June 19th, 2008

Jonella and Jon,

Have received the MB149 with re-tip as detailed below. John has again done a great job.  What was previously somewhat of a chore to write with is now a pleasure.  The ink flow is consistent and rich, and the left oblique customization adds some nice character to the lettering.

My repeat business is testimony to your maintenance of high quality standards.

Thanks,

Tom Gibbons 

June 18th, 2008

Hi – the 51 arrived today. Thank you!

To paraphrase Crocodile Dundee: “No, that’s a pen...” A truly impressive line! Just what I wanted. I’ll let you know how many inches it writes to the bottle...

Once again, thank you. Fantastic job, and in record time.

Best,

Karen Traviss

June 16th, 2008

Dear John,

You have really outdone yourself with this new nib. I must have had 6 or 7 nibs made especially for me over the years but this one is the best ever. It is so smooth and the there are no false starts.... Difficult to achieve with a flexible oblique nib. I had a look at the nib under a microscope and it is amazing how symmetrical and smooth it is.... Even with such magnification. I am totally blown away and will struggle to use my other nibs from now on! Lucky this one can be moved to different pens otherwise I fear they may be neglected.

Yours Sincerely

Andrew

June 11th, 2008

Hi John!

Well, it was worth the wait! The orange Danitrio Eye dropper arrived
this afternoon safe and sound. 4 months! I'm impressed! The nib is
so smooth and perfect! Thank you so much. I had considered selling
this pen, but it may become one of my favorites now. Really, it turned
out exactly how I wanted it. (You can't see me, but I'm doing the
happy dance...)

Best,
Mary Ann Marler

June 7th, 2008

I just wanted you to know that I received my first order from Classic Fountain Pens; an Ake Tamenuri Nakaya Decapod.
 
I am thrilled with the performance of the pen. When you asked what my writing style was and I responded that I was a left handed underwriter and that I write primarily block letters at a slow to medium pace, you configured the pen perfectly. 
 
The pen is slightly dry. I get nervous when I get a dry writer since I have always taken it as a sign of an ink flow problem, and usually the pen will skip.
 
The flow on this pen is perfect, and from the time I filled it to the first touch on paper, it has never skipped a beat. 
 
Your recommendation to use a medium soft and flexible was also perfect. This was based on my input that Bexley's Bock fine nibs were some of my favorites.
 
I'm a very happy customer, and I am in the process of determining which pen I will get next.
 
Doug Cooper
Albuquerque,
New Mexico.

May 30th, 2008

Dear Danielle,

I have received the Sailor fountain pen you shipped to me, and it is perfect. It is the best pen I have used in the 25 years I've had fountain pens.

My thanks to you and everyone who helped eith my order. You can be sure I'll be back again soon.

Sincerely,

Wayne Bottner

May 29th, 2008

Hello to the best little pen works in the west !

I received Nakaya portable cigar in blue today....wow! the pen is ethereal in its color and its ultra clean lines move me into considering whether this pen may have a soul.  Clearly it manifests a spirit that is a pure reflection of its maker...I like this pen a lot!!!

I look forward to receiving the others I have ordered..These pens are magnificent!

Thank you

Roger

May 7th, 2008

Jonathan:

Have received both Montblanc and Pelikan books, and both will be indispensable additions to my reference library.
I must add, however, that the Collectors Edition of Pelikan Writing Instruments is probably the most beautiful and comprehensive edition of its kind that I've yet seen. 

Thank you for offering something so remarkable.

Morgan

May 7th, 2008

Jonathan,

I received the pen yesterday afternoon, and I'm delighted with the results. Please, let John know that the Fine nib (which I expected to perform like an Extra Fine) is smooth and with excellent flow--I can't hardly feel any drag at all, yet it retains useful feedback. It was not hard to imagine that the combination Nakaya + Nibs would produce amazing results, but it's even better when it becomes a reality.
Thank you very much for you help.

Best,

José de Piérola

May 1st, 2008
Hi,

My new Nakaya Cigar Portable Aka-tamenuri, (the dark red-red) with a flexible fine nib arrived just yesterday, after a several month wait. 

When we were kids, mailing away for anything sight unseen, like a Tony the Tiger bathtub power racing speed boat (only needed 34 box tops) built up expectations that eventually crystallized into an unreachable ideal. The Tony the Tiger power boat was disappointing. Very. In fact I stopped eating that cereal in protest.

Waiting for my Nakaya, the idea of the pen enjoyed a similar crystallization of expectation. For the first time ever something not only met but exceeded such images.  The pen is truly exceptional:  starting with the unpretentious ceremonial quality of the presentation box, to unwrapping the pen seeing the rich color and elegant shape, the lovely evidence of human craftsmanship, to finally feeling the pen’s perfect warm balance in my hand. 

I inked the pen and finally understood what fountain pens are about;  I’ve used them for years, had many, and experimented with a lot of different nibs, new and old.   This pen danced over the page and I had a pleasure in the act of writing like no other pen, even better than the Pelikan John tweaked into an archi-italic for me several years ago.  I spent a solid  hour just writing notes, doodles, handwriting exercises, sketches and naughty limericks,  trying to make my hand worthy of the pen.  The thought of getting rid of the rest of my pens actually flashed through my mind. Naahh.

To put the cherry on top, the pen is attractively priced for a fine writing instrument. There is a lot of stuff out there priced much higher that doesn’t even start to touch the experience.  For all of these reasons plus one more- John and his crew are a true pleasure to do business with- I recommend the Nakaya line without reservation.

Sincerely,

David Morriss
Sarasota, Florida

April 28th, 2008

Hello Nibsters: John, Jonella, Danielle, Sarah and Jonathan… Oh… Miss Q too!!

Getting back home after a hard working day, I was so glad to find by my doorstep a well packaged Priority Mail box from you guys. Too bad it wasn’t gift wrapped. I always enjoy receiving and opening a package. Regardless, I opened it and found within it the treasure box I was really looking for.

As I opened the Pelikan box I was gratified by the sights of a beautiful fountain pen: the M620 Grand Place. The photos don’t do justice to this pen. It looks and feels so much better in my hand. I am glad I purchased this little piece of writing art. I feel grateful I am able to enjoy the beauty of this pen and write with such a nice  work of art.

