Rikitake No119 Shoko Esumirar Checked Upd |verified|

My pen came with a nib, but the updated “Shoko” grind is unique: it’s a soft, slightly architect-like grind. Downstrokes are a juicy, true medium (~0.6mm), while cross-strokes are noticeably finer (~0.4mm). It is not a formal architect nib (which would be sharper), but rather a “natural line variation” nib that rewards a light hand.

I deduct points for the proprietary converter and the lack of an ink window, but everything else—the material, the updated ergonomics, the stunning nib, the airtight cap—exceeds expectations. The “Checked & Updated” version addresses almost every criticism of the original No.119. It is not a perfect pen, but it is a memorable one. And in a world of homogenized luxury goods, memorable is everything. rikitake no119 shoko esumirar checked upd