Best Fountain Pen Manufacturers

In the stationery world, many have grown to revere the high quality and standards set by some of the world’s most renowned fountain pen manufacturers. These brands consistently produce excellent writing instruments and have become household names for fountain pen enthusiasts. They come from all over the world, making their mark with reliable fountain pen models that people have come to grow and love. Here are some of the best fountain pen manufacturers or brands to look out for when selecting your next fountain pen: 

Pilot-Namiki

Pilot is the largest pen manufacturer in Japan. Pilot Corporation was founded in 1918 under Namiki Manufacturing Company. This brand has a reputation for excellence in craftsmanship, design, and materials. Not only does Pilot produce high-quality and affordable pens, but Namiki also creates higher-end luxury pens. Some of the most well-known pens from this brand today are the Metropolitan, Vanishing Point, Falcon, and its custom line.

Platinum

Another great fountain pen manufacturer that also hails from Japan is Platinum Pen Co. It was established in 1919 by Syunchi Nakata, and their pens are praised for their exceptional nibs, which write smoothly and consistently. They are also known for the Slip-and-Seal system, which prevents nibs from drying out. For those on a budget, the Platinum Preppy is a great fountain pen to start with. Writers who are looking for their first gold-nibbed pen are often urged to try the 3776 Century.

Sailor

The Sailor Pen Co. Ltd. was founded in 1911, and it was the first company in Japan to make fountain pens. Their products are still some of the most sought-after fountain pens today. They offer a vast selection of affordable to high-end pens, and they also have some specialty nibs available, such as the Naginatas. Sailor is well-known for their special edition releases, which is great for any avid collector. Some of their best pens include the Sailor ProGear series and the 1911 series, which comes in standard and large. 

LAMY

Founded by Josef Lamy in the 1930s, LAMY has dominated the fountain pen market in recent years. This is mainly because they offer high-quality and well-engineered writing tools at an affordable cost. They are also known for minimalist designs, using molded synthetic plastic as one of the primary materials in producing their pens. Some of the most popular fountain pens in their lineup include the LAMY Al-Star, LAMY Safari, and the LAMY 2000.

Pelikan

Pelikan is another German brand worth considering when purchasing fountain pens. If you are looking for more high-end writing instruments, then this manufacturer has you covered. Pelikan fountain pens are known for their excellent nibs and unique piston-filling mechanisms. The Pelikan Souverän line is one of their most popular offerings and provides a next-level writing experience for many users with its classic and high-quality design and wide range of colors.

Montblanc

Montblanc, which was founded in Germany in 1906, is perhaps the most well-known of all fountain pen manufacturers, especially those who are unacquainted with stationery. The brand is instantly recognizable. Montblanc produces higher-end luxury pens and often comes out with expensive limited editions. Those looking to buy a Montblanc pen can check out their signature pen, the Meisterstück 149. You can also look at their vintage models from the 1960s, which are excellent writers and a bit less expensive than modern models. 

Parker

The Parker Pen Company was founded in 1888 by George Safford Parker, Wisconsin, United States. It comes with a rich history, starting as a premier brand from the late 1800s through to the post-war era. It is well known for innovation and a strong presence in the fountain pen market. This brand continues to be a prestige one for vintage collectors, who often select models like the Vacumatic, the Duofold, and the legendary Parker 51 (a keenly sought-after collector’s item and everyday writer). These pens have been manufactured in the US, Canada, and the UK, but their production has since then been transferred to France.

Sheaffer

Sheaffer was known as Parker’s rival in innovation in style. Founded in Iowa in 1913 by Walter A. Sheaffer, this fountain pen company produced legendary models such as the Balance and ingenious filling systems like the snorkel, which was used for the Pen for Men. Each Sheaffer pen is instantly recognizable by its trademarked white dot, and it is still a valued brand by collectors and users alike. These pens were manufactured in the US and in Australia. 

Waterman

Waterman was originally founded by Lewis Waterman in 1884 in New York. A leader in pen design and manufacturing, they were the first to introduce a retractable nib in their “safety pen” back in 1908. Their vintage pens are usually sought after by collectors for their flexible nibs. Those who want to try fountain pens from this brand can check out the Caréne and Edson models. 

This is by no means an exhaustive list of all the manufacturers in the world that produce high-quality fountain pens. However, these particular brands have made a significant mark and have grown to be loved by writers everywhere. The next time you are thinking of things to consider when buying a fountain pen, let this guide on each high-quality manufacturer be part of your decision-making. 

Happy writing! 

Written by EndlessPens Blogger Ramona Kabigting