Pelikan

Decades of experience, specially trained employees, and the utmost care at every stage of the production process ensures that each nib is a master piece. About ten different steps are necessary to create a functioning nib out of a sheet of gold. Depending on the model, the nibs are crafted from 14 or 18 carat gold. In addition, they are sometimes rhodinized to create a silver sheen. The decoration on the nib is typical for every model. In the case of Limited Editions, it is adapted to each theme. The nib is the heart of the Pelikan fountain pen. It is cut from a 14 or 18 carat gold sheet and subsequently punched, formed and stamped into its classic quill-shaped appearance. The tip of the nib is made of iridium, a refined metal of the platinum group. It is welded to the front part of the gold nib and subsequently form-grinded, slotted and polished. The quality is constantly checked. The nibs are subjected to numerous mechanical, manual and optical tests at each stage of production. The nibs are rotated in a water tank for 24 hours where they are polished by thousands of small porcelain particles. This process eliminates any rough seams which may be left. A final polish is then given to the nibs with minute copper balls. After more than 30 high-precision operations, the gold nibs are eventually ready for use. Here is a traditional quality product bearing the unique features of its trade mark. As a last step, every nib is tested by hand. All Pelikan fountain pens have a special insert inside the cap that ensures an airtight fit and thus the immediate flow of ink, even after a longer period of rest. The perfect ink flow depends largely on the ink feeder which incorporates the decades of experience. It sits beneath the nib and works with capillary forces, therefore the exact distance between every lamella is of essential importance.