Kaweco STUDENT 70’s Soul
Faber
When it comes to choosing a fountain pen that blends style, craftsmanship, and everyday usability, two standout options often rise to the top of the conversation: the Kaweco STUDENT 70’s Soul Fountain Pen and the Faber-Castell e-motion Fountain Pen. Both are celebrated for their unique designs and reliable performance, but they cater to slightly different tastes and writing preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned fountain pen enthusiast or just beginning your journey into analog writing, this faceoff will help you decide which pen deserves a spot in your collection.
The Kaweco STUDENT 70’s Soul brings retro charm into the modern age with its vibrant cream-and-orange “70s Soul” colorway, German-made nibs, and compact yet comfortable form. On the other hand, the Faber leans into understated elegance with its rich pearwood barrel, polished chrome accents, and a bold, cigar-shaped silhouette that feels substantial in the hand. Both pens come from brands with deep heritage—Kaweco since 1883 and Faber-Castell since 1761—so you’re not just buying a writing instrument, you’re investing in centuries of craftsmanship.
In this detailed comparison, we’ll break down everything from design and build quality to writing experience, value for money, and real user feedback. By the end, you’ll have a clear sense of which pen aligns best with your lifestyle, whether you prioritize portability and playful aesthetics or timeless sophistication and tactile warmth. Let’s dive in.
In-Depth Look: Kaweco STUDENT 70’s Soul
The Kaweco STUDENT 70’s Soul is more than just a fountain pen—it’s a statement piece with serious writing chops. Inspired by mid-century design but built for modern use, this pen wraps high-quality German engineering in a bold, nostalgic shell. The cream-and-orange “70’s Soul” colorway is instantly recognizable, evoking sunsets and vinyl records while still feeling fresh and contemporary.
One of its standout features is the curved acrylic body, which not only looks striking but also provides a comfortable grip during long writing sessions. Unlike some slim pens that fatigue the hand, the Kaweco STUDENT 70’s Soul strikes a sweet spot between compact and ergonomic. When capped, it measures just 13 cm—perfect for slipping into a pocket or notebook sleeve—but when posted (yes, the cap screws securely onto the back), it extends to a full 16 cm, balancing perfectly for extended use.
Kaweco offers this model in five nib sizes, from Extra Fine to Broad, all crafted in Germany and known for their smooth, consistent ink flow. Whether you’re journaling, note-taking, or signing documents, there’s a nib to match your style. However, it’s worth noting that the pen uses standard international cartridges, and while it’s compatible with converters, one isn’t included—something several customers mentioned as a minor oversight.
Build quality is excellent, with gold-tone accents (nib, clip, band, and top jewel) adding a touch of luxury without feeling flashy. And because Kaweco has been hand-assembling pens in Nuremberg since 1883, you’re getting a product steeped in tradition and precision.
Pros:
– Vibrant, eye-catching design
– Comfortable for both short and long writing sessions
– Five German-made nib options
– Lightweight and portable
– Vegan, animal-testing-free ink available
Cons:
– Converter not included (requires separate purchase)
– Acrylic body may show scratches over time
– Limited to cartridge use unless you buy a converter
Customer Reviews Spotlight:
> “I’ve wanted a Kaweco because so many people rave about how smoothly they write, but my overall impression of their pens is that they aren’t very attractive. While I view all my fountain pens as tools, ultimately I still like to enjoy looking at them. 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, with a gold-colored nib, section, cap band, clip, and Kaweco logo jewel on top of the cap. The body is a lovely cream, with…”
> “This pen is so beautiful! The weight is nice in the hand. Writes really well. It was delivered earlier than expected so that was nice. The only thing I’m a little frustrated with is that the product description I saw did not indicate that it came with an empty cartridge nor one with blue ink (could have looked over it), I could have saved $18 on buying a converter.”
Best for: Students, daily journalers, retro design lovers, and anyone who wants a reliable, stylish pen that doesn’t take itself too seriously. If you loved our review of the Kaweco Liliput Kolibri, you’ll appreciate the STUDENT’s blend of heritage and modern flair.
In-Depth Look: Faber
The Faber-Castell e-motion Fountain Pen is a study in refined minimalism. With its chunky, cigar-shaped profile and rich brown pearwood barrel, this pen exudes quiet confidence. It’s not trying to be flashy—it’s built to feel good in your hand and last for decades.
Crafted from sustainably sourced pearwood stained to a deep, warm brown, the barrel offers a natural texture that’s both visually appealing and tactilely satisfying. Unlike plastic or metal, wood warms to the touch and develops a unique patina over time, making each pen feel personal. The cap is made of highly polished chrome with a spring-loaded clip that snaps on and off with a quick twist—no fumbling required. Importantly, the cap is not designed to post, so if you prefer a balanced writing experience without the cap on the back, this pen delivers.
