History of 1940s Urushi Ebonite fountain pens The 1940s Urushi Ebonite fountain pen represents an important chapter in the history of Japanese pen making, when traditional craftsmanship and modern writing technology came together to create writing instruments of exceptional quality. During this period, many of Japan's leading manufacturers--including Pilot, Platinum, and Sailor--produced fountain pens using ebonite (hard rubber) as the primary material, valued for its durability, warmth, and comfortable feel in the hand. To enhance both beauty and longevity, these ebonite pens were often finished with natural Urushi lacquer, a centuries-old Japanese craft derived from the sap of the lacquer tree. Applying Urushi was a meticulous process requiring multiple hand-applied layers, with each coat carefully cured and polished before the next was added. The result was a deep, lustrous finish that protected the ebonite while showcasing the elegance of traditional Japanese lacquer artistry. Many Urushi fountain pens from the 1940s were produced in a time of limited resources during and immediately after World War II. Despite these challenges, Japanese artisans continued to uphold remarkably high standards of craftsmanship, creating writing instruments that were built to last for generations. Their emphasis on quality materials, careful construction, and functional design has allowed many of these pens to remain fully usable decades later. Today, 1940s Urushi Ebonite fountain pens are treasured not only for their historical significance but also for their timeless beauty and exceptional craftsmanship. They stand as enduring examples of Japan's ability to blend traditional lacquer techniques with precision pen making, creating writing instruments that are as meaningful to collect as they are to write with. Well`s Fountain Pens The Well Fountain Pen, particularly its Urushi Ebonite models, is a wonderful example of traditional Japanese pen making, where time-honored craftsmanship meets practical everyday writing. Produced during the mid-20th century, these pens were handcrafted using premium ebonite (hard rubber) and finished with layers of natural Urushi lacquer, reflecting the artistry and attention to detail that defined Japan's early fountain pen industry. Each pen begins with an ebonite body, prized for its lightweight feel, durability, and comfortable warmth in the hand. Skilled artisans then apply multiple layers of genuine Urushi lacquer, allowing each coat to cure and be polished before the next is added. This meticulous process creates a deep, lustrous finish that enhances the beauty of the pen while providing exceptional protection and longevity. Unlike modern synthetic coatings, genuine Urushi develops a richer character over time, gradually revealing greater depth and warmth as the pen is carefully used and cared for. Because every Urushi finish is completed by hand, no two Well fountain pens are exactly alike, making each one a unique piece of Japanese craftsmanship.
Whether you're a collector of vintage Japanese fountain pens or simply appreciate the beauty of traditional materials, the Well Urushi Ebonite Fountain Pen offers a timeless combination of handcrafted artistry, elegant design, and a writing experience that reflects the golden era of Japanese pen making. 500 Well Gold 2 Pen Nib The Well Gold No. 2 Pen Nib, often marked "500 Well Gold 2 Pen", is a classic vintage gold nib that reflects the craftsmanship of Japan's early fountain pen industry. Designed to provide a dependable and enjoyable writing experience, it combines the smoothness of a gold nib with the precision and reliability expected of a well-made everyday writer. On paper, the nib glides effortlessly with a consistent flow of ink, producing clean, well-defined lines with excellent control. Its gold construction provides a gentle, natural responsiveness that softens each stroke, creating a comfortable writing feel without being overly flexible. This balanced character makes it equally suitable for everyday writing, correspondence, and journaling. Paired with the warm ebonite body and traditional Urushi finish found on many vintage Well fountain pens, the Gold No. 2 Pen Nib delivers a writing experience that feels both refined and authentic. Its smooth performance, dependable ink flow, and vintage character are a testament to the quality and craftsmanship of Japan's early pen makers. Whether admired for its historical significance or enjoyed as a daily writer, the Well Gold No. 2 Pen Nib remains a charming example of vintage Japanese nib craftsmanship, offering a writing experience that continues to delight collectors and enthusiasts alike. |
| Nib Size F Material Gold |
Condition
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B |
The pen has been quite well reserved with the expected wear and tear due to age, however aside from that the pen is in good conditions. Like most vintage pens there is 2 holes on the cap to relieve the pressure inside the cap. |
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Item Specifics
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Brand Vintage
Material Ebonite, Urushi
Ink Color Black
Nib Material Gold
Vintage Yes
Country of Origin Japan
Body Details Well Urushi Ebonite
Modified Item No
MPN Well Urushi Ebonite Fountain Pen
Pen Type Fountain Pen
Nib Size Fine (F)
Personalized No
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ENGEIKA 円花家 For every seed you plant, let us help nurture it together. Just as a plant flourishes through daily care and dedication, at Engeika, your satisfaction grows through our lifelong experience, sincere passion, and careful attention to every detail. Founded in 1987, Engeika has grown into a leading direct-to-customer e-commerce retailer specializing in writing instruments, watches, bags & cases, and more recently, lighters. Our mission is to bring exceptional products with outstanding quality, craftsmanship, and design to customers around the world. The name Engeika means “horticulturist” in Japanese — a person who combines both scientific knowledge and artistic sensibility to carefully nurture every plant in their garden. Watching those plants grow becomes their greatest joy. That philosophy is at the heart of everything we do. At Engeika, we take pride in caring for each and every customer with the same dedication. Your satisfaction is not only our goal, but also our daily motivation and happiness. Through every product we offer, we hope to deliver not only the finest quality and most beautiful designs, but also the inspiring stories and history behind them. About Writing Instruments Our journey