Pilot Custom 823 Fountain Pen Black - B

This pen is often claimed to be the best you can get, and often favourably compared to the Montblanc 149 which is three times the price of this one. It's definitely the best writer I've ever used, and I've owned the Pelikan M800, Montblanc 149, OMAS Paragon, and several other flagship pens. This Pilot is better, with only two niggles: Mine seemed to take a few days, and several ink changes to work perfectly, i.e., for the flow to be as full as I liked it. This is a common observation. The second is that it strangely dislikes Waterman Serenity Blue, which normally works in any pen, and famously so.Don't let that stop you getting it. And if you really, really don't like it, Cult Pens will take it back anyway.

So nice, bought it twice...Well, in fact, make that *three* times, on account of my first one inexplicably going missing a handful of years ago, which was a sad, not to mention rather expensive loss. But I loved the thing so much that I bucked the "temptation of novelty" and bought a second 823 (Black, like the first one), instead of something else, this time with a Fine nib. That felt a bit different from the Medium, with just a bit more tooth which at first was briefly disconcerting (my issue with FPs in the past was with their being either *so* smooth they lacked control for consistent handwriting, or so scratchy as to be highly unpleasant to write with at all). The Fine nib turned out to be terrific for me, but the bigger reveal for me was that the only thing ... MoreSo nice, bought it twice...Well, in fact, make that *three* times, on account of my first one inexplicably going missing a handful of years ago, which was a sad, not to mention rather expensive loss. But I loved the thing so much that I bucked the "temptation of novelty" and bought a second 823 (Black, like the first one), instead of something else, this time with a Fine nib. That felt a bit different from the Medium, with just a bit more tooth which at first was briefly disconcerting (my issue with FPs in the past was with their being either *so* smooth they lacked control for consistent handwriting, or so scratchy as to be highly unpleasant to write with at all). The Fine nib turned out to be terrific for me, but the bigger reveal for me was that the only thing better for my writing than a single 823 was two of them (and a Vanishing Point for quick note-taking and such). For just a touch of variety, the companion 823 I chose was in Amber with Medium nib; amusingly, I'd gotten so used to the Fine nib that writing with the Medium was now slightly strange, but the memory of the first 823 came back quickly, and all was good. If you know of the 823, you likely know its oft-mentioned virtues: comfortable shape for extensive writing, fine-tuned nibs that write beautifully straight from out of the box, seriously-large ink capacity via an elegantly simple and efficient filling system, flawless fit and finish, and aesthetics that are pleasing to the eye but not fussy or overwrought. In other words, something a serious writer would happily reach for, very often. I certainly can't ask for more in a good pen.

Best Pen on the Market for Writers

I bought this pen to write with on a daily basis, and it has never failed me. Its massive ink capacity means that I only need to refill it once a week - and I am a college student who writes at least 20 pages of notes a week, and letters to my friend in another state, and random writing for my own tranquility. The broad nib is beautiful, its lines are thick and elegant, it emits ink at the right flow so that it never seems to run dry while in use (unless my posture be wrong). The vacuum filling mechanism has spoiled me for cartridges or pistons, and I fear I may never be satisfied with another pen. Sadly, due to an accident of my own doing, there developed in the barrel a small crack, no more than 1mm, that leaks ink very slowly when the piston is loosened to allow ... MoreI bought this pen to write with on a daily basis, and it has never failed me. Its massive ink capacity means that I only need to refill it once a week - and I am a college student who writes at least 20 pages of notes a week, and letters to my friend in another state, and random writing for my own tranquility. The broad nib is beautiful, its lines are thick and elegant, it emits ink at the right flow so that it never seems to run dry while in use (unless my posture be wrong). The vacuum filling mechanism has spoiled me for cartridges or pistons, and I fear I may never be satisfied with another pen. Sadly, due to an accident of my own doing, there developed in the barrel a small crack, no more than 1mm, that leaks ink very slowly when the piston is loosened to allow for wetter ink flow. Despite this, the pen is exceptionally well-made, and so long as one is more competent than I, there should never be any problems whatsoever. Even despite the recent crack and leak issue, I plan immediately to buy exactly the same pen again. I just can't go without the Custom 823. It is the best pen on the market; as far as I am concerned, for any purpose but gaudy ostentation, there will never be a better gold-nib pen.

Easy writer

The Pilot Custom 823 clear is a work of art. It’s not only aesthetically beautiful but it also writes like a dream. I purchased the fine nib which is very fine, has a little bit of feedback but is overall smooth. I bought this pen for my husband and he just loves it. It’s a nice size pen and one which I thought would be too big for my small hands (which is why I bought it for my husband and not myself) but it’s actually a really great size. He likes larger pens and finds it very comfortable to use. I like smaller pens yet I also find it comfortable to use. I love the clear “color” and being able to see the ink in all its glory. I can definitely see an 823 for myself in the future. Also love that it comes with a large bottle of Pilot ink. As far as getting it from ... MoreThe Pilot Custom 823 clear is a work of art. It’s not only aesthetically beautiful but it also writes like a dream. I purchased the fine nib which is very fine, has a little bit of feedback but is overall smooth. I bought this pen for my husband and he just loves it. It’s a nice size pen and one which I thought would be too big for my small hands (which is why I bought it for my husband and not myself) but it’s actually a really great size. He likes larger pens and finds it very comfortable to use. I like smaller pens yet I also find it comfortable to use. I love the clear “color” and being able to see the ink in all its glory. I can definitely see an 823 for myself in the future. Also love that it comes with a large bottle of Pilot ink. As far as getting it from Ben Boutique, I’m so happy I went with them. The shipping was lightning fast, packaging was great and it included a free gift which was so appreciated. Highly recommend both the pen and Pen Boutique.