The other reason for great joy and satisfaction upon getting my hands on this pen, is the pleasure of inking it (Noodler’s blue) for the first time and putting the nib to work! No trouble at all handling this cursive italic nib. Found the sweet spot immediately. It writes effortlessly and consistently with light or medium hand pressure (I don’t put much pressure on the pen). I think I’m going to enjoy this pen for a long time. This writing jewel definitely is a keeper.

Please accept this sincere testimony of appreciation for this medium-fine cursive italic nib. It is a wonderful, perfect wet nib with very nice line variation that writes without hesitation from the first stroke to the last. So far so good and I feel it will be for the better. My personal thanks to John for the custom job on the nib. I extend an Email handshake to him.

Yours Truly,

Herman Lugo

April 22nd, 2008

Dear Jonathan,

I recieved my Omas Milord yesterday and I am very pleased with it!    I want to thank you for your suggestion on going with the Omas over the other pens I mentioned.   It has a nice weight to it and is very comfortable to write for a long period of time.  The extra fine nib writes a little bit wider than my Sailor Fine but I can still read my small handwriting!   Please thank John for his work on making this pen so smooth.  I haven't been able to put the pen down and have used one cartridge in less than 2 days! 

Once again I have to thank you and everone at Classic Fountain Pens for such great products and excellent service!   I'm spoiled now and don't think I can buy pens from anyone else!

Michael Vice

April 18th, 2008

Jonathan:

Received my Flexible Double Oblique nib this morning.

Please tell John for me that he achieved perfection -- repeat -- perfection.

Thank you, both.

Morgan

March 24, 2008

Dear Jonathan, Mr Mottishaw and all the people at CFP

Hi again, last Friday I received the OMAS pens and just let me tell you I
have no word to describe how happy excited pleased etc etc I am with the
pens. The old style paragon was a dry pen that just make me sad when I
received for first time, now wow! its really amazing! The nib its the most
incredible that I have, smooth, wet, super-fast-responsive, its really
fantastic! The arco also writes in the same way, this are now pens that will
make any an enthusiast about fountain pens. I am 100% sure this pens are in
much better shape than when they leave OMAS factory.

Please say thank you very very much to Mr Mottishaw.

I am really so excited with this pens that now I want to send you all my
pens to be tuned by Mr Mottishaw! so in the near future you will have more
news from me.

But at this moment I just want to say thanks again

Very very best,

Ricardo

March 19, 2008

Dear Friends at Classic Fountain Pens, Inc.:

I received yesterday my Sheaffers Levenger, translucent Aegean Seas pen which you cleaned and increased the ink flow.  I did not know why it worked poorly, often stopping shortly after beginning use, but now understand it was plugged due to poor maintenance habits.  I am reviewing your Pen Maintenance page and will henceforth be much more thorough and routine in cleaning all my pens, ESPECIALLY one which I use for red ink!  Thank you for fixing this one and informing me of the nature of the problem, so that I may become a better pen parent.  Question:  is it better to store them empty or filled with water?

Best wishes to all!

March 12, 2008

Dear Jonathan,

It was a delight to receive the pen in perfect condition today - the increased flex in the nib has made the writing perfectly smooth.

I am very delighted with the pen and your service - I am one very satisfied customer.

Many many thanks


Stephen

March 6, 2008

Wowie! Thanks! What two Waterman shops (US and France) couldn't manage
to figure out, you did perfectly. It's  writing better than I
remember, so the adjustments you made were right on.

I'll call soon about my Pelikan Souveran 800M's need for a medium
italic nib. I replaced the lost pen -- okay quality, not as nice as
the original, but I have to live with it. I want to replace the lovely
medium italic nib that made the original such a joy to use. I think we
talked about that a while ago.

Mara

March 5, 2008

The fine nib works great with my block printing, and is smooth as hell. Way smoother than expensive ball points or roller pens I’ve bought before, being “afraid” to get a fountain.

So thank you for all your help and knowledge.

I saw the note about using the converter to flush the ink out of a spent cartridge, but I’m not sure how to do that. Do you have a picture or instruction on your site somewhere?

Thank you….

March 1, 2008

John:

I've received the customized 14k Oblique nib that you crafted for the wonderful Pelikan Lapis '31 LE that I bought from you earlier.

Superlatives fail me. 

I believe that "perfection" is the only appropriate description for your work.

Thank you, again,

Morgan Kane  

February 27, 2008

I received the Sheherazade today and in record time for a parcel from the USA: shipped on the 19th and in my hands on the 27th.  What a smart looking, yet distinctive, pen it is; better than any picture I've seen, but it does look good in the pictures nonetheless.  I've just written one page with it and it (unposted) feels perfect in my hand; I never post a pen.  The Bexley nib is fantastic, as are all my Bexley nibs.  This is my fifth Bexley and the more I get the more I want.

Great doing business with you and I'll be back again.

Best regards,
Bryan Gallow

February 07, 2008

Dear John,

Yesterday, I received the Pelikan M600 14C two-toned OBB nib that you have sculptured to a rounded cursive italic. The nib writes very smooth with adorable line-width variations. The inkflow is dryer and still does not skip. The 0.85 - 0.9 mm size is just perfect for my everyday writings.

I love this nib, John - it's the best I have. Thank you very much for sharing your Gift.

jaime g. dorotan

February 01, 2008

Jonathan,
I received my Waterman and Duofold back and I must say that John performed magic on them. They are pure joy to write with! The cursive italic really transformed my writing. The pens now out perform what my hand is capable of producing. I would love to know how John’s trip to Nakaya went. I ordered a Nakaya before I knew you could order one. I am sure it would have been easier communicating with you as there is a slight language barrier. They were delightful however and it was interesting to email back and forth with Ms. Yoko Kono. I eventually settled on a Shobu Piccolo with fine gold gradation Maki-e on the grip with the gold stronger at the nib thinning toward the threads. I nib I ordered is a two tone medium stub. This was not a cheap pen but I am looking forward to receiving it. The problem is that I do not want to put down the two that John worked on!

Stephen Ruffin   

January 28, 2008

Hi Jonathan --

Just wanted to let you know that I received my Omas Milord on my birthday a few weeks ago, and I'm really enjoying it.  {You sold the pen to my mom, Janice Ferester.}  At first I was a little concerned that the medium nib was laying down too broad a line -- then I discovered that this was really true of only of the cheap paper that we were using at our office, which soaks up ink like a napkin.  On most other paper types, it lays down a very smooth, generous-but-not-too-wet line.  I also love the weight (like a feather), size (roughly comparable to an M600), and color (which, despite your website's description, I would call a darker grey -- it is in fact dark enough to wear on a yellow or beige shirt without a clash of color). 