Inside, you’ll find a high-quality stainless steel fine nib that glides across paper with smooth precision. While it only comes in one nib size (Fine), it’s well-tuned for everyday writing, offering just enough feedback without being scratchy. The pen uses a cartridge/converter system, and—unlike the Kaweco—the converter is included right out of the box, so you can start using bottled ink immediately if you prefer.
At around 100–130 grams, the Faber is noticeably heavier than the Kaweco, which some users love for the sense of solidity it provides. Others might find it a bit bulky for quick notes, but for desk writing or formal correspondence, the weight adds to its premium feel.
Faber-Castell’s legacy dates back to 1761, and this pen reflects that heritage with understated elegance. It arrives in a handsome gift box, making it an excellent choice for gifting.
Pros:
– Luxurious pearwood construction
– Included converter for bottled ink flexibility
– Smooth, reliable fine nib
– Sophisticated, professional appearance
– Comes in a gift-ready box
Cons:
– Only available in Fine nib
– Cap does not post (may feel unbalanced for some)
– Higher price point
– Limited color/style options
Customer Reviews Spotlight:
> “Perfection. The extra fine is wonderful. It is not the finest of extra fines I’ve used but this pen is smooth. I am a Faber Castell fan for sure. The pear wood is comfortable for my small hands. I’m sure it would be comfortable for big hands as well. I love the pen and would buy again even though it’s steep for this peasant.”
> “So happy, little heavy but compensate with the wide. Easy write with it. Stylish and modern. The nib design is the same making trustable.”
Best for: Professionals, gift-givers, wood enthusiasts, and anyone who values timeless design over trendy aesthetics. If you’re torn between analog tools, check out our thoughts on pen vs pencil to see where fountain pens fit in your workflow.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Design & Aesthetics
The Kaweco STUDENT 70’s Soul wins points for personality. Its retro color scheme and glossy finish make it stand out in any collection. The Faber, meanwhile, appeals to those who prefer understated luxury—its wood grain and chrome combo feels executive and mature. Choose based on mood: playful energy or quiet sophistication.
Writing Experience
Both pens write smoothly, but they cater to different preferences. The Kaweco offers nib variety, so you can tailor the line width to your needs. The Faber’s single Fine nib is consistent and reliable, ideal for crisp, clean lines. If you write for hours, the Faber’s weight may feel more substantial, while the Kaweco’s lighter build suits quick, frequent use.
Portability & Practicality
Here, the Kaweco shines. Its compact size and cap-posting ability make it ideal for on-the-go writers. The Faber, while elegant, is bulkier and doesn’t post, limiting its pocket-friendliness. However, the Faber includes a converter—a practical advantage for ink enthusiasts.
Value for Money
The Kaweco delivers great performance at a lower price, especially if you don’t mind buying a converter separately. The Faber costs more but includes premium materials (real wood, gift box, converter) that justify the premium for many buyers.
Brand Heritage
Both brands boast impressive legacies. Kaweco’s focus on compact, functional designs contrasts with Faber-Castell’s emphasis on luxury and sustainability. Your choice may come down to which philosophy resonates more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use bottled ink with the Kaweco STUDENT 70’s Soul?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to purchase a compatible converter separately. The pen ships with an empty cartridge, so if you want to use bottled ink right away, consider adding a converter to your cart. Check the Kaweco STUDENT 70’s Soul on Amazon for bundle options.
Q: Is the Faber suitable for left-handed writers?
A: Absolutely. The Fine nib lays down ink smoothly without smudging, and the wood barrel provides a comfortable, non-slip grip. Many lefties report excellent results with this pen.
Q: Does the Kaweco STUDENT 70’s Soul come in other colors?
A: Yes! While the 70’s Soul is a fan favorite, Kaweco offers the Student line in several other finishes, including translucent acrylics and classic solids. Explore more in our related review of the Kaweco Liliput Fireblue.
Q: Is the Faber’s wood durable?
A: Yes. The pearwood is sealed and resistant to everyday wear, though it’s best to avoid prolonged exposure to moisture. Over time, it will develop a beautiful patina unique to your usage.
Q: Which pen makes a better gift?
A: The Faber wins here—it comes in an elegant gift box and feels luxurious from the moment it’s unboxed. The Kaweco is also giftable but better suited for someone who already enjoys fountain pens.
Q: Are replacement nibs available for either pen?
A: Kaweco offers replacement nibs in all sizes, making customization easy. Faber-Castell provides nib replacements, though they may require contacting customer service directly.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
There’s no wrong choice here—only the right one for you.
If you value vibrant design, portability, nib flexibility, and everyday affordability, the Kaweco STUDENT 70’s Soul is your match. It’s perfect for students, creatives, and anyone who wants a pen that’s as fun to look at as it is to write with.
If you prefer timeless elegance, premium materials, and a substantial writing feel, go with the Faber. It’s ideal for professionals, gift-givers, and collectors who appreciate craftsmanship over trends.
Ultimately, both pens honor the art of writing in their own way. Whichever you choose, you’re getting a tool that turns words into something more meaningful—one smooth stroke at a time.