Montblanc 149 or 146

[rolex66]

What do you recommend for a FP: a MB 149 or 146?

[jar]

They are both okay fountain pens and the biggest issue may be how you carry the pen. There is no difference in how either performs. Personally I sold all my modern 149s and 146s and only kept my 1950s 144s and 146s.

[TswaneNguni]

149 in B Nib.

Such a classic .Must have

2 nd best writer I have .Best, Nakaya Long Writer in Black Urushi .M Nib .

[Bisquitlips]

I have them both. The 149 is my favorite.

[Ensign]

I prefer the 146. I have very large hands, but the 149 seems too large. I find the 146’s size to be more elegant in appearance. But some people enjoy the oversized look and feel.

[Sandpit]

I have the Petit Prince 146 in burgundy and it's a great pen - however I also intend to add the 149 in black as I think it's the absolute king of the lineup.

[Sandpit]

Originally Posted by jar

They are both okay fountain pens and the biggest issue may be how you carry the pen. There is no difference in how either performs. Personally I sold all my modern 149s and 146s and only kept my 1950s 144s and 146s.

I wouldn't mind looking into vintage Montblanc - are there any reputable online dealers I should be looking at?

[Dave455]

The 149 is a big pen.

If you’re used to largeish fountain pens, and you’ve tried and like the 149, then go for it!

Personally, I think they’re a little on the large side for everyday use, and would prefer the 146. Even that’s on the big side if you’re used to something slimmer.

My advice would be to try both at a dealer before deciding. Try a selection of nibs too. It’s very rare that a medium suits everyone, and the MB Oblique and Italic nibs are generally very nice.

With regard to the question of vintage, I would generally say don’t. I accept the older pens were better made, and if you want a collection or investment, fine. But if you want a pen to use, you will find that most vintage pens have nibs that are broken in, but to someone elses style of writing.

If I’m spending decent money on a pen I want the nib of my choice, brand new, so it breaks in to my handwriting. Once done it will write effortlessly and flawlessly for a lifetime!

[Bisquitlips]

Both pens are truly lovely! I have 5 of the 146s, and 4 149s, Both models are great in their own right!

[jar]

Originally Posted by Sandpit

I wouldn't mind looking into vintage Montblanc - are there any reputable online dealers I should be looking at?

Unfortunately it's been decades since I bought a Montblanc but the major fountain pen stores like Fountain Pen Hospital in NYC, Fahrneys in DC or Dromgoole's in Houston are good places to start.