I did notice that the nib itself seems to be missing indications of its gold content.  Do you happen to know why that is? 

In any case, thank you once again for delivering a great product.  Every pen that I've purchased from Classic (this is my third, plus I bought an extra M600 nib) has been terrific -- I keep getting new favorite pens, each with its own personality! 

Phil Ferester
Lacey, WA

January 25, 2008

 Sharon,
 
 I received the Omas Bronze Hi Tech FP yesterday. It is PERFECT! I don't know if it required much work, but it writes exactly as I had requested. Thank you for your help. I will certainly be calling you again for my next  pen purchase.
Thanks for everything.

Steve Zukerman

January 24, 2008

The Tea Time I ordered arrived today.  Of course I couldn't wait to try it out.  It has the broad cursive italic nib which you custom made. 
 
Incredible.  Smooth as glass.  Simply glides across  the paper.  The italic nib is in fact the best that I have ever had:  very broad on the vertical and very thin on the horizontal.  Even my handwriting appears elegant.  I have had similarly named nibs before, but never as beautiful as this.  Your work is as always exceptional.
 
Of course, I should not overlook the pen itself.  Amazingly it is conveniently short when closed, but pleasantly long when posted.  I much prefer a long pen to write with.  I think it has something to do with the unique positioning of the barrel and cap threads.  Terrific.  The color is excellent too: reminiscent of older period pens.
 
Thanks very much much for the care that went into the design of the pen and the craftmanship of the nib.  As always you have far exceeded any reasonable expectation.  This will be a tough act to follow.  But then, I have said that before.
 
          Oz

January 23, 2008

I recently received my new Sailor Sapporo Mini pen, and I love it.  It will fit in my smallest purses, yet it is not too small for my hand.  It is my second Sailor pen, and I have been very happy with both.  I now write so many more letters than I ever used to write, since I started writing with Sailors. Thanks for the prompt service.

Joan Sutton

January 20, 2008

Hi Sharon,

I love the Mini's that arrived this weekend.  The blue one is almost a purple, and with the silver appointments, it's stunning.  A one-hundred-dollar fountain pen with a nib like that, it's hard to believe. ... it's a wonderful little pen.  The blue is unlike any other blue I own, and visually stunning. 

cheers,
Jim

January 18, 2008

Dear Jonathan,

I received the Bexley-tea yesterday, and it is superb. I especially appreciate the barrel diameter and the ratio of the cap length to the pen body length. Lovely design and it writes beautifully...

With thanks,
#19/29 (Elizabeth)

January 17, 2008

Just wanted you to know the pen arrived and I’m really enjoying using it.  My brother had warned me that my new one would have a fatter barrel than the one I already owned and it turns out I like the new one better.  Also, whatever you did to the point makes it write much more smoothly than my first Vanishing Point.  Terrific service from nice people – what more could a customer want? 

Thank you so much!
RKS
Roxanne Kröon Shepherd

January 16, 2008

Hi John & Jonathan,

I received my Bexley Sheherazade in Tortoise w/Broad nib this afternoon. I have been using it after it warmed up - it's cold in the Chicago area right now!

This is the smoothest and best nib that I have ever had and the pen is also gorgeous to look at and hold in your hand.

Thank you!!!
Joe Nemedi

December 21, 2007

December 19, 2007

John, Sharon and all,

The Parker 51 desk pens arrived and I'm excited and relieved to have them back.  They both write beautifully and will make my work more enjoyable.

As for the CFP Tea Time 2008, in a fit of self control I decided not to even open the box but instead to wrap it and leave it under the Christmas tree.  How's that for deferred gratification!

Thanks so much.

Best wishes for the holidays!
Glenn Lau-Kee

December 5, 2007

Hello Sharon and Jonathan,

I received the Tea Time Bexley today, and here is a pen in which everything came out just so right. The salmon-terra cotta color of the barrel is framed by a glossy black resin on both ends, and the gold trim is the perfect accent. The nib, which John modified to a cursive italic gives crisp width variation while writing smoothly in fine-medium lines and a nicely tuned flow that is just where it should be. It is much too long for me posted, but the pen looks great in the hand unposted, with black resin framing both ends of the barrel. And the nib is so elegant, isn't it?

I've bought enough pens now to know that at any given time one's 'favorite pen' tends to be the one most recently bought, and so it doesn't stay favorite that long. This one is going to break that rule.

Thanks for the fast turn around and the great work!
Jim

November 29, 2007

Hi Jonathan.

A quick note to say that my pen has arrived (Namiki Falcon) and that I am delighted with it. It behaves exactly as I had hoped, writing smoothly and offering a good deal of width variation. I am glad that it is possible to get a pen with these qualities, and would happily recommend your services.

Keep up the good work!

Thank you very much.
Dylan B., United Kingdom

In August, I purchased 2 Sailor Sapporos…I received them in perfect working order and have been using them constantly. To give you an idea of how much I use them, I fill the pens 3-4 times a week and sometimes more. The EF nibs are surprisingly smooth; I was expecting much more scratch. They are wonderful pens, at any price. I'm more than satisfed with them and will use them for years and years, along with my Souverans, my demi Vacumatic and my Parker 51, all of whom are feeling very neglected these days!

What I appreciate most, however, is the unprecedented service and attention I received from you and your colleagues. It still amazes me that you asked me to specify ink-flow. That had never occured before. Of course, this is a very important question and I marvel at your thoroughness and your obvious care, even for someone who has just ordered two of the least expensive pens you sell. You've made a faithful customer. I'll be ordering again, very soon. I believe I'm going to take the plunge and go for an Omas. …

You guys are just great.

Yours,
Chris D.

Dear Jonathan, Sharon, and John

I must thank you for your fantastic service. I've got the pen today. It writes most beautifully. The ink
flow is perfect.

Best regards,
Ming-Fang Hsieh

Wednesday, October 31

Hi Sharon!

I am writing to let you know that the Novelli just landed, and has been filled..........thanks to the CD (I had forgotten, even though I have a Wall Street LE!) and is writing beautifully.

