I have a Lamy Safari & Pilot Kakuno. These are more in my price range LOL. But, if I had the opportunity, I'd pick the Visconti over MB. 1) Cost - I sleep more soundly and eat better spending the least amount of money on a pen lol 2) Uniqueness - the design & color of the MB is more widely copied. My untrained eyes would have a hard time picking it out unless I see the MB finial. With the Visconti, you literally get to hold a little bit of Mount Etna in your hand. You can't beat that! 3) The clip - that arching crescent shape is no ordinary clip. It's designed to mimic the Ponte Vecchio, a famous bridge in Florence. There's a Visconti boutique not too far from there. Thanks for a great comparison!
@HemingwayJones
4 ай бұрын
Very sounds judgement! Thanks for watching.
@amyalphabet722
Жыл бұрын
Oh, My. GOSH! I was actually yelling at the computer while watching this video, it was just BRILLIANT!! I cannot say enough great things or articulate how much I enjoyed this, thank you! Also... team Visconti only because I have climbed Etna and have an ongoing affair with Italy courtesy of my Grandpa, who served during the Italian Campaign as a member of the Royal Canadian Army.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Hello Amy, I love this comment! Thank you for this! I am so glad that you enjoyed it. I had so much fun making this one.
@mosesmartinez4364
Жыл бұрын
IAM FROM THE U.S. AND HAVE 6 VETERAN UNCLE MY HAT OFF AND THANKS TO YOUR GRANDFATHER FOR HIS SERVICE. GOD SPEED
@anguswhite8233
5 күн бұрын
glad you went for the 149!: went for the 146 as wasn’t sure I’d like the enormous nib on the 149 but I’ve never regretted buying it - it writes beautifully and feel like I could write all day with it:)
@HemingwayJones
5 күн бұрын
The 146 is near perfect! What a great pen!
@davecharvella4854
Жыл бұрын
Have both, and love both! And, like they say, "timing is everything" i.e., I purchased both pens new for < $600. 00 each. So, if you're patient, the deals are out there to be had!
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
I agree! Also seek out a good opportunity and never over extend oneself.
@sajjadhusain4146
Жыл бұрын
I inherited the majestic MB 149 from my late father. So, it will always hold a special, unrivaled, sentimental place in my heart. But the pen is also a fantastic feel in hand and superb writer (I have the M nib). In this particular face-off, I’d still pick the Visconti HS. It edges out the MB in the feel of the material. And more importantly the way the nib writes. My Bronze Age HS is one I very belatedly bought less than a year ago. And it wins this contest for me.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Hello My Friend! It’s great to have such a well articulated and kind contrary opinion. I love them both and this was hard, sentiment, weight, and the nib eked out the win for the MB, but I am very glad I don’t have to decide for real. Thanks so much for chiming in with a great comment!
@sajjadhusain4146
Жыл бұрын
@@HemingwayJones Thanks for the kind reply, HJ. I always enjoy comparison and pen vs pen videos like these. And you do them especially well. So yea, I did not find it overly difficult to choose between these two pens. I like my Visconti Divina pens even more.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
@@sajjadhusain4146 Thanks so much, My Friend! I am happy to have you here. I appreciate your contributions to our dialogue! Stop by again soon.
@bunyan6101
26 күн бұрын
I think the Montblanc is timeless, yet the Visconti is innovative and unique. If you’re playing at this level I don’t see why you wouldn’t have both.
@HemingwayJones
25 күн бұрын
I agree completely.
@IAT1964
5 күн бұрын
Have both. From a writing point of view, for my pens, the 149 wins hands down, no contest. Also build quality, fit and finish, MB hands down. From design and innovation, it's the Visconti.
@pamelaboxall7015
Жыл бұрын
You can't argue when something is just right and that Montblanc 149 is just right for you.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Hello Pamela! Exactly! Some pens just speak to you. I think a tougher comparison is the 149 to 146. I think that one is coming soon! Thanks for watching.
@wolf_ceit_witch
Жыл бұрын
Another great video. I loved the comparisons. Can't wait to get my first HS. My MB 149 is devine. I write with it everyday
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Thank you Ceit! I cannot wait for you to get one also! All the best.
@donhall-aquitania1025
Жыл бұрын
$700 for a grail fountain pen sounds crazy, but that’s also the price of an Indonesian made electric bass guitar that I’ve been considering as a beater. I would use that grail pen every day and the beater guitar maybe once a month. I still can’t spend that much on a pen yet though as I have a 34-year old Montblanc 146 that my wife gifted me for our first anniversary. It’s currently covering my grail pen category.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
That 146 is enough. That is a wonderful pen and a thoughtful gift! All the best!
@johntaylor8817
Жыл бұрын
Hi. I really had a great time, and you had me worried. Glad you made the correct choice, the 149 is just the perfect writing experience, Visconti needs to get its quality control issues sorted out. I'm not totally against Visconti, their Blue Lagoon is one pen I wound buy because it's lighter and visually stunning.🤗 Cheers.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Hello John and thank you! I tried to build up tension a bit! I hear that Visconti is getting better. I may ask Brendan when I have him on my Live show this Tuesday. He is from Atlas Stationers and carries Visconti. Thanks!
