Click to view our Accessibility Statement or contact us with accessibility-related questions
Pilot Metropolitan Fountain Pen (2-Pack)
01 / 32
Pilot Metropolitan Fountain Pen (2-Pack)
bookmark_border
Where's the price?
To negotiate the best possible price for our customers, we agree to hide prices prior to logging in.
4.1K requests
Product Description
Known for its durable brass barrel and stainless steel nib that outperforms pens that retail at much higher prices, Pilot’s Metropolitan is the gold standard for fountain pens in its class. Compatible with both cartridges and converters, the Pilot Metropolitan offers a step up from disposable fountain pens that can’t be filled with bottled ink and won’t hold up to continued everyday use Read More
search
close
Sort by: Top Conversations
keyboard_arrow_downGonzoTGreat
756
May 25, 2015
Part 5: The Pilot Metropolitan (in general)
These pens are great. They're better than a lot of pens that cost twice as much. In fact, depending on where you live, they may be sold under a different model name for twice as much. They come with a converter, look great and are simple to use. Along with the Lamy Safari, these are true "work-horse" pens. Try writing with them posted and not posted. Find what works for you. If you've never tried them before, get one with a medium nib and one with a fine. You can swap the nibs between the bodies, so don't worry about if you can't find the right combo for one pen. Mix and match. In fact, you can even swap in the nibs that come with the: Plumix (italic); 78g (F, M, the B is a stub) - 78g is discontinued but readily available online, still; Prera - I think (although if you're getting a Prera, you're probably not checking out the Metropolitans); Penmanship (want a super EF nib? that's how you get one). Except for the Prera, you can find the other pens for about $10-$15/each. That's about the same price as a spare Lamy nib.
Not sure why but to me, these nibs seem to write a finer line than other Japanese nibs - even from Pilot.
While the drop is still open, I will post a pic with examples of my Metropolitans with different nibs. (UPDATE: Pic uploaded to separate post on next page of discussion.)
If you're new to fountain pens and want a great starter pen, you can't go wrong with these. If you know someone who is knew to fountain pens and wants a solid pen, get in on this drop: one for them and one for you. They are solid, work-horse pens that are durable and easy to maintain. There are plenty of pens out there that are twice the price or more that aren't as "nice" as these. And if you're not thrilled, give them as a gift to someone else.
Hope this helps those making up their minds.
Cheers.
As usual, this post is periodically edited for typos, grammar and clarity. Significant changes are noted as such. Affiliations, if applicable, are clearly indicated. In this case, I have none.
These pens are great. They're better than a lot of pens that cost twice as much. In fact, depending on where you live, they may be sold under a different model name for twice as much. They come with a converter, look great and are simple to use. Along with the Lamy Safari, these are true "work-horse" pens. Try writing with them posted and not posted. Find what works for you. If you've never tried them before, get one with a medium nib and one with a fine. You can swap the nibs between the bodies, so don't worry about if you can't find the right combo for one pen. Mix and match. In fact, you can even swap in the nibs that come with the: Plumix (italic); 78g (F, M, the B is a stub) - 78g is discontinued but readily available online, still; Prera - I think (although if you're getting a Prera, you're probably not checking out the Metropolitans); Penmanship (want a super EF nib? that's how you get one). Except for the Prera, you can find the other pens for about $10-$15/each. That's about the same price as a spare Lamy nib.
Not sure why but to me, these nibs seem to write a finer line than other Japanese nibs - even from Pilot.
While the drop is still open, I will post a pic with examples of my Metropolitans with different nibs. (UPDATE: Pic uploaded to separate post on next page of discussion.)
If you're new to fountain pens and want a great starter pen, you can't go wrong with these. If you know someone who is knew to fountain pens and wants a solid pen, get in on this drop: one for them and one for you. They are solid, work-horse pens that are durable and easy to maintain. There are plenty of pens out there that are twice the price or more that aren't as "nice" as these. And if you're not thrilled, give them as a gift to someone else.
Hope this helps those making up their minds.
Cheers.
As usual, this post is periodically edited for typos, grammar and clarity. Significant changes are noted as such. Affiliations, if applicable, are clearly indicated. In this case, I have none.
JonasHeineman
5987
May 27, 2015
Hey @GonzoTGreat @jlamb @Marshallmallowlol and everyone who asked:
Great news! We just got word that CON-50 converters will be available!
I've updated the options at check-out so that you can add 1, 2, 3, or 4 converters to your order.
