This GIFT will last a lifetime.

The EXPERT Pen
Q: Can a pen cost $10,000?
A: Yes. As a matter of fact it can cost much more.

Something to dream about? Not for me. I only purchase the standard stick pens that cost under $2 for a dozen. The most common ones being Bic and PaperMate. They're disposable. If I lose one, I don't sweat it. They don't write very well and they don't last that long. Sometimes they skip.

I was given this pen by someone while I noticed they were writing with this pen. I usually notice high quality products and said "That's a nice pen!" They asked if I wanted it and naturally I couldn't say no. I had no idea what type of pen this was or the value. I just admired the gentle curved style and size.

I learned about Waterman pens while doing some research for my particular pen. There are hundreds of styles and colors to choose from of various brands in all price ranges. A person's pen is like a car. I cannot believe someone would pay $12,000 for a gold pen but they do make them. I remember a few decades ago "Cross" pens in a nice storage case were always a popular graduation gift so I was aware of Cross and Parker pens but not Waterman till now. In order for me to learn about Waterman products, I searched for the style which is distinct with this Waterman Expert style.

Waterman Pens
- It states on their website "French elegance since 1883".
- Worldwide Full Lifetime Warranty

From the website after entering your location it will list a retailer for the Waterman pens "Please note the exact selection of pens, inks and finishes available in each country may differ from the ranges shown in this site". I found by searching around that styles and colors do change per search that I did.

There are several styles and colors shown on the site without prices. A pen of solid 18K gold states "Price upon request".

My Thoughts
While gold jewelry is nice to own, I would not be interested in an expensive gold pen that would cost thousands of dollars. I'd rather keep my gold on me. Waterman pens cost anywhere from $35 up to thousands this particular pen is around $65.

The style, precision and originality sets it apart from other brands. I noticed the slit in the center of the clip which other pens do not have. Also, the edge of the clip has a pointed end.

This pen is a nice weight unlike the stick pens. It has a distinctive beveled cap and double rings in the middle. It measures 5 1/2 inches. It turns on and off with a twist mechanism. It has a good shape that allows me to write firmly. This allows a user to write slower and more defined. My pen is engraved with a name and phone number so that I always remember who gave it to me. This pen is rounded and contoured which gives me a good hold for writing. The reddish lacquered color feels pearly and has held up very well. The picture above looks brownish but it's really a dark red.

I originally went to Staples to replace the ink cartridge and was sold what they had in stock that would fit the barrel. This refill works fine and has lasted me more than 1 year. I use the pen daily.

I have misplaced my pen a few times and was glad to recover it. I mostly leave at home now rather than carry it with me and possibly lose it.

Having a special pen displays individuality, taste and style. A nice pen can last a lifetime if not abused. I have dropped mine several times on my tile floor and the lacquer finish still shines like new.

I have many different kinds of pens. Naturally I purchase mostly the 10 pens for $2 or something. These cheaper pens don't last long and also I misplace them so spending more for disposable pens is a waste of money for me.

Waterman Expert
This Waterman Expert collection has 12 different pens in various colors and styles. But Waterman's website shows 9 different pen categories with each having several style names for of each category. Each category has pencils, fountain pens and ball pens. The above picture is not one listed but may be available elsewhere. They also do not list any "Expert II" as a current category.

A matter of individual choice
I hold on to this pen for personal reasons. It has given me pleasure in using this pen over other cheaper pens. I would not specifically go out and buy a pen that cost more than $10 for myself. They do make excellent gifts. The receiver of a special pen will surely hold on to it and remember the giver. Most of the better pens come in a nice box.

You can spend as much as you wish to give a gift to someone that has made a great accomplishment in their career or I would not hesitate to give a well made pen to someone starting their own business for good luck.

I'm not a collector of pens, but some pens that have a memory behind it I will guard and take care of it. I do not specifically look for the same refill that came in the pen. I think any refill that is over $2 will do fine. I do use the medium point blue ink refill.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

http://www.waterman.com/