Please thank John and everyone - but especially John, who has, once again created a wonderful nib - perfecto!!!!

The pen is sitting here atop my little 'white' book that records every pen I have - and is glistening and glinting in the light of my lamp - tempting me away from watching the very last, but most important part of my new kitchen being installed - toffee-apple red glass splashbacks on an all white kitchen!!!

Chris - so very happy

Re: Pre-owned Namiki Bamboo, Blue – Fine point

For a fine point, it's smooth as silk but without "ice skating" over the paper. I don't know how you did it, but you helped me figure out how I want my everyday writer to be. You hit the nail on the head with this one.

Thanks,

Lee Worsham

Monday, October 29

Sharon & John:

The EF is beautiful now--perfectly smooth. Thanks for your help on this. It is every bit as smooth as the Sonnet that I love, and a bit finer to boot.

Chuck

I received the Sailor Moonlit Forest you modified for me. Ohhh myyyyyy. It is much more exquisite in "person" and the nib is beyond the beyond. It's like sailing on silk to write with it. Yesterday I saw a friend of mine who went to one of the DC pen shows where you modified a Vanishing Point for her. She is glowing about it.

Thank you for your mastery and your art,

Ann

Wednesday, October 24

Dear Friends,

You were right - the Sailor Colors pen is wonderful. The fine point
makes every letter of my narrow spiky handwriting absolutely legible.
The pen writes smoothly, one of the smoothest fine nibs i've used, and
the bright yellow colour gets loads of comments, especially from my
students.

This pen won't sit in a drawer, but now joins my Eversharp Skyline and
Parker Victory as an everyday writer.
Thanks again for your advice and dedication,

Richard Fagan

Hello all,

I've just received this morning the black HT Paragon with the regrinded cursive italic nib. It's a a nice pen and a wonderful nib, exactly what I expected, and maybe a bit more ! The nib seems to have been done for my hand. I immediately filled it with Sailor blue-black ink, it's an absolute dream to write with.

Thanks to you all for the service, and special thanks to John for his fine job on the nib. …

All the best,

Jimmy Peguet

I’ve been traveling a bit and didn’t get a chance to ink up the Pelikan 800 until last night. I was so surprised! John was able to make a formal italic that is nevertheless a bit forgiving for my often errant strokes. It’s like John knows exactly what I can handle. I’m calling this pen my “gentle formal italic.” Tell John “thanks” for another fine job.

Guy Edson

Dear John, and Staff:
Just received ST Dupont Fountain Pen which you retipped with Italic, and
am thoroughly delighted with the write-feel and perfect width. Your
superb workmanship is indeed a work of art. It is so nice to see Master
Craftsman like yourself in this world of automated mass productions.
Please keep up your valuable sevices.
Sincerely; William Tomori

October 25, 2007

Hi Pat,

Sorry the time has flown by and I forgot to thank you for the Sailor Naginata-Togi fountain pen, “WOW” is the only way to describe the way it writes (so smooth) and the tremendous design and feel (like it was made for me).

Thank you again,
Andy

October 25, 2007

Dear Sharon,
Please let John know that I am extremely pleased with the repair work on
my Galileo Galilei. The pen looks almost like new and the stains are almost
all gone. I am also pleased with how the pen writes. Great work!

Kind regards,
Wolfgang

Jonella –

I am so sorry to be so long in replying...the replacement fine nib [ed. on a sapporo full size] is just perfect! It suits my meticulous handwriting, and I'm delighted with the hand-feel and fit of my first Sailor pen. Many thanks for working with me on this.

Kristi Hernberg

October 19, 2007

Dear Sharon

The pens have arrived. I can cut the story short: All perfect! John did a real good job on the Montblanc 136 (it is really smoooooooth!) and on the Waterman as well. The slighty scratchy Wahl is much better now. Thanks a lot and best regards from Switzerland.

Markus

Wednesday, October 10

Hi Sharon - for Danielle,

The Sailor Koi Supreme arrived Monday - in wonderful shape. Many thanks! I've been enjoying the pen and the Music nib since. It will take me a little time to get used to how the nib behaves and the easy flow of the ink – but I am enjoying taking the time. This is a GREAT signature pen/nibcombination. I am delighted how it feels as it travels over a page. …

-KjM

Tuesday, October 9

WOW!  I love this Ogiva!  I'm not sure if John had to do much or anything with the nib, but it writes exactly as I wanted.  Smooth and great flow. And, what a beauty. Thanks again.  I can always count on the nibs.com folks for a job well done.

Fran DeRespinis

Chuck Albrecht 9/17/07

Hi Sharon,

Thanks for taking the time to reply to my email. Here in Europe it is now almost 23:00 hours so I will wait until tomorrow before studying what you say in deatail.

I intended to write to you and John anyway because today I received the two pens you sent me last week. Of course they are beautifula and I am delighted with each of them, but specifically I wanted to thank John for the AWESOME job he did on the nibs! FANTASTIC!!!!!!!
What a pleasure to write with, WOW!!!! I really want to thank you for the value added by the nib customisation, PERFECT. Thank you John.

Liam 9/17/07

Sharon and Jonella,

Hi, Pat... Pens arrived home safe and sound yesterday. Love the nibs. Many thanks all around.
Til the next "need"...
Every good wish and happy Fourth,
Best,
bw (07/03/07)

Pat,
The nib arrived this afternoon. This thing is wonderful. As usual, I am much more than pleased with my purchase.
Thanks,
Rich Canova (06/26/07)

Sharon,
The pen and cases arrived this morning. As for the pen, in addition to being even more impressive in the hand than it is in the photo, it writes beautifully. Please convey my compliments to John for the nib work. And thanks to all of you for a pleasurable buying experience.
Kind regards,
Marc (05/08/07)

Wow, it's here a day early! What a lovely pen (Ed: Wahl Eversharp Doric). Who could imagine it being almost 70 years old, just looking at it? The celluloid is perfect and I've never seen anything like it in a modern pen. It does look like mineral structure, I can understand Sharon's attraction. I've filled it with Waterman Blue Black which gives a nice, vintage look to the writing. That semi-flex fine nib is just about perfect for me, if I can't have one of John's italics.
Thank you all, and especially Sharon, for letting me be the custodian of it for the next generation.
Kent Kochheiser (05/16/07)

