Pen Review: Sailor x Bungubox- Pro Gear Mini Slim "Aquarius"

Today we’ll be reviewing a limited edition pen from Sailor x Bungbox. Sailor is one of the “big 3” pen companies in Japan (next to Pilot and Platinum). They boast quite a large lineup of pens which range in size from Mini (pocket-sized) to King of Pen (comparable to a Montblanc 149). Bungubox is a fountain pen store located in Shizuoka, Japan. They frequently collaborate with Sailor to release limited edition inks and pens.

DSC_0041.jpeg

This particular collection was inspired by the Zodiac signs. The pens are only available in the Pro Gear Slim Mini size, and are paired with a Zodiac-themed ink. I opted for the Aquarius model (I’m a Pisces) because the green teal instantly appealed to me.

Shipping was relatively fast and the pen arrived within 2 weeks of the order placement. The best way to contact Bungubox is through their email, bung@bung-box.com. They responded promptly, often within 24 hours of my inquiry.

Design (4/5): This is a small pen by design. It measures only 103 mm in length (4 inches) and weighs 15.8 g (0.56 oz). When posted, the length is approximately 132 mm (5.1 inches), around the size of a regular Pro Gear Slim. Despite being fun-sized, I found that it was comfortable to use both posted and unposted. I liked the flat-top design and felt that the clear finial was an excellent touch. The finial contains silver waves juxtaposed against a black background and represents the symbol for Aquarius. This is my first “pocket-sized” pen and it exceeded my expectations!

Color (5/5): The color was quite hard to photograph as it can be either blue or green depending on the light source. This is a minty green turquoise that leans more towards the green, rather than blue, end of the spectrum. It reminds me of Colgate toothpaste rather than Tiffany Blue.

Nib (5/5): This pen is available in EF, F, M-F, M, B, Music, and Zoom sizes. I opted for an 18k medium nib which provides little feedback while writing. The nib is smooth, impossibly gorgeous (look at that engraving), and mightier than the sword indeed.

IMG_2762.jpeg

Ink Capacity (3/5): Unfortunately, this fun-sized pen is cartridge-only. One cartridge holds roughly 0.7-0.8 mL.

Overall (4/5): This is an adorable little pocket-pen! I’m very excited to incorporate it into the turquoise/teal family.

IMG_2758.jpeg