[Pen/Pencil Review] Retro 51 Pen World Fountain Pen Update
A few weeks back a couple of weird things happened when I reviewed the Pen World Retro 51 fountain pen. I had a few issues with the nib at the time – the ink flow struggled. I posted by review, and was almost immediately contacted through Twitter by Retro 51 to have it sent back for repair, which I did. Like A DAY before they announced that the leadership of the company was retiring and the company would shut down in the next six months.
I had no idea how long it would take to get it back — given their circumstances. However, I heard back from them late last week and the pen came back today. Choice Templin managed to straighten the nib as much as possible and has the ink flowing smoothly and without skipping. I’ve tested it myself and it’s now the pen I thought it should be (which is why in the previous review I took that tack – that the nib was damaged somehow). Choice did offer to help me get another nib if this did not meet my expectations. (It does.) There was still some ink in the nib, so the Kaweco Royal Blue I put in it isn’t showing up yet.
I did a quick writing sample and liked what I felt, I’ve gone on to work on a chapter rewrite with it. It’s smoother than I would’ve thought it would be, given it’s a repair. With this kind of customer service, I’m even sadder to see this company go away. I understand why they are, but I’m sorry for it.
It’s a good pen. I look forward to working with it now that it works for me. I would get one of these while there’s still some out there to get. I know they’re doing their last runs, and I can’t wait to see the last few designs.
Retro 51 — GREAT PENS!
The Numbers.
1. How does it work? – 1 – This is a solid pen. Good length with a variety of nib sizes. However, my nib has some issues that I will either somehow figure out how to fix or replace. This one skips and scratches. EDITED: NOW WRITES SMOOTHLY!
2. Look and feel – 1 – It’s a classic Tornado design. It has good weight; the design is lovely. And did I mention IT GLOWS IN THE DARK!
3. Material – 1 – It’s a solid metal pen with secure clip. The design is like a resin wrap—maybe vinyl? But doesn’t feel like it’s going to chip or peel.
4. Overall Design – 0.5 – It’s a good length and diameter. The weight is solid. It’s a good-looking pen. The nib issue is one that I’ll have to correct, and I’m not sure how much that’s going to cost.
5. Price Point – 0.5 – For a collectible, it’s reasonable—and this a limited edition For an everyday pen? It’s not cheap. This is not limited edition and runs $95. It is refillable by either cartridge or the converter so you can put any good ink it.
4.0 out of 5 bronze pencils.