@dr.d723
Жыл бұрын
I appreciate your video. I have been debating for some years about getting Visconti HS Bronze Age, but have not purchased one yet. I have several Montblancs, including 3 146s. I don't have a 149 yet. But your video answered a huge question for me. I have osteoarthritis in my writing hand (it happens when you get older). I find that I can write for hours with my MB 146s, but not so much with my heavier pens. And I love, love, love the way all of my MBs write - they flow. Like you, I am not heavy handed. So the MB writing experience is better for me. So, you answered an important question for me - the Montblanc 149 is the answer.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Brilliant! So happy to help. Debate whether you need one since you have a 146. That pen is nearly perfect. The 149 has the larger nib though.
@crazywisdom2
6 ай бұрын
Moringa Powder really helps with my arthritis. just a thought.
@mvaron2546
Жыл бұрын
I truly enjoyed your Visconti/Montblanc comparison. I have the the Bronze Age and the Montblanc 146 and I love them both. One feature about the Bronze Age is that the metal features on the print actually tarnish and develop a patina, which definitely adds to the character of the pen. The early Homo Sapien models came with a non-gold, proprietary material, nib, maybe a titanium alloy. It offers a bit of flex but no variation in line width to speak of, which mine has. Visconti has switched to a gold nib for that series of pens. I'm glad I have the earlier nib. Thanks for your channel. It's great fun.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Thanks so much, Marty! I appreciate the kind words and excellent information. Stop by again soon!
@Starbase_Area51
Жыл бұрын
I'm not an expert on fountain pen nomenclature, but in the non-fountain pen world, the Visconti 1/4 turn cap securing mechanism is called a "bayonet mount". I'm guessing the term comes from Civil War or earlier rifles. The term bayonet mount is commonly used in electronics, photography and household tiny light bulbs. BTW I've been using an Aurora FP with a similar screw piston fill mechanism as the 149. My grandmother gave it to me in the late 70s and I used it daily for school then work for at least 30 years and it still sucks up ink like Day 1. Then I lost it and found it years later - now it's very seldom used. Keep up the good work on the channel!
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
I like that term. For the videos, I tend to use the term the manufacturers use, just to keep things consistent and easier for people to find. But that is definitely the idea.
@jag9401
Жыл бұрын
That's exactly right
@CarzorStelatis
Жыл бұрын
You're correct, although that type of bayonet is much older than the US civil war - initial versions of the 'socket' bayonet were developed in the 1690s.
@InkDiaries
5 ай бұрын
My husband surprised me with a Visconti Homo Sapiens Bronze Age for my birthday. It should be arriving later this week👍🏻 loved this video 😊
@HemingwayJones
5 ай бұрын
What a wonderful pen and an amazing gift! What a great guy! Congratulations!
@TeensierPython
3 ай бұрын
How did you like it? We need an update.
@MartinRose-id6xu
3 ай бұрын
Great review, but for me the Homo Sapiens winsd hands down. I appreciate it is 10grams more but it's by no means a heavy weight, the nib gives some fantastic line variation and the vac filler is far easier to clean than the over priced, over hyped, precious resin (plastic) MB.
@HemingwayJones
3 ай бұрын
I love the MB and it is an extraordinary, but HS has a lot going for it. If only they’d sort out their QC. That is their Achilles Heal. Thanks very much for watching.
@richardsimms251
Жыл бұрын
I am on the edge of my seat ! Great video RS. Canada
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Thank you!
@peterpuleo2904
Жыл бұрын
The safe course is to own both of these magnificent pens, as you do. I, alas, own neither.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Truly! Great plan.
@manaiki4388
Жыл бұрын
The Namiki Emperor nib is bigger than the 149 and according to some reviews it is lovely to write with and is really an amazing pen even though it is really expensive.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
It sounds amazing. I tap out at around $1,000 personally. I hear great things though.
@soutrikband
6 ай бұрын
I don't think I can ever afford these two. However, I am in love with Visconti Homo Sapiens ! This is my grail pen !
@HemingwayJones
6 ай бұрын
It is a wonderful pen! Thanks!
@cindyliu1828
Жыл бұрын
Thanks for the introduction of these two fantastic pens! I am a fan of fountain pen now!
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Thank you, Cindy, for watching. Stop by again soon.
@Shak-MD
Жыл бұрын
Great one HJ. I agree with everything you said save a couple of points. 1. I have replaced the barrel of one of my 149s myself. Not sure if Visconti parts are as readily available. 2. The filling mechanism on Visconti is just as bad....cleaning them takes forever. I would not consider it superior. Again, One can easily replace the piston on 149. Though one can argue either way. BTW, I never had a shadow of a doubt which you would pick 😀 I would also pick 149.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Hello My Friend! I think we are of like mind on many things. I should probably have added some extra detail to my points but it was getting going as it was. When I said that Visconti had a superior filling mechanism, I meant in regards to materials since it is titanium. I was thinking of longevity. Both are monsters to clean. On the barrel, supposedly, one should not ever have to replace a barrel since it is indestructible but I have not tested this! So, that’s where I was coming from. I agree with everything you say above. There was a bit more color there that could have been included. Always a pleasure!
@Shak-MD
Жыл бұрын
@Hemingway Jones Of course, I am marginally biased judging by how many 149s and 146s I have hoarded....😀 ... I loved the production quality of your video, as usual.
@ironmic9244
Жыл бұрын
While I would rarely disagree with you SHAK-MD, I will agree both are a pain to clean, and I mean a real pain to clean. The thing the HS has over the 149 for cleaning, is you can unscrew the nib unit, which helps to flush it out. I don't have the tools for the 149 to do that.
