We are showcasing here the 1911 Realo, a tribute to Sailor's long heritage and know-how in pen making. Featuring a 21 karat gold nib and trim in a variety of sizes (extra-fine, medium and music) whereas most companies opt for 14k or 18k. The choice of material adds depth and complexity to the nib which almost feels well-worn, already having lived, as if bequeathed by a rich uncle. Smoothness, spring and bounce are all adjectives which can be used to describe this superb nib type which promises excellent and generous ink flow. Highly recommended.
Through the 20th century the Japanese fountain pen industry flourished. Sailor emulating Namiki’s pursuit for luxury, experimented using amazing materials - Arita porcelain, burr wood, leather, rubber, maki-e creating evermore beauty. Strip the ornamentation back however, fast forward 100 years and what still sets the company apart from all others, even from its impressive Japanese counterparts Pilot and Platinum, is quality of writing. Unique nib types, the first to use 21K gold, Sailor’s writing implements have a depth and complexity of feeling, like the history one feels entering an old house, when in hand and on paper. It goes without saying that the rest of the pen is working with no hiccups and we recommend these pens wholeheartedly, for school, work and for gift giving.
Cleaning: Fountain pens should be cleaned regularly, at a minimum once a month, even if writing well. Dry ink, dust and paper fibre can accumulate internally causing disruption to the ink flow, scratchiness or skipping. When changing ink colours, especially when moving from a dark to light colour, it is important to flush out a pen for best colour clarity and stability. To clean a pen, first remove the lid, unscrew the nib/grip section from the barrel/pen body and if using, dispose of the cartridge, or remove converter. Hold the nib section downwards under a cold stream of water or tap, allowing for water to flow through the feed until the water runs clear.
For thorough or deeper clean, soak the feed section in a glass of clean water for a few hours, then dry with a towel or tissue paper. Once dry (may need drying overnight), install a fresh new cartridge, and re-assemble the pen.
Don’t forget that dry ink can also cause damage to the cap threading. The pen body, inside the cap and all pen parts should be clean and tidy. A well kept pen should only show inkflow in the nib tines/slit.
Storage: When not in use for over a week, pens should be stored clean and empty. Especially in hot climate (over the summer) and if used only sporadically, fountain pens will need extra cleaning. The nib is the most delicate part of the pen, it should not be dropped or shocked. When the tines come apart from each other, this is a called a sprung nib and will need repairing or changing. Ink: Only use ink labelled as fountain pen safe. Drawing inks such as China Ink or Indian ink should never be used in fountain pens. Ink choice can affect flow as some inks are more lubricating and others more pigmented. Pigment is a physical particle relative to dye which does not harden and stays liquid. As a rule of thumb black ink is more pigmented and 'dryer' than blue which is lubricating and the optimal colour for ink flow. While shimmering inks and iron gall based inks which are fountain pen friendly can be used with fountain pens, they may dry up faster and may require more regular pen cleaning. Sharing: Pens are best used by a single unique person. Not unlike leather shoes, the nib will gradually mould to your hand and handwriting style. If used by another person it may be that the pen feels different after or worse, that the tines are sprung (when the tines become splayed).
Length: Posted 15.5cm, Closed 14cm
Diameter 1.7cm
Weight: 20g
Body material: PMMA Resin
Nib Size: Extra fine, Medium or Music
Nib Material: 21k gold
Cap Type: Threaded screw-on cap
Cartridge type: Vacuum filling system; can only be used with bottled fountain pen ink
Included: Presentation box
Made in Japan
