A Review of the Conid Minimalistica

PRELUDE

An Intrigue with Scarcity Marketing

There are some days in life when scarcity marketing absolutely triumphs over our emotions, and this was one of those days where all my rationality seemed to take 'another' toss. As for me, with a career in quants & finance, I have a compulsive inclination to divide anything and everything by the number of users and then by 12 months to arrive at a per-user price metric. But pens, they're poetry to me, and they defy such quantification. I already own a Kingsize with a 14k nib, which I acquired precisely after a 9-month wait in 2020 — no joke. Yet, somehow, the allure of Conid's bulkfiller mechanism with titanium finials, coupled with the temptation of a #6 Ti nib, proved difficult to resist. Then, as fate would have it, the rather modest news section of Conid was updated with this new offering. And honestly, my belief that the Minimalistica surpasses the Regular model in terms of both weight balance and the comfort of its seemingly infinite curvature of the section is grounded in my own experience, as my relatively longer fingers find resting spots almost everywhere along its dimensions. May be more on that later. I acquired a Regular model (the last piece of the AntwerPPen edition) from the gracious Mr. Yves (of Penworld) during my recent visit to San Francisco this month.

PS. By the way, if you somehow you managed to overlook the purple rain KS, congratulations are in order because you've just dodged a whopping 1100 EUR bullet

PRESENTATION (6/6)

Love to the Cobox 

It seems pretty standard for Conid, and I love their engineered box. I would never toss this box into the bin; the first reason, of course, is the whopping price I paid for the pen, and the second reason is that the box is well-designed and pretty lightweight, given it’s made from aluminium sheet. The newer ones carry Penworld logo on the base.

I haven't tested their susceptibility to being malleable enough to be bent, but the anodisation does prevent it from getting scratched. Upon opening the box, you'll find a bulkfiller certificate embossed on a silver metal plate on the inside of the lid, along with an instruction manual, a nib testing certificate, and a few extra O-rings.

Inside the main compartment, you'll find the foam cut to specific compartments to house a disassembly wrench, an Allen key, and a slot to accommodate a spare nib unit.

I do have the tools that came with the Kingsize.

DESIGN (5/6)

Functionalism 

The Minimalistica, previously available in five main finishes, is now offered as a limited run product with the most common nib materials and widths (with a promise of permanent availability for select finishes). In fact, all Conid pens are now more or less limited runs. The finials and ends have been permutations of derlin, ebonite, and titanium. The one I acquired is labeled M-DCB-DB-TI, meaning Minimalistica - Demonstrator Conid Bulkfiller - Demonstrator Barrel - Titanium knobs. There's no "+" sign at the end, but I did opt for it with a clip. Here's a link to assist you when your brain gives out!

                To be frank, the pen's shape isn't particularly attractive. It's not one of those love-at-first-sight designs, like a Yukari Royale! It's simply a cylinder with tapered ends. However, the functional beauty of it becomes apparent when you actually hold the pen. Additionally, the derlin part of the cap in a demonstrator barrel makes it appear even less appealing when it's not filled with ink.

The beauty of the pen truly shines as you uncap it. However, this is where I encountered a learning curve. Here's where my -1 penalty for non-intuitive functionality design comes into play, with zero hints provided in the manual. The cap is secured to the barrel by an o-ring placed almost halfway along its length. Initially, I attempted to pull it off like a snap cap, only to find ink spilling onto the table, paper, or anything within nib's reach. It was later that I discovered the proper method of uncapping it, using a slight twist and pull technique similar to what Johan (JRO) demonstrates while changing the nib in this video. Mastering the uncapping process took some time. Additionally, the nib wasn't properly inserted into the housing at first, causing the pen to leak ink onto whatever surface it could find.

The cap is adorned with the iconic Conid hook emblem, a familiar sight on most Conid pens. Both the finial and the clip of this pen are crafted from titanium, boasting a finish that seems to match the grade 5 titanium used in the Apple Watch Ultra. While I can't confirm if Conid employs the exact same grade, it's certainly a strong possibility. As for the black derlin portion, well, it's not exactly my favorite, but I can tolerate it. Strangely enough, the black derlin adds a certain continuity to the cap, only to be disrupted by the transparent barrel, when un-inked. There's a sense of understated elegance rather than outright luster to the metal parts. Upon closer inspection, you'll notice the now infamous o-ring nestled inside, which secures the cap in place.

