Pelikan Demonstrator M1005 - Review

Shortly after obtaining my M1000 (black), I can’t seem to get enough of the excellent writing quality and experienced offered by this flagship model. The semi flexible nib, the built quality and the smoothness of the piston filler makes is up there along with many other great models such as MB149, and some would say even better. 

I knew that eventually I will be finding and excuse to obtain another of the same model. Perhaps with a different barrel design, nib size etc. Before I know it, I found myself back in the same shop, PenGallery and greeted by the same smiley salesperson who was ready to take out any pen for testing. I then noticed that the M1005 was available and was informed that the only available nib at the moment was F nib. I was already very much in loved with the F nib on my M1000 and surely would not mind another one (I’ve tried other sizes , EF, M and B and doesn’t quite agree with them, it’s a personal choice, really).

I’ve seen all the pictures available on the internet, and I can say it looks much better in flesh. I must say it is pleasantly delightful to experience the flagship pen as demonstrator, it feels like a totally different pen and yet has all the great characteristic of this fine writing instrument. In fact, in some view, it is an even better instrument. The nibs of the same size seems smoother, with silver trims (which I love) and the details are sharper, not to mention the wonder of seeing all the innards and observing how it works. Maybe it’s my imagination, but I was convinced to have this as my second 1000 series. 


(Note that this review is built on some of the similar points of my previous review of the M1000, just some adjustment to address to the demonstrator’s quality)




First Impression

The Pelikan M1005 comes in what would be regarded as a the new style of packaging Pelikan pens, but with a cut out clear window, in spirit of the demonstrator. It’s a simple and modest packaging and serves it purpose to give adequate protection to the writing instrument. Inside, the pen is strapped with a transparent plastic strip that secures it to the soft base. Sponges are added in to provide extra protection from lateral impact. Seems like a lot of effort to keep it in one piece. Let’s see if the instrument is equally well put together. 


Appearance and Design 8.5/10


First of all, let me start by saying I am not a fan of demonstrators. The impressive looks and feel of the M1005 is enough to change that. Well, there you go. 

Take an elegant, understated but relatively boring(IMO) and plain looking pen such as the M1000 and turn it into a demonstrator, instantly you have a rather impressive looking writing instrument. Believe me when I say it is several notches above the current M1000 model; by a lot!. It looks like an entirely different pen but very familiar and similar in feel. 

Pelikan nibs though are some of the better writing ones in the market but they are certainly not one of the better looking ones, at least in my opinion. However, a monotone nib of the M1005 looks so much better. After all, I am a fan of silver trims, rhodium or palladium plating. The clear acrylic and silver appearance-plating gives emphasis on its basic form, and provide the opportunity to appreciate the functionality as an aesthetic of its own.




Construction and Quality 9.0/10

One of the better built pens around. I can’t help but comparing it to the Montblanc 149 and I can agree to most opinion that the M1000 feels a bit more solid compared to the 149. The cap screws in tight in about 1 turn, quick and ready for action. The joints and details are simple and built to last. The whole pen feels tight and well constructed.




Weight and Dimension 8.0/10

I generally have no issues with light or heavy pens as I’m rather flexible in adjusting to different pen size and weight. With the brass parts and its sheer size, though heavier than most pens, I find it rather comfortable to write with. Weight distribution is a little bit towards the piston knob due to the brass components, and for a pen this size, generally it will be more comfortable without the cap being posted on. It is a rather large pen and may not sit well on a shirt pocket due to the weight and size. I would normally keep my pens in cases so, that’s not really an issue for me.




Nib Performance 9.0/10 (Fine)

Unlike the standard M1000, where I’ve experienced a lot of problems while testing, the nibs of the M1005 seems perfect OOTB, at least the ones that I have tested. Perhaps the production line for this special edition has extra attention in quality control. This is where it brings the score higher than the standard M1000 production nibs with its higher reliability. As far as performance goes it is one of the best I’ve used so far


I have not much experience with flexible nibs and I’ve learnt that this may not be a true flex after all, but to have a nib that can yield to some pressure does gives a whole new writing experience. Without much pressure, it writes just like any other modern stiff nibs but a little pressure applied on it gives it nice variation and add interest to my writing. It does have a little feedback which is what I’m looking for and does not glide too effortlessly, like my other F nib on the 149. 




Filing System and Mechanism 8.0/10

The piston filling mechanism is smooth but not as smooth as the standard Pelikan. There’s some minor squeaking noise when turning the piston knob, as if scrubbing on clean clear glass. Nonetheless, the mechanism still functions well and it’s great to see reservoir of the pen being filled up. Cleaning is easy and particularly for a demonstrator, it is crucial to have the writing block removable to clean out all the parts thoroughly.