Hi Pat,
The Namiki Falcon has arrived! You have done a perfect job. It writes just as I hoped, smooth, with a good flow, little responsive and with enough line variation. Thanks again. When I have another "nibjob" I will let you know for sure.
Best regards from the Netherlands,
Michael Sliedrecht (05/23/07)

Dear Pat (and John!)
The Red Ripple came back yesterday! I was so excited to see it and amazed at how great it looked. I sat down to write out a thank you note--only to realize how awkward & wobbly I was with my very own pen.
Not that I wasn't able to use it--more like for the first time I actually COULD use it! I knew in the beginning I'd be taking a chance with anything that had already been around 80 years, but I thought it would be worth it in terms of potential. I'm just now starting to see that potential.
Thank you so much again and a world of appreciation for all of your kindness and help!
-Margaret Mroczek (05/03/07)

Dear Pat,
Am I to write with the pen? Or just sit back and contemplate it?
Thank you ever so much for what you've done. It is really wonderful to be able to make such a quick and pleasant purchase from far away - and get what one wanted in such a short time!
I'm afraid you will be hearing again from me sometime soon...
Best wishes,
Pedro Mendonca (05/03/07)

Hi:
I received my Namiki Pilot Falcon FP today and absolutely love it! The customized nib, tailored to my writing style, makes using the pen a smooth, enjoyable experience. I have never written with such a fine instrument as this particular pen.
Thank you for providing such fine craftsmanship. I intend to make future purchases from your company.
Regards,
Edward A. Hawks (05/05/07)

Danielle,
My Omas arrived today, and it is wonderful, light weight and beautiful. The nib is luscious, it will become my favorite I'm sure. Thank you again for your great service and let John know that the nib is perfect. Thank you,
Robert Gamburd (05/07/07)

My Pelikan M800 arrived without incident. It’s great to have “old faithful” back! It writes better than ever – the customizations for my writing style make all the difference in the world. Thank you so much for your outstanding work.
Jaimie Henderson (04/30/07)

Pat,
Last week I received the Conklin Endura pencil in Lapis – it’s very beautiful and it is a pleasure to use! Discovering your web-site was like turning down a side street and discovering a wonderful little shop with delightful people! Talking to you was a pleasure; your entire ordering process should be an industry standard...
With pleasure,
John Zientowski (04/30/07)

John, and everyone,
Nibs arrived promptly last week; beautiful work as always; everything fits and writes beautifully.
Ernie Drown (05/02/07)

Hi Pat, it’s here (Ed: OMAS Ogiva, Black/Guilloche). I just inked it up (brought a bottle to work with me for the occasion). It is perfect. Lovely smoothness and wetness. Thank you for taking such care! Karen (05/02/07)

Pat,
I just returned from Toronto this afternoon and the Lamy Persona was waiting for me upon my arrival.I really love the pen.It writes beautifully and I really enjoy the weight and size of the pen.I am so thankful that I went ahead and had the nib ground down.Please express to John how thrilled I am with the job that he masterfully performed.I want to thank everyone again.It is an absolute pleasure dealing with all of you and especially with you Pat!
My sincerest regards,
Rob Redlich (04/25/07)

Dear Pat,
I have been quite remiss in not writing sooner. My vintage 1939 OMAS Extra Lucens is simply wonderful. The ink flow is perfect and the reground modern OMAS 18k stub nib precisely to my liking. Thank John so very much for once again proving his amazing attention to detail and craftsmanship! Writing is a major part of my life, and to do so with a pristine vintage OMAS is very special indeed. All the very best, Harris Saltzburg (04/27/07)

Dear Pat,
I received the pen today! Thank you very much for an excellent job! The pen is 100 time smoother than before! The ink flow is JUST RIGHT! The nib writes flawlessly and smoothly and solidly on a yellow pad I use daily. It's a keeper for me! The lines produced are gorgeous! Once again John did his magic! Please extend my sincere appreciation for his excellent work!
With sincere appreciation,
JK Kim (04/16/07)

Hi Pat,
The pens arrived yesterday. Thank you so much. They are both beauties in their own way, although they couldn't be more different--opposite ends of the fountain pen specturm really. Yet they are both wonderful writers. John's nib on the Lamy is great as usual, and the Conklin writes beautifully-- smooth as silk and just enough flexibility for my lumbering hand.
Thanks for everything,
Alan (04/18/07)

Pat: My "Sailor" with music nib was delivered in good shape about 15 minutes ago (a day ahead of schedule) Very well packaged. I just tested it briefly (with a cartridge) to make sure everything was working properly. It was! Requires only the lightest touch ... good ink flow, and superbly smooth. I'm really going to enjoy this! Now you have me thinking about a normal writing pen ??? Many thanks for the great service and, more importantly, for taking the time to understand what it was that I wanted from a pen. Joe Derrane (04/18/07)

John / Pat:
Yesterday I received my yellow, full-sized Sailor 1911 with a music nib ground to a cursive italic. The pen arrived safely, and the nib writes wonderfully! I do appreciate your keeping on file a handwriting sample I'd sent a long time ago for another nib job, and it's great to receive a pen where the nib and level of ink flow are just right. Wonderful work. Thanks so much.
Julio A. Thompson (04/09/07)

Ed: this arrived as a hand-written note: John: The Grand Place arrived yesterday. It works perfectly. What a beautiful pen, both in appearance and performance. Thank you so much for your help in selecting the pen and configuring the nib. It really does make a difference. I'm sure you'll be hearing from me again soon... Steve Noble (04/09/07)

Dear Pat,
My Omas grey paragon fountain pen arrived!! It is beautiful! I love the color, classic look and
the greek key design. The nib is great. I look forward to many happy penning years with
the two Omas pens from you and John.
Thanks so much for the great support and service. I'm really excited to become a "new
fountain pen" enthusiast.
Regards,
Pam (04/12/07)

All,
The pen arrived, it is inked, and I love it! The feel, the design (I love Aurora designs), the color...all perfect. This is why I frequently check the pre-owned section of the website; I would have missed this fabulous Aurora otherwise. Now, if only I could find the OMAS designed by Sottass...and a blue Parker 51...and...
Thanks for your great service. Hope we meet someday.
Be well,
Bob Rogen (03/26/07)