While searching for different grades of titanium, I stumbled upon some intriguing facts. Grade 5 titanium, also known as Ti-6Al-4V (which translates to 6% Aluminium & 4% Vanadium), is commonly used in implants to mimic bone-like structures. On the other hand, grade 9 titanium (Ti-3Al-2.5V) finds its home in applications requiring higher precision, including pacemakers.

FILLING & CLEANING SYSTEMS (6/6)

Bulkfiller breathes its magic, double reservoir maintains the flow

I believe this is where this pen sets itself apart. While there are certainly cheaper Chinese alternatives and a rather well-made upmarket Kyuseido Kakari that, I must admit, looks better than this Minimalistica with its #6 nib with variations of syringe-filling mechanisms. Personally, I find filling this pen to capacity quite satisfying, although it's more about contentment than any significant difference for me compared to the capacity of vacuum-filled pens like the Visconti Homo Sapiens or the Pilot Custom 823.

Once you unscrew the piston knob, it will initially open the seal of the secondary reservoir, designed for extended writing sessions. To fill ink, you pull out the piston rod (after unscrewing it) and engage the rod with the locking mechanism of the piston seal by further rotating it counter-clockwise. Once the piston seal is disengaged, the pen behaves like a syringe. First, you push it down to expel the air, and then draw ink into the barrel by submerging the nib in an ink bottle and pulling the piston seal up. Then, you lock the piston seal onto the end using the locking mechanism. Next, you rotate the piston rod clockwise to disengage it from the piston seal and push it down to seal the secondary reservoir. Johan's video does a much better job of explaining this process. It takes a few tries to get used to the filling system.

Furthermore, the double reservoir design functions exceptionally well. It endured four long-haul flights without a single drop of ink leaking from the nib. For comparison, an Asvine P36 equipped with a Sailor nib leaked a drop, perhaps two. By the way here is the patent application for Conid’s locking mechanism.

NIB - ALL THAT MATTERS (6/6)

A rather inconspicuous superhero

Bock Titan. I have one of the earlier models from Bock, initially fitted onto a TWSBI VAC700 and now onto a Leonardo Momento Zero Grande, utilizing the MZ’s ebonite feed. While the original titanium nib offers a pencil-like feedback (<=2B) and maintains a good flow, the Conid-tuned nib is more of a perfected art.

An understated, dull graphite-like luster defines the length of the nib. A series of expanding arcs enclose the brand name CONID, along with the nib size and material Ti, all laser-engraved on the nib.

Once you turn the nib, the first thing you'll notice is the feed, followed by the tip. The tip appears to have a sort of elongated stub grind (similar to a Lamy 2000), and I absolutely adore the way it writes. The Minimalistica comes with a medium nib, which writes narrower than a typical Western medium. It's slightly wider than a stock Bock titanium fine nib, and it's been perfect for my needs. Conid utilizes the stock ABS feed (unlike the custom ebonite feed made for the Kingsize), which seems to be quite well-made to sustain a wetter ink flow. Multiple fins ensure ample buffer capacity, and I haven't encountered any drying out issues thus far.

PHYSICS OF IT (6/6) – RELATIVELY SPEAKING

The Newtonian Laws

The overall capped length measures around 13.7 cm. The section boasts one of the most comfortable girths for grip in my collection. The diameter of the gripping section is approximately 1.1 cm, tapering to 1 cm towards the nib end. The titanium knob balances the inked weight of 32g quite nicely.

Below are the pictures along with a Pilot Bamboo (now destroyed Thanks to FedEx) for a comparative reference. 

Here go the dimensions.

• Uncapped Length ~ 12.6 cm
• Total Length ~ 13.7 cm

• Exposed Nib Leverage ~ 2.4 cm (PS. My toddler wanted his chopper in the same frame)

The weight of the pen is comforting even without the cap.

• Overall Weight ~ 32.2 g (inked, without cap ~22.2)

ECONOMIC VALUE (4/6)

Poetry vs Cash

I paid the full MRP for this pen with the titanium nib option. Just for reference, I had previously purchased a brand new Visconti Homo Sapiens Florentine Hills at half the price, but that was quite some time ago. Considering a few observations I've made, I do feel this model should be available at a lower price point. For instance, the Kakari is available at more or less the same price. Additionally, the cap has a tendency to cause micro-scratches on the section, which I can observe under a loupe. Furthermore, the capping mechanism doesn't quite match up to the Lamy 2000, it’s neither quick nor efficient.