Cost and Value 7.5/10

There is a premium over the standard M1000 as this is a special edition after all. The M1005 is still at a very good value with a 3 years of warrantee and 4 weeks of nib exchange program. Pelikan service seems to have a good reputation, so there’s some reassurance there of after sales service. 


I was really contemplating over the price tag as it almost double the price of a regular M1000, for aesthetics. Then again, when compared to other brands and range, the M1000 is one of the best value flagship pens around to begin with. Adding a little more to something that gives value and delight seems to worth the extra cost in my opinion. 


Conclusion 8.33/10

In summary when compared to the standard M1000, it is better in almost every aspects in terms of looks and appearance as well as nib quality but somehow it does not have a piston smoothness as the regular M1000. Not to mention the higher price tag on something that has the same functionality as the regular ones may be a deterrent. It may be contributed by the additional manufacturing process that translates into the production cost (but then again Sailor managed to keep their demonstrator and regular pens the same price, hmm). Nonetheless, this is a one time release from Pelikan that should not be overlooked and certainly noteworthy to be in any serious pen collection.


Thank you again for reading, oh and Happy New Year 2012!

Pelikan M1000 Souveran - Review

Ever since I purchased my first Pelikan, which was a M800, I knew I was opening doors to another chapter in my pen collection and discovering more wonderful writing instruments. The M1000 has been on my list and further reading and research on this particular instrument reaffirms me that this is the right direction to go. 

As with my previous purchases, I have opted to look for shops and to test any Pelikan before buying. I have learnt from previous experience that most Pelikan does not write well OOTB and I wanted to be very sure of the pen that I buy will be as trouble-free as possible. 

This time around, I was around Kuala Lumpur and happen to have the opportunity to swing by Pengallery itself. It was like a visit to a candy store. I had the opportunity to test some of the newest arrivals of other brands as well.

Testing the Pelikan was an interesting experience. From my previous purchase of the M800, I have learnt that a lot of the factory-fresh nibs has problems that may compromise writing experience. In PenGallery, I had an M, F and EF nib before me to test. The EF has a good flow but a tad bit scratchy for my taste while the M nib was a little to wet and bold for my handwriting style, though it was the smoothest of the three. The F nib strikes the right cord with the right amount of flow, feedback and quality of line that is neither too wet or dry for my liking. I knew that at the moment this can be one of my favourite writer! 

First Impression

Wrapped in the new packaging, it's refreshing to see it coming with its own pen sleeves compared to the previous packaging. 

Appearance and Design 7.0/10

Though the design is classic, elegant and understated, personally, I don't think it will take home the award for best looking pen around. However, I do appreciate the simple and classic design of the flat top and simple form and shape of the entire piece. The new logo is a all gold plated emblem which I personally prefer to the older ones. 

Construction and Quality 9.0/10

One of the better built pens around. I can’t help but comparing it to the Montblanc 149 and I agree to most opinions that the M1000 feels a bit more solid compared to the 149. The cap screws in tight in about 1 turn, quick and ready for action. The joints and details are simple and built to last. The whole pen feels tight and well constructed.

Weight and Dimension 8.0/10

I generally have no issues with light or heavy pens as I’m rather flexible in adjusting to different pen size and weight. With the brass parts and its sheer size, though heavier than most pens, I find it rather comfortable to write with. Weight distribution is a little bit towards the piston knob due to the brass components, and for a pen this size, generally it will be more comfortable without the cap being posted on. It is a rather large pen and may not sit well on a shirt pocket due to the weight and size. I normally keep my pens in cases so, that’s not really an issue for me.

Nib Performance 8.5/10 (Fine)

The nib is one of the best I’ve used so far. I have not much experience with flexible nibs and I’ve learnt that this may not be a true flex after all, but to have a nib that can yield to some pressure does gives a whole new writing experience. Without much pressure, it writes just like any other modern stiff nibs but a little pressure applied on it gives it nice variation and add interest to my writing. It does have a little feedback which is what I’m looking for and does not glide too effortlessly, like my other F nib on the 149. 

As mentioned earlier, in my quest to look for the perfect factory nib, I have been going around testing every M1000 I can get my hands on, and this was closest to the ‘perfect’ nib. There is of course no such thing, unless we send it to a nibmeister. After all the objective here is to look for the best factory sample as a benchmark. 

I find that the tines were never always align. Before writing, the left seemed to be slightly lower and when come in contact with paper surface, the tines rubbed against each other producing soft clicking sounds. This would repeat a few times while writing a sentence and gave the impression of loose parts moving in the writing block, thus compromising the ‘quality feel’ of the pen. This was just a minor annoyance and the clicking sound was only audible in a very quiet environment (in fact I did not even hear it in the shop and realized it only when I was using it at home).

