Shape, surface, and simplicity. The Dark Red Izumo is a model that has been reduced to its simplest terms. This deep red-from-within color would be considered Kuro-tamenuri in the Nakaya pens. With all the grace of a French curve, this pen is a study in subtle arcs. The cap profile is a smooth convex form which carries through to the barrel, where it turns concave before returning to a convex shape.

Every surface is curved - there is hardly a straight line to be found. This pen is a study in simplicity which makes curves look easy.

The mirror-like Kuro-tamenuri urushi lacquer finish highlights the shape. This surface is built up with multiple layers of natural lacquer to a tremendously hard finish.

The clip, the only piece of trim exposed on the closed pen, does the two-fold job of quietly announcing the Platinum name and holding the pen firmly in a pocket.

The fit in the fingers perfectly follows the curves of this pen, and the metal screw-threads on the gripping-section offer traction for an easy hold.

Note how the darker over-layer ""breaks"" on the edges to reveal the red under-color. In time, as the urushi lacquer matures, more of this red under-layer will show. To accommodate the passage of time this pen will become brighter as it wears and ages. We see this as the opposite of planned obsolescence.

The Izumo Urushi with gold trim comes standard with any of Platinum's full range of President series 18k two-tone nibs. The nib is firm without being stiff. This makes it a delight to write with.
Beautifully packaged inside a mulberry paper cover and in a wooden box lined with green velvet and with a green fabric pen kimono, the pen comes complete with an ink converter, to fill from the bottle, as well as a starter ink cartridge. It also includes a scroll of fountain pen paper.