Fantastic Pen - Good Service From Makoba

On July 23, 2023, I purchased this Pilot Custom 823 (Fine Nib) from Makoba. There weren't many trustworthy retailers from which I could get this pen. Before purchasing this pen, I conducted a lot of web research since I wanted to try it out in person. It was impossible because there were Makoba stores in cities other than the one I reside in. I considered taking a chance by ordering from Makoba after reading all the web reviews. According to the news or reviews I found online, they appeared to have a decent reputation. The very next day, they wrapped and sent my order. It came to me in three days. I had asked for the pen to be examined to rule out any issues.They said that they had done so . They sent the pen back in mint condition. The pen is looks impressive. ... MoreOn July 23, 2023, I purchased this Pilot Custom 823 (Fine Nib) from Makoba. There weren't many trustworthy retailers from which I could get this pen. Before purchasing this pen, I conducted a lot of web research since I wanted to try it out in person. It was impossible because there were Makoba stores in cities other than the one I reside in. I considered taking a chance by ordering from Makoba after reading all the web reviews. According to the news or reviews I found online, they appeared to have a decent reputation. The very next day, they wrapped and sent my order. It came to me in three days. I had asked for the pen to be examined to rule out any issues.They said that they had done so . They sent the pen back in mint condition. The pen is looks impressive. Its transluscent black body shines, giving it an exquisite and alluring appearance. Compared to European Fine nibs, this fine nib is finer.The nib provides a small amount of feedback for its line width. This nib is supposed to provide some feedback, I suppose. The European Extra fine nib, which might be this in terms of line width, is something I've never used. So, no comparison. Nevertheless, after a few days of writing, I have grown to love this minimal feedabck. It doesn't itch at all. I believe it was a switch in routine from European Fine to Japanese Fine for me. The barrel hods a lot of ink. Hence it is a workhorse if you are writing daily.The vaccum filling system is beautiful. You might need to read the instructions on how to tighten the plunger end to stop ink from flowing and how to leave it loose to allow ink to flow. It was little confusing for me in the beginning when there was no ink flow. I thought there is some problem with the pen. But it was not so.The only uncomfortable aspects of this pen may be that it is difficult to thoroughly clean if you want to. But based on what I've seen online, thorough cleaning of the pen is hardly ever necessary. It only needs few flushes of water. Priming it 4 times with water cleans it well. Since Pilot does not have a direct service centre in India, any problems must be reported to Makoba during the warranty period. However, since Pilot intends to begin operations in India, I do not anticipate the issue lasting very long.Overall, it's a fantastic pen, and Makoba has provided good service thus far. I hope they would keep up the excellent customer service in the future.

ID NEVER SPEND $300+ ON A PEN

Is what I said 4+ years ago when I first entered the diverse world of fountain pens. I bought a Kaweco Sport from Goulet (I am a very loyal Goulet customer) for $25 and I never thought I would buy a pen for more than $100. But let me tell you. The Pilot Custom 823 writes smooth. So wet, gliding over paper like glass. It sits perfectly in the hand, and it holds a lot of ink. It is really like the Ferrari of fountain pens. There is no scratchiness or feedback with the Medium nib. It really is so luxurious. It is very expensive, and this is my most expensive pen. But I really see no need to buy another pen other than this one. I may get the amber color, because I got the black one. And the amber is quite beautiful. You will not regret this pen!!!

Insanely Good

I expected this pen to be good, but it is so much better than I expected. I got it with the medium nib and it is the best nib I have ever tried by far (I am comparing it to pens like the Lamy 2000 and Montblanc 146). I cannot put this pen down. The other pens in my collection that are supposed to be on par or better than the 823 just sit on my desk because I am so in love with my Pilot. Everything, from the grip section to the wetness to the build quality, makes this pen so inspiring to write with. I am using the pen as to write reading notes and ideas for a book-length academic project, and it just makes me so excited to sit down to work so I can write with it. I could not recommend the Pilot Custom 823 any more highly.P.S. the amber pairs perfectly with ... MoreI expected this pen to be good, but it is so much better than I expected. I got it with the medium nib and it is the best nib I have ever tried by far (I am comparing it to pens like the Lamy 2000 and Montblanc 146). I cannot put this pen down. The other pens in my collection that are supposed to be on par or better than the 823 just sit on my desk because I am so in love with my Pilot. Everything, from the grip section to the wetness to the build quality, makes this pen so inspiring to write with. I am using the pen as to write reading notes and ideas for a book-length academic project, and it just makes me so excited to sit down to work so I can write with it. I could not recommend the Pilot Custom 823 any more highly.P.S. the amber pairs perfectly with Noodler's Walnut if you're into brown inks.

