Pelikan Souverän M805 Metal Sleeve Special Edition Fountain Pen

Few names command as much respect as Pelikan. For decades, the Souverän line has been the benchmark for German engineering and classical aesthetics, typically characterized by its iconic cellulose acetate striped barrels. However, every so often, Pelikan breaks from tradition to offer something truly distinct.

Enter the Pelikan Souverän M805 Metal Sleeve Special Edition Fountain Pen —a pen that trades the vintage boardroom aesthetic for a bold, modern, and industrial edge.

If you are a collector tired of the standard resin options or a writer seeking a pen with substantial heft and architectural beauty, the M805 Metal Sleeve demands your attention.

Design: Where Architecture Meets Ink

The most striking feature of this pen is, of course, the "Metal Sleeve." Unlike the standard M805, which features a smooth resin barrel, this special edition sports a sophisticated laser-cut stainless steel sleeve overlaid onto a high-polished black resin body.

The visual effect is mesmerizing. The sleeve features a complex geometric pattern of intersecting lines—reminiscent of architectural blueprints. This isn't just a printed design; it is a physical overlay that offers a tactile experience. When you run your fingers over the barrel, you can feel the precision of the laser cuts and the cool touch of the metal.

The silver-colored sleeve pairs perfectly with the rhodium-plated trim (clip and rings).

The Build: A Weighty Proposition

One of the most frequent debates among fountain pen enthusiasts is the "weight vs. comfort" argument. Standard Pelikan M800/M805 pens are made of resin and brass internal components, weighing in at a comfortable but relatively light ~29g.

The M805 Metal Sleeve, however, changes the equation. Because of the metal overlay, this pen is significantly heavier, similar to the previously released M815 Metal Striped. This added mass gives the pen a feeling of immense solidity and luxury. It feels "expensive" in the hand—dense, authoritative, and robust.

• Balance: Despite the extra weight, Pelikan engineers are masters of balance. The weight is distributed evenly along the barrel, ensuring that the pen sits comfortably in the "web" of your hand without pulling back or feeling top-heavy (especially when unposted).
• The Ink Window: A subtle but critical feature is the dark, translucent ink window located just above the grip section. It preserves the sleek black aesthetic while allowing you to check your ink level—a functional necessity.

The Nib: The Soul of the Souverän

Regardless of the barrel material, a Pelikan is defined by its nib. The M805 Metal Sleeve is equipped with a large, 18k gold nib that has been fully rhodium-plated to match the silver aesthetics of the body.  Choose from extra fine, fine, medium, or broad point sizes.

The combination of the heavy metal body and the smooth, wet nib creates a unique writing sensation: the pen's weight does the work for you, gliding across the page with almost zero pressure required from your hand.

The Pelikan M805 Metal Sleeve is not just another colorway; it is a reimagining of what a Souverän can look and feel like.

You should consider this pen if you love the size of the M800 but find the standard resin models too light.  And you’d enjoy this pen if you appreciate modern, industrial, or architectural design over vintage aesthetics.  Finally, you’d love this pen if you want a "Grail Pen" that stands out in a meeting room without being flashy or gaudy.

This is a pen that bridges the gap between the precision of German engineering and the artistry of modern design. It is a tool for visionaries—heavy, permanent, and undeniably stylish.

What do you think?  Do you have yours yet?  You can check it out here. Do you like what you’re reading?  Subscribe to our blog to sign up!  Don’t forget to comment and share on social media!  What are some of the things you’d like to see reviewed?

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