"The pinnacle of Japanese urushi artistry is embodied by Namiki, the esteemed luxury division of Pilot dedicated to master-level craftsmanship and cultural heritage. Created in 1925 to showcase Japan’s most refined decorative arts, Namiki represents the harmonious union of fountain pen engineering and centuries-old urushi lacquer traditions. From exquisite Namiki Yukari and Namiki Emperor collections to rare Emperor Maki-e and Chinkin masterpieces, each instrument is meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans using layers of natural urushi lacquer and intricate gold or silver powder techniques. Every pen is not merely assembled but patiently built and polished over months, resulting in depth, luminosity and tactile richness that cannot be replicated by modern industrial methods. With large, expressive 18k gold nibs and generous eyedropper filling systems in select models, Namiki pens offer a writing experience that matches their visual splendor smooth, deliberate and deeply personal. Based in Japanese aesthetics and uncompromising artistry, Namiki stands as a testament to the idea that a writing instrument can transcend utility and become a lasting work of art."
I've tried almost all of the pocket fountain pens out there, especially the ones with a #6 nib, and this Quark is my favorite of the bunch.
The material choice in a stone wash finish is perfect for a pocket pen. It provides good texture to grip and handle the pen, which you will be doing a lot because you need to unscrew to uncap and then screw to post... and then again in reverse to put the pen away. But the zing! of the zirconium makes each writing opportunity such a pleasurable experience. You're able to do this quickly as well because of the minimal turns it takes manipulate the cap. The grooved texture of the grip is also excellent. Just enough to give you a good grip but never in your way. I do wish the grip section was about 1mm thicker though.
I have mine fitted with a Pilot #15 nib and eyedroppered. I smile every time I take it out of my pocket... the zing... the reveal of the 14k Pilot nib... the perfectly textured groove section. The whole package just comes together so lovely!
If I had to complain though, my one gripe is that when posted, the cap wiggles ever so slightly. It's very minor, but you do feel it move in your hand when writing from time to time. Also, mine takes about 1.5 rotations to uncap, but the description says 0.6 turns. On the plus side, it can post in 1.5 turns, even though the description says 2 turns. Not sure if this is just a variance in manufacturing.
But overall this is an amazing pen. I have been eyeing it for over a year and now I wish I had gotten it sooner.
Gravitas - Quark Zirconium Stone Washed Pocket Pen | New |
