Talk me out of buying a Conway Stewart Winston

[Writer01]

On 5/23/2021 at 6:35 PM, Frank C said:

• It is made of acrylic, a boring, almost-indestructible, plastic. As we all know, really good pens are made of "precious resin". 

• It has a captive converter; the worst of all possible filling systems. There are many arguments between piston-filler devotees and converter-filler devotees, but with a captured converter, you loose all the advantages. No large volume, no ability to just replace the converter, no ability to use a bulb syringe to flush out the section. Having said all this, Conway Stewart does say, "This pen can also be ordered as a converter/cartridge version as a special by leaving a comment with your order."

•The nib options are limited. If you follow Inky-Republic's advice above to get a stub nib, they just have one of their regular nibs ground down. 

•

I'm intrigued by the comments here. Yes, the pens are made of a plastic - as are Mont Blanc, Visconti (mostly) and almost every other pen around the world. But the Winstons have a rather lovely mix of colours - to my mind. Which is why, some years ago, I collaborated with CS to make a pen for the "detection collection". The captive convertor is not for everyone, but it's as effective as a standard cartridge convertor. I just like the fact that I don't have to remover the entire barrel to refill. I've never, in my fifty odd years of using fountain pens, had a need to change a cartridge convertor. I always flush and refill, and the captive design is fine for that. One thing that I do like about Conway Stewart is their helpfulness - they tend to bespoke every aspect of their pens to suit their customers, and I've received lots of very positive comments from happy buyers. Personally I love the Winston for the weight and appearance - although my absolute favourite CS pen was my solid silver Drake, which I bought some fifteen years ago - perfect balance and appearance, I think!

[Writer01]

On 7/9/2022 at 5:39 AM, Z man said:

Alrighty then, are you out of your ever loving mind? This pen has a "captive converter." You're thinking of spending this kind of money on a FP that is neither a true self-filler nor a true c/c. Admittedly, I have a strong bias against c/c pens, but this (bleep) child is neither.

 

It just happens I reread the Conway Stewart article in the "Journal of the Writing Equipment Society", No. 83, today. In 2008, it described their commitment to making the best pens, not only in Britain but in the world, while upholding the best principles of the original firm, which is admirable undoubtedly.

 

This POS does neither, so their principles were BS from the start (and they're money grubbers) or their principles have changed (and they're money grubbers). Otherwise, why would they fob off a FP that is neither a self-filler nor a true c/c for that kind of lucre while claiming to uphold their principles?

 

If they truly mean what they say, why isn't this FP one or the other? What do they expect you to do when the converter inevitably fails? A captive converter, phoeey!

 

Even if you're duped into buying this piece of eye candy, do you really expect a FP to hold nothing but a couple mls of ink for this kind of money?

 

Of course, the decision is yours. My advice is don't waste your hard-earned coin on this shiny bauble (O, look a puppy!). There are plenty of other shiny baubles out there that are true c/c or self-filling FPs without helping money grubbers buy their next fancy boat or car with profits from you.

 

But that's me. Everybody is entitled to their opinion, and you asked for some.

 

Z

I sense that you aren't entirely convinced about Conway Stewart as a company!

 

I have to admit, your view on captive convertors is valid - up to a point. It does mean it's less easy to remove and replace with a new one. But any pen fixer can do it. Conway Stewart only use shellac to fix the barrel to the section. It's very easy to remove. I should know - I accidentally did so once, when I wasn't thinking. Luckily CS repaired it very quickly. However, in terms of removing a cartridge convertor and putting in a new one - I've never done that in some 50 years of using fountain pens. I flush the convertor and refill - which is what I do with my Winston too. I just like the fact I only have to remove the cap, not the entire barrel to refill it, but that's a personal thing. 

 

However, I have to take issue with your comments on CS generally.

