Custom 823 is a unique, everyday fountain pen, with a simple yet elegant design. It's perfect for everyday writing. The Custom 823 fountain pen features the #15 14K gold nib. The transluscent barrel makes the ink more visible in the barrel. Ink is drawn into the pen using a plunger, as opposed to using a converter or cartridge. The Pilot Signature nib is similar to a Music nib, that is, slightly narrower on the cross-stroke than the down-stroke. The big differnece though is that the Signature nib doesn't have the hard edges of the music nib meaning the angle of the pen isn't as crucial and the therefore very smooth. With this asymetry comes expressive lines, something you don't get from a regular BB rounded nib. Why choose this nib? This pen is for those who like a smooth, broad, wet and expressive nib. The Pilot signature nib is also a great nib to use with shading ink as the extra ink flow allows the ink to show its variation.Before use, with the nib up, unscrew the piston knob 2mm.
Custom 823 is a unique, everyday fountain pen, with a simple yet elegant design. It's perfect for everyday writing. The Custom 823 fountain pen features the #15 14K gold nib. The transluscent barrel makes the ink more visible in the barrel. Ink is drawn into the pen using a plunger, as opposed to using a converter or cartridge. The Pilot Signature nib is similar to a Music nib, that is, slightly narrower on the cross-stroke than the down-stroke. The big differnece though is that the Signature nib doesn't have the hard edges of the music nib meaning the angle of the pen isn't as crucial and the therefore very smooth. With this asymetry comes expressive lines, something you don't get from a regular BB rounded nib. Why choose this nib? This pen is for those who like a smooth, broad, wet and expressive nib. The Pilot signature nib is also a great nib to use with shading ink as the extra ink flow allows the ink to show its variation.Before use, with the nib up, unscrew the piston knob 2mm.
in 1 offers
The lowest price for Pilot Custom 823 Fountain Pen Black, (S) right now is $495.00 at LarryPost.
The all-time low was $379.95 on 5 Mar 2026 — today's price is 30% above the lowest ever. It has been notably cheaper before — worth setting a price alert.
Prices last updated 9 Nov 2026.
Pilot Custom 823 Fountain Pen Black, (S)
Custom 823 is a unique, everyday fountain pen, with a simple yet elegant design. It's perfect for everyday writing. The Custom 823 fountain pen features the #15 14K gold nib. The transluscent barrel makes the ink more visible in the barrel. Ink is drawn into the pen using a plunger, as opposed to using a converter or cartridge. The Pilot Signature nib is similar to a Music nib, that is, slightly narrower on the cross-stroke than the down-stroke. The big differnece though is that the Signature nib doesn't have the hard edges of the music nib meaning the angle of the pen isn't as crucial and the therefore very smooth. With this asymetry comes expressive lines, something you don't get from a regular BB rounded nib. Why choose this nib? This pen is for those who like a smooth, broad, wet and expressive nib. The Pilot signature nib is also a great nib to use with shading ink as the extra ink flow allows the ink to show its variation.Before use, with the nib up, unscrew the piston knob 2mm.
Custom 823 is a unique, everyday fountain pen, with a simple yet elegant design. It's perfect for everyday writing. The Custom 823 fountain pen features the #15 14K gold nib. The transluscent barrel makes the ink more visible in the barrel. Ink is drawn into the pen using a plunger, as opposed to using a converter or cartridge. The Pilot Signature nib is similar to a Music nib, that is, slightly narrower on the cross-stroke than the down-stroke. The big differnece though is that the Signature nib doesn't have the hard edges of the music nib meaning the angle of the pen isn't as crucial and the therefore very smooth. With this asymetry comes expressive lines, something you don't get from a regular BB rounded nib. Why choose this nib? This pen is for those who like a smooth, broad, wet and expressive nib. The Pilot signature nib is also a great nib to use with shading ink as the extra ink flow allows the ink to show its variation.Before use, with the nib up, unscrew the piston knob 2mm.
