After close to 30 years in the pen business, Sol Glatstein founded the America’s Penn Collection showroom in White Plains two years ago. His personal pen collection includes more than 60 writing instruments averaging about $4,000 each. Just in time for the handwriting of those extra-special Valentine love notes, Glatstein offers his five top recommended pens.
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1) Al-star Fountain Pen #26 (Lamy) $45 Glatstein calls this fountain pen a workhorse that never quits. “With its modern, functional design,” he says, “it’s no wonder that it’s very popular with the younger generation.” Featuring a body of anodized aluminum and a steel nib, it is available in such colors as graphite, blue, red, and purple. |
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2) Expert Ballpoint #s0951700 (Waterman) $120 “With its modern and fluid design,” says Glatstein, “this ballpoint is designed for Generation X.” Featuring a generously proportioned barrel and backed by the Waterman name, it offers total reliability and flexibility, he adds. |
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3) Vanishing Point Retractable Fountain Pen #60246 (Pilot/Namiki) $175 “This innovative and functional retractable point fountain pen offers both a unique design and an exceptional writing experience,” says Glatstein. “It’s by far the best value for the price,” he adds. Featuring a 14K gold nib, it is available in many colors of lacquer—including blue, red, black, and gunmetal—with gold or rhodium trim. |
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4) Leman Rollerball #4779.782 (Caran d’Ache) $425 “With its ebony lacquer body and silver-plated, rhodium-coated trim,” says Glatstein, “this rollerball pen is an especially elegant looking accessory.” Handmade in Switzerland by a company with a history of making superior quality watches and jewelry, it is backed by a lifetime guarantee. |
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5) Olympio Fountain Pen #481674 (S.T. Dupont) $1,200 Glatstein says that this is his favorite fountain pen with which to write that special thank-you note. “It offers timeless elegance, exceptional quality, and writing comfort,” he says of the pen, which features multiple coats of Chinese lacquer with platinum trim. An 18K gold nib provides an exceptionally smooth glide or writing experience, he adds. |
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