Dear Pat, Sharon, Danielle, and John:
I have had the privilege to work with everyone at your incomparable establishment with the exception of Danielle. In the past several months I have purchased from you a Parker 61, 1929 Parker senior duofold, 1920's lapis Parker duofold jr., Pelican M 400 Brown Tortoise, and now a 1917 Conklin crescent filler. The redoubtable, John, has skillfully modified these pens so that they are all broad to stub with a copious ink flow. All of these pens are receiving constant use and are performing beyond expectation. With enthusiasm, I recommend your firm, without reservation to anyone who requires sales, repair, or modification, of a fountain pen.
Cordially, James J. Sparandeo (03/26/07)

Ed: the following was received as a hand-written note: Dear Pat & John, You are every bit as amazing and talented as the testimonials on your web site indicate. The pen is perfectly tuned for me and the only thing that could improve it is a wider selection of ink colors in cartridges from Sailor.... Thanks, again. Sincerely, Cheryl McCullough (03/27/07)

Ed: the following was received as an email attachment:
To read the entire letter, please click here or on the line above.

Pat,
The pen arrived safely this morning, very very pleased with it set up just the way I like. Thank you very much for everything, excellent service
Regards
Martin Jones (03/12/07)

Hi Pat,
Just a note to let you know the Duofold nibs arrived on Friday. I put in the converter in each nib and put one nib in the Black Duofold and the other in the Orange or "Big Red" and they wrote like "very old friends". For me, they write "perfectly" - very, very smooth and excellent inkflow. You guys have the "magic touch" even on pens you don't normally handle...
Thank you so very much!
Joe Nemedi (03/12/07)

Hello Pat,
I just received the package and true to your promise, the pens write “right out of the box’. The pens are beautiful and your customer service is exemplary! Keep up the good work.
Best Wishes.
Anant Dhotrekar (03/14/07)

Sharon, John - thank you so much. The gorgeous, luminous yellow Sailor 1911 arrived yesterday, and it might be the silkiest, most lovely pen I have ever had the pleasure of using. It feels more like a paintbrush than a pen. I am a customer for life. I will send via mail a writing sample, probably this weekend. Thanks again. Let me know when you have the Sapporos with the music nib - I'll probably buy one of those too. --j (03/23/07)

Hi Pat!
This is Kybor. I want to thank you for your suggestion on customization my M600 Blue Demonstrator Pelikan. It is so beautiful and elegant. I received it one week ago. I tested it, but I did not have a chance to use it fully. Today, I took my pen to the bank to deposit my check. The teller commented that I have a very nice handwriting. And I even used it to write on happy birthday cards. It was so wonderful and addictive when it comes to writing and signing. I've fell in love with Pelikan medium stub nib. It just glides on papers. Thank you for your service and Master John for his magical skills in customizing nibs.
Sincerely,
Kybor (02/24/07)

Hello Pat,
My pen was delivered today – in perfect working condition. It has a "made to measure feel" about it and makes a wonderful replacement for my previous Pelikan that I lost a few years ago. It's like meeting an old friend that has come back to me after a long absence.
I'd like to thank you for your kind and cheerful cooperation.
Yours sincerely,
Albert Edelson (02/27/07)

the nib arrived yesterday. I've been writing with it all morning. It's fabulous. It's exactly what I was looking for. Thank you. Larry Sanford (03/02/07)

Hi Pat,
The pens arrived today, in perfect condition [Parker Duofold International (UK) Fountain Pen and Ballpoint – Green Marble]. I inked up the fountain pen and made my first strokes on the paper – it was like velvet. So lovely.
The green marbling on the pens is even more beautiful than the photos captured. My colleagues at work who are also fountain pen enthusiasts are almost as excited as I am to see this pen – I know they will be very jealous! I have, of course, made sure they know all about you folks. With any luck, you may have another few Canadian customers.
Thank you, Pat, for all your kind assistance and patience. You answered all my questions quickly, thoroughly and thoughtfully. And the nib works like a dream. Thank you, John. This has been a very pleasant transaction – I feel as though I have gotten to know you a little bit, rather than merely purchasing a product from you. You can be sure that you will hear from me again.
All best wishes ~ Trisha (02/15/07)

Hi Pat,
I received my Pelikan 800 the other day. It writes smoother that the Montblanc I’ve been writing with for over 20 years (I didn’t think that was possible). PERFECT!
Please give my best to everyone.
Best regards,
Mark (02/15/07)

Hi Pat,
The little Omas couple arrived safely, on the doorstep yesterday. What a “sweet” writing couple, as smooth as the best dark chocolate! UmmmmUmmmm
The best Valentine’s Day gift ever! What an inspiration “How do l love thee, let me count the ways”…Thank you once again for many hours of blissful writing (thanks to John’s expert craftsmanship). There is no doubt these will evolve into the most treasured of loves.
Hugs and Smiles, Shea Stanfield (02/15/07)

To: Sharon Hardwick
Subject: RE: Classic Fountain Pens: Draft Invoice - Response Requested
Today I received the Pilot Vanishing Point with the Medium Cursive Italic nib adjustment. Oh, so that's what a fountain pen is supposed to feel like! This pen is so quirky looking I like it very much already. It writes incredibly nicely.
Problem is, now I would consider having other pens adjusted. My new Parker Duofold and a Shaeffer I like a lot as well. Did I read the web site correctly, the wait for nib work is 6 months? That's sneaky, you know; "Come here kid, the first one is free"....
Regards,
Willy Palmer (02/20/07)

(Ed: all three of the testimonials below arrived as hand-written notes):
John and Pat, Received my pens yesterday. Thank you for making them work so well and look so beautiful. It was well worth the wait. As you can see, the Parker 51 writes beaiutifully. Again... My thanks and appreciation. Ra Scavelli (02/09/07)

Dear Pat, Once again, much thanks to you and John for exceptional service. My new Sailor KoP is awesome! As always, my favorite pen is..... anything Mottishaw! Best regards, Dave Burnette (02/09/07)

Dear John, Thank you for this wonderful pen... You can see how far I have progressed to this point in using it: it has so many possibilities, and ny penmanship improves day by day, vaving such an excellent writing instrument to work with. Thank you! Walter (02/09/07)

Howdy. Got the pen today -- that was fast! Filled it without any problem and immediately put pen to paper. What a difference from using a rolling ball and ball point. The Pelikan seems to glide over the paper with nary a hitch. If you limited me to a one-word description, I would choose the word "smooth." I'll be back for another!
David (02/13/07)

Received my Naginata-Togi. Love it. The "juicier" thing is not a problem. Writes more like a European medium, which I'm used to anyway. Thanks.