@Wolverine3660
Жыл бұрын
Again, HJ, you have produced a wonderful video. I must say that I am a bit biased, in that I absolutely love the MB 149 pen. And right now, I have 5 of them!!!! Had a Visconti HS pen, but, I didnt quite like it, so I sold it to a friend who seemed to love the Visconti. But, MB 149 is still my absolute favourite pen.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Hello My Friend. We share a love for that pen as well.
@amyalphabet722
Жыл бұрын
Over here just watching this amazing video again. I think I have made a big decision. I am going to wait until my next trip to Italy and get my Visconti there. With the VAT it may end up being more expensive, but a purchase in Italy will only add to its personal value to me and sentimentality. I now find myself looking at the Montblanc because despite my small hands, I much prefer bigger pens. Thanks again for this video, Hemingway!
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Thanks Amy! Thanks for watching!
@JMaxwell1000
5 ай бұрын
I was most impressed with the beautiful B&W map of Rome you were using as an underlay. Great review! Personally, I'd definitely prefer the Visconti.
@HemingwayJones
5 ай бұрын
Thank you! That is an excellent pen!
@fossilimprint2954
Жыл бұрын
Your method of comparison makes a lot of sense. At the end I was hanging in suspense wondering which of the pens you would choose. Thank you for actually picking one. Thank you for an enjoyable video.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Thank you, My Friend! I am so glad that you enjoyed it. This was fun to make.
@justiceforall1288
6 ай бұрын
Montblanc for sure.
@rockfitclub
Жыл бұрын
That was my question that which one is better 👏 Thank you
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Hello There, My Friend! Visconti I think is a better pen, but I prefer the MB. It just has a quality. Also, the Visconti being so heavy is a huge Achille’s Heel. Something to consider. If you have more specific questions, please let me know. I am happy to help.
@frankmarek9921
Жыл бұрын
Both are wonderful pen your very lucky to have someone bought you two beautiful pens ,yr last video was great.frank in Oswego I'll.nice 18kt nibs
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Thank you, Frank! Wishing you all the best.
@frankmarek9921
Жыл бұрын
@@HemingwayJones you to
@joeymaximus8146
Жыл бұрын
I really enjoyed this video. I would take the Visconti, hands down, without an ounce of regret. There are a great many pens out there that can get really close to the feeling of the 149, but to date: I've encountered nothing like the homo sapiens. What a dull and colorless world it would be if we all agreed on everything though. I really appreciate the love you have for your 149. All the best from the Midwest!
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Thanks so much for the great comment! And the kind words. You make excellent points. That Visconti is a wholly original piece of work with many amazing features. I completely get it. Wish you all the best and thanks for watching.
@joseuribe430
4 ай бұрын
the Montblanc 149!!
@TeensierPython
3 ай бұрын
I prefer the visconti. Mostly because I have one. Never thought paying Mont Blanc money for a plastic pen was worth it.
@HemingwayJones
3 ай бұрын
I think we all have our comfort pens. The VS is a mighty pen and an excellent choice.
@haroldmarenger3435
5 ай бұрын
I have both pens and I like them both for various reasons. Both hold a lot of ink, which is important to me. Both are comfortable in hand. The clip on my MB149 clips to my pocket more securely than the VHS-the clip on the VHS is somewhat smooth and tends to slide off my shirt pocket. I do not post either pen when writing with them. And for me, filling from an ink bottle, the MB149 is easier to get a complete fill over the VHS. I feel that the piston filling system may be a little more reliable over time, whereas the VHS’s seals may need to be replaced sooner than the MB’s-this is just speculation on my part, both of my pens are filling as they did when they were purchased (a very small dab of silicone grease on my MB every 4 years seems to do the trick-I’m not sure how I would do this for my VHS). My MB is smoother writing, where the VHS experiences a lot of hard starts, and seems to run out ink faster (probably because I can’t seem to get a full fill). The MB has an ink window (a big plus), and the VHS does not-you could move up to the Crystal Dream, but then you are now in the MB price range. The VHS’s lava-resin material resists scratching, where the MB will not resist scratching. And the VHS is not as recognizable to most, as compared to the MB149, and is less conspicuous. My VHS has the, 23kt Palaidium nib, which is always going out of adjustment and my MB writes first time, every time. So for the writing experience I’d say the MB is better, and for durability, I’d have to give it to the VHS. Both pens have their strengths/uses. Right now, my MB edges out the VHS, but if I can get the VHS’s Palladium nib swapped out with an 18 kt gold extra fine nib, I would say the VHS might just edge out the MB slightly, but so far the MB works the best between the two.
@HemingwayJones
5 ай бұрын
This is a great analysis! Thanks for watching!
@cmcmc7647
10 ай бұрын
Just have bought a Visconti ! And going to buy a Montblanc in June 2024, Thanks for the video, helped a lot
@HemingwayJones
10 ай бұрын
Wonderful! It is an excellent pen. Well done and enjoy. It's good to space these things out. It gives you time to enjoy them.
@cmcmc7647
10 ай бұрын
Oh thanks ! And btw, I also watched your Lamy 2000 video, very interesting ! It’s been my everyday FP for many years, but maybe it will change with the Visconti ! I also recently bought the Leonardo Momento Zero and the Nahvalur Schuylkill Asfur Bronze, did you have time to check them out?
@cktommy
Жыл бұрын
I got both but the Visconti nib was horrible on the paper had to get it retune and the montblanc wrote nice out of the box. Prices wise the Visconti is a few hundred cheaper. Forgot to say Sailor king of pen is also a great contender.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Hello Kahold! The nib is everything! I need to get a KOP soon. All the best.
