After the VINTAGE KONRAD experiment proved to be a success, the next project was immediately set in motion. During last summer I broke my white Pilot PRERA, a splendid little pen. As GOULETS do not carry solid colored bodies, just the demonstrators, I checked the VANISHING POINT, a pen many like for the convenience and smooth writing experience.
I can testify that all Pilot nibs I used have been great, but I simply cannot warm to idea of having the clip on the section. On the other hand, due to its click-action mechanism, VANISHING POINT has a specific nib unit; the nib, housing and converter make a combo-unit that can be purchased separately. Ideal as a heart of the new project, one I eventually named PIERCE.
I’ve been searching for adequate parts for some time until I had a lucky break – it turned out that the handle of Rotring ART PEN makes a perfect base for the section. The original section of ART PEN then became a base for the barrel, and a pair of cheap Chinese school pens again provided parts for new barrel and cap.
The new section is tight-fit for the nib unit and holds it securely. The barrel, once screwed in, additionally grips it on top, preventing it from moving. The best part of securing the nib unit this way is that it can easily be disassembled for filling and cleaning. The cap is slip type and the shape is a mix of classic cigar and torpedo.
But does it work? You bet.
Filled with R&K SCABIOSA, the pen functions just fine.
PIERCE is light, the elongated section is very comfortable and allows me to hold the pen further away from the nib. The typical sections on pens I often find too short, forcing me to grab the handle by the threads. No such problem here.
To conclude, as a size reference, a group portrait with PLATINUM 3776, my usual sketch-pen of choice. But PIERCE might just give it a run for its money.
NOTE: Later I treated this drawing with a wash. Result can be seen in the post SCABIOSA.