PILOT Custom Urushi Fountain Pen (18ct Gold Nib, Con-70) - Black - Medium Nib
The oversize nib where writing is magical
The Pilot Custom Urushi sits at the very top of Pilot’s writing range, not as a status piece, but as a fundamentally different writing experience. Built from ebonite and finished in traditional urushi lacquer, it combines warmth in the hand with one of the largest, most expressive nibs Pilot makes.Â
Why you’ll love it
- Oversize 18k gold nib, for a smooth, responsive feel
- Even with a light hand, you will feel the softness and see line variation
- Ebonite body delivers a warm feel in the hand
- Multiple layers of lacquer produce a mirror like finish that ages with you
- Scaled up in every dimension, to slow you down in a good way
How it makes you feel
You stop thinking about control, because it's as though the pen carries the line for you.
Who it’s for
- Writers who want the most refined Pilot nib
- Those who prefer larger pens with real presence
- Long form writers (journaling, drafting, deep thinking work)
- Collectors stepping into flagship level pens
Who it’s not for
- Small handed writers or those who prefer compact pens
- Users who prefer stiff nibs, for fast note takingÂ
- Users who want portability or low risk everyday carry
- Anyone expecting flex style line variation
Ink pairing suggestions
- Pilot Iroshizuku inks for best overall experience
- Rich, lubricated inks that enhance the nib softness
- Saturated inks that show shading and depth
Practical tip
Let the nib do the work. This pen performs best with minimal pressure and a slower writing pace. There is a learning curve to adjust to the responsiveness and a period for the nib to become completely wettable.
FAQs
What is the difference between Custom Urushi and Custom 845?
The Custom Urushi is significantly larger and uses the #30 nib, while the 845 uses a smaller #15 nib (same size as Custom 823, 743). The full size Urushi nib feels softer, broader, and more expressive.
How does the #30 nib compare to other big nibs?
Pilot/Namiki Emperor is more dramatic with it's size #50 nib. Sailor King of Pen (KOP) has a very large 21K nib, comparable to Custom Urushi, but with more feedback. Pelikan M1000 is well known for being springy and wet, and Montblanc 149 as the firmer writer.
Is this a flex pen?
No. It offers a soft cushioned feel, with some line variation, but not true flex.
Is it prone to hard starts?
As with any new pen, a few users report initial hard starts, until the nib becomes fully wet by the ink. We recommend to flush the section with water before use, start with a wet ink and test on a paper you know well.Â
What is urushi lacquer?
A traditional Japanese lacquer applied in multiple layers and polished to a deep gloss finish. It's sourced from the sap of the aged Urushi tree and applied using maki-e artistic techniques. It's durable, warm, and develops character over time.
How should I clean the pen body?
Wipe off fingermarks etc with a clean cotton cloth. Avoid use of heat, alcohol, oils, detergents, solvents, paper towels, polishing compounds or other abrasives.
Is it suitable for everyday use?
Yes, use with relaxed fingers and for longer writing sessions rather than quick notes. Weight is slightly forward and the large grip diametre helps mitigate grip fatigue.
What's the most popular colour?
Black for formality, Vermilion (red) for impact and Konjo (blue, released 2021) for a modern aesthetic. In our store, the Konjo FM is the most popular.
What's the most popular nib size?
FM and M are the most popular for everyday writing, and B for shading.
What’s included
- Pilot Custom Urushi fountain pen
- CON-70 push-button converter
- Pilot IC-50B black ink cartridge
- Premium presentation box
- Free nib check option from LarryPOST
The nib check confirms the nib size, feed and tine alignment prior to despatch.
Complete the set
- Pair with Pilot Iroshizuku ink for optimal flow
- Use premium paper (Tomoe River, Midori) to showcase shading
- Store in a pen case to protect the urushi from UV light (fading)
- We like the Taccia pen rolls for gentle protection
Specifications
- Brand:Â Pilot
- Brand series:Â Custom Urushi
- Launched: 2016
- Origin: Japan
- Nib: 18k gold, size #30Â
- Nib sizes:Â FM (0.3), M (0.5), B (0.6), BB (0.7)
- Filling system: Cartridge / Converter (CON-70)
- Body: Ebonite with urushi lacquer
- Trim: Gold-plated
- Cap: Twist
- Diameter: approx. 15mm (large)
- Length: approx. 154mm (capped)
- Weight: approx. 43g (capped)
- Comparable size: Sailor KOP, Pelikan M1000, MB 149Â
This is not just a larger pen, but a different category of writing. Once you’ve experienced it, most pens feel like they’re holding something back.