HOWEVER, please be aware that these converters are still in transit to the vendor's warehouse. We have been told they will arrive later this week or early next week, and may ship with all of the pens...or, they may not.
So, if you choose to add any number of CON-50 converters ($5/each), please add one week to your Estimated Shipping Date. We'll try to make it happen sooner, but nothing is guaranteed.
Great news! We just got word that CON-50 converters will be available!
I've updated the options at check-out so that you can add 1, 2, 3, or 4 converters to your order.
HOWEVER, please be aware that these converters are still in transit to the vendor's warehouse. We have been told they will arrive later this week or early next week, and may ship with all of the pens...or, they may not.
So, if you choose to add any number of CON-50 converters ($5/each), please add one week to your Estimated Shipping Date. We'll try to make it happen sooner, but nothing is guaranteed.
GonzoTGreat
756
May 27, 2015
JonasHeineman@JonasHeineman, Thank you!
I understand the issue about dropping the pen price to $19.99 but felt it my duty to bring it up again. And again. And ... well, you get the idea. Thanks for checking on this for us!
And thanks for adding the CON-50. I suspected things might have been going on behind the scenes, but who knows? Most people haven't heard of Massdrop and saying, "Oh, can you set aside a few thousand units that we may or may not need." is a bit challenging, to say the least. Really, thanks for going to bat for us on this one. Don't forget to let those who've already joined (and might not be monitoring the conversation) know about the additional offerings. Wheeee!
Well, I suppose I should have followed my own advise and gotten in early on the off-chance this would happen.
Not to look a gift horse too far in the mouth, but can we order more than 4? I can put about 4 to use right now (I have 3 already). Also, does one have to order the pens to order the converters? I would imagine the answer is, "Yes." But again, I have to ask. I probably will anyway.
D&^n you, Massdrop, for listening to us!
Cheers.
Periodically edited, etc.
ps. Oooh. I just noticed I'm at 300 positive responses. Thanks guys. I'm blushing. For the record, I only write when something needs to be corrected, to point out something Massdrop is doing wrong ... or right ... or to share a tid-bit that I've learned along the way or ... when I'm just trying to avoid my work. But 300 is a pretty cool number. Thanks!
pps. Time to put my money where my mouth is, so to speak. I'm in.
I understand the issue about dropping the pen price to $19.99 but felt it my duty to bring it up again. And again. And ... well, you get the idea. Thanks for checking on this for us!
And thanks for adding the CON-50. I suspected things might have been going on behind the scenes, but who knows? Most people haven't heard of Massdrop and saying, "Oh, can you set aside a few thousand units that we may or may not need." is a bit challenging, to say the least. Really, thanks for going to bat for us on this one. Don't forget to let those who've already joined (and might not be monitoring the conversation) know about the additional offerings. Wheeee!
Well, I suppose I should have followed my own advise and gotten in early on the off-chance this would happen.
Not to look a gift horse too far in the mouth, but can we order more than 4? I can put about 4 to use right now (I have 3 already). Also, does one have to order the pens to order the converters? I would imagine the answer is, "Yes." But again, I have to ask. I probably will anyway.
D&^n you, Massdrop, for listening to us!
Cheers.
Periodically edited, etc.
ps. Oooh. I just noticed I'm at 300 positive responses. Thanks guys. I'm blushing. For the record, I only write when something needs to be corrected, to point out something Massdrop is doing wrong ... or right ... or to share a tid-bit that I've learned along the way or ... when I'm just trying to avoid my work. But 300 is a pretty cool number. Thanks!
pps. Time to put my money where my mouth is, so to speak. I'm in.
Robobobo
4
Nov 23, 2014
I received my shipment with only 1 pen included. The packing slip included notes both pens, but has one crossed out. The tracking number included only lists one package. What gives?
RobM
15
Dec 2, 2014
Still waiting for an update. It would have been appreciated if this information had been emailed out. Is there an update for us international customers?
mostro
80
Dec 3, 2014
RobMAgreed, and have stated so earlier in the thread, as have others. @nelson hasn't addressed these comments. Apparently Massdrop thinks everyone who joins a drop sits camped out in the discussion thread for the drop hitting refresh every day to get updates. I'm involved in another drop which has also turned into a (even worse) fiasco, and multiple updates were only posted to the discussion thread but not emailed.