began with a deep passion for fountain pens and the art of writing. Like many enthusiasts, we started as beginners. Over time, through years of learning, collecting, restoring, and experiencing countless writing instruments, our knowledge and appreciation continued to grow. Today, we are proud to offer not only carefully selected writing instruments, but also honest guidance and personalized support to help you find the perfect writing experience. Whether you are a longtime collector, a first-time fountain pen user, or simply curious about the world of writing instruments, we are always happy to help. We warmly welcome messages in any language. We will always do our very best to understand you and reply in English or Japanese. Item Condition Grade for Engeika Vintage Fountain Pen: Please Check Our Vintage Fountain Pen Grade list and read the item's condition list to see the Pen's actual grade ratings All our pens are original and authentic because they're sourced directly from the owners of fountain pen collectors, factory owners in the 40s who's sons/daughters have sold their grandparent's fountain pen old stock and hence cant be sourced online. But for an even more detailed description of our pens condition, we have provided a grade tier list to help you determine if this is the pen for you. S TIER — Almost like Brand New: This pen is in exceptional condition, almost as if it were brand new. There are no signs of rust on the clip, and the original filling system is still intact. The cap and piston filler screw on and off smoothly. The nib color is vivid with limited to no scratches. The pen feels smooth, polished, and shiny. A TIER — Excellent Condition: This pen is in excellent condition with only minor flaws. There may be small chips on the nib, but no rust is present. Hairline scratches may be visible on the body, cap, and nib. The pen can be easily screwed on and off, and the filling system works properly. B TIER — Good Condition: This pen is in good condition and is perfectly usable. It may have some rust on the clip and trim. The nib color may have changed due to weathering or ink stains. The filling system has been replaced with a new one. C TIER — Fair Condition: This pen is in fair condition and is functional, but it has noticeable scratches on the body and cap. The trim may be rusted or chipped. The filling system also requires replacement. F TIER — Poor Condition: This pen is still writable, but it is cosmetically in a poor state. A major refurbishment has been conducted to restore the pen to an acceptable condition, but in the process, many of its original characteristics have been lost. Please note that this item condition grade is based on general standards and may vary depending on the specific criteria and expectations of different collectors or sellers. Returns accepted within 30 days of delivery. Buyer pays return shipping. Item must be returned in the same condition as received. Vintage items may show normal signs of age and use. Please review photos carefully and contact us with any questions before purchase. Refund issued after returned item inspection. Worldwide Shipping & Customs 2026 Update ⚠ Attention: High-Duty Regions (LATAM) For buyers in the following regions, import fees in 2026 are significantly higher than the global average. These fees are determined by your government and are not included in the shipping price. 🇧🇷 BRAZIL: Combined taxes (II, PIS/COFINS, and ICMS) often reach 60–80% of the total value. A valid CPF (Tax ID) is strictly required for all shipments. 🇨🇱 CHILE: The duty-free threshold is only $30 USD. Orders above this are subject to 6% duty + 19% VAT on the total cost (including shipping). 🇦🇷 ARGENTINA: Strict "door-to-door" regulations apply. Buyers may need to confirm receipt on the AFIP website to clear customs. Global Shipping Status USA: Standard Shipping via Japan Post remains suspended. All US-bound orders ship via Express Courier (DDP) to comply with current US import regulations. TURKEY: All orders ship via Japan Post EMS ($30 USD). Turkish customs require a Customs Broker; these fees are the buyer's responsibility and are non-refundable if the package is rejected. RESTRICTED: We are currently unable to deliver to Russia, North Korea, Belarus, or Ukraine. Express-Only Regions — $75 USD Flat Rate Due to current logistics challenges, shipping to the following countries is $75 USD via Express Shipping by default: Yemen, Cyprus, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, UAE, Oman, Venezuela, Qatar, Egypt. For US Customers: All-Inclusive (DDP) As of late 2025, the US "Duty-Free" allowance was suspended. To ensure a seamless delivery: Final Price Guarantee: Your checkout total includes the 20% US Import Duty, the $20 Government Surcharge, and all brokerage fees. No Surprise Bills: You will not receive an invoice from the courier (UPS/DHL) for additional taxes. For International Customers (Non-US): Standard (DDU) We ship Delivered Duty Unpaid (DDU) for all other countries. Buyer Responsibility: You are responsible for local VAT, GST, and duties. Payment Tip: Pay your duties online via the link sent by the carrier (UPS/DHL) to avoid the $12.00 in-person surcharge (ICOD fee) and speed up delivery by 1–2 days. Shipping Transparency & Online Payment 100% Prepaid Transport: We pay 100% of the international transport fees to the carrier (UPS, DHL, or Japan Post) before your item leaves Japan. In 99% of cases, your order will reach your door with no further delivery fees — only government duties apply. How to Pay Your Customs Duties: When your package arrives in your country, the carrier (UPS or DHL) will contact you via SMS or Email with a payment link. We strongly recommend paying online through the official carrier website immediately. Avoid "Payment on Delivery" Surcharges: › UPS "ICOD" Fee: UPS now charges an additional $12.00 surcharge for import charges collected at the door. This fee is waived if you pay online. › DHL Disbursement Savings: DHL offers a discounted processing rate for duties paid via their "On Demand Delivery" portal. Paying in person results in a higher "Cash Handling" fee. › Japan Post EMS: Your local post office (e.g., USPS) may charge a small nominal fee ($5–$10) for "Postage Due" or final-mile processing. Important Policies › Address: Please input your shipping address in the English alphabet only. › Combined Shipping: We offer combined shipping for up to 10 items purchased within 3 days. › Customs Refusal: If a package is returned because customs fees were not paid, we will refund the order minus the cost of two-way shipping (to and from your country) and any unpaid fees. |