e+m Contract Classic, Black edition

I really like this pen, though a couple of changes would make it perfect.

When posted, the cap sits quite far back, which makes the pen noticeably longer and shifts the balance while writing. I am getting used to writing with it unposted, and I can only imagine how this would feel on the XL version.

The grip section is smooth brass finished in black chrome, which can feel a little slippery during longer writing sessions. A wood or leather grip, like the one on their Melange range, would suit me perfectly here. The black-stained oak body feels very good in the hand, with a subtle texture from the grain. The weight is well balanced too, so no extra pressure is needed when writing.

I swapped the stock nib for FP Nibs’ Schmidt FH452 brushed steel semi-flex, which in my opinion makes a real difference to the pen (no distracting shiny nib!). It is now my most-used pen (unposted unfortunately).