 

Yes, you're entitled to your opinions, obviously, but describing this pen as a PoS or complaining about CS and their "principles" is unfair. On my Writerly Witterings YouTube channel, I've reviewed pens I've bought, and many others I've been sent to look at. Of them all, the most positive customer comments have all come from Conway Stewart and Visconti customers. However, in terms of negative comments, the vast majority have come from Visconti. I think I have had one guy talk about a negative experience with Conway Stewart. All other purchasers (and there are many of them) have given Conway Stewart glowing reports, both for the quality of their products and their customer service, but also their determination to provide the customer with the best pen possible - whether that involves regrinding nibs to suit, or even changing aspects of individual pens to suit the buyer. The fact that you don't personally like a specific filling mechanism really isn't valid reason to insult the company and has nothing to do with their commitment to producing quality pens. That isn't a matter of opinion.

 

I got my Winston some ten to fifteen years ago (can't really remember) and it is still one of my favourites. I greatly prefer it to my older Churchill, which was a little too light for my taste (it was one of the original models, and no sleeve in the barrel to improve its heft). My favourite, however, was my Drake, which is heavier, and which I use for any contract signings - it looks the part! 

[Targa]

On 7/19/2022 at 5:36 AM, Writer01 said:

I'm intrigued by the comments here. Yes, the pens are made of a plastic - as are Mont Blanc, Visconti (mostly) and almost every other pen around the world. But the Winstons have a rather lovely mix of colours - to my mind. Which is why, some years ago, I collaborated with CS to make a pen for the "detection collection". The captive convertor is not for everyone, but it's as effective as a standard cartridge convertor. I just like the fact that I don't have to remover the entire barrel to refill. I've never, in my fifty odd years of using fountain pens, had a need to change a cartridge convertor. I always flush and refill, and the captive design is fine for that. One thing that I do like about Conway Stewart is their helpfulness - they tend to bespoke every aspect of their pens to suit their customers, and I've received lots of very positive comments from happy buyers. Personally I love the Winston for the weight and appearance - although my absolute favourite CS pen was my solid silver Drake, which I bought some fifteen years ago - perfect balance and appearance, I think!

Firstly, I agree on most points in both the foregoing posts.  I, alas, have had dodgy converters, especially the 1980s Waterman ones, but others too, with the latest issue of Parker ones being rather cheaply made.  So I am quite pleased that the CS ones are very well made, that they screw firmly into place, and can be easily taken apart to add a smidge of silicone if needed, AND happy that they are easily replaced, even as the "captive" version, and with complete support from BBP if and when needed.  I agree as well on the weight factor.  It was a surprise when I opened it at Christmas, but once I had used it for a short while, everything else feels too light.  

Second, I'd like to hear more about the "detection collection".  I have seen pics on line of the Michael Jecks one (gorgeous!), but not heard of any others. 

[Boston Brian]

The Michael Jecks was the only pen in that series ever issued, sadly! 

[sandy101]

On 7/9/2022 at 11:58 AM, ParramattaPaul said:

Same here. It's on my desk now and gets used regularly. 

 

I was looking at one of those. Do you know if there's much difference between the 14K and 18K CS nib, please?

[ParramattaPaul]

1 hour ago, sandy101 said:

 

I was looking at one of those. Do you know if there's much difference between the 14K and 18K CS nib, please?

I honestly can't answer your question.  All three of my currently produced CS pens have 18kt nibs. In fact, I haven't seen a 14kt nib on offer for the current production pens.

[sandy101]

7 minutes ago, ParramattaPaul said:

I honestly can't answer your question.  All three of my currently produced CS pens have 18kt nibs. In fact, I haven't seen a 14kt nib on offer for the current production pens.

Thank you. They're offering a 14kt nib for the Heaney, so it matches the poem. However you can choose the 18kt at no extra cost it seems. 

[ParramattaPaul]

1 hour ago, sandy101 said:

Thank you. They're offering a 14kt nib for the Heaney, so it matches the poem. However you can choose the 18kt at no extra cost it seems. 

Ah.  Having looked at the website, I understand why I wasn't aware of that.   I have a broad nib which is my preferred choice, and the 14kt is only available in medium or extra fine.

[Carrau]

Looking at their website today, the Churchills now come with a CC, and their weights range from about 30-35 gms. There are several models with a leverfill, and weigh 28gms.

[ParramattaPaul]

6 hours ago, Carrau said:

Looking at their website today, the Churchills now come with a CC, and their weights range from about 30-35 gms. There are several models with a leverfill, and weigh 28gms.