I took a chance to fix this myself by apply some light pressure on the top of the split of the nib and slightly to one side to ‘bend’ the right tines slightly down. Now the default position seems to be well align and the sound of the tines hitting each other is a very rare occurrence, if not entirely gone. Constant use for the past few days may also contributed to the correction of the tines. 

Note that all the above does not seem to compromise the writing experience and quality in any way. There are no flow issues, always consistent, neither too wet or dry, and will write instantly even when left out in the open for a while. Pure writing pleasure. 

Filing System and Mechanism 9.0/10


One of the smoothest piston mechanism I’ve ever used, smoother than the MB pens I have. The green window is a little dark and one needs bright background light to really check the level of the ink, but I’m not complaining as I would not want the simple aesthetic to be compromised with a brighter window.


Cost and Value 8.5/10

At less than half the price of its competitor, the 149, the new production M1000 is at a very good value with a 3 years warrantee and 4 weeks nib exchange program. Pelikan service seems to have a good reputation, so there’s some reassurance there of after sales service. What can I say, I’m a happy bird.

Conclusion 8.33/10

The M1000 is a class of its own even when compared to the lesser Souveran series. My 149 F is my most frequent pen in my rotation of FPs and I have a feeling this will help to reduce the mileage of that 149. Highly recommended if you’re into larger series pens.

Thank you again for reading!

Size comparison Between M1000 and MB149

 nib comparison of the flagship pens, almost similar in size 

but with totally different personalities

 Cap design comparison between the 2 giants

While taking these pictures, Mr Grasshopper 

express his curiosity on the new writing instrument 

Montblanc William Faulkner Review, Writers Edition 2007

“Very well sir, we can give you with the same discount as our other branch,” Molly (not her real name) hangs up the phone with her manager, she stood behind a display desk waiting for my answer after much debate with me on the various discount scale the MB boutiques are offering throughout the nation now.

“I see,” I was trying to contain my excitement and not look like a fool, giving the moment enough pause before I pull the trigger. You must understand, I was savoring the feel of achievement of not only being able to locate this particular writing instrument, but was able to convince the seller to agree to a bargain. Naturally I’m a shy negotiator and not a very good one at that, always making sure my queries for a discount or sale is out of the audible range of the crowd. “I’ll take it”.

Molly’s smile turn wider and heard towards to locked glass cabinet to reach for the William Faulkner.

“What’s the size of the nib may I know?” I just had to ask, even though I already have an idea, just to keep my mouth moving and my drool from falling.

“It’s a fine nib, sir” Molly passed the pen to me while reaching for the box and opening drawers, producing the warranty cards and receipt books, getting ready to package the only display piece left of this writing instrument perhaps within the radius of 500miles. I inspected the piece, cold to the touch for the first time and feeling the nice weight of metal and resin. I noticed that the pen has been touched before, perhaps by previous potential buyers or it has been moved about by the staff without the use of gloves, and has not been wiped frequent enough to bring out the shine within. It’s ok, daddy’s here now….

APPREARANCE AND DESIGN: 8

I’ve not always been interested in a pen than has more than one dominating material. Before this, I could only look at black resin or lacquer and perhaps one or two pen which could be tastefully done celluloid. Now, I’m growing into marble texture resin/lacquer or precious metal pens. William Faulkner seems to be successful in using multiple materials and creates a great combination of platinum fittings and cast resin.
The scored line surface on the platinum surface gives a grip to the pen, not too rough, while the resin ends on the cap and piston knob is a pleasure to look at up close. A fine metallic sheen on the greenish/brownish marble-like resin can be seen when light is shined on and it is just pleasing to watch. The dome Mont Blanc emblem on the cap, reminiscence of a classic design touch, with its ivory color just adds the exquisite touch to it. The simple clip design looks elegant and simple, suggesting that one should carry this regularly and not always kept in the study.


CONSTRUCTION AND QUALITY: 9

The pen feels like it can take on a daily activity and can be used as an everyday pen. The simple and elegant design along with the used of multiple materials such as platinum plate and resin, gives it elegance and the simple aesthetic which looks straightforward and functional gives it a feel of robustness. All the rings and joints between different materials are well constructed, without any trace of misalignment as far as the naked eyes can see and even the resin quality seems to be of a higher grade (I do not know much about the chemistry behind it, but it sure feels good). I feel I can take it out with me all day and not being too worried about it.


WEIGHT AND DIMENSION: 8

Personally I feel like the pen is neither too big nor too small and well balanced. Just like my first WE, I enjoy writing it without being capped and a lot of the weight is on the cap. It is smaller than the 149 and my WE Mark Twain. I took it to work today and doesn’t seem to be too heavy to be placed on my pocket, and the shorter length is just right for my shirt pocket, touching the end at the right length. Shorter than a 149, and perhaps closer to a 146.




NIB AND PERFORMANCE:7.5

The only one available is with a fine nib, which I was actually looking forward to . My plans is to have at least one F nib in my small WE collection. However, as I began to start writing, the F nib is rather thick for what it is. It is almost as thick, if not the same thickness, as my medium nib Mark Twain. Not that I am complaining but my expectation was to have a fine nib and hope that it would to behave like one. Nonetheless, the nib works flawlessly with some minor to medium feedback, which I rather like in a pen like this. A well grinded nib such as this that flows effortlessly with some mild feedback gives it a character. I love the Caran d’Ache M nib that has the similar quality and this pen is highly likely to be in my regular rotation. Also it is worthy to mention the beautifully crafted image of an aircraft on the nib reflects his love for flying machines, one of the few duo-tone nibs of the WE collection. This is one of the most beautiful nibs in the collection, in my opinion.


FILLING SYSTEM AND MAINTENANCE 8

Yet another trusty MB piston system. The piston knob is a resin part (which I really like) and split from the body separated by a platinum ring, revealing the brass screw component. There is no way to tell how much is in the barrel but one can feel the difference in weight after it has been filled. Filling was easy and I could only look forward to adventure when this bird is all fueled up.


COST AND VALUE 8

I bought this during a promotion by Mont Blanc that gives an exceptional 30% discount on almost all of the WE series. That gives me tremendous value and be able to stretch my budget to more pens. This is a new pen, straight from the display box, and knowing that it is a limited edition , that kind of bargain is hard to beat.


OVERALL 8.08

There are only a handful of the WE that I’m interested in and William Faulkner is one of them. I am particularly fond of straight barrels and large dome or flat emblems on the caps and William Faulkner fits the description. I have acquired both the Mark Twain and this in a short span of time and though MT proves to be a bliss of a writing instrument, I find myself more drawn to the WF as a more regular pen. Its not too flashy, exceptionally well built, writes great and full of character.

Montblanc Starwalker Midnight Black Resin (F nib)

Appearance and Design 7/10
Overall, I like the shape of the pen and the unique swelling cap shape. The floating star is unique and instantly recognizable as a brand and as a range of product. The ruthenium plated clip and ring gives a dark and sleek complexion to the otherwise platinum shiny finish, which I find more appealing, after comparing the two. The ruthenium nib and its minimalistic design has its charm. The shiny resin looks and feels good. Fancy.

Construction and Quality 6/10
The pen feels solid, no sloppy edges and all metal and resin parts are smooth and well made. I do have an identical shell of a fine-liner/rollerball pen and the cap seals better compared to the fountain pen, so there are some minor inconsistency in the quality. The cap screw over the other end and reduces any potential scratch marks. Overall, still a well built pen compared to many other pen/manufacturer I’ve seen so far.

Weight and Dimension 6/10
The pen is rather light and you can’t really feel it in your pocket but good enough for extensive writing. Best used when capped to have the full weight of the pen for balance.

Nib and Performance 7/10
To be completely honest, I have not much of experience in writing with fountain pen, so I am just rating this based on my other 2 pens. My initial experience with this pen take a bit of getting used to like the angle of writing, applying the right pressure and maintaining a consistent composure. I had some problems initially with skips and pauses, but now that I have improved my penmanship, that has been reduced significantly and enjoying it every bit. I write tight and small and the fine nib works well for me, though MB nibs are bolder than most of its competitors, this would generally be a medium nib size.

Filling System & Maintenance. 6/10
The only complaint I have here is the cartridge system without any piston converter. If this is the only pen, I’d imagine, I’ll be changing cartridges very often and will be running out of ink before I run out of ideas to write. So far no leakage and maintains a clean pen, even in flight.

Cost & Value 6/10
I had a coupon for Mont Blanc when I bought this pen so I paind less than half of its retail price and definitely a value for me. But with that price, you are comparing it to some great writing pens out there like Pelikan, Souveran, Duofold or Sailor. With its brand name and the status it carries, it does attract more attention with its unique appearance and design.

Conclusion (6.33)
This is my everyday pen, well almost, and I’m sure to rotate this with some other pen as they come along. It is attractive but not too flashy, unique and interesting in terms of design and most importantly, it writes well enough for me.