After the first Spymaster Duo edition enjoyed success among collectors and enthusiasts, Montegrappa returns to the realm of James Bond with a special edition to move the story forward. If the first edition stood out for its cutting-edge design, the new collection is discreet but capable of overcoming any challenge. Let’s discover its features and see what’s new compared to the previous edition.
Design & Material
If the Spymaster Duo featured a body made of stainless steel and aluminum, Montegrappa opted for brass and aluminum on the new 007, making the pen considerably lighter than its counterpart by cutting its weight in half. Although it has reduced the weight of the pen, the Italian brand has not sacrificed the design which is as discreet as it is elegant. I like how the knurled aluminum section intersects the matte sandblasted finish, it gives the pen such a minimalist appearance.
To complement the discreet look of the Montegrappa 007, there is a low-profile clip featuring a fine thread vertical guilloche. The James Bond DNA lives on through a finely engraved 007 shadow logo placed above the grip section as well as a hollow-point detail on the cap top reminiscent of the iconic gun-barrel opening title sequence: a signature of every Bond film.
Size & Handling
Measuring 142mm, the new 007 is 20mm smaller than the Spymaster Duo and is a version that many users will resonate better with. I have to admit, the length and weight of the first edition didn’t convince me and probably many other users found it too bulky. I assume that in the manufacturers’ vision, the Spymaster Duo was intended as a collector’s item rather than a writing instrument per se, and so it makes sense.
The 16mm diameter is another plus, making the pen easy to handle, and comfortable even for extended writing sessions. At 55 grams, it’s not one of the heaviest pens but it’s clearly on the hefty side. Some might see it as a downside for convenience reasons. To some users, including me, a heavier weight gives a sense of better quality. However, no matter what side you’re on, I think the pen is comfortable to write with at least during moderate writing sessions.
Nib Material & Size Availability
Unlike its counterpart, the nib is made of 14k gold and is decorated with the 007 logo. Considering that we are talking about a special edition, I would have liked Montegrappa to opt for an 18k nib, which probably wouldn’t have affected the price of the pen that much anyway. As for the nib size, users can choose among five sizes ranging from extra-fine to Stub 1.1mm.
Filling system
Nothing new in terms of the filling mechanism; the pen is equipped with the standard cartridge/converter filling system. Since we’re talking about a James Bond edition, wouldn’t it have been interesting to see an innovative filling system like on the Spymaster Duo edition?
Packaging
In addition to the pen’s design, I like the packaging. The manufacturer says “preparation is key”, which is why inside the Montegrappa 007 Special edition box you will find a 007 zip case housing the pen and a notebook as well as two cartridges.
The edition is also offered as a rollerball pen featuring the same design and it can be purchased at montegrappa.com or authorized retailers.
Fountain Pen: € 1,295
Rollerball Pen: € 750
Specifications
Fountain Pen:
Material: Aluminium, Brass
Trim: Brass
Nib: 14k Gold
Nib size: extra-fine, fine, medium, broad, stub 1.1mm
Filling System: Converter, Cartridge
Packaging: Special
Included: 2 x Cartridges, Converter
Length: 142 mm
Diameter: 16.0 mm
Weight: 55.00 gr
Rollerball
Material: Aluminium, Brass
Trim: Brass
Packaging: Special
Included: Refill
Length: 142 mm
Diameter: 16.8 mm
Weight: 60.00 gr
