Pelican

Pelikan – Brand Review & Overview

Pelikan is a German writing and art supplies manufacturer whose roots trace back to an ink factory founded in Hanover in 1838, making it one of the oldest names in fountain pen ink and fine writing instruments. Over nearly two centuries, Pelikan has become especially renowned among enthusiasts for its piston-filling fountain pens, striped green barrels, and in-house nib production that emphasize reliability and a distinctly classic aesthetic.

The brand’s pen portfolio ranges from entry-level steel-nibbed Classics (such as the M150 and M200) to the flagship Souverän series (M400, M600, M800, M1000) with gold nibs, striped barrels, and robust internal piston mechanisms, alongside matching ballpoints, rollerballs, and mechanical pencils. Pelikan also produces its long-standing 4001 bottled inks, Edelstein premium inks, and school-focused lines like the Pelikano, serving everyone from students and daily office writers to collectors seeking limited editions and high-end special series.

Pelikan appeals to writers who value smooth, slightly springy nibs, generous ink flow, and pens that are built to be used for decades rather than simply displayed. If you are looking for a dependable workhorse fountain pen with a strong heritage story, a comfortable range of sizes, and a deep catalog of inks, Pelikan offers a compelling blend of tradition, engineering, and everyday practicality that makes it a staple brand in many serious pen collections.