@sajjadhusain4146
Жыл бұрын
The KoP is really the King of them all! 🙂
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
@@sajjadhusain4146 I need to try it!
@vicentegregorio6476
7 ай бұрын
I don’t own a Visconti, but I have had a 149 since the early 80’s, never serviced and it works perfectly. You have inspired me to buy a Visconti Homo and to join your channel. See you in KZitem also. Thanks.
@chuckkolb1270
11 күн бұрын
Humans function with emotions and that is the crux of the matter. I understand your choice but as I had the Mont Blanc at one time I no longer do. It's a long story but methinks I shall go with the Visconti HSBA not just for the value but we so enjoyed our trip to Sicily that the idea of having a piece of it in a fountain pen plays on my heart strings to loudly to ignore. Twas an entertaining, informative video. I did hang on to the small, burgundy. Mozart fountain pen. It does flow beautifully. Alas, I do not carry it in a pocket as I fear I should lose it. P.S. viewing some of your videos reveals that you are a snappy dresser. Thanks.
@Luuka11
5 ай бұрын
I was 200% certain you'd keep Montblanc 😀😃😉
@HemingwayJones
5 ай бұрын
Exactly!
@deniseplasse5126
7 ай бұрын
❤ great review!!! I picked the Homo sapiens over the MB 149…. But only because it came to me on the second hand market or a great deal. I am currently saving for my MB 149 ❤🎉❤🎉
@HemingwayJones
7 ай бұрын
It’s a fantastic pen. There really is no wrong choice here.
@tce4159
Жыл бұрын
The largest nib I have ever written with is a Namiki Emperor Urushi Lacquer Vermilion No.50 nib Fountain Pen . My friend just got one this last year when we visited Atlas Stationary’s in Chicago it’s her grail pen… My grail pen is a David Oscarson Alexander Fleming ( gray) fountain pen… I ended up having it alternate it just a bit ( I put a small diamond in the clip ) David saw it after it was done and he was fine with it , actually he liked it. ( thank goodness) I have both the Visconti and Montblanc, I’m with you. I would keep the Montblanc but I love them both. Enjoyed the way you weighed the two pens out, negatives and positives ,that was great ! Thank you 😊
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
That nib sounds comically huge. I must try it! I am so glad that she got it from Brendan. Atlas is the best. Your grail pen sounds amazing! Send me a photo sometime. I’d love to see it. Awesome! I am so glad that you enjoyed the video. I had so much fun making this one. Thanks so much.
@MrAndrew1953
Жыл бұрын
I love the matte finish of the Visconti plus the gold/brass rings. I prefer a pen with a bit of heft.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
It is beautifully crafted and has an amazing texture and finish. Thanks so much for watching and stop by again soon.
@jamesjacocks6221
Жыл бұрын
No doubt in this camp, MB. Writing experience is most important. There’s nothing like a big, light pen with a proper nib.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Agreed! Thanks!
@ironmic9244
Жыл бұрын
Anyone familiar with your videos knows which pen you'd pick. To me, I feel like the 149 is an old friend to you. It also occurs to me that over time (and with the use you mentioned previously) the 149 nib has customized to your writing, like a well worn, well crafted dress shoe, which leads to a better writing experience. At this point, if I were you, I would not let anyone use or try your 149. For sentimental reason I think of my 149 like no other, yet I am blown away every time I pick up my HS, that the pen is made from lava, that the pen is millions of years old, and the feel of the pen is just unlike any other. Your point that you are literally getting a piece of Italy was marvelous. It's a good line, that Visconti could do well using. You know how Italians love evoke that Italian in them. Visconti used to make two-tone nibs for the HS when they were using 23k palladium nibs on their finer pens. Those nibs were a bit softer and so smooooth. It very well could have swayed your decision on the writing experience, because when the nib was working well they were just fantastic writers. Your 149 might have received no points with the older nib. Nonetheless, fantastic video, and see you next week in the MB class.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Thanks so much for the kind comments! I’m glad you like the Visconti line. It’s a great pen When everything is said and done, I am very glad that I get to keep both! Thanks son much for all the great insight.
@mrjessetaylo
Жыл бұрын
Love all your videos but this one is my favorite! I loved the side by side comparisons and I hope we can look forward to more videos like these in the future!
@mrjessetaylo
Жыл бұрын
P.s. saw the twist ending coming a mile off!
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
@@mrjessetaylo I am that obvious!
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Thanks so much! I will do stuff like this again soon. I try to mix it up. Thanks so much for watching. I am so happy you liked this one.
@richardzak2140
Жыл бұрын
Hello HJ. Another interesting video. I have neither pen but I do inspire to get a Montblanc. However, after watching this video, the Visconti has me intrigued. You have placed me in a peculiar position my friend and have opened my eyes to another dream. Time will tell of my choice.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Thank you, Richard! I appreciate it very much. I will be doing more material on both. Maybe it will help you decide.
@Alliejay-C
Жыл бұрын
Love the video! I agree… the writing experience is paramount.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Thank you Alliejay! Always a pleasure!
@LaddGardner4
Жыл бұрын
I love this so much. Fantastic. So's the sweater. :)
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Thanks so much! I appreciate that. I try to keep the style interesting as well! Always a pleasure.
@mellow-jello
8 ай бұрын
In 2024, the MB 149 is priced by the Visconti HS, which elevates the HS as pen of choice. MB is definitely gouging customers for what you are getting.
