Random q- i need a nice pen

but not that nice. Not, say, over $150 nice (meaning less than $100 on amazon or other internets nice.)

Its a gift for a longtime friend who loves to write, we have a history of giving eachother writing-related gifts and I've always wanted to gift a nice pen but I don't know what brands are both swanky-ish and good. I know she likes the feel of gel but it smudges so I don't think its great for writing, I dont even know if that makes a difference.

Anyone have any suggestions? this is one type of gift I've never gotten before...

Montblanc is usually what we went for as a corporate gift to clients. I think the lower end ones might retail around that price, but they can go WAY up in price depending on the type of pen

Also, you can go to a fancy pen store to check some out, or look online. Joon has a big store on the UES and a website:

http://www.joonpens.com/about

There's another place in downtown Manhattan similar to that called Fountain Pen Hospital on Warren Street.

http://www.fountainpenhospital.com/

Sometimes you can get a silver pen for the same price as a plastic-encased pen (Montblanc has both types). If so, you might as well get the silver as you're getting more for your money (unless the nib of the plastic one is of significantly higher quality; if you get an honest salesperson, they should be able to tell you which nib is better).

I think most high-end pens with nibs will be of the smudge-able type.

I second Flexi on Joon Pen. Lion In The Sun might have high end ball points and fountains as well.

I love me a fountain pen! It's something to think about.... but if you buy a fountain pen, make sure you buy a few packets of ink cartridges. They empty fast and it's not a very nice gift if they can only use it a few days and then have to schlep to the store.

A few packages of ink is both cheap and thoughtful.

tybur6 wrote: I love me a fountain pen! It's something to think about.... but if you buy a fountain pen, make sure you buy a few packets of ink cartridges. They empty fast and it's not a very nice gift if they can only use it a few days and then have to schlep to the store.

A few packages of ink is both cheap and thoughtful.

For the same price you get the fountain pen that uses the old fashioned ink bottle which lasts much longer and much cheaper than the ink cartridges.