Montblanc Question

[R G]

Hello,



Have been a watch collector for years and been on TRF for some time but am thinking about buying my first MB pen.



What’s the all-time classic pen from their range?



I gather that the Meisterstuck is most likely the quintessential model, but then there are different sizes for this model from what I can see.



Essentially, what's the Submariner of the Montblanc world?



Thanks

[orlandoboom]

146 or 149!

[Bisquitlips]

The 146 fountain pen is a very good starter pen for someone who wants to experience the world of fine writing instruments.

This is a vintage 146, but a current 146 is the same size and just as lovely. Pic for reference to size.




I also love the 147 which is the same size but takes cartridges and is called the Traveler for its ease of use when on an adventure.

[Terpmedic]

If you're just getting into it, consider a meisterstuck ballpoint. Otherwise, I second the 149 if you're going to jump both feet in.


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[R G]

Originally Posted by Terpmedic

If you're just getting into it, consider a meisterstuck ballpoint. Otherwise, I second the 149 if you're going to jump both feet in.


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I think I will get the ballpoint Meisterstuck however there are then three sizes.

What's the most popular size?

I appreciate it's generally down to comfort, but I couldn't help but notice the classique is pictured on their website being held by what looks like women's hands.

[Busyboy]

I personally prefer the le grand size

I have the roller ball and the propelling pencil.

I couldn't in all honesty get on with the fountain pen and found it a bit fussy for any casual use. I couldn't carry it around for fear of burping etc. Especially on aeroplanes.

The le grand size roller with the broad nib does feel very posh and has lots of aesthetic and tactile appeal... I didn't think I'd be able to justify the pencil at all- but it has turned out to be my favourite and I use it daily

[jmiicustomz]

I prefer the le grande for writing comfort but the smallest one, I think 164?? For wearing in a pocket as it looks cleaner.

[R G]

There's also a mid-size?!

So basically, the classique is a men's pen, right? Not aimed specifically at women?

Thanks


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[stylinleems]

My first MB was the Meisterstuck Classique Ballpoint Pen 164 (in Gold). I regret not picking it up in Platinum though. - this I believe is the Submariner of MB (Gold or Plat).

It is not tailored for only women, I have seen a lot of men having the Classique.

Another good choice for a first pen would be one in the Starwalker line.

[Terpmedic]

I vote for a classique. There's far more color options.


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[bdex75]

I prefer the le grande size. And if it is for everyday use in an office environment I would go rollerball or ballpoint. Just easier to use. I currently have a le grande rose gold rollerball that I use most of the time. I also carry my JFK LE rollerball in my briefcase. The JFK is a stunning pen. Only downfall to me is that the cap does not post. I have a Tolstoy fountain pen they stays in my office at home for the most part.


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[Lion]

Just like in watches the choice(s) are many. Your best bet is to go to a MontBlanc Boutique or another store that carries the MontBlanc line of pens and accessories.and check them out. As for gender specific pens, watches, cars and whatever the boundaries were torn down in the 1960's.....

I happen to prefer the smaller sizes when it comes to pens but only because I am short and my dominant hand(right)and wrist have been dislocated for over 20 years. They are just easier for me to hold, handle and use. I also enjoy writing with fountain pens in recent years but I am also no longer working.....

Mont Blanc Boutiques will allow customers to check out all the sizes in fountain pens so you can get a feeling of how they work for you. And they should also let you check out a few rollerballs and ballpoints for the same reason.

If your status or importance in life is to show your style to others then by all means also check out their accessory lines. There are also many fine pens being manufactured by other companies so do not just limit yourself to one company. I am not saying this to upset anyone or to be mean just that their are many choices. I do carry two Mont Blanc fountain pens but I also like and enjoy writing with a G-2 gel pen made by Pilot. And yes they come in different sizes and colors but only cost $2.00 USD.....

Take care.....Leo

[R G]

Originally Posted by leems

My first MB was the Meisterstuck Classique Ballpoint Pen 164 (in Gold). I regret not picking it up in Platinum though. - this I believe is the Submariner of MB (Gold or Plat).

It is not tailored for only women, I have seen a lot of men having the Classique.

Another good choice for a first pen would be one in the Starwalker line.

Hi, yes, based on my research I think i have to agree that the Meisterstuck is the Submariner of the MB world and I think classique is probably the size I'll get. Thanks

[R G]

Originally Posted by Lion

Just like in watches the choice(s) are many. Your best bet is to go to a MontBlanc Boutique or another store that carries the MontBlanc line of pens and accessories.and check them out. As for gender specific pens, watches, cars and whatever the boundaries were torn down in the 1960's.....

I happen to prefer the smaller sizes when it comes to pens but only because I am short and my dominant hand(right)and wrist have been dislocated for over 20 years. They are just easier for me to hold, handle and use. I also enjoy writing with fountain pens in recent years but I am also no longer working.....

