On the occasion of their 100th anniversary, Aurora presents the “Cento Italia” collection: 10 iconic pens from the company’s history, a symbol of the 10 decades, each revisited and produced in only 100 numbered pieces for the whole world (100 for Italy and 100 worldwide). The fourth pen in the series is the Optima with a cap and barrel in black resin featuring guilloché engraving and a shiny red piston knob. The guilloché engraving adds so much elegance and character to what would otherwise be a fairly boring pen. I was honored with the privilege of participating in Aurora’s celebration at their factory and in doing so met a handful of their employees. One thing that stood out was the amount of pride they took in their work and being part of such a special company. I’ll never forget the enthusiasm and passion they exuded as they shared details of the company’s history. I really love that Aurora has chosen to celebrate such a momentous occasion by releasing a variety of pens at a wide range of price points rather than just a few rare pieces at stratospheric prices. It allows so many of us pen fanatics to participate in the celebration and own something unique. I’m really looking forward to seeing what else Aurora has in store for us the rest of the year. You can get one of few remaining Optima Cento by visiting Nibsmith.com or clicking the direct link in my bio.

Brought these two new Visconti Watermarks back from the DC Pen Show. They’re absolutely magnificent and I think I’m favoring the Blue Moon over the Rainbow. 𝙃𝙤𝙬 𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪? Leave a comment and let me know which is your favorite. I like the Watermark series because it is an oversized pen limited to 888 pieces with an overlay made from sterling silver. It’s large and has a strong presence in the hand. It just feels damn good to write with. The 18k gold nibs also help in that regard. I always preferred their gold nibs over the palladium nibs and their decision to switch back to gold was the major reason I decided to pick up the brand now. Get these now for immediate shipping at nibsmith.com or by clicking the direct link in my bio.

You know what I love about white pens? I’m not compelled to get all matchie-matchie with the ink. It allows me to use whatever color I want without feeling like I’m committing some kind of atrocity. Please tell me I’m not the only one out there like that... . The Aurora 88 Luna is limited to only 153 pens and made from a beautiful white marbled resin with some lovely pearly effects! The rhodium-plated 18k gold nib is available in ELEVEN different widths. Yes, eleven! Check it out and order now at nibsmith.com or by clicking the direct link in my bio.

The new Sailor Ringless Epinard has been very popular at the DC Show. What do you think of this one?