@HemingwayJones
8 ай бұрын
They are both wonderful pens that write amazingly well. There is always second hand for either. I just picked up a MB for a song. Cleaned up the barrel with some Poly Watch, shined up the gold with Cape Cod cloths, flossed the nib and it looks brand new. Thanks for the comment and stop by again soon.
@vishalachari2281
Жыл бұрын
Just got the Visconti HS Bronze Age today and must say it's an amazing pen. Also have MB146 which in itself is a legend.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Congratulations! That is an excellent pen!
@shane6242
Жыл бұрын
Enjoyed the video, tough comparison! I guess I fall on the side of Montblanc as well, the 149 is the perfect size and weight.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
I’m with you, My Friend! I just finished your letter by the way.
@shane6242
Жыл бұрын
@@HemingwayJones looking forward to it!
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
@@shane6242 Thanks Man!
@mattswanson79
Күн бұрын
HJ! My grail Bronze Age arrives tomorrow! Your videos have helped guide me so much, thank you!
@HemingwayJones
Күн бұрын
My pleasure! Congratulations!
@PeterTheVoyager
Жыл бұрын
Great comparison and I do agree they are both nice pens. I own a HS bronze age and a Montblanc brothers Grimm edition and I love them with different reasons. I'd also like to point out that Montblanc did quite a decent job with their piston filler compared to Montegrappa who tags a higher price IMO. My Extra Otto takes a whole eternity to screw the piston through its way, and that makes it a "happy to write, torture to clean" champion in my fountain pen collection. BTW I titled my HS the "loyal companion in the winter" and Montblanc is the "best go-to when gloomy mood strikes"
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
I love that you name your Pens! I’ve. I have only named one, Black Noir for my Matte Black Vanishing Point.
@PeterTheVoyager
Жыл бұрын
@@HemingwayJones I actually own that model ,too! It's my "ninja with low stamina" due to its low ink capacity but quietly merges into any office scenario. Most people just don't realize it's a fountain pen with 18k gold nib, haha
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
@@PeterTheVoyager Great description!
@John-vi4ys
10 ай бұрын
Well, I can’t believe it, but it is 12:00am in the morning as I sit in my room at the Palazzo Hotel in Las Vegas for a work conference and I’m watching KZitem videos on Fountain pens and primarily for the Mont Blanc 149. First for you; AWESOME video, this is the first video of yours I have Seen, and I think it’s one of the best on KZitem, great job! Being Italian and owning other Italian pens, I have wanted the Visconti Homo sapiens Bronze Age for years. BUT; as I was walking through the Grand Canal Shops here at the Palazzo, I went into the Mont Blanc store, watches, bags and lots of pens including special edition Mont Blancscthat were $38,000, no exaggeration, so the $700 to $1,000 price on the 149 seamed reasonable. Even though I have to many cigar shaped black pens from Sailor to Pilot, etc. I am drawn to that classic style. They had 3 sizes of this pen side by side and even though they didn’t have any filled with ink, they let you handle and dry write with them. A bit more feedback than I prefer in my pens, but that could be because it didn’t have ink. I only buy fountain pens with EF nibs and they didn’t have that nib size and said it would be a special order they would have to send to MB and it could take weeks or months to get it. That struck me odd, but yet it made it feel special, in that it just wasn’t mass produced? I will be here for 3 more days, and I’m having a hard time pulling the trigger on the 149. I don’t gamble, so there is that here in Vegas, if I were, you could easily drop that amount in losing. Any more advice or coaxing would help with my decision. And once again, great video, I’ll be watching more. Thx!
@HemingwayJones
10 ай бұрын
Thank you very much for the kind words. I am so glad you enjoyed this. Montblanc pens are usually quite smooth. It’s a shame that they wouldn’t let you dip it. That gives a pretty good sense of it. Nevertheless, all of their nibs are quite smooth and I believe that they have a 30 day nib exchange, if you do not like a particular one. I do not have an EF, except that my 146 Flex writes EF when not flexed, but it’s a different nib. Let me know if you decide to pull the trigger. Waiting is not the worst. Sometimes, it makes it that much more special. Let me know what happens.
@haroldmarenger3435
5 ай бұрын
My Montblanc 149 is an extra fine and it writes very smoothly, with just the right amount of feedback for my style of writing. Also, Montblanc has a nib exchange program, so if you are not satisfied with your nib’s performance, you can have MB swap out the nib for a different nib-that is what I did with mine. When I originally received mine, I did not like the way it performed, so I brought it back to the Montblanc boutique and they sent it back to Montblanc to replace the fine point nib with the extra fine. I’m surprised that the Montblanc store did not have a tester pen kit with different nib sizes. Most Montblanc stores have them to help you select the right nib for your writing style. My Visconti HS Dark Age has an 18 kt gold extra fine that puts out a line width somewhere between my MB extra fine and a fine nib. My Visconti HS Bronze Age has a Palladium Dream touch nib instead of an 18 kt gold nib, which I do not recommend. Of all 3 pens, I still prefer the writing quality of the MB149 (for me). Although, if you want/need something durable, check out the Visconti Homo Sapien Crystal Dream-similar lava/resin body, it holds a lot of ink, has an ink window, 18 kt gold nib, and is durable. Good luck on your hunt!