Mont Blanc Boutiques will allow customers to check out all the sizes in fountain pens so you can get a feeling of how they work for you. And they should also let you check out a few rollerballs and ballpoints for the same reason.

If your status or importance in life is to show your style to others then by all means also check out their accessory lines. There are also many fine pens being manufactured by other companies so do not just limit yourself to one company. I am not saying this to upset anyone or to be mean just that their are many choices. I do carry two Mont Blanc fountain pens but I also like and enjoy writing with a G-2 gel pen made by Pilot. And yes they come in different sizes and colors but only cost $2.00 USD.....

Take care.....Leo

Yes I appreciate the the choice in pens is expansive similar to that of the watch world. I'm not a pen guy, though, although I appreciate good quality pens.

I want to purchase a pen which will be my only pen, hence asking what the quintessential choice would be, just like how many would say if you're going for a one-watch collection, go for a Sub.

Status and importance isn't what I'm trying to achieve - that won't come from things like pens, however I'm sure you can appreciate my reasoning for asking about the sizes. All you have to do is look on the MB site and you'll see the classique is being modelled by a woman, so understandably I wanted to ensure I wasn't just about to buy a woman's watch, regardless of how well the smallest in the range may or may not work for me.

Yes I'm aware that visiting a boutique is the best option however I wanted general opinion from a bunch of pen people, rather than a grinning retail worker telling me what they think I want to hear.

As it happens I think I'll be going for the ballpoint in the classique size.

Thanks

[Rafael M]

The all time classic Montblanc .... the grandfather of ALL modern MB's is a 149 from the early 50's. The series with the 3 cap rings of both silver (2), and the center cap ring gold.
The nibs are super expressive. Nothing .... nothing modern comes close.
Want a great beginning ? Go MB Vintage ..

[Lion]

Please remember that the Mont Blanc star on the cap is a 'tell tale sign' too many people, who would and do pass judgements on others, is a "dead give away" that the owner has an expensive pen. Whether their judgement(s) are right or wrong and is/are unfounded it unfortunately does occur. Just think about the times you have seen and heard friends or strangers passing along their "two cents worth."

I have a friend who I see occasionally now that takes every opportunity when we meet up with others for coffee does his best to try and make me feel uncomfortable about my choices in using fountain pens. And how stupid it would be to spend money on such nonsense.....

I just let him talk and talk and this is the same person who goes gambling every week at the land based Casinos and the Boats. He on average loses about $3,000 to $6,000(USD) every week so they will give him a complimentary steak dinner to be used anytime.....

Once he is gone the others are getting sick and tired of his exploits and start "talking behind his back." I just smile and stay out of adding my thoughts as nothing is going to change. Once many others leave my very good friend will say to us all, "at least at the end of the day you still have your pen." We then all have a good laugh!!!

Take care.....Leo

[OmegaJJH]

From my personal experience I started with a MB Meisterstuck Le Grand Rollerball.
This is actually my favourite pen of all.

I then upgraded/added a 149 fountain pen. This is a stunning fountain pen and is a pleasure to use but for everyday use out and about I can't fault my Le grand.

One piece of advice I would give however is go and try them all out first! I wanted a MB ball point but when I actually tried one at the MB boutique I hadn't even finished writing my name when my wife and I looked at each other and both said that (on the page) it looks like any 99p BIC. (I don't mean any offence to any members by this - just personal opinion).

Best of luck.

[Bisquitlips]

Originally Posted by Lion

Please remember that the Mont Blanc star on the cap is a 'tell tale sign' too many people, who would and do pass judgements on others, is a "dead give away" that the owner has an expensive pen. Whether their judgement(s) are right or wrong and is/are unfounded it unfortunately does occur. Just think about the times you have seen and heard friends or strangers passing along their "two cents worth."

I have a friend who I see occasionally now that takes every opportunity when we meet up with others for coffee does his best to try and make me feel uncomfortable about my choices in using fountain pens. And how stupid it would be to spend money on such nonsense.....

I just let him talk and talk and this is the same person who goes gambling every week at the land based Casinos and the Boats. He on average loses about $3,000 to $6,000(USD) every week so they will give him a complimentary steak dinner to be used anytime.....

Once he is gone the others are getting sick and tired of his exploits and start "talking behind his back." I just smile and stay out of adding my thoughts as nothing is going to change. Once many others leave my very good friend will say to us all, "at least at the end of the day you still have your pen." We then all have a good laugh!!!

Take care.....Leo

I price joy into the expenses of life. If your friend doesn't like someone spending money on fountain pens, he and I will definitely not see eye to eye. I don't purchase writing instruments because I need them or they are a prudent purchase. I acquire them because they give me joy. How much is that worth?

To me it is a tangible asset. I also collect coins and it took me above 35 years to complete a Dansco 7070 Type set book in XF and above. I also collect mineral specimens typically copper based. I collect antiques, timepieces, related items and a myriad of other "things" I don't need, but each of them gives me joy.

