Mexx Lace (coral red GT)

[LapsangS]

I have previously ranted about the poor availability of fountain pens here in Finland. But things seem to be getting better. Today I found this pen called "Mexx Lace" with Iridium Point Germany nib, extra fine, at only € 6.90 in our local stationery store (Suomalainen Kirjakauppa).

 

Mexx is a well-know clothing chain and design firm that operates stores around the world. But this is the first time I've ever seen their fountain pens(!) on display anywhere.

 

Overall design (8/10)

 

The pen is remarkably heavy in weight compared to other cheap pens. It is because this pen is made of lacquered brass. Yep, that is quite a remarkable feat for a pen costing 10 dollars. The barrel and cap is "coral red" with gold plated clip and waistband. It is gorgeous and the color reminds me of vintage Parker Duofolds. Weighs perhaps around 40 grams, so it's good for those who have hefty hands and appreciate weight. The cap is screw-on type. To get an idea of its size, I took a picture of the pen side by side with Parker Sonnet.

 

Writing performance (8/10)

 

The imprint on the feed says "3", no markings like F or M can be found. It looks like extra fine to me and it draws exactly the same line width as my Hero 100. The nib is your regular Chinese "Iridium Point Germany". It is definitely NOT scratchy, but as usual with extra fine nibs, it has a little hint of tooth, and I like it. No skipping or any other trouble.

 

Filling Mechanism (5/10)

 

This is a normal C/C filler, it takes both standard and long international cartridges. I found an international-size converter in my drawer and tried it but it didn't fit. And even the complimentary cartridge that was supplied with the pen was rather snug, as it took a really firm push to get it in. But it is entirely possible to get a fitting converter or modify existing ones so that they'll fit just fine. So nothing special with the filling system. Typical Modern Chinese...

 

Overall rating (7/10)

 

I wholeheartedly recommend this pen for those who are on tight budgets and like heavy pens. It is nicely finished and gorgeous standard sized pen. The pen gives no country of origin but it most likely comes from China. The quality is AT LEAST on par with Duke's and Hero's pricier offerings. If I didn't know the price I paid, I would be deeply shocked. I find this pen worth of more than 5 times of its price tag.

 

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Edited December 21, 2006 by LapsangS

[Judybug]

Oooooooh, this is a nice-looking pen! I love the shape and the wide gold trim. Very good review. Thanks.

 

Judybug