Conklin Duragraph Fountain Pen
Faber
When it comes to choosing a fountain pen that blends style, performance, and heritage, two standout options often come up in conversation: the Conklin Duragraph Fountain Pen Abalone Nights and the Faber-Castell e-motion Fountain Pen, Pure Silver. Both are well-crafted writing instruments with distinct personalities—one leaning into bold, eye-catching design and modern flair, the other embracing understated elegance and German engineering precision. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a professional looking for a reliable daily writer, or someone treating themselves to their first luxury pen, this comparison will help you decide which one fits your hand—and your handwriting—best.
In this detailed head-to-head review, we’ll break down everything from build quality and nib performance to aesthetics, ink compatibility, and real user experiences. You’ll learn how each pen performs in everyday use, who they’re best suited for, and which offers better value for money. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether the shimmering allure of the Conklin Duragraph Fountain Pen or the timeless sophistication of the Faber is the right choice for your writing journey.
In-Depth Look: Conklin Duragraph Fountain Pen
The Conklin Duragraph Fountain Pen is a modern tribute to a classic design, reimagined with contemporary materials and vibrant finishes. At its heart lies a Fine nib crafted by JoWo in Germany, known for its precision and smooth ink flow. While some users report initial dryness—especially with finer nibs—many find that switching to a wetter ink or upgrading to a Medium nib (which Conklin generously offers for free upon request) resolves the issue. The pen writes with a consistent, reliable line that’s ideal for detailed note-taking, journaling, or signing important documents.
One of the standout features is the Abalone Nights finish, a mesmerizing resin blend that shimmers with iridescent blues, purples, and greens. It’s not just beautiful—it’s also durable and resistant to scratches. The pen uses a standard international cartridge/converter system, giving you the freedom to use premium inks from brands like Monteverde, Lamy, or even Montblanc. This flexibility is a huge plus for ink enthusiasts who love experimenting with colors and flow characteristics.
Packaged in a luxury gift box, the Conklin Duragraph makes an excellent present for graduations, promotions, or as a treat for yourself. It’s lightweight enough for long writing sessions, and the cap posts securely, maintaining balance whether capped or uncapped. However, it’s worth noting that the resin body, while stunning, may not feel as premium as metal-bodied pens like the Faber.
Pros:
– Stunning abalone resin finish
– Smooth JoWo German nib (especially in Medium)
– Excellent ink compatibility
– Gift-ready packaging
– Lightweight and comfortable for extended use
Cons:
– Fine nib can feel dry out of the box
– Resin body may feel less substantial than metal
– Limited color options (Abalone Nights is the standout)
Customer Reviews:
> “I bought this pen with a Fine nib originally. It felt dry and scratchy from the get go. I tried some different inks and papers, but nothing helped. I wrote to Yafabrands.com and asked if I could exchange my Fine nib for a Medium. To my delight, they mailed me a Medium replacement nib unit at no charge… It’s easy to unscrew and swap.”
> “Great pen, great finish and lovely nib. Super and thank you so much for the product and best price on the net!”
> “This is an attractive pen… though I’ve read complaints about Conklin nibs, this one wrote well out-of-the-box. It lays down a good, wet line with a nib as smooth as the Lamy Safari or Pilot Metropolitan.”
Best for: Fountain pen newcomers, gift-givers, collectors who appreciate unique finishes, and writers who prefer lighter pens with vibrant style. If you love the look of abalone shell and want a pen that stands out on your desk, this is a strong contender. For more insights on similar finishes, check out our review of the Lachieva Lux Abalone Shell Fountain Pen.
In-Depth Look: Faber
The Faber (short for Faber-Castell e-motion Pure Silver) is a testament to German engineering and minimalist design. Established in 1761, Faber-Castell has built a reputation for quality, sustainability, and timeless aesthetics—and this pen delivers on all fronts. The barrel is made of chrome-plated matte metal with intricate guilloche engraving, giving it a sophisticated, tactile grip that feels both cool and premium in the hand.
Weighing in on the heavier side, the Faber offers a solid, substantial feel that many users love—especially those who prefer a weighted pen for better control. The Medium stainless steel nib writes smoothly with generous ink flow, laying down a bold, consistent line without bleeding or feathering on most papers. Unlike the Conklin, there’s no issue with dryness; it performs reliably right out of the box.
However, the cap does not post securely—it fits loosely on the end, which might annoy users who like to balance their pen while writing. Additionally, the packaging is surprisingly basic: a simple cardboard box with no included ink cartridge, which feels underwhelming given Faber-Castell’s premium reputation. Still, for those who prioritize function over frills, this pen excels.
