Review: Gama Varna Fountain Pen

Overview

The Gama Varna Fountain Pen is a unique blend of craftsmanship and style. This eye-dropper fountain pen features a handmade ebonite cap and a blue acrylic body, offering a striking contrast in materials and design. It is equipped with a No. 35 SSF (stainless steel fine) nib, which is renowned for its durability and smooth writing experience. In this review, we'll explore the features, build quality, writing experience, and maintenance of the Gama Varna to help you determine if this pen is the right choice for your collection.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing you'll notice about the Gama Varna is its eye-catching design. The ebonite cap is a nod to classic fountain pen materials, while the blue acrylic body gives it a modern touch. The brown ebonite cap has a smooth finish with subtle grain patterns, adding a touch of elegance. The cap is a screw-on type, providing a secure closure that protects the nib when not in use.

The blue acrylic body is translucent, allowing you to see the ink level inside the pen, which is especially helpful for an eye-dropper pen. The body is made from high-quality acrylic, which is both lightweight and durable. The combination of ebonite and acrylic creates a pen that feels substantial without being overly heavy.

Nib and Writing Experience

The No. 35 SSF fine nib is the heart of the Gama Varna, and it delivers a reliable writing experience. The fine nib is well-suited for everyday use, providing clean, precise lines without any feathering or bleeding on most types of paper. The stainless steel construction ensures durability, and the nib's design allows for a smooth flow of ink.

When writing, the Gama Varna offers a comfortable grip thanks to its ergonomic design. The ebonite section is warm to the touch and provides a good amount of grip, reducing the risk of slipping during long writing sessions. The pen's balance is also well-calibrated, allowing for a pleasant writing experience without causing fatigue.

Filling System and Maintenance

As an eye-dropper fountain pen, the Gama Varna relies on a simple filling system. To fill the pen, you unscrew the section from the barrel and use an eyedropper to add ink directly into the body. This system allows for a larger ink capacity compared to cartridge or converter pens, meaning you can write for longer periods without needing to refill.

One thing to keep in mind with eye-dropper pens is that they can be prone to ink leaks if not properly sealed. To prevent this, it's important to apply a thin layer of silicone grease to the threads of the section before reassembling the pen. This will create a secure seal and minimize the risk of leaks.

Cleaning the Gama Varna is straightforward. To clean, disassemble the pen and flush it with clean water until the water runs clear. Allow the components to dry completely before reassembling the pen. This regular maintenance will help keep the pen in good working condition and prevent clogs or ink build-up.

Conclusion

The Gama Varna Fountain Pen is an excellent choice for fountain pen enthusiasts who appreciate a blend of classic and modern design. The combination of a handmade ebonite cap and a blue acrylic body creates a unique and stylish look. The No. 35 SSF fine nib offers a smooth and reliable writing experience, making it suitable for everyday use or special occasions.

The eye-dropper filling system provides a large ink capacity, and with proper care and maintenance, this pen can be a reliable companion for years to come. If you're looking for a fountain pen that stands out in terms of design and performance, the Gama Varna is worth considering.