WRITING & FINAL COMMENTS (5.5/6)

Writes magnificently and Functionalism all along

The writing experience far surpasses the aesthetics of the pen itself. The nib features a stub-like grind and, coupled with the inherent springiness of titanium and commendable nib tuning, delivers an experience that one would want to revisit time and again. I don't use my Kingsize as much these days, even though it seems superior to the Minimalistica in terms of overall craftsmanship.

     This nib writes wet with no issues of drying out. The feedback, reminiscent of graphite, from a stock Bock titanium nib is somewhat subdued, though still noticeable with drier inks. With even moderate pressure, the nib flexes, opening up its tines and increasing ink flow. The variation is evident with moderate pressure levels, and a tactile sensation can be felt. However, it's worth noting that the theoretical elastic range for titanium nibs is less than that of a 14k/18k gold nib, so I handle it with care. On Endless Regalia 80 GSM paper, the drying time for lines with Iroshizuku Yama Budo ink is approximately 30-35 seconds. While I'm not particularly inclined towards flex writing, the nib does provide a pleasing line variation.

I've been using this Minimalistica continuously for around 9-10 months now, and it has become an essential part of my everyday carry, albeit with different nib variations. One of the most crucial aspects is the infinite section, which provides an incredibly comforting experience as you find your own spot on it. There are no obstacles to hinder you—no threads, no steps, no arches—just smooth, uninterrupted comfort. Here is the same pen with a stiffer 3776 medium nib.

Thank you for going through the review. 

You can find other pen and paraphernalia reviews here. 

  

REFERENCES

The Bulkfiller Mechanism

A Review of the Montblanc M in Red

PRELUDE

In the search of suitable replacements for a Meisterstuck Doue FP 145

My meticulously planned fountain pen hiatuses are occasionally disrupted by the well-meaning members of my family. Instead of appreciating my carefully timed fountain pen acquisitions, they enthusiastically offer advice on investments, the time value of money, and everything in between. To add a twist to the tale, they threw me a curveball last year by gifting a Meisterstück Doue FP 145 LE, even though I had only bought a total of three fountain pens in the last three years. If we exclude the Opus 88, then it's just two.
The Doue 145 is undeniably a beautiful pen, but I found myself wondering if I could ever use it with its slim metal section and rather shortish nib. Determined to find a more suitable replacement, I revisited the local MB Boutique. While Montblanc's customer service remains top-notch for pens within the two-year warranty period, they seem to derive more delight from pens outside the warranty period than their customers do.

    Faced with the task of choosing two pens to match the value of the pricier Doue, I was drawn to a Naruto LeGrand 146. Then, the salesperson revealed his secret NOS drawer, housing various pens, including a Great Characters Walt Disney FP. Opting for the Montblanc M, not only because its 2018 price, combined with the Naruto, matched the total credit value for the Doue, but also because it simply looked nicer.

PRESENTATION (6/6)

Usual MB 

The usual MB single pen box. The standard Montblanc single pen box with no customisation, with the only variation being the red cardboard sleeve that encases the box. The RED collection boasts a charitable initiative, contributing less than 1% (€5) towards fighting HIV/AIDS programs. It's almost as if Montblanc is tackling HIV/AIDS single-handedly, making minuscule donations of €5 at a time, all while charging the end customer a whopping €540+. As Master Yoda famously said, “Do or do not. There is no try”.

    The pen securely nestles within a cushioned and somewhat snug slot inside the box, accompanied by a complimentary cartridge filled with black ink. However, it seems that most of the ink inside the cartridge had evaporated during its 5 years of shelf-living.

DESIGN (6/6)

From the likes of the Apple Watch 

The Montblanc M, available today in three finishes—Ultra Black, RED, and RED Signature—has been designed by Marc Newson, renowned for his work on the Apple Watch. Newson has successfully blended functionality with elegance, anchoring the design firmly outside the tradition for Montblanc.
The shape of the pen is particularly appealing in modern pen terms. It boasts a perfect cylindrical shape with zero taper and rounded ends, except for the flat section, commonly referred to as the “plateau” at the end of the barrel. The platinized clip is a personal favourite; it avoids the cheap look of the Safari, perhaps because it's not oversized and doesn't unlawfully occupy a third of the cap's surface area.

The glossy and bright red finish mirrors background lights and hues effectively. Upon uncapping, one notable feature is the novel use of magnets to secure the cap. The snap cap rotates itself to align its magnetic poles perfectly, ensuring the clip and plateau on the barrel are perfectly aligned on a plane. A soft snap securely seals the cap, earning full marks here. According to Red Dot Project award records, the snowflake emblem made of white resin is ultrasonically welded onto the plateau and then milled with a diamond tool to maintain flatness. The design reflects a harmonious flow and is truly eye-catching.

