Why Are Fountain Pens So Expensive?

When one thinks of fountain pens, the word “high quality,” “classy,” and “luxurious” usually come to mind. Fountain pens are often considered to be a next-level writing instrument that comes with a corresponding price tag. You’ll notice that even inexpensive fountain pens are still more expensive than most ballpoint pens, and you may be wondering why that is the case. Here, we’ll talk about why fountain pens are more costly and why they are still worth it. 

Using good quality materials

The first and most apparent reason fountain pens are expensive is that some models are made of high-quality materials. Using gold or titanium nibs can elevate the writing experience.  The craftsmanship of fountain pens using these more precious metals is typically of a higher caliber as well. 

Apart from nibs, the materials used to make the pen body can also be expensive. Premium fountain pens can be made with some of the highest quality resins and even precious materials such as urushi lacquer. 

Supply of fountain pens

The demand for fountain pens is much lower than other writing instruments like ballpoint pens. This means that only a few companies manufacture fountain pens, creating less competition. Fountain pens are also more expensive to maintain the operation of the few companies that produce them.

Making pens by hand

The process of making fountain pens can also contribute to their costs. Many fountain pens are produced using machines, but some models are made by hand. This makes the pen more valuable and, thus, more expensive. 

Some people look for the value that expert craftsmanship adds to a handmade fountain pen. The professional artists who create these models have a very specialized skill set and know how to make the best product from decades of experience. Everything from the pen’s design to its balance, dynamics, and nib quality is considered when making them by hand. These types of pens are made in limited amounts, making them rarer and more expensive.

Premium and luxury brands

Some brands have built up quite a reputation for producing nothing less than the best fountain pens in the world. Customers have grown to recognize luxury brand names like Montblanc and Namiki, not only for their excellent fountain pens but even for their logos and branding. Designs and models produced by these brands can make fountain pens expensive, especially rarer collectible items. 

Why buy a fountain pen?

If fountain pens are so expensive, then why purchase them at all? 

One thing you can’t buy with inexpensive ballpoint pens is the premium writing experience fountain pens offer. Fountain pens are often made of better-quality materials that stand the test of time and make writing a much more enjoyable activity. 

Not only do you have a sturdier writing instrument, but you can also save more in the long run by using a single refillable fountain pen. They are more economical because you can use a single pen for a lifetime without using disposable components like plastic pen bodies, ink cartridges, or caps. 

Another reason why people buy expensive fountain pens is for prestige. There is something special about belonging to a smaller community of enthusiasts that appreciates rarer writing instruments and the surrounding culture. It almost feels like a well-kept but open secret. 

Despite the price tag, are fountain pens worth it? We’d like to think so, and we hope that, given these reasons, you’ll think so too. 

By Some Folks at EndlessPens