Five timeless fountain pens worth owning today
From prestigious collector pieces to dependable everyday writers, the following pens stand out for their design, reliability, and reputation, making them excellent additions to any enthusiast’s collection
There was a time when ballpoint pens were not available, especially during our parents' generation. As they grew up in the suburbs, fancy fountain pens and ink were also not very common in every household or in the local market.
"We used the Pilot fountain pen for our exams. On the day we carried an ink pot and the pen. On other days, home-made reed pen, which was cut in the shape of a pen nib and we wrote by dipping the pen into the ink", my uncle once told me.
However, the invention of low-cost ballpoint pens has reduced students' labour today. But the charm of fountain pens never really faded. So much so that there is an association for the fountain pen collectors in Bangladesh.
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In December 2025, the first pen show was held in Dhaka, where collectors from across the country came with their precious possessions. Some of those were priced in lakhs.
Despite the dominance of digital devices, fountain pens continue to hold a special place among writers and collectors. Their smooth ink flow, elegant appearance, and precision craftsmanship make writing feel more personal and expressive.
TBS has compiled a list of standout fountain pens that combine craftsmanship, heritage, and refined writing performance. These writing instruments are admired not only for their functionality but also for the artistry behind their design.
From prestigious collector pieces to dependable everyday writers, the following pens stand out for their design, reliability, and reputation, making them excellent additions to any enthusiast's collection.
Montblanc
The Montblanc Patron of Art Henry E. Steinway 4810 Limited Edition is a prestigious writing instrument that pays tribute to the legendary piano maker whose innovations shaped modern music. Designed with exceptional attention to detail, the pen reflects Montblanc's tradition of celebrating influential cultural figures through remarkable craftsmanship.
Collectors admire this pen not only for its luxurious materials but also for the story and heritage it represents. Design elements inspired by Steinway's musical legacy give the pen a distinctive and sophisticated appearance, making it stand out among high-end writing instruments.
The pen also delivers the smooth writing performance for which Montblanc is known. Its finely crafted nib allows ink to glide effortlessly across paper, offering precise control and a comfortable writing experience.
Because of its limited-edition status and refined design, the Steinway 4810 is considered a prized collector's item and an impressive addition to any fountain pen collection.
Price: Tk511,783
Where to buy: Ubuy
Pilot
Widely recognised for its reliability and balance, the Custom 74 remains one of the most dependable fountain pens available today. With its elegant, deep red resin body and classic silhouette, the pen offers a refined yet understated aesthetic suitable for both professional and everyday use.
One of the reasons this model remains a favourite among fountain pen enthusiasts is its excellent nib performance. Equipped with a high-quality gold nib, the pen delivers a smooth, consistent writing experience that many users find exceptionally satisfying.
Its lightweight construction and balanced design make it particularly comfortable for extended writing sessions. Whether used for note-taking, journaling, or professional work, the pen provides excellent control and reliability.
Combining elegant design, strong performance, and accessible pricing, the Pilot Custom 74 has become a popular choice for both newcomers and experienced fountain pen users.
Price: Tk15,500
Where to buy: Tsamsa
Pelikan
A testament to Pelikan's legacy, the M405 reflects the brand's reputation for German engineering and timeless design. Recognisable for its iconic striped barrel and polished finishes, the pen carries a distinctive style that has made Pelikan writing instruments popular among collectors for decades.
A key reason for the M405's enduring appeal is its reliable piston-filling mechanism. This system allows the pen to hold a generous amount of ink while maintaining smooth and consistent flow during writing.
The pen is also admired for its excellent balance and comfortable grip. Its carefully crafted nib provides precise control and fluid ink flow, allowing writers to enjoy a smooth, effortless writing experience.
With its elegant appearance, dependable engineering, and strong heritage, the Pelikan M405 remains a sophisticated fountain pen worthy of any enthusiast's collection.
Price: Tk42,691
Where to buy: Ubuy
Visconti
Inspired by the celebrated Dutch painter Rembrandt, this Visconti fountain pen reflects the brand's dedication to artistic design and Italian craftsmanship. The sleek black resin body gives the pen a refined, contemporary appearance while maintaining classic elegance.
Many enthusiasts appreciate the Rembrandt Collection for its combination of creativity and practicality. The pen's distinctive design makes it visually appealing, while its comfortable grip and balanced construction ensure reliable everyday performance.
Visconti pens are also known for their smooth nibs, and this model continues that tradition. Ink flows effortlessly across the page, allowing writers to produce clean and fluid strokes.
By combining artistic inspiration with dependable writing performance, the Visconti Rembrandt fountain pen stands out as a stylish and practical addition to any writing collection.
Price: Tk31,859
Where to buy: Ubuy
Sailor
The Sailor Professional Gear Gold 21k fountain pen is widely respected among fountain pen enthusiasts for its exceptional nib craftsmanship and writing precision. Produced in Japan, Sailor pens are known for their careful attention to detail and high-quality construction.
One of the main reasons customers prefer this model is its 21-karat gold nib. The nib provides a remarkably smooth and responsive writing experience, allowing writers to create crisp, controlled lines with ease.
Its classic black body accented with gold trim gives the pen a timeless appearance suitable for both professional and personal settings. Despite its compact size, the pen feels well-balanced in the hand, offering comfort during longer writing sessions.
With its combination of traditional craftsmanship, elegant design, and superior writing performance, the Sailor Professional Gear remains a premium fountain pen admired by collectors and serious writers alike.
Price: Tk36,270
Where to buy: Ubuy
