Opus 88 Shell Fountain Pen Check

To fountain pen geeks, the words "Made in Taiwan" are coming to mean "Expect something special and unusual". And fountain pen geeks like unusual. Opus 88 have been manufacturing on behalf of other companies since 1988, but now they're designing and making their own pens, aiming them quite firmly at those of us who love fountain pens, and want something a bit different.

The Opus Shell is a really beautiful pen. Its barrel includes material from abalone shells, so it has a naturally pearlescent finish which lends a degree of depth as well as slight colour variations. The matt black grip area and screw-on cap set off the pearlescence nicely, as does the polished silver-coloured trim and pocket clip.

Unlike other Opus 88 fountain pens, the Shell can be filled using standard pattern ink cartridges or bottled ink using the supplied converter, which gives a great range of choice when it comes to ink types and colours. Also, the cap can be screwed onto the end of the pen when posting

Fitted with a steel nib in a range of sizes. Dimensions: 139mm capped, 125mm open, 165 posted. Weighs 43g. Supplied in a gift box.