Who Is The Pilot Corporation?
The Pilot Corporation is a globally renowned manufacturer of high-quality writing instruments known for their craftsmanship, reliability, and ergonomic designs. It was founded in 1918 under the name Namiki Manufacturing Company Ltd. by Ryosuke Namiki and Masao Wada. The parent company is based in Tokyo and is Japan's oldest and largest writing instrument manufacturer. The Pilot Corporation of America, established in 1972, is the third-largest manufacturer of writing instruments in the United States.
Pilot Custom Urushi Pens
The Pilot Custom Urushi pen is a testament to Pilot's dedication to exceptional quality and exquisite craftsmanship. The Custom Urushi fountain pen is more than just a writing instrument; it is a possession that combines beauty, functionality, and heritage. At $1,500.00, its luxurious design and superior craftsmanship make it a highly sought-after writing instrument among pen enthusiasts and collectors, but it may be too expensive for many. The Pilot Custom Urushi is also offered at around $630 in a ballpoint pen.
Design and Build Quality
The Pilot Custom Urushi pen exemplifies superior, elegant design and functional build quality. Using ebonite as the base material provides durability while keeping the pen lightweight. The Urushi lacquer finish enhances the pen's aesthetic appeal and adds a layer of protection against wear and fading. Each Vermillion (red) pen is unique, with slight variations in the lacquer's finish reflecting the craftsmanship involved. The cap features a shiny black insert encircled by a gold band, with a larger-than-average clip for easy attachment. The barrel's slight taper and smooth finish make it comfortable to hold, while the gold accents add a touch of luxury.
- Material: The pen is crafted from ebonite, a durable and lightweight material, and finished with a Roiro "Urushi" lacquer. This traditional Japanese lacquer technique involves multiple layers of lacquer applied meticulously by hand, resulting in a stunning mirror-like finish.
- Nib: The pen features a two-toned 18k gold number 30 nib, available in fine, medium, or broad sizes. The nib's large size and intricate design contribute to the pen's elegant appearance and smooth writing experience.
- Dimensions: The pen measures 5.79 inches when capped and extends to 6.54 inches when posted, making it comfortable for various hand sizes. It weighs 28 grams, offering a balanced feel without being overly heavy.
- Ink System: The Custom Urushi uses a Pilot cartridge or converter filling system compatible with Pilot's high-capacity Con-70 converter, ensuring ample ink supply for extensive writing sessions.
- Presentation: Each pen is presented in a striking gift box, accompanied by a bottle of black ink and a use and care guide, making it an ideal gift for pen enthusiasts.
Pilot Custom Urushi Ballpoint Pen
- Material: Ebonite and Roiro "Urushi" lacquer finish
- Length: 5.5 inches
- Weight: 1.7oz.
- Ballpoint: Equipped with a standard ballpoint mechanism that uses a rolling ball to dispense ink.
- Ink cartridge: It uses replaceable ballpoint refills, making it convenient to replace quick ink without cleaning.
- Presentation: Delivered in a striking gift box with black ink & use and care guide included.
Writing Performance
The Pilot Custom Urushi fountain pen is renowned for its exceptional writing performance. The two-toned 18k gold nib offers a smooth and consistent writing experience, with just the right amount of feedback to ensure control. The nib's large size allows for impressive line variation, making it suitable for everyday writing and artistic calligraphy. The pen's balanced weight distribution and comfortable grip ensure that long writing sessions remain fatigue-free. The high-capacity CON-70 converter provides ample ink supply, reducing the need for frequent refilling and allowing for uninterrupted writing. The Pilot Urushi ballpoint pen provides a consistent writing experience with less variation in line thickness. The writing is usually more uniform and requires less pressure, making it well-suited for quick notes and everyday use.
Uses of the Pilot Custom Urushi Fountain Pen
The Pilot Custom Urushi Fountain Pen and Ballpoint Pen are ideal for various uses, including professional settings that add a touch of elegance to every signature and document, making it perfect for executives and anyone who values fine writing instruments. The fountain pen’s flexible nib and smooth ink flow make it an excellent choice for calligraphy, sketching, and other artistic endeavors. The ballpoint pen is perfect for everyday writing tasks, such as taking notes and bullet journaling. As a flagship model, the Custom Urushi is a prized addition to any pen collection, appreciated for its craftsmanship, high-quality materials, and limited production.
Maintenance and Care of the Pilot Custom Urushi Fountain Pen
Proper maintenance and care are essential to preserving the Pilot Custom Urushi fountain pen's beauty and functionality. The included use and care guide provides detailed instructions, but key points include:
- Cleaning: Regular cleaning of the nib and feed ensures smooth ink flow and prevents clogging. Using the converter, flush the pen with clean water until the water runs clear.
- Storage: Store the pen in its gift box or a dedicated pen case to protect it from dust, sunlight, and physical damage. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure can affect the Urushi lacquer.
- Refilling: Use Pilot's proprietary cartridges or the converter-70 for refilling. When switching inks, ensure thorough cleaning to avoid color mixing and potential damage to the pen.