Yuan (02/13/07)

To John:
Super job! You haven't lost your touch.
Thanks again,
Alan Becker (02/04/07)

Hello Pat
The Sheaffer Pen has arrived this morning safely in my office. I have already inked it. It writes excellently and very smoothly. Thank you very much for your outstanding service.
Kind regards
Dan (02/07/07)

Pat, The Bronze Arco HT arrived safe and sound today. I can only say that it is an absolutely beautiful pen both in appearance and in the way it writes. It is smooth with a perfectly even ink flow, comfortable in the hand an a pleasure to work with. Thank you so much for sending it so quickly and for the work that was done to fit it to the writing style I described to you.... Again, many thanks for getting this pen to me. I could not be happier with it.
Adrian Gordon (02/07/07)

Subject: My new Pilot... is just perfect! The broad cursive italic is just what I wanted-- there is some thick-thin, but it is not exaggerated, and I can write small with it. And because there is no cap I can use it instead of a pencil for quick one-handed notes. It is the perfect complement to my Pelikan broad stub. As with the Pelkan, Private Reserve Midnight Blues seems to work just fine. Once again, thanks for your help. I can't decide which pen is next.
Regards,
Pete Sampson (01/25/07)

I have received my order, Inv. 18909, for a Sailor pen, in good order. Let me say three words: I love it! It writes just the way I wanted. Thanks for your prompt service and helpful assistance. You have a new loyal customer.
Thanks,
Joan Sutton (01/30/07)

Pat:
Just wanted to let you know that I got the Arco this morning. It is great! Not only is it a gorgeous pen, but it writes like a dream. The nib that John did is by far the best I have ever written with. It is almost wasted on my bad handwriting!
Thanks again,
Andrew Jablon (01/19/07)

Pat,
I just wanted to let you know that I received the pen yesterday and it writes like a dream. Truly a pleasure!Thanks again!
Geoff (01/24/07)

Thank you so much to John and everyone who was so helpful to me on the phone and with my order. I LOVE my new pen and find myself writing down even the smallest list just to be able to use my pen. I know that I will be back to have some of my older pens transformed for me as well.
Thank you again to you all for making the entire transaction so easy and the outcome so "awesome".
Leslie F. Gaylord (01/16/07)

Dear Ms. Ackor and Mr. Mottishaw,
The pen arrived today, the perfect, simple, elegant design of the pen is astonishing it that it is truly intentionally understated and the epitome of "less is better" it is good to have a pen that is not distracting and draws attention. I am overwhelmed remarkable fluidity of the pen . On my good paper it has no tooth at all. I used Noodler's Coeur Royal ink. I am more than pleased , it writes very smoothly. I think you over estimated my writing pressure. I haven't twisted, splayed, bent, or destroyed a nib yet to my knowledge. I like to write deliberately. I can't write well if I have the pen just skipping along the paper dancing in air making ornate swirls.
Thank you for this marvelous pen. Fantastico!!!!...
Steven M. (01/16/07)

Dear Nibs Team,
My 87 year old mother was more delighted with this masterful repair than with any other gift I have ever given her. She is hard at work writing to everyone she knows, and fairly crowed at the smooth and familiar tool she has used, according to legend, for over 70 years. As a French friend said about an old and humble bottle of family wine, "It's not so special, but it is VERY special." Thank you for hand-cleaning the nib, and responding so promptly. I will brag on your service for years.... Thanks again,
Ellen Kochansky (01/17/07)

Hi Pat --
Just a note to let you know that the pen arrived on Friday evening. The pen is absolutely gorgeous, and writes like a dream. Please let John know that he did a perfect job on the flow (I don't usually get fine nibs because I like a wet point), but this nib feels like it's riding on air. Thanks again for your help. --Phil (01/17/07)

To all:
I received my Namiki Falcon with extra fine and flexible nib much sooner than I had expected, and what a pleasure it is to write with. I cannot tell you what a pleasure it was doing business with you; certainly a rare experience these days!... Thanks again!
From frigid Colorado,
Mark Clancy (01/12/07)

Dear Pat, The pen writes wonderfully well. I am delighted with the way it writes and flows so effortlessly. I am really looking forward to using the Omas as my "additional" daily pen. THANK YOU for a great job done! Besides writing well, it is also a very good looking pen!

Pat... I got the pen... I love it... This is the first M600 I've owned, and I'm not sure how I ever lived without it.... You have a great company with a level of customer service I haven't ever received even from other pen sellers... Thanks again,
Ray Johnson (01/11/07)

I rec'd the Mont Blanc FP and it is a beautiful addition to my collection. I just inked it for the first time today and it writes like on air. Thank you so much for the prompt service and the opportunity to purchase this pen. Dave K. (01/10/07)

Well, Pat, my pen arrived about an hour ago and I'm fairly certain my projects for this afternoon will be tomorrow's projects.
The stub was an excellent choice: now that I've tried it I'm certain I could handle the cursive italic nib, but I don't believe I could write as quickly or fluently. I suspect for my next pen I'll try the Falcon in cursive italic. I'm using Private Reserve Midnight Blues and I couldn't be much happier with either the pen or the ink.
Regards,
Pete Sampson (1/05/07)

(Ed: this arrived as a hand-written note:) To my friends at Classic Fountain Pens, Inc., Thank you for the work by John Mottishaw on the Pelikan nib. Never have I enjoyed writing with a pen as much as I do now with custom crafted stub nib... this was definitely worth the wait. Your business and service is one of the best kept secrets around, if word spreads you would have to clone more persons to do such great work.... Don Dunn (12/21/06)

Pat: Forgive me the delay in getting back to you after the pen arrived. I have not really begun to work with it in any sustained way and I am just starting to get a feel for the work that John has managed. I am already certain that this may be one of those pens that I just can not wait to write with because the cursive italic is superb and the feel of the nib on the paper is extraordinarily smooth and responsive. Thank you again for excellent service, pass along my gratitude to John
best wishes,
Steven (12/19/06)