Last updated at 09/11/2026 14:27:40
Buy PILOT Custom 823 Fountain Pen (14ct Gold Nib, plunger vacuum) - Black (Smoke) | LarryPOST Signature
Free delivery
originally posted on gouletpens.com
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.
originally posted on penboutique.com
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.
originally posted on gouletpens.com
I've been using fine-nibbed fountain pens. My regular pen rotation was a Lamy 2k, TWSBI 580 ALR, and a Diplomat Aero, all of which I loved. I thought they were nicely smooth, and I was satisfied. But, still, I kept reading various things that indicated I might like a medium nib, and that the Pilot Custom 823 would be a better fit for my writing style.So, even though I haven't bought a medium nib pen for 35 years, and never spent more than $200, I kept seeing reviews that said the Pilot would be a fantastic pen. So, after a lot of research, I broke down and bought one.Long story short, I haven't used any of my other pens since the Pilot arrived. I love how uncapping the pen, then unscrewing the vacuum stopper makes writing more deliberative. I love how smooth and ... MoreI've been using fine-nibbed fountain pens. My regular pen rotation was a Lamy 2k, TWSBI 580 ALR, and a Diplomat Aero, all of which I loved. I thought they were nicely smooth, and I was satisfied. But, still, I kept reading various things that indicated I might like a medium nib, and that the Pilot Custom 823 would be a better fit for my writing style.So, even though I haven't bought a medium nib pen for 35 years, and never spent more than $200, I kept seeing reviews that said the Pilot would be a fantastic pen. So, after a lot of research, I broke down and bought one.Long story short, I haven't used any of my other pens since the Pilot arrived. I love how uncapping the pen, then unscrewing the vacuum stopper makes writing more deliberative. I love how smooth and wet the nib is. For just writing, it's so, so good. Everything just flows so smoothly. It's a perfect match for my preferred ink, Noodler's Baystate Blue.The only downside is that it's not well suited for endorsing checks. Check paper is too absorbent for the wetness of the nib, so it bleeds through like crazy. So, it's back to the Lamy when checks need to be endorsed for deposit.Other than that, though, I'm thinking of just de-inking my fine Diplomat and TWSBI pens, and putting them back in storage with my Pelikan Pura and my 30-year-old Cross pen.I think the Pilot Custom 823 is the best writing pen I've had for many years.
| Origin | Japan |
| Design | Japan |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Brand Series | Custom 823 |
| Filling Mechanism | Vacuum Filler |
Buy PILOT Custom 823 Fountain Pen (14ct Gold Nib, plunger vacuum) - Black (Smoke) | LarryPOST Signature
Free delivery
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.
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.
I've been using fine-nibbed fountain pens. My regular pen rotation was a Lamy 2k, TWSBI 580 ALR, and a Diplomat Aero, all of which I loved. I thought they were nicely smooth, and I was satisfied. But, still, I kept reading various things that indicated I might like a medium nib, and that the Pilot Custom 823 would be a better fit for my writing style.So, even though I haven't bought a medium nib pen for 35 years, and never spent more than $200, I kept seeing reviews that said the Pilot would be a fantastic pen. So, after a lot of research, I broke down and bought one.Long story short, I haven't used any of my other pens since the Pilot arrived. I love how uncapping the pen, then unscrewing the vacuum stopper makes writing more deliberative. I love how smooth and ... MoreI've been using fine-nibbed fountain pens. My regular pen rotation was a Lamy 2k, TWSBI 580 ALR, and a Diplomat Aero, all of which I loved. I thought they were nicely smooth, and I was satisfied. But, still, I kept reading various things that indicated I might like a medium nib, and that the Pilot Custom 823 would be a better fit for my writing style.So, even though I haven't bought a medium nib pen for 35 years, and never spent more than $200, I kept seeing reviews that said the Pilot would be a fantastic pen. So, after a lot of research, I broke down and bought one.Long story short, I haven't used any of my other pens since the Pilot arrived. I love how uncapping the pen, then unscrewing the vacuum stopper makes writing more deliberative. I love how smooth and wet the nib is. For just writing, it's so, so good. Everything just flows so smoothly. It's a perfect match for my preferred ink, Noodler's Baystate Blue.The only downside is that it's not well suited for endorsing checks. Check paper is too absorbent for the wetness of the nib, so it bleeds through like crazy. So, it's back to the Lamy when checks need to be endorsed for deposit.Other than that, though, I'm thinking of just de-inking my fine Diplomat and TWSBI pens, and putting them back in storage with my Pelikan Pura and my 30-year-old Cross pen.I think the Pilot Custom 823 is the best writing pen I've had for many years.
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.
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!!!
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.
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
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.
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!
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. Of course I could not help borrowing it once in a while. It’s a nice size pen and one which I thought would be too big for my small hands 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. It’s great that it comes with a large bottle of Pilot blue ink. I can definitely see an 823 for myself in the future. As far as getting it ... 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. Of course I could not help borrowing it once in a while. It’s a nice size pen and one which I thought would be too big for my small hands 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. It’s great that it comes with a large bottle of Pilot blue ink. I can definitely see an 823 for myself in the future. 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.
| Origin | Japan |
| Design | Japan |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Brand Series | Custom 823 |
| Filling Mechanism | Vacuum Filler |