@karens-j2231
Жыл бұрын
I very much enjoyed this video. I had purchased the Visconti for a very good price and it had been on the top of my wishlist for a very long time, because I love the looks and found the material very intriguing. And then I returned it... I still love the looks and the material is wonderful, but the ridges of the capping mechanism kind of hurt my fingertips, so I had to let it go. I really enjoy the nibs of my Montblanc pens (mostly vintage) and would LOVE to get a 146 because the 149 is too big for my hands which are rather tiny 🙂. But I am still searching for a used one with an OM nib, because I will not pay the price for a new one which is as you said only plastic.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Hello! I can see returning the Visconti for those ridges. They are cut quite deep and are perceptible. If you are investing that much, it should be perfect. As for the MB, the 146 is such a perfect size. It is so perfectly balanced,. Gently used is definitely the way to go. All the best!
@spruceguitar
4 ай бұрын
OK You have me subscribed
@HemingwayJones
4 ай бұрын
Thanks very much. Welcome!
@gizmogeek23
Жыл бұрын
I recently picked a 1979 149 from Antique Digger and it’s something really special. I eventually want to get a Visconti. I wish the clear band ink window would be brought to the normal Homo Sapiens from the crystal dream/Skylight models.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
I love that ink window too. It’s so fun. Your 149 sounds awesome!
@ichirofakename
Жыл бұрын
1. This was both informative and very entertaining, thanks. 2. As neither of these two pens is really in my wheelhouse, my opinion is not worth much. But I find the Montblanc boring and pretentious, and the Visconti unique and fun, so Visconti it is. 3. I do enjoy grail-offs - I would do one between the M1000 and the KoP, but I own neither.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
I owned neither of those pens as well. Great idea though. Thanks so much for watching. Always a pleasure.
@BenJoeMarkland
Жыл бұрын
A few months ago I took a trip through Asia and the USA. I stopped in 5 airports, each had a Montblanc store in them. I took with me a few fountain pens (as always) One of them was a black, two tone nib, Jinhao x159. I went into Montblanc stores in each location from Atlanta, South Korea, Manilla, and more. In each one we tested the Montblanc 149 and compared to the x159. I had the sales people do it, I had my companions do it. Some are very familiar with fountain pens, others had no clue. We did blind tested holding them, writing with them, etc. NO ONE could tell the difference between the two pens until I clearly showed them the actual pens and their labels. (I even posted the x159 with the Montblanc to trick them up). So personally, I just don't think I could ever buy a 149 at full price after a 5 shop, 4 country test with more than a dozen Fountain Pen Sales people and random consumers. I also think there would be value in hearing your feelings taking personal sentiments out. We got a great review but then your emotions made the choice. If there were only two pens to choose from and you had to buy them; which one would you get. Forget which one you had for 20 years or who gave it to you. Just a few random thoughts.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Hi Ben Joe, coming in strong today, My Friend. The MB is lighter and writes better. The Visconti score higher but it is heavier. I also prefer the nib on the 149. All sentiment aside, I always go with the better writing experience. You had much better luck with the x159 than I did and I am happy for you. Both of mine were off. One was complete garbage and the other was OK. I’m surprised no one in your blind test missed the big seam that runs down the center. I am also impressed that the sales people were so accommodating. But then, you are a lovely and charming guy. This is a light hearted exercise and a wonderful framework to show the differences. I stand by it 100%. I’m sorry if it upset you for some reason. Of everyone and anyone, you are one of the last people I would want to upset.
@BenJoeMarkland
Жыл бұрын
@@HemingwayJones what! Me offended! Heck no. Just wanted to discuss. I don’t own either pen and trying muster up the courage to buy one. You are rock solid.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
@@BenJoeMarkland So glad. Tone is hard to get in posts, but I love you, Man. I’d hate to think that something I posted hit you the wrong way. Big Hugs!
@johnmanuel2980
Жыл бұрын
Visconti. I love mine! Great video HJ. My next pen will be the MB.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Thanks Brother! I’m glad yours is sorted.
@FrancoisTHX
Жыл бұрын
4:14 Plenty of them out there throughout the ages.
@archivist17
Жыл бұрын
Interesting comparison, HJ!
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed it.
@peterpuleo2904
Жыл бұрын
I notice that some of the backdrop is from the paintings of Hieronymous Bosch, "The Garden of Earthly Delights", an astounding painting. Well done. Is there some Pieter Bruegel also?
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Yes! All Bosch in this one. Thanks. I have spent long hours with it at the Prado!
@TheCreedBratton
4 ай бұрын
I really want a homosapiens, but money is a thing and quality costs lots of money
@HemingwayJones
4 ай бұрын
Very good point. It is an exceptional pen.
@Knightcommander69
5 ай бұрын
I have both, and I love them both. The Visconti is better imo.
@impish22
Жыл бұрын
thanks again Hemingway
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Thank you!
@davidanderson3425
Жыл бұрын
Hi Hemingway. Well I was counting each round of this contest and I believe you owe the Visconti another point. The score should be 5 - 2. That said, there's no way I'd pick the Homo Sapiens as the winner. Just one look at the 149 writing sample and the MB is a much nicer writer (in my opinion). I would need to get used to the extra girth of the 149 but this would be a small sacrifice for a pen with such a superior nib.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Hello David! Did I really miss a point?!? That doesn’t surprise me. I do lists of top 5 pens and do 7 and no one seems to notice! On the scoring, the Visconti wins, but I pick the MB all day long because it writes better and is light. Another challenge would be the 149 v 146. Less girth matters. Stay well.