Hi Sharon,
The nib arrived today, and it is beautiful! I really appreciate John’s level of workmanship and attention to detail. The crack repair is virtually invisible. I won’t install it until next week (taking a few days off for the holidays), but I’m sure it will work perfectly.
Thank you,
Tom Pike (12/18/06)

Hi Pat... I received the Omas Autuno with the John modification of the nib about a week ago. I have wanted to really have an opportunity to use before telling you how much I love it. First it is beautiful, in an of itself. I find it a "light pen" or alternatively it doesn't have "heft" so I have had to adjust the pressure I use to write with it. This is an observation, not a criticism.
The medium cursive modification that John did I think is amazing. I am not an expert using nibs like this but it certainly writes much more smoothly than I anticipated and has the "character" that I wanted.... Peter (12/13/06)

Dear Pat/John,
I received the package yesterday,perfect service.I test the omas Ingegno and the pelikan ib:perfect ink flow,flexibility, smooth,great job,you have completely understood my requests... Thanks,
best regards,alberto (12/14/06)

I have the nib (Ed: Parker 75 #98 Broad Formal Italic), and have been using it (with green ink) for Christmas cards. What a delight to have this pen write well - I was convinced that it was an ornery thing! Next year, perhaps I'll want a medium nib too... Thanks for a great nib, and such courteous service.
Clare (12/14/06)

I rec'd the Mont Blanc FP and it is a beautiful addition to my collection. I just inked it for the first time today and it writes like on air. Thank you so much for the prompt service and the opportunity to purchase this pen. Dave K. (01/10/07)

Pat... I got the pen... I love it... This is the first M600 I've owned, and I'm not sure how I ever lived without it.... You have a great company with a level of customer service I haven't ever received even from other pen sellers... Thanks again,
Ray Johnson (01/11/07)

Dear Pat and John,
My new 2005 Omas Paragon with the BB Left Oblique nib arrived yesterday while I was at work. I got home late and was very tired, so I decided not to open the box (difficult to do, but I did wait) until this morning. It was nice to wake up today and have this anticipation of testing out the Paragon and Oblique nib.
It is great! The nib cut is perfect for me; I think John did a great job of matching the grinding to my writing style. I love the pen. It's got a little heft to it, but not so much to tire my hand and the size is a perfect size for me. From the web pictures, I was afraid that the clip on the cap would protrude too much, but it's quite attractive and actually enhances the pen nicely, I think.
Thanks for the great work and the fast shipment of my Christmas present!
Kind regards,
Bruce Bailey (12/23/06)

Hi Sharon,
The nib arrived today, and it is beautiful! I really appreciate John’s level of workmanship and attention to detail. The crack repair is virtually invisible. I won’t install it until next week (taking a few days off for the holidays), but I’m sure it will work perfectly.
Thank you,
Tom Pike (12/18/06)

Pat: Forgive me the delay in getting back to you after the pen arrived. I have not really begun to work with it in any sustained way and I am just starting to get a feel for the work that John has managed. I am already certain that this may be one of those pens that I just can not wait to write with because the cursive italic is superb and the feel of the nib on the paper is extraordinarily smooth and responsive. Thank you again for excellent service, pass along my gratitude to John
best wishes,
Steven (12/19/06)

(Ed: this arrived as a hand-written note:) To my friends at Classic Fountain Pens, Inc., Thank you for the work by John Mottishaw on the Pelikan nib. Never have I enjoyed writing with a pen as much as I do now with custom crafted stub nib... this was definitely worth the wait. Your business and service is one of the best kept secrets around, if word spreads you would have to clone more persons to do such great work.... Don Dunn (12/21/06)

Hi Pat... I received the Omas Autuno with the John modification of the nib about a week ago. I have wanted to really have an opportunity to use before telling you how much I love it. First it is beautiful, in an of itself. I find it a "light pen" or alternatively it doesn't have "heft" so I have had to adjust the pressure I use to write with it. This is an observation, not a criticism.
The medium cursive modification that John did I think is amazing. I am not an expert using nibs like this but it certainly writes much more smoothly than I anticipated and has the "character" that I wanted.... Peter (12/13/06)

Dear Pat/John,
I received the package yesterday,perfect service.I test the omas Ingegno and the pelikan ib:perfect ink flow,flexibility, smooth,great job,you have completely understood my requests... Thanks,
best regards,alberto (12/14/06)

I have the nib (Ed: Parker 75 #98 Broad Formal Italic), and have been using it (with green ink) for Christmas cards. What a delight to have this pen write well - I was convinced that it was an ornery thing! Next year, perhaps I'll want a medium nib too... Thanks for a great nib, and such courteous service.
Clare (12/14/06)

John and Pat,
I've just returned from a week out of town and, as promised, your package was waiting for me. Thanks to you, a grand, old pen has returned to life. I'm absolutely delighted to have my writing partner in hand again. Michael (11/29/06)

Hi Pat and John
Received my red Pelikan Souveran 800 today. I am very pleased with its smoothness, ink flow, ink capacity and exquisite good looks. It actually glides over the paper more easily than my dear departed Omas MOMA pen.I am very glad that I took a chance on this without trying it out first. Will send you my old Mont Blanc for adjustments after I get through grading the mountain of exams and papers before me.
Best!
Mark Levy (12/06/06)

Sharon, I love the pen, the nib was the right choice. ) The ink is perfect as well, I thought it might be too light and bright, but it isn't. Perfecto Mundo!!! Thank you so much for your help.
Philip Johnson (12/07/06)

Hi Pat
The Arco arrived Monday morning our time. Wow! the celluloid is simply stunning on this pen (can’t stop looking at it). Truly worth persevering to eventually get this Omas; the 360 too clunky and deco, the Autunno a little too feminine and fancy for my taste. The nib set up is also perfect – please pass on my compliments to John. Thanks for your help and great service in setting this transaction up.
Best regards
Bob (11/26/06)

Dear Pat and Sharon,
Thank you for the meticulous care and precision with which you unfailingly mediate my vision of a pen's characteristics and John or Danielle's crafts(person)ship. The Dupont Orpheo arrived half an hour ago, and though I am busy preparing to give a graduate seminar, I just had to try out the pen. Let me dispense with the superlatives and simply say this: I'm tempted to skip class and sit home all day writing "happy holiday" notes to myself. You've taken an expensive, beautiful but "runny"