This model can work, but Massdrop's execution is not working well. Largely due to lack of accountability for staff to communicate often and in detail, using mechanisms that actually reach people. I'm a busy working professional and don't "hang out" on the Massdrop discussion threads, which is probably true of most people.
The last emailed update for this drop was on 11/20, and was vague about the missing items in people's orders, and promised an update by 11/24, which never came. I could have just spent $5 more and bought 2 Pilot Metropolitans from Amazon and had them in two days. Next time I will.
This model can work, but Massdrop's execution is not working well. Largely due to lack of accountability for staff to communicate often and in detail, using mechanisms that actually reach people. I'm a busy working professional and don't "hang out" on the Massdrop discussion threads, which is probably true of most people.
The last emailed update for this drop was on 11/20, and was vague about the missing items in people's orders, and promised an update by 11/24, which never came. I could have just spent $5 more and bought 2 Pilot Metropolitans from Amazon and had them in two days. Next time I will.
tolis626
80
May 4, 2015
Hey guys... Do all Animal Metropolitans have the same finish? I got a regular black one and a White Tiger one and the black one has a matte finish while the WT has a more smooth, almost glossy finish. IMO, the matte finish on the black pen is way better, but that may just be me.
rwilliams2911
2
May 24, 2015
I have only one and was trying to decide if it was crazy of me to order two more. Thank you for reinforcing that it is a good idea. :)
pixll
192
May 24, 2015
The included converter is for all intents and purposes the same as the CON-20. The only thing that is different is the metal outer layer that the CON-20 comes in. They have the same ink bladder (i.e. same squeezing action to fill and same volume).
bmangas
26
Feb 7, 2019
$12.99 per pen with free shipping at Amazon. Why do you even offer something here that is priced higher than retail? Am I not understanding the concept of "Massdrop" or what?
M_at_o
232
Mar 23, 2015
Has Massdrop asked if Pilot would offer this with the CON-50 piston converter as an optional add on?
JonasHeineman
5987
Mar 31, 2015
Hi @M_at_o -- I will ask one more time, but it's been hard to get that info from the vendor.
There is a very slim chance that we'll find out tomorrow and be able to add it, but that's unlikely.
There is a very slim chance that we'll find out tomorrow and be able to add it, but that's unlikely.
GonzoTGreat
756
Apr 1, 2015
JonasHeineman@JonasHeineman,
Perhaps as a separate drop? While I could create a poll for it, I think we already know that, for the right price+shipping total, it would be a VERY popular item. Given that Massdrop has sold over 7,000 Metropolitan fountain pens recently, I think it's safe to assume that it would be a solid seller.
So ... here are my questions:
Would you consider selling the Con-50 converter on its own as a separate drop? The Lamy z24 was nicely discounted. A similarly discounted Con-50 (say, around $4) would likely be a very popular item.
Should I bother creating a poll for it or is this something for which you know the demand is already there? Do the drops have to be "in response" to a poll?
Thanks for your attention to this.
Perhaps as a separate drop? While I could create a poll for it, I think we already know that, for the right price+shipping total, it would be a VERY popular item. Given that Massdrop has sold over 7,000 Metropolitan fountain pens recently, I think it's safe to assume that it would be a solid seller.
So ... here are my questions:
Would you consider selling the Con-50 converter on its own as a separate drop? The Lamy z24 was nicely discounted. A similarly discounted Con-50 (say, around $4) would likely be a very popular item.
Should I bother creating a poll for it or is this something for which you know the demand is already there? Do the drops have to be "in response" to a poll?
Thanks for your attention to this.
Mikael
28
Feb 3, 2015
I did the same thing. One medium nib, one fine. I didn't know the nibs were swappable though, so thanks for the info!
GonzoTGreat
756
Feb 3, 2015
You are absolutely correct. A couple other things folks may want to consider:
The nib and/or feed and/or section from the 78g, a pen which is discontinued but can be had (still) from many online vendors, can also be swapped with those of the Metropolitan. The great thing with this is that you can still get the 78g with a broad nib (actually a fairly smooth stub). While I find my Plumix nib a bit scratchy, I can use my 78g broad nib for everyday writing - even note-taking.
All this is to say that, although Pilot doesn't advertise this, there are many nibs that can be swapped in and out of the Metropolitan. Most of these "other" nibs come in pens priced anywhere from $7.50 to $20.
Cheers.
Edited for typos, grammar and clarity.