@nommh
Жыл бұрын
I happen to not like the look of the upstart Visconti pens I‘ve seen. But that is just taste. However, when it comes to writing experience there should never be a moments hesitation, so I knew you would chose the Montblanc. I would not like the 149 because it is to big for my taste, but I‘m happy to own 3 vintage Montblancs, one was my mothers and she gave it to me when I was still in my teens, the other I inherited from an aunt and the third came to me recently from the estate of an author I was acquainted with. This last one is not a Meisterstueck, but it writes beautifully and I think it may be from the 1950s. The cork piston no longer works properly so I‘ll have to have it serviced. That will be so worthwhile, because the nib is bouncy.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Those sound like amazing pens! Thanks so much for watching!
@donaldgoerig6171
Жыл бұрын
Visconti HS all the way for me too!
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
You have chosen... Wisely!
@oldladywcamera
Жыл бұрын
Love the tulips!
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Isn’t that place lovely! Thanks.
@patrickblindeman5847
Жыл бұрын
Wow a thriller with a happy ending... phew, I got cold sweats :)
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Haha! Glad you liked this! It was super fun to make.
@tsherbs1309
Жыл бұрын
I liked this concise comparison. Thank you for it. I've never even touched either of these two pens, so I can't add anything from my experience. But I did learn some things from your video. I want to hold that repurposed lava more than I want to hold the MB plastic....
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Hello T Sherbs! Thank you for the kind words. I am glad that you enjoyed it. The Lava is an interesting experience. It is an impressive and interesting pen;. Stop by again soon.
@sajjadhusain4146
Жыл бұрын
The material and finish on the Visconti pen is, as I hinted at earlier, one of few big reasons why I prefer it to the MB 149.
@davidparrishproductions5082
9 ай бұрын
I’m strangely relieved you would choose the MB because my obsession with the HS is becoming unhealthy! You cooled my jets a little here !
@HemingwayJones
9 ай бұрын
Haha! Nice! I still would. Although I am using the HS right this very moment and it is pretty wonderful. Pace yourself and savor the longing and then the owning, is my best advice. Thanks for watching.
@13noman1
Жыл бұрын
Well, that was a fun contest. Despite the scoring, I was pretty sure you were going to go with the MB. I finally broke down and bought a 146 a couple of years ago out of some curiosity -- and only because it was at a rather good price. I will admit that it was better than I expected but personally, I feel what your paying for in MBs...is their rather proficient marketing systems. So, to each his or her own but in my book I'd go for Visconti (yup, have one and predates my MB).
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Thanks so much! I am very glad that you enjoyed it. Enjoy that wonderful pen.
@joemarcotrigiano5872
Жыл бұрын
Both pens are great. However, my 149 is always inked while my Visconti HS Bronze Age isn’t. The balance and performance of the 149 are just better, at least for me.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Hello Joe! I agree completely. Both great, but MB has the edge!
@joemarcotrigiano5872
Жыл бұрын
Yes it a better pen. Also, it’s a classic. The 149 has been produced since the 1950’s with some modifications along the way. There aren’t many other pens that have been continuously made for 70 years!
@masoodkhan427
4 ай бұрын
Lovely vlog…sir where is the sweater from
@HemingwayJones
4 ай бұрын
Thank you very much! It’s from LL Bean, thanks!
@gihanzohdy3284
3 ай бұрын
Hemingway I'm now in Geneva, standing outside the Montblanc flagship store and gazing at the proudly perched 149 with its gorgeous two toned broad nib. I'm tempted to get one.
@HemingwayJones
3 ай бұрын
Go for it! What an experience and memory!
@gihanzohdy3284
3 ай бұрын
@@HemingwayJones Thanks!!
@aryanambastha4050
3 ай бұрын
Would you say that the writing feel of the nib of the 149 is the same as a 145 Classique, Or is there a difference?
@HemingwayJones
3 ай бұрын
The feel, less aesthetics, are very similar to each other. There is something dazzling about the size of the 149, but the feel is very similar to me.
@aladdin91056
Жыл бұрын
Lack of an ink window is an issue on the Visconti
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
It is. It’s certainly a difference.
@Avocado818
Жыл бұрын
Pilot custom urushi has a noticeably larger and better nib, so did the pilot Namiki emperor which uses the largest nib
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Excellent choices!
@ginopagnani7286
Жыл бұрын
A major surprise HJ, I thought for sure you’d pick the Visconti. I have the 149 and it trio is a classic, but I do hope to get the Homo Sapien sometime soon. My only concern is the iffy QC with the Visconti nibs.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Hello Gino, My Friend! If you get one, get it from Brendan or someone like him that will check the nib for you first. This is what I did. Brendan inspected mine before he shipped it to me. Peace of mind is valuable. I am so glad you enjoyed the video!
@johnmanuel2980
Жыл бұрын
Gino, I had Atlas test my nib before shipping. it has written like a dream. Go ahead and pull the trigger on it. it is worth it.
@spacecat7715
Жыл бұрын
Have you handled a Pilot Custom Urushi? That pen practically dwarfs all other pens, and the nib is quite big. When I saw it in person, I couldn’t believe how big it was. It was like Andre the Giant big. 😄 I wanted it so badly, but I couldn’t afford it. Maybe someday. ❤
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
That sounds awesome! I have never tried one. They are amazing pieces of art though.
@spacecat7715
Жыл бұрын
@@HemingwayJones oh, definitely! 😃
@leicaman
3 ай бұрын
How about 149 vs King of Pen? The ultimate nib face off?