Pros:
– Exceptional build quality with metal body
– Smooth, wet Medium nib
– Elegant guilloche engraving
– Excellent weight and balance (unposted)
– Trusted brand heritage
Cons:
– Cap doesn’t post securely
– Heavy—may fatigue small hands over time
– Basic packaging with no included cartridge
– Higher price point than some competitors
Customer Reviews:
> “If you like a heavy, solid pen then this is a great choice. It writes well—very smooth with plenty of ink, but not so much that it soaks the paper. The weight and balance without the cap are nice.”
> “A smooth writing pen, well built and attractive, that is very comfortable despite its weight. Good price too. The one disappointment is the package. Cheap cardboard and no ink cartridge.”
> “It is a nice and pretty pencil with elegant and high-quality technology.”
Best for: Professionals, executives, or anyone who values a heavy, durable pen with classic styling. If you’re looking for a reliable daily driver that feels like it could last decades, the Faber is a top pick. For more on premium German-made pens, see our review of the Montblanc Meisterstück.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Writing Performance
Both pens deliver excellent writing experiences, but in different ways. The Conklin Duragraph Fountain Pen starts slightly dry with its Fine nib but becomes buttery smooth with a Medium upgrade or wetter ink. The Faber, with its Medium nib, offers immediate satisfaction—consistent, wet, and reliable from the first stroke. If you hate break-in periods, the Faber wins here.
Design & Aesthetics
The Conklin dazzles with its Abalone Nights finish—a true conversation starter. The Faber opts for understated elegance with its matte silver guilloche, appealing to those who prefer subtlety over flash. It’s a matter of personal taste: bold and colorful vs. refined and minimalist.
Build Quality & Durability
The Faber’s all-metal construction gives it a clear edge in durability and premium feel. The Conklin’s resin body, while attractive, may show wear over time. However, both pens are well-made for their price range.
Comfort & Ergonomics
The Conklin is lighter and easier on the wrist during long writing sessions. The Faber’s weight can be a pro or con—great for control, but potentially tiring. Neither has ergonomic grips, so comfort depends largely on hand size and preference.
Value for Money
Considering features, performance, and brand reputation, both offer strong value. The Conklin includes a converter and luxury packaging, while the Faber delivers superior materials and nib performance—but skimps on accessories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which pen is better for daily writing?
A: It depends on your preference. The Conklin Duragraph Fountain Pen is lighter and great for long notes, while the Faber offers a smoother, wetter line ideal for quick signatures and professional use. Try the Conklin if you write for hours; go for the Faber if you want instant reliability.
Q: Can I use my favorite ink in both pens?
A: Yes! Both use standard international cartridges and converters, so you can safely use inks from Pilot, Lamy, Monteverde, and more. For tips on ink choices, read our guide on the best fountain pen inks for cheap paper.
Q: Is the Conklin’s Fine nib really that bad?
A: Not necessarily. Many users report it’s dry initially but improves with use or a nib swap. Conklin even offers free Medium nib replacements—a rare customer service win.
Q: Does the Faber cap post?
A: No, and it fits loosely if you try. Most users write unposted, which actually improves balance due to the pen’s weight distribution.
Q: Which makes a better gift?
A: The Conklin Duragraph Fountain Pen wins here with its luxury gift box and eye-catching design. The Faber’s plain packaging might disappoint recipients expecting premium presentation.
Q: Are these pens suitable for beginners?
A: Absolutely. Both are beginner-friendly with reliable nibs and easy ink systems. The Conklin’s lighter weight may be more comfortable for new users.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between the Conklin Duragraph Fountain Pen and the Faber ultimately comes down to your priorities. If you value stunning visuals, giftability, and lightweight comfort, the Conklin is your pen. Its abalone finish turns heads, and the included converter and luxury box make it a complete package. Just be prepared to possibly swap the nib for a smoother experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer heft, durability, and out-of-the-box writing perfection, the Faber is the clear winner. Its metal body, smooth Medium nib, and classic design make it a workhorse for professionals and serious writers. Just don’t expect fancy packaging.
For collectors or gift-givers, we recommend the Conklin Duragraph Fountain Pen. For executives, engineers, or anyone who loves a solid, no-nonsense writing tool, go with the Faber.
Either way, you’re getting a high-quality fountain pen from a brand with centuries of heritage. Happy writing!