I have a Churchill, and I can say it is a great pen.  You won't be disappointed if you get one.

[Doug C]

20 hours ago, ParramattaPaul said:

I have a Churchill, and I can say it is a great pen.  You won't be disappointed if you get one.

Plus one. Mine is a lever fill in flecked amethyst and it is gorgeous. I have 2 other CSs and they are all great. 

[ParramattaPaul]

7 hours ago, Doug C said:

Plus one. Mine is a lever fill in flecked amethyst and it is gorgeous. I have 2 other CSs and they are all great. 

I have three current CS pens (I'd need to count how many vintage CS pens I have) and love them. 

 

I also have three current Onotos and a vintage.  They too are fantastic pens and I love them as well.  The Churchill and the Magna are equal in size, shape, quality, and performance, as are the Duro and the Scholar.  Could I choose one brand over the other if I had too?  I seriously doubt it.

[Doug C]

12 hours ago, ParramattaPaul said:

I have three current CS pens (I'd need to count how many vintage CS pens I have) and love them. 

 

I also have three current Onotos and a vintage.  They too are fantastic pens and I love them as well.  The Churchill and the Magna are equal in size, shape, quality, and performance, as are the Duro and the Scholar.  Could I choose one brand over the other if I had too?  I seriously doubt it.

I forgot that I also have an Onoto Heritage.

[essayfaire]

On 7/9/2022 at 4:41 AM, dudleian said:

I have their Seamus Heaney pen (and wow, the idea of that pen having a Union Jack on the nib…) and it is a delight: ergonomic, good looking, with a lovely responsive nib. I bought it for Heaney, but kept it for the pen. YMMV. 

I wrote a poem about my vintage Conway Stewart called, "Though I am Not Seamus."  It's over on the poetry thread.  You're a fortunate person to have that pen!

[Revekah]

If you're on the fence about the Conway Stewart Winston, here's my take: it's a real looker with a style that catches the eye. But there are quirks—like the limited colour choices—that might bug you. Plus, it's a bit hefty, so if weight's a dealbreaker, think twice. It's tough, sure, but not everyone's cuppa tea. Just my two pence!

[Boston Brian]

Wise, and good advice!  But that is true of every expensive pen which swims before our eyes and we are reach for the credit card! We are on this site because we love pens!  Impulsive buys, come with regrets and we promise not to make that mistake again. 

[ParramattaPaul]

I agree that the Winston's weight is a bit of an issue.  It's  the reason I don't own one.  Colour choices are (ahem) 'conservative'.  That may or may not be an issue to one. It obviously isn't for Conway's marketing department.

 

That said, I'm about to offer up coin of the realm for a Belliver in Bracket Green and a broad nib.

[markofp]

12 hours ago, Revekah said:

If you're on the fence about the Conway Stewart Winston, here's my take: it's a real looker with a style that catches the eye. But there are quirks—like the limited colour choices—that might bug you. Plus, it's a bit hefty, so if weight's a dealbreaker, think twice. It's tough, sure, but not everyone's cuppa tea. Just my two pence!

I actually did buy the pen, and it’s OK, but it has some issues. I posted a review of it in the Pen Reviews forum. 

[essayfaire]

On 7/18/2024 at 7:06 PM, markofp said:

I actually did buy the pen, and it’s OK, but it has some issues. I posted a review of it in the Pen Reviews forum. 

At certain price points, the pens shouldn't have "some issues."  

[markofp]

38 minutes ago, essayfaire said:

At certain price points, the pens shouldn't have "some issues."  

 

Damn straight they shouldn't. I almost sold it as I was unimpressed with the nib both in appearance and writing quality. But just this last weekend I gave it to Mark Bacus at the DC Pen Show and he unleashed 10 minutes of hell on it, and now it's nice 'n smooth. 

 

This is an issue with JoWo nibs in general, I find. I don't have a single one that didn't benefit from some smoothing and tuning, whereas my Pilots have all been great right out of the box. It puts me off many start-up pen makers that use JoWo nibs, and there's an awful lot of them.