@HemingwayJones
3 ай бұрын
I would love that! But I don't have a KOP!
@asoloma
Жыл бұрын
149 or 146 wins to Visconti to me. Based on the nib alone.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
It is an amazing nib.
@maxbowie6074
Жыл бұрын
You said you can't think of a bigger nib than the 149. Here are 2 for a start....Pelikan M1000 and Namiki Emperor. Both clearly bigger than the 149
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Nice. Thanks.
@mrcat3493
Жыл бұрын
Honestly, Montblanc 149 is a beautiful writer. I love my Visconti, but the MB just feels better, the nib is far superior to the HS as well.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Hello and yes, I agree completely.
@elizabethmolton4086
Жыл бұрын
I just bought the Visconti Crystal Dream. I love the ink window because I change ink colors all the time. I really need to know what color I put in it. Love the Visconti clip modeled after the bridge. I have a Rembrandt and a Van Gogh. Just love the Brand. My husband would go with the Mont Blanc to go with his collection. Both are lovely instruments. Love the tarot cards and maps in the background shots. ❤
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Thank you so much! I am so glad that you like the B Roll shots! I try to make them interesting and pretty. I love both of these brands. Visconti is so rich and interesting. The clip mirroring the graceful curve of the arch beneath Ponte Vecchio is inspired! Thanks so much for the kind words and for watching.
@johnmanuel2980
Жыл бұрын
HJ, I love the breakdown of the two pens; however, the Visconti outscores the MB. That should be acknowledged, lol. Without bias, the Visconti wins hands down.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Hey There, John! Yea, definitely outscored it. This was super fun to do.
@thpeter
Жыл бұрын
Well, fooey. These are two pens were out of my pen lust list because of their ridiculous price points. But now I might have to reconsider both of them!
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Oh no! They are amazing pens in their own rights! Thanks for watching.
@laurensjaarsma766
Жыл бұрын
If i had to chose, but i will never do that, i let the MB go. The reason i keep the Visconti is cause it heavier, which i like, and its way more special. The MB is more a classic with way more pens looking like it. Dont get me wrong, the MB is a masterpiece and simply brilliant, but just not that special as the HS is.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
That is a sound argument. All the best.
@chrisb012
Жыл бұрын
I’ve got the HS Dark Age and a 146. Love them both, and really find it hard to choose between them. Though the weight of the Visconti does tell after a day of constant writing. But there are worse problems to have! 😊
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
I agree completely! It is a heavy pen yet magical!
@sathishrao7926
Жыл бұрын
It’s easier to decide between these two than deciding whether to shell out $1K on one such ultra premium pen !
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Thanks and all the best.
@gregchristopher1961
Жыл бұрын
Damn! Now i must have both. I am sure that one day my bankruptcy trustee will want to have a word with you.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Oh no! 😂 Sorry Greg!
@cyclonevmc
Жыл бұрын
I would prefer if the Homo sapiens had a piston filler it is more reliable
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Is it? I haven’t heard of issues with the power filler. Have you? What happens?
@cyclonevmc
9 ай бұрын
poor capacity and overly complicated
@jwdyss
7 ай бұрын
imho.... Montblanc 149 hands down.
@penthevision4706
Жыл бұрын
Great video. Really enjoyed it. Thanks for sharing. I have neither pen but I too would choose the Mont Blanc 149. Did you say it was made of resin?
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Yes, it is resin. Thanks so much!
@jeremiemiller9165
Жыл бұрын
Great video, thank you. Never having used or touched either of these pens I am drawn to the Visconti as for me it is visually more interesting. Question: is your writing grip unique or is there a “name” for it that I could read about? I use a classic child of the 70s/80s educated pinch grip but the way you hold these pens looks comfortable.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Hello Jeremie! It is definitely more interesting than the 149. it has a lot going on. It is a marvel and slightly mad. I love it.
@illustratedjournal
Жыл бұрын
If you want to sell your Homo Sapiens I'm interested! I have a 1911 Sailor Realo, which is a beautiful 21k gold nib writer, so I don't need an MB. It posts (or not), it has a viewing window below the cap (this is a big deal), it's a piston fill and holds 1ml of ink, so I never have to mess with a converter. As an aside, it has a bit of flex too! But, and this is a big but, I want to write with, I need to write with a Homo Sapiens. I need a Homo Sapiens! Oh how I need a Homo Sapiens. (Beautiful review)
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Thanks Dave! I am glad that you enjoyed the video. That Sailor sounds awesome.
@pedrorodrigues2566
Жыл бұрын
Hi, great video (again!). Quick question: which tarot deck are you displaying in the background in some of the shots?
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Thank you very much! The Hieronymus Bosch deck of the Smyth Waite Gold? I need to watch it again.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
Looks like the Bosch. I do have some B Roll of the MB on the SW gigantic and Gold that I use often. Thanks!
@danielmccann4055
4 ай бұрын
Does anyone know which Tarot card deck(s) are featured here?
@HemingwayJones
4 ай бұрын
I do. It’s the Hieronymus Bosch deck. It has a Bestiary that goes with it. Let me know if you need more information.
@danielmccann4055
4 ай бұрын
@@HemingwayJones Thank you.
@Wolverine3660
Жыл бұрын
HJ- The Namiki Emperor fountain pen sports a nib that is much bigger than the nib on the MB 149 pen.
@HemingwayJones
Жыл бұрын
That must be comical. The 149 is on the edge of practicality. I’ll try to find one. Thanks!
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