The Lamy 2000 fountain pen. Timeless like a Brompton!?

You might be aware that I occasionally have a fountain pen mention here or there on my blog and on my Instagram page @orangebrompton. Over the years, I have used and owned many fountain pens that have cost a great deal. Many have been sold, and I am now down to a very select few. The one pen that I have never sold, although I have acquired more over the years, is the Lamy 2000.

My journey with the Lamy 2000 began from the modest proceeds of a Saturday job. (Are Saturday jobs still a thing)? I worked in a shop on Oxford Street, and I distinctly recall popping over to Selfridges - once home to a much better pen department than it is today - to purchase my first Lamy 2000. I was very excited! This particular pen accompanied me through my A-levels, my first degree, and my postgraduate studies.

The Lamy 2000 has garnered a cult following among fountain pen enthusiasts; however, it is not without its detractors. Designed by the German industrial designer Gerd A. Müller, the pen was first introduced in 1966 as part of Lamy's mission to elevate functional design in personal writing instruments. It exemplifies the principles of Bauhaus design, which emphasises simplicity, functionality, and the utilisation of modern materials. Its minimalistic form and contours render it not only pleasing on the eye but also provide a comfortable writing experience.

During the time the Lamy 2000 was conceived, fountain pens were undergoing a significant transformation, shifting from traditional craftsmanship to modern industrial production. The utilisation of innovative materials, such as the durable glass-fibre reinforced plastic known as Makrolon, alongside high-quality stainless-steel components, illustrated this transition. The pen's hooded 14k nib, serves as its possible only nod to the past of fountain pen manufacture.

What makes the Lamy 2000 so enduringly popular? Beyond the previously mentioned attributes, it has a piston-filling mechanism, allowing the pen to hold an impressive amount of ink. This opens up a rabbit hole of possibilities when it comes to bottled ink