The cap, adorned with the snowflake emblem on top like regular Montblanc pens, exhibits impeccable overall quality of work. In certain lighting conditions, the magnetic insert is faintly visible inside the cap.

The knurled platinized metal section adds enough weight to balance an otherwise light barrel. Due to the flat plateau on the barrel, the cap cannot be posted. The section, embossed with the MONTBLANC brand name five times on the visible rear ring where the cap snaps on, is somewhat short and not ideal for longer writing sessions. More on that later.

FILLING & CLEANING SYSTEMS (4/6)

Cartridge & No Converter

This is where, like many other fountain pen users, I express my concerns. It's worth noting that this pen only supports standard international short cartridges, and none of the available converters are compatible due to the featured plateau on the barrel. On the positive side, the pen accepts short international cartridges or proprietary MB cartridges, limiting its cartridge capacity to 0.5 ml. The form of the pen, while aesthetically pleasing, somewhat restricts its functionality as part of the design. Perhaps because the pen was conceived in this digital age, the designer didn't anticipate it being used extensively.

Additionally, cleaning the section with running tap water is an easy process.

NIB - ALL THAT MATTERS (6/6)

The two toned rhodium ruthenium stunner

The 14k nib is claimed to be handcrafted by Montblanc in a series of 30 steps. Rhodium-coated with a dark grey ruthenium-coated inlay, this nib is a stunner. I particularly love the shape of the nib, which comes in two widths - Fine and Medium, as far as I know.

    A dazzling cylindrical flow of silvery rhodium bounds the dark grey ruthenium inlay with well-defined contours. Just below the circular breather hole, the 'M' logo rests within an encircled star. The tail end specifies the composition 'Au585' of the gold-alloy, and the brand name 'MONTBLANC' rests just above the tail. Between those, a hallmark of 'StOD' with a crossed ellipse adds a touch of elegance. As always, the nib itself doesn't mention the width explicitly, but a sticker at the piston end of the barrel provides all the necessary details.

Once you turn the nib, you'll behold a somewhat unconventionally shaped black glossy feed that seamlessly matches the curvature of the pen. Apart from an air hole, there is nothing else in the feed, although the nib runs almost medium wet.

PHYSICS OF IT (5/6) – RELATIVELY SPEAKING

The Newtonian Laws

The overall capped length is around 14 cm. As perhaps mandated by Mr. Newson, I have to use the pen un-posted. Although the section has a somewhat comfortable girth, the shortest length of the section of around 2 cm with a step from the barrel does make it less than ideal to use it as a workhorse. The metallic section balances the weight of 19g pretty well.

Below are the pictures along with a Conid Minimalistica for a comparative reference. The Minimalistica is super comfortable for me, here are the dimensions for the Montblanc M.

• Uncapped Length ~ 12.5 cm
• Total Length ~ 14 cm

• Exposed Nib Leverage ~ 1.6 cm (A #6 nib has typically 2.4 cm)

The weight of the pen is comforting even without the cap.

• Overall Max Weight ~ 27 g (with a cartridge, without cap ~18.75 g)

ECONOMIC VALUE (0/0)

FOC for me

No comments. No rating, as I paid nothing :)

WRITING & FINAL COMMENTS (5.4/6)

Writes well

The writing experience is quite pleasant, albeit with a relatively stiff nib. It does possess a hint of tooth and precisely the kind of control you'd expect from a well-tuned nib. There is a certain degree of softness in the nib, though minimal line variation occurs with pressure. Lines dry in 30 seconds with MB Toffee brown ink on Endless Regalia 80 GSM paper, and the line width is sufficient to display some shading. The nib skipped on the black cartridges (the salesman included a couple of cartridge packs), but it performs flawlessly on the brown ones, offering a steady ink flow with no drying issues.

However, the length of the section, along with the step, leaves something to be desired in an otherwise excellently designed fountain pen. The nib leverage is minimal, so you inevitably touch the step from the barrel. With sweat, the knurling on the grip loses efficiency, unlike a Conid Kingsize with a titanium section. The weight, balance, and aesthetics of the Montblanc M surpass present standards. I believe Montblanc has successfully created a modern pen.

Thank you for going through the review. 
You can find other pen and paraphernalia reviews here. 

  
REFERENCES

Mark Newson - M Red 
Red Dot Project