Kaweco is one of the oldest brands on the market and focuses on that thin line between tradition and innovation of which I am a devoted fan. As part of the United Inkdom meta review team I have been asked to take a look at the Kaweco Bronze Sport.
Skilfully crafted, as always, the Bronze Sport fountain pen is manufactured from a solid block of bronze with the distinctive Kaweco logo displayed in a 2 tone matt/gloss finish on the cap. This pen is 135mm long with the cap posted, but just 105mm long when closed, making it the ideal choice for either pocket or handbag. The polished 060 stainless steel nib, manufactured by Bock of Heidelberg, is available in extra fine, fine, medium, broad or extra broad but for the purposes of this review I have fitted the pen with a rose gold plated version as it works better visually. The pen weighs in at circa 49 grams which I believe may make it the heaviest Kaweco Sport fountain pen in the range. A matching mechanical pencil, rollerball and ballpoint are also available.
So how does it feel? Fortunately I have the Steel Sport for comparison and although very fond of this pen, the first thing I noticed was the weight. The Bronze Sport is slightly heavier – but a nice heavy. In fact it feels fantastic in my hand – really comfortable! As for writing, the experience is one of sheer joy. The gold Bock nib allows the ink to flow perfectly through it allowing for a smooth easy hand action when writing. I do not claim to be a stylophile but I do understand and enjoy both handwriting and calligraphy. The Kaweco Bronze, is in my opinion, a lovely fountain pen – it demonstrates ‘form and function’ to perfection. I’m not posting any writing samples as Bock nibs are proven beyond doubt as some of the best writing nibs on the planet.
So what is it about the Bronze Sport that makes it so unique? It’s finish of course. And there are choices here. I personally prefer a high shine and have polished the pen for this review which reveals that the pen has a gorgeous rose gold look to it. But if I then leave the pen alone it will surrender to its own natural patina and tarnish over time. How far that tarnish develops could be quite exciting. I love the look of that turquoise oxide on the bronze watch bevel below right! Maybe there are agents available to help speed up this process?
(Above pen image – media_vita Reddit)
The pen can be used with ink cartridges or be fitted with a standard Kaweco Sport converter for use with bottled ink. Of note, the pen doesn’t come with a converter but I would suggest investing in one. The pens are shipped in the iconic tin box with a couple of cartridges.
And so to the all important bit – the price. The Bronze Sport retails for circa £135.00 which arguably, may be a little on the pricey side. But, in a market absolutely awash with pens, Kaweco is one of those brands that for me, always manages to scratch that itch.
And HEY! If you’re interested to know more about how to use fountain pen inks in more creative ways – whether it’s simply to observe their chromatic behaviours, or, to recreate one of my swatch cards, or, to learn how to use them in watercolour painting, illustration and calligraphy, why not check out my online course or, even better, sign up for a workshop?
FOUNTAIN PEN INK ART 