Kaweco Special Brass Fountain Pen

Kaweco has been producing high-quality writing instruments in Germany since 1883. The company, which is known primarily for their “Sport” models of pocket pens and pencils, has a large range of writing implements ranging from entry level to “high-end.” Today I am reviewing the Kaweco Special brass fountain pen.

9/10 Packaging: The pen comes in a nicely crafted Kaweco-branded brass colored tin, with a glossy paper sleeve that has “Kaweco, License to write, Germany since 1883” printed on it and the “KA/WE/CO” circle logo. The tin makes a handy carrying case and has a two-slotted pen bed. Extra points for a dual-purpose box, since most packaging is thrown away for being bulky.

8/10 First thoughts: The pen is minimal, with no clip or roll stop, giving the pen a very streamlined utilitarian look. The color of the brass stands out well against the black color of the pen bed.

7/10 Design: The pen is made from solid brass and weighs in at 32 grams, which is heavy but not so heavy as to tire out your hand during longer writing sessions. The pen has a screw-on cap, which closes tightly against a small O-ring on the grip section. The cap can be posted securely by screwing it onto the threads on the bottom final, but this does make the pen slightly back weighted. When securing the body to the grip section, you have to tighten it down securely or it can unscrew when you are uncapping the pen.

The grip section is small but has a slight flare, which prevents your fingers from sliding down onto the nib. The threads are barely noticeable and not sharp. The body has eight facets, which help to prevent the pen from rolling since it does not have a clip or roll stop, and has the “KA/WE/CO” circle logo on the cap finial. You can purchase an aftermarket slip on clip for around $6.00, if you would like to add one. The finish has lost a bit of the shine with use, but it can easily be polished to keep it looking new. I personally like the patina that develops as you use it. The collection also has a black version, as well as a dip pen version.

8/10 Nib Performance: The steel nib is a very smooth, slightly dry writer. I experienced no hard starts even after leaving the pen on my desk for a few days. The nib is engraved with a small bit of scrollwork, the “KA/WE/CO” circle logo, “Germany since 1883,” and “M” for Medium nib size. It is a smaller nib that definitely punches above its weight class. I have heard some quality control stories about Kaweco nibs, but this one was a dream to write with right out of the box.

8/10 Filling System: The pen is a cartridge/converter filling system. It comes with one cartridge and a spacer cartridge. If you prefer to use a converter, it is sold separately for around $3.00. Since the pen is solid brass, you cannot eyedropper it.

7/10 Value: The retail price for the Kaweco Special Brass fountain pen is $130, but you can typically find it on sale for less. Overall this is a bit high for this model. Understandably, it is solid machined brass, which can add to the price. I think a price of $70-$90 would be fair, especially since the clip and converter are sold separately. I feel the design is made to last for generations. You are getting a solid workhorse pen that will not disappoint.

47/60 Overall: The minimalist design is interesting. This is the first pen I have used that does not come with a clip. That gave me concerns that it might slip out of my pocket or pen pouch. I like the faceted design, and it feels solid and durable given the material and the finish. The nib performs really well and it is a great writer right out of the box. Any pen that can sit for a number of days and start right up with no hesitation is a great performer in my book and definitely should be considered when you are looking for that next every day carry pen. I just wish the price point was lower.

Specs:

Name: Kaweco Special brass fountain pen

Design: Eight faceted all brass body

Length: 5.59 inches (142 mm)

Posted: 6.61 inches (168 mm)

Diameter: .39 inches (10 mm)

Weight: 32 grams

Nib: Steel Medium

Filling System: C/C

Pros: Minimalist design, faceted body, writes right out the box, threaded cap

Cons: No clip, body unthreads occasionally, does not come with a converter

In the same price range:

Conklin Nighthawk

Edison Beaumont

Faber- Castell E-Motion

“Make your mark”

Eric Aycock (Pengeek13)

Bertram’s Inkwell thanks Eric Aycock for his time and contribution with this wonderful review!

Check out the Kaweco Special Brass Fountain Pen here.