This is likely the best piston-filler available in this price range (the next step up would be a TWSBI Eco). It is solidly made, has great packaging, and is smooth right out of the box. If something like an italic is desired, the nib can be straight swapped with Pilot nibs, no modification required. This pen has excellent ink capacity, a comfortable section, and has given me really consistent writing performance. The clear feed is an uncommon aesthetic bonus. The only (and I mean only) questionable thing about this pen is that the cap doesn't post -- but it has good size and balance without the cap, so really doesn't need to be posted anyway. I can see why this has recently become the darling of a few fountain pen forums.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
Not much difference between the 698 and the 3008 except price. Very similar pen, writes about the same but the 3008 is about $3 and the 698 is around $15.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
I highly recommend this pen. It is well built of good hard plastic that feels nice in hand, when inked up it has a nice weight to it, not to heavy not too light. The nib is smooth, but I switched it with a Pilot 78G BB (stub) nib. Thats one beauty of this pen, that you can switch with all the entry level Pilot fountain pens simply by gently pulling the nib and feed unit out as one. Also it holds a lot of ink. Finally it looks beautiful as well.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
Writes like a dream for an incredible price. The nib, far from being hard as nails, has little bit of a spring so you can achieve a little line variation but is also a true extra fine line while not being too dry or stingy with the ink. All 5 I have write well right out of the box, no flushing and tinkering was needed. Huge ink reservoir so you won't have to refill as often. The demonstrator body really shows off the ink beautifully. If you want a great introduction to piston fill fountain pens, this model is it. Great value for students.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
This is a great pen. It's light, feels good in your hand. The clear plastic is very clear, not foggy, the ink looks great inside the barrel. The piston is a great design and works very smooth. The nib on this pen is more to the fine and is so smooth. I love the pen and use it every day. Well worth the price. E.T.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New