates flecked marble resin with a translucent ink window.

Opus 88 OMAR

The Opus 88 OMAR fountain pen comes in a variety of transparent resins to allow you to see your ink level. OMAR fountain pens hold an impressive amount of ink.

What is the Opus 88 Brand?

Opus 88 is a premium pen brand founded by Michael Hsu, known for its masterfully engineered writing instruments that blend form and function. Hsu has crafted each pen to exacting standards for over two decades, building the Opus 88 label for discerning clientele who appreciate the power and beauty of exquisite writing instruments. The brand's reputation for excellence stems from Hsu's experience as an OEM/ODM supplier since 1988. Opus 88 pens are designed to transcend mere communication, reflecting the artistry of the written word and appealing to those who recognize the value of a high-quality writing tool.

Opus 88 fountain pens have earned a solid reputation within the writing instrument community for their blend of tradition, innovation, and exceptional craftsmanship. Since 1988, Opus 88 has produced finely crafted fountain pens for enthusiasts, professionals, and collectors. Featuring a unique eyedropper filling system, durable materials like ebonite and resin, and a variety of vibrant designs, Opus 88 pens are more than just writing tools—they are works of art.

Design and Build Quality

The design of Opus 88 fountain pens reflects a careful balance between aesthetics and functionality. With collections like the Koloro, Jazz, OMAR, and Demonstrator, Opus 88 pens cater to a wide range of tastes. The use of materials such as ebonite and high-quality resin ensures that these pens not only look stunning but are built to last.

The Koloro series, for instance, is known for its distinctive color combinations and durable ebonite barrels. Similarly, the Demonstrator collection showcases the beauty of transparency, allowing users to see the ink flow within the pen, a unique feature that adds both aesthetic and practical value. The OMAR series takes a bold approach with its larger size and clear demonstrator models, appealing to those who prefer substantial writing instruments.

Across all collections, the pens are designed precisely, offering sleek lines, ergonomic grips, and various color choices ranging from classic black and brown to more vibrant hues like pink, orange, and turquoise. In addition to their practicality, Opus 88 pens stand out for their large ink capacity, smooth nibs, and durable materials. The brand’s dedication to quality ensures that every pen performs to the highest standards, making them a preferred choice for luxury pen collectors and everyday users.

Writing Performance

Opus 88 pens are lauded for their smooth and consistent writing performance. Central to this performance is the high-quality steel nib, available in various sizes to suit different writing styles. Whether one prefers a fine, medium, or broad nib, Opus 88 ensures a versatile writing experience for all users. The Demonstrator series, in particular, is notable for its excellent ink flow and transparency, allowing users to visually appreciate the writing process. On the other hand, the Koloro and OMAR collections offer a more traditional writing experience with the same consistent ink flow and nib quality.

The eyedropper filling system, used in most Opus 88 models, offers a generous ink capacity, allowing for long writing sessions without the need for frequent refills. This system also contributes to the even flow of ink, ensuring that each stroke is smooth and uninterrupted. For fountain pen enthusiasts, the combination of an efficient filing system and a well-crafted nib results in a writing experience that is both pleasurable and reliable.

The Opus 88 fountain pen also features a unique shut-off valve mechanism controlled by the knob at the end of the barrel, which regulates airflow, and in turn, ink flow. When the valve is closed, ink is trapped in the feed, allowing for short writing sessions before it runs dry. Opening the valve enables steady ink flow from the barrel to the nib, which is ideal for extended writing. A central rod connected to the valve can be used to "prime" the feed. Gently pushing it after opening the valve can help clear clogs or dried ink, though it may get messy. For travel, keep the valve shut to prevent leaks, and consider storing the pen in a plastic bag for added safety.

Uses of Opus 88 Fountain Pens

Opus 88 pens are versatile and suitable for a variety of uses. Whether for daily writing, journaling, or artistic expression, these pens provide a reliable and stylish option. Their large ink capacity makes them ideal for professionals or students who engage in extended writing sessions, while their elegant design makes them a perfect choice for those who want to add a touch of sophistication to their everyday tasks.

The different nib sizes and ink capacities offer flexibility for various creative projects for artists and calligraphers. Moreover, Opus 88 pens are frequently used by fountain pen collectors who appreciate the attention to detail in both design and functionality. The brand's limited-edition models, such as the Zodiac collection, feature intricate designs that resonate with collectors who value artistry in writing tools. Each pen in this series reflects individuality, making them coveted items for those who appreciate both fine writing and design.

Opus 88 Pens: Available Models and Pricing

Opus 88 offers a diverse selection of models, each catering to different preferences and budgets. Some of the popular collections include:

Opus 88 Bela: The Bela series is known for its elegant design and vibrant colors. It is priced at around $123.00.
Opus 88 Demonstrator: This series, with a transparent body that showcases the ink flow, costs $125.00 to $140.00.
Opus 88 Jazz: Featuring classic designs and various finishes, the Jazz series is available for $120.00.
Opus 88 Koloro: This series offers unique color combinations and ebonite barrels. It is priced between $93.00 and $120.00.
Opus 88 OMAR: Bold and large, the OMAR series is available for $123.00.
Opus 88 Minty: Known for its fresh, modern colors, the Minty series is priced at $130.00.
Opus 88 Zodiac: The Zodiac collection ranges from $450.00 to $600.00 with astrological themes and exclusive designs.

Maintenance and Care

Like all fine writing instruments, Opus 88 fountain pens require proper maintenance to ensure long-lasting performance. The eyedropper filling system, though efficient, requires regular cleaning to prevent ink buildup and clogging. To clean the pen, users can disassemble it, rinse it with lukewarm water, and allow it to dry completely before refilling.

The nibs should also be carefully maintained. Over time, ink residue can accumulate on the nib, affecting the flow of ink. A gentle cleaning with water and a soft cloth can restore the nib’s performance. It's also recommended to periodically check the rubber seals in the eyedropper system to ensure they remain in good condition, as worn seals can lead to leakage.

Opus 88 provides high-quality, durable materials, but proper care is essential to maintain the pen’s appearance. Avoid exposing the pen to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight, as this can cause the ebonite or resin to warp or discolor.