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Our in-house gift wrapping service includes our Italian off-set printed patterned paper, matching Swiss double satin ribbon, foiled sticker seals instead of tape and one card for your message. Kindly note we do not gift-wrap decorative papers, wrapping materials such as ribbon, wrapping paper and greeting cards...

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Burgundy Sailor 1911 Realo Fountain Pen

£470.00
SizeExtra-Fine

We are showcasing here the 1911 Realo, a tribute to Sailor's long heritage and know-how in pen making. Featuring a 21kt 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.

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

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).

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Gift wrapping available

Worldwide delivery

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Burgundy Sailor 1911 Realo Fountain Pen

£470.00
FAQ

Do You Offer Gift Wrapping?

Yes, gift wrapping can be chosen before checkout and is a £10 flat fee, which includes a card and envelope for you to leave a message. We use premium materials, our in-house Italian paper and Swiss ribbon and an assortment of branded stickers.

How can I amend my order?

Once placed, orders cannot be modified and the address cannot be changed. This is to avoid errors in processing. If you have made an error, please email to request a cancellation, you can then place a new order with the correct details. Once shipped an order cannot be cancelled, it will need to be returned.

What if something is out of stock?

If an item in your order is unavailable, our team will contact you in writing to let you know and discuss your options. We’ll do our best to suggest alternatives or advise when the item is expected back in stock. During busy seasonal periods, if an item under £10 is out of stock, we’ll issue a refund for that product and send the rest of your order so you receive it without delay.

Can I buy gift vouchers?

Digital Gift Cards can be purchased through our website and are delivered by email, these are redeemable through online purchases only. In-store only gift vouchers can also be purchased by visiting us at our physical store in Covent Garden.

Can I collect my order in store?

Yes, if the items in your basket are available at our shop in Covent Garden, you will be able to select “Pick Up” at that location. Not all items will be available at this location.

Shipping

International shipping

We ship to all Worldwide destinations exclusively using DHL Express. For UK destinations DHL Express is a 24h next working day delivery service.

Dispatch Time

We aim to despatch orders within 48 hours. At busy shopping periods this can take an extra few days. Orders placed after 1pm on Fridays and at the weekend will be sent out Monday at the earliest.

Taxes

Shipping to USA, Europe, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand will be sent Delivered Duty Paid (DDP). This means all customs duties, taxes, and handling fees are already covered at checkout—so your order arrives without any unexpected extra charges.

About Us

Choosing Keeping is an independent shop located in Covent Garden, London. We specialise in offering a wide range of stationery and miscellaneous items to cater to all your needs.

We take pride in offering products that inspire creativity and elevate the art of writing. Whether you're looking for a special gift or simply want to treat yourself, we invite you to explore our collection and discover the joy of stationery.

We offer gift wrapping with premium materials, our in-house Italian paper and Swiss ribbon and an assortment of swallow branded stickers. We ship to all destinations worldwide by DHL.

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21 Tower Street,
London, WC2H 9NS (Map)

T: 020 7613 3842
E:info@choosingkeeping.com
@choosingkeeping