Montblanc 145 Classique S Nib Fountain Pen Review 4K

Montblanc 145 Classique with S Nib — Review Summary

Main Features

• The 145 is Montblanc’s standard-size Classique. The smaller model is the Mozart, and the larger one is the 149.
• It has the classic Meisterstück torpedo shape, with the Montblanc star, clip, and cap ring.
• The reviewed pen is a cartridge-converter model with a threaded cap. It comes with a Montblanc converter.
• The 14-karat gold S nib has an unusually large, rounded tip. The reviewer says it writes roughly like a broad or double-broad nib and was designed to be less sensitive to writing angle than a typical fountain-pen nib.
• The S nib has been discontinued.
• Measurements: about 140 mm uncapped, 122 mm posted, and 154 mm with the cap posted. Weight is about 21.3 g.
• The reviewer notes that the 145 has a longer grip section than the 146 and 149.

User Experience

The pen felt comfortable and lightweight, with a good-quality feel. Its grip suited the reviewer despite his usual preference against skinny pens. It posts well and writes comfortably at a fairly high angle.

The S nib was smooth and wet, with no significant writing-performance problems. It was not particularly flexible and offered little line variation when pressed. Reverse writing was unsuccessful because of insufficient ink flow.

Pros

• Comfortable, lightweight form factor and long grip section.
• Posts securely and feels well made.
• Excellent fit and finish; the reviewer saw no visible molding seams.
• The S nib offers a distinctive, rounded, ballpoint-like writing feel and is less position-sensitive than some nibs.

Cons

• The S nib is no longer produced, so it may be difficult to find.
• At a stated current retail price of $680, the reviewer does not think a new standard Classique offers especially good value; he suggests considering a used one.
• Its iconic Montblanc design may be too recognizable or showy for some buyers.
• Little flexibility or line variation; reverse writing does not work well.

Comparisons

• Montblanc 149: Much larger and fatter than the 145. The reviewer also says the 145 has a longer grip section than the 149 and 146.
• Cleo Skribent Classic: Similar in size, with a comfortable grip. The reviewer presents it as a less showy, high-quality German-made alternative; its nibs are also described as soft.
• Pelikan M600: The M600 is skinnier but longer.
• Aurora Optima/Africa: The Optima is considerably skinnier but longer.
• The reviewer says Montblanc and Cartier make particularly attractive converters, while also praising the Waterman Edson converter.

Verdict

The reviewer likes the 145 for its comfort, build quality, and distinctive S nib. It is a strong everyday pen, but the discontinued nib makes this version a niche find, and the $680 new price is hard to justify in his view. He recommends looking for a used example, especially for buyers drawn to the S nib.

Speaker Perspectives

Only the reviewer contributes opinions in the subtitles.