The nib and/or feed and/or section from the 78g, a pen which is discontinued but can be had (still) from many online vendors, can also be swapped with those of the Metropolitan. The great thing with this is that you can still get the 78g with a broad nib (actually a fairly smooth stub). While I find my Plumix nib a bit scratchy, I can use my 78g broad nib for everyday writing - even note-taking.
All this is to say that, although Pilot doesn't advertise this, there are many nibs that can be swapped in and out of the Metropolitan. Most of these "other" nibs come in pens priced anywhere from $7.50 to $20.
Cheers.
Edited for typos, grammar and clarity.
RayF
22220
Feb 16, 2018
Metropolitans are the most boring fountain pens you will ever use—no personality what so ever.
XenoMuse
121
Feb 22, 2018
I am well familiar with Jinhao, and have owned a number of them myself. The truth really is, their quality control sucks, and if you want them to work reliably and, as you say as well or better than $200+ pens, either you get really, REALLY lucky with the quality control on Jinhao, or you are experienced and know what you are doing as regards nib tuning. I have no doubt you can make an X250 or 159 write like a dream, but that is very hit-or-miss for a beginner, and to spend a little more on a metropolitan whose tight quality control is valuable.
I do not particularly care for metropolitans myself, as they do not fit well in my hand. I have no qualms recommending them to beginners, however, because of that reliability. You cannot blankly claim Jinhao's supremacy when their quality control is literally worse than if their factory was suspended on an enormous pendulum.
I do not particularly care for metropolitans myself, as they do not fit well in my hand. I have no qualms recommending them to beginners, however, because of that reliability. You cannot blankly claim Jinhao's supremacy when their quality control is literally worse than if their factory was suspended on an enormous pendulum.
RayF
22220
Feb 22, 2018
XenoMuseComplaining about quality control problems for a sub five-dollar, Chinese pen is a bit over the top! Assuming we're talking about a true beginner, the minor quality control issues you refer to, shouldn't make that much difference. I have three JinHoa 159s. Each one writes a little differently than the other (and I have my favorite)--but all of them write like fountain pens, where as Metropolitans tend to write like ballpoints (no "character" or "feel"). As for quality control, same can be said for Pelikans (I have three, including an M1000), or Parker Duofolds (I have two), and Conlklins (I have a half-dozen)--and all of them vary from pen to pen (same is true of the 30-or-so Parker 51s I own). We write with fountain pens because of their idiosyncrasies, their occasional bad behaviors, but most of all, the character they convey on paper. Suggesting that someone start their experimentation with a fountain pen devoid of *any* character (say a Pilot Metropolitan, for instance), would be the same as giving a child a box full of Black crayons and asking her to draw you a flower!
ZALHERA
843
Feb 26, 2015
Though the Metropolitan may be the biggest hit here in Massdrop, is there any chance that the Vanishing Point will make a return?
JonasHeineman
5987
Mar 6, 2015
jaibot
9
Mar 6, 2015
JonasHeinemanIf this does happen, it would be great to able to buy just the plumix or just the penmanship. I would be willing to buy 3 or so penmanships in a single drop.
bla1089
7
Jan 30, 2015
Does the drop come with one converter / pen or one converter total? That is, are there two or one converter in the box when shipped?
ArbitraryDigits
1
Feb 1, 2015
bla1089From what I understand, it ought to come with 2 converters. One for each.
KAPS1M0
378
Feb 1, 2015
bla1089I already have two metropolitans from a previous drop. Inside Massdrop's package were two pilot boxes, each containing one pen, one cartridge and one aerometric (squeeze type) converter.
jugtree
82
Oct 3, 2017
What would be great to see @Massdrop do, is to source these from a vendor who can supply the now elusive EF nibs. The F and M nibs are good, don't get me wrong, but the EF offers a finer, yet smooth writing experience. That would truly set MD apart and differentiate this "service" to the community as a 'go to' supplier for this pen. Lots of love for the work that MD does and working to get pricing down and happiness up, but this extra step might go a long way.
+1 this is you agree, I'm sure that if we speak up, we could see some more positive work being done.
+1 this is you agree, I'm sure that if we speak up, we could see some more positive work being done.
Showing 71 of 692
Recent Activity
Related Products
Drop Refurbished
Like-new products you can trustDrop Rewards
Get $5 for every 500 points you earn! Learn more
Drop Keyboard Club
Become a member and expand your keycap collectionCollaborate With Us
For Brands & DesignersFollow Drop