Pilot Custom 823 Fountain pen - Demo Clear

I wish to express my admiration for The Pen Boutique, as their professionalism has left a lasting impression on me. It is for this reason that I continue to patronize their establishment when purchasing pens. Furthermore, I would like to extend my commendation for the Pilot Custom 823 Fountain Pen - Demo Clear, which I consider to be an exceptional writing instrument. Its smooth writing and remarkable ink flow make it ideal for extensive writing sessions. I highly recommend this pen to anyone seeking a superior writing experience. Sincerely, Alvarez

Ruined all other fountain pens for me

This fountain pen is so good especially for the price. This is a pen for people who are very utilitarian and who want a fantastic writing experience. Personally, increasing the price point from here has not really given me that much better of a writing experience and I feel like you go into the realm of aesthetics of the fountain pen more so than the practicality of a writing instrument. I've bought a few different fountain pens that were similarity priced or even more expensive from Lamy, Visconti, and Platinum and I always come back to this pen. I find myself comparing all writing experiences to this fountain pen now, and nothing really measures up. It's buttery smooth and has the perfect balance of being fine but definitely not scratchy. The color variation of a ... MoreThis fountain pen is so good especially for the price. This is a pen for people who are very utilitarian and who want a fantastic writing experience. Personally, increasing the price point from here has not really given me that much better of a writing experience and I feel like you go into the realm of aesthetics of the fountain pen more so than the practicality of a writing instrument. I've bought a few different fountain pens that were similarity priced or even more expensive from Lamy, Visconti, and Platinum and I always come back to this pen. I find myself comparing all writing experiences to this fountain pen now, and nothing really measures up. It's buttery smooth and has the perfect balance of being fine but definitely not scratchy. The color variation of a bunch of different inks really shows using this pen. The vacuum filler is really intuitive and easy to use although I'm not sure how to fill it to 100% (although I'm satisfied with the 80% it can normally do). The ink capacity is huge and doesn't need any converters or extra attachments. The only drawback of having such a huge ink capacity is if you like to try out a bunch of different inks and colors. Filling it with a more exotic color might be your undoing since you might be stuck with that color for a while since the ink capacity is huge. This might be good for people who prefer simpler black/blue inks and who write a lot and who don't want the fuss of refueling ink very frequently. The black color of the pen is very black and just transparent enough to see the liquid if you hold it up in the light or if you're in a bright room (I feel like the pictures make it out to be more transparent than it actually is in my opinion). I haven't used this pen for art / sketching, but I would recommend this pen for daily use and works great for English lettering, cursive, or even Chinese / Japanese characters. The pen works both posted and unposted and doesn't feel awkwardly balanced personally. The length is also neither too big nor too small, but I could see how it might be a bit small unposted for someone with large hands. Cleaning and maintaining the pen is simple enough although I typically don't use shimmery inks just inks from iroshizuku typically. The body material feels nice and doesn't leave any fingerprints and doesn't seem to have any wear with extended use. If you're looking for a next-next-level pen (e.g. something pricier than a Lamy 2000 or Pilot Decimo) and are looking for a great writing experience and are practically-minded, this pen might be the final pen you ever buy.

WOW! Just, you know.....WOW!

I was not sure what to expect when I ordered this pen. When you hear this many things that good, you kind of expect that it won't actually be as good as it sounded. I was wrong. I have seven Mont Blancs, a Pellikan M series, a Chopard, a whole family of Retro 51 FPs, a Conklin Duragraph and this pen holds its own with all of them and surpasses most. The best comparison is between the Custom 823 and my MB 146. They are almost interchangeable. I am admittedly a MB geek, but this Pilot is so close to my favorite 146 that I often can't tell the difference unless I look and make sure which pen I grabbed. Yes, those two are now my workhorse pens, and the Pilot Custom 823 is as good a pen as any that I have ever handled!It is easy to fill and holds a lot of ink for a 146 ... MoreI was not sure what to expect when I ordered this pen. When you hear this many things that good, you kind of expect that it won't actually be as good as it sounded. I was wrong. I have seven Mont Blancs, a Pellikan M series, a Chopard, a whole family of Retro 51 FPs, a Conklin Duragraph and this pen holds its own with all of them and surpasses most. The best comparison is between the Custom 823 and my MB 146. They are almost interchangeable. I am admittedly a MB geek, but this Pilot is so close to my favorite 146 that I often can't tell the difference unless I look and make sure which pen I grabbed. Yes, those two are now my workhorse pens, and the Pilot Custom 823 is as good a pen as any that I have ever handled!It is easy to fill and holds a lot of ink for a 146 size pen (you can view the instructions on Youtube on how to use the vac fill system if its your first time filling one with the vacuum system - Brian Goulet has a good video on this here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RUseF8rTuyQ ). I have a medium nib, and it writes and flows like a dream. I highly recommend this pen. Enjoy!