Someday I will likely sell them to supplement our income in retirement, to travel more, or in order to acquire other things I don't need. Either way joy will be the sum of the equation.

One thing I do not collect is friends.

[bdex75]

Originally Posted by Bisquitlips

I price joy into the expenses of life.



If you friend doesn't like someone spending money on fountain pens, he and I will definitely not see eye to eye.



I don't purchase writing instruments because I need them or they are a prudent purchase. I acquire them because they give me joy. How much is that worth?



To me it is a tangible asset. I also collect coins and it took me above 35 years to complete a Dansco 7070 Type set book in XF and above. I also collect mineral specimens typically copper based. I collect antiques, timepieces, related items and a myriad of other "things" I don't need, but each of them gives me joy.



Someday I will likely sell them to supplement our income in retirement, to travel more, or in order to acquire other things I don't need. Either way joy will be the sum of the equation.



One thing I do not collect is friends.

Could not have said this any better.

Some people (like the "friend" mentioned in the previous post) are just never going to understand.

And I look at friends like you do. I don't collect them for sake of having them. I have a few of what I call "grab a shovel" friends. Meaning, no questions asked, you just start digging a hole.

Have several other good friends but not. Eat as many as others my age have. But I am also somewhat of an introvert.


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[Bisquitlips]

Another observation: 99% of any of my collections I have never shared with any friend. I do believe a sorrow shared is half a sorrow. A joy shared is twice the joy. But when it comes to the things that bring us joy I do not think this bit of wisdom applies.

I have a coworker that enjoys pens, writing, and inks. He and I occasionally share our new acquisitions and we also give each other gifts related to our shared interest.

He recently purchased for me a $30.00 tablet of Tomoe River Paper. I gave him a lovely set of reproduced library card catalog cards from the Library of Congress. He reciprocated with a lead-less pencil and so forth and on.

We both enjoy fountain pens, inks paper, notebooks, and etc and better yet enjoy each other.

Acquire what you enjoy for you! Not for who you can share it with. If you do find that occasionally you can share your passions with others... so MUCH the better! If not, share them with yourself! Pick them up. Relish them. Write in your journal about them. en-JOY them!

[Juantxo]

As with watches, I prefer a reasonable, comfortable size. Yes, the large size pens, like Pelikan Souverain 800 and 1000, are the most expensive on the range and presumably the fancier pen. However, I find the large size awkward and generally gauche. I deem a 44mm watch and above absurd as well.

Thus, no matter the "collectable" value or "prestige" factor the larger pens may or may not have, I avoid them simply because I don't like them. For me, in the case of Pelikan to use as example, the right size is the 600 and that's what I buy. The same with Montblanc, I own the medium size (whatever the model number is) pens and I'm fine with that. After all, the writing is the same.

[jmiicustomz]

Originally Posted by Juantxo

As with watches, I prefer a reasonable, comfortable size. Yes, the large size pens, like Pelikan Souverain 800 and 1000, are the most expensive on the range and presumably the fancier pen. However, I find the large size awkward and generally gauche. I deem a 44mm watch and above absurd as well.

Thus, no matter the "collectable" value or "prestige" factor the larger pens may or may not have, I avoid them simply because I don't like them. For me, in the case of Pelikan to use as example, the right size is the 600 and that's what I buy. The same with Montblanc, I own the medium size (whatever the model number is) pens and I'm fine with that. After all, the writing is the same.

I will second the point here. I do tend to like either the really big (MB Da Vinci) or the really small (Yard-o-led pocket sized) and very little in between. To me it's not the actual size but the heft for it size that is conveyed. I like a heavier pen. With watches I prefer 40mm and smaller with a few exceptions for like my 42mm speedmaster which wears like a 40mm sub to me. I am looking for a green bodied pen at the moment, I have one in a color I find okay but it weighs nothing and feels terrible to me, thus I am searching for one I will enjoy. Life's too short to worry all the time about what people think, besides most people don't think often enough to matter anyway.

[Bisquitlips]

Originally Posted by Juantxo

As with watches, I prefer a reasonable, comfortable size. Yes, the large size pens, like Pelikan Souverain 800 and 1000, are the most expensive on the range and presumably the fancier pen. However, I find the large size awkward and generally gauche. I deem a 44mm watch and above absurd as well.

Thus, no matter the "collectable" value or "prestige" factor the larger pens may or may not have, I avoid them simply because I don't like them. For me, in the case of Pelikan to use as example, the right size is the 600 and that's what I buy. The same with Montblanc, I own the medium size (whatever the model number is) pens and I'm fine with that. After all, the writing is the same.

I like your statement: "For me, in the case of Pelikan..."

Your key words are "For me..." EXACTLY!

Love what you acquire. Acquire what you love and you will enjoy all that you do!