Kaweco STUDENT 70’s Soul
Conklin Duragraph Fountain Pen
When it comes to choosing a fountain pen that blends style, performance, and heritage, two names stand out in the mid-range market: Kaweco and Conklin. The Kaweco STUDENT 70’s Soul Fountain Pen and the Conklin Duragraph Fountain Pen Abalone Nights each offer distinct personalities—one rooted in retro European charm, the other in American luxury with a modern twist. Whether you’re a daily journaler, a student, a professional, or a collector, picking the right pen can elevate your writing experience from mundane to magical.
This head-to-head comparison dives deep into design, build quality, writing performance, value, and user experience. We’ll explore what makes each pen unique, how they stack up against one another, and—most importantly—which one might be the perfect fit for you. By the end, you’ll have all the insights needed to make an informed decision, backed by real customer feedback and expert analysis. Plus, we’ll answer common questions and offer clear recommendations based on different use cases.
In-Depth Look: Kaweco STUDENT 70’s Soul
The Kaweco STUDENT 70’s Soul is a love letter to mid-century design, wrapped in modern engineering. Inspired by the vibrant aesthetics of the 1970s, this pen features a warm cream-and-orange acrylic body that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Unlike Kaweco’s more minimalist models like the Liliput or Sport series, the Student line embraces a fuller, more ergonomic shape—making it comfortable for long writing sessions.
One of its standout features is the German-made nib, available in five sizes (EF, F, M, B, and BB), all crafted to deliver a smooth, consistent flow. Whether you’re signing documents or journaling your thoughts, the nib glides effortlessly across paper. The pen’s compact size—13 cm closed, 16 cm posted—makes it highly portable, fitting snugly in pockets or small notebooks. And because it’s made from high-quality, animal-testing-free acrylic, it appeals to eco-conscious writers.
However, there’s a catch: the Kaweco STUDENT 70’s Soul only supports standard international cartridges, and a converter isn’t included. That means if you prefer bottled ink (which offers more color choices and cost savings), you’ll need to buy a separate converter—adding around $10–$15 to your total cost. Some users also note that while the pen writes beautifully, the plastic feel, though durable, lacks the heft of metal-bodied pens.
Customer reviews highlight its visual appeal and writing smoothness. One buyer raved, “I’ve wanted a Kaweco because so many people rave about how smoothly they write… Enter the Kaweco Student Fountain Pen. I got the one that’s cream-and-orange—called ’70s Soul’. It’s a much more classic shape… The body is a lovely cream, with gold accents that make it feel luxurious.” Another mentioned, “This pen is so beautiful! The weight is nice in the hand. Writes really well.”
Best for: Students, daily journalers, retro design enthusiasts, and anyone who values German craftsmanship and vegan-friendly materials. If you’re looking for a reliable, stylish everyday writer under $60, this is a strong contender. For more on Kaweco’s compact designs, check out our review of the Kaweco Liliput Fireblue.
In-Depth Look: Conklin Duragraph Fountain Pen
Step into the world of American elegance with the Conklin Duragraph Fountain Pen in Abalone Nights. This pen channels the spirit of Conklin’s historic Duragraph line from the early 20th century, reimagined with contemporary flair. The star of the show is its shimmering abalone resin body—each pen boasts unique swirls of blue, purple, and silver, making no two exactly alike.
Underneath that dazzling exterior lies a JoWo Germany-made steel nib (Fine size standard), known for its precision and reliability. Unlike some budget pens that require break-in periods, many users report that this nib writes smoothly right out of the box. It lays down a wet, consistent line ideal for detailed note-taking or professional correspondence. Plus, it comes with a converter included, so you can immediately start using bottled ink—a big plus for customization and long-term savings.
The pen measures 14 cm closed and 15.5 cm posted, striking a balance between portability and comfort. It’s slightly heavier than the Kaweco, giving it a more substantial feel without being cumbersome. Packaging is another win: it arrives in a handsome stitched faux leather box, making it an excellent gift choice for graduations, promotions, or holidays.
That said, not all experiences are flawless. One reviewer noted that their Fine nib felt “dry and scratchy” initially, but Conklin’s customer service promptly sent a free Medium nib replacement—no questions asked. This level of support speaks volumes about the brand’s commitment to satisfaction. Another user praised the finish: “Great pen, great finish and lovely nib. Super and thank you so much for the product!”
Best for: Professionals, gift-givers, collectors, and anyone who appreciates bold, eye-catching design. If you want a pen that doubles as a conversation starter, the Conklin Duragraph Fountain Pen delivers. For fans of iridescent materials, our review of the Lachieva Lux Abalone Shell Fountain Pen offers another stunning option.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Writing Performance
Both pens excel in smoothness, but with different personalities. The Kaweco STUDENT 70’s Soul offers customizable nib sizes, letting you tailor the experience to your handwriting style. Its German nibs are renowned for consistency. The Conklin Duragraph Fountain Pen’s Fine nib is precise and wet, great for detail work, though some may prefer a broader stroke. If you write heavily or prefer bolder lines, Kaweco’s Medium or Broad might edge ahead—but Conklin’s responsive nib and included converter give it flexibility.
Design & Aesthetics
Here, taste reigns supreme. The Kaweco channels retro minimalism with its creamy orange hue and gold accents—subtle yet stylish. The Conklin is unapologetically bold, with its abalone shell finish catching light like a gemstone. If you want understated class, go Kaweco. If you crave drama and uniqueness, Conklin wins.
Value & Practicality
The Kaweco is slightly cheaper and vegan-friendly, but requires an extra purchase for bottled ink. The Conklin includes a converter and luxury packaging, offering better immediate value—especially as a gift. Both are durable, but the Conklin’s resin feels more premium, while the Kaweco’s acrylic is lightweight and resilient.
Brand Heritage
Kaweco has been crafting pens in Nuremberg since 1883, synonymous with German precision. Conklin, founded in 1898, carries American innovation legacy—pioneering the crescent filler and now reviving classic designs. Both brands inspire confidence, but Kaweco leans functional, Conklin leans luxurious.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which pen is better for everyday writing?
A: The Kaweco STUDENT 70’s Soul edges out for daily use due to its lighter weight, ergonomic shape, and multiple nib options. It’s ideal for students and frequent writers. Check it on Amazon.
Q: Can I use bottled ink with both pens?
A: Yes—but only the Conklin Duragraph Fountain Pen includes a converter. With the Kaweco, you’ll need to buy one separately. See Conklin’s included converter.
Q: Is the Conklin pen really unique in appearance?
A: Absolutely! Each Conklin Duragraph Fountain Pen has a one-of-a-kind abalone pattern—no two are identical. It’s a wearable piece of art.
Q: Are these pens suitable as gifts?
A: The Conklin comes in luxury packaging and makes an impressive gift. The Kaweco is better for personal use or casual gifting. For more gift ideas, see our Best Pen for Teacher Gift guide.
Q: How do the nibs compare in smoothness?
A: Both use high-quality German nibs. Kaweco offers more size variety; Conklin’s Fine nib is smooth but may feel dry to some. Many users upgrade to Medium for a wetter flow.
Q: Which brand has better customer service?
A: Conklin’s free nib replacement policy stands out. Kaweco is reliable but less flexible with nib swaps. Both honor warranties, but Conklin goes the extra mile.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
If you prioritize functionality, affordability, and retro charm, the Kaweco STUDENT 70’s Soul is your match. It’s perfect for daily writing, students, and eco-conscious users who appreciate German engineering. Just remember to budget for a converter if you plan to use bottled ink.
On the other hand, if you crave luxury, visual impact, and gift-ready presentation, the Conklin Duragraph Fountain Pen shines. Its abalone finish, included converter, and responsive nib make it ideal for professionals, collectors, and anyone who wants their pen to stand out.
Ultimately, both are excellent choices—but they serve different souls. For a deeper dive into premium writing instruments, explore our Best Fountain Pens Under $200 guide.
Ready to write your next chapter?
Get the Kaweco STUDENT 70’s Soul
Get the Conklin Duragraph Fountain Pen