Fountain Pens...dead or alive?

Fountain Pens...dead or alive?

Fountain pens were one of the most popular writing instruments of the modern era. Although its origin is traced back to the 10th Century, M. Klein and Henry W. Wynne were awarded the US patent #68445 in 1867 for an ink chamber and delivery system in the handle of the fountain pen. Despite the perceived heightened prices in the modern niche, good quality steel and gold pens are available inexpensively today, particularly in Europe and China, and there are even some "disposable" fountain pens available. There are many fountain pen users around the world, even today. The main reasons people seek fountain pens in recent times are for: effortless writing and comfort (some sufferers of arthritis are unable to use ballpoint pens, but can use fountain pens), expressive calligraphy, longevity (fountain pens are known to last several lifetimes, whereas ballpoints are disposable), professional art/design, wide range of ink colours available, recreational collecting (history and heritage), and academic benefits. All said and done, Fountain Pens still have their beauty and elegance in place!