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Is The Platinum Preppy Fine Nib Fountain Pen a Mistake for A First Time Buyer? (self.fountainpens)

submitted 7 months ago* (last edited 7 months ago) by ericjmorey to c/fountainpens

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I've never owned or used a fountain pen before, but I saw that these are less than $6 a piece and refill cartridges look pretty cheap too.

Are these worth buying for a first timer or are they an invitation to a souring experience for a noob?

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[–] [email protected] 2 points 6 months ago (1 children)

I think I will echo everyone else. A Platinum Preppy fine will be a great choice for a first time fountain pen user to decide whether a FP is right for them. $6 is not a big loss if it turns out you don't like it. It seals incredibly well and the pen can last a long time if you aren't too rough with it. It's definitely not a pen you can throw at the bottom of a backpack then toss the bag around (compare to the Lamy Safari which can take a good bit more abuse.).

The fine might be a touch scratchier since a Japanese F is usually more like a western EF. If you using a lot of garbage paper, definitely go with the EF. If you're working with paper that's more liquid ink friendly, maybe consider M for a slightly smoother experience.

Definitely buy a bunch of samples and a blunt tipped needle to fill the cartridge that comes with it in that order. If you aren't sure about 100% committing to FPs in that order, fill the rest of your cart for free shipping with stuff you could use otherwise. In terms of paper, I would say Rhodia and Clairefontaine are decent budget friendly paper. I am told Clairefontaine is dirt cheap in France. If you're in the UK, I'm also told Optik paper from Oxford is widely available for a good price there. Maybe consider some pens or pencils if the retailer has them.

[–] ericjmorey 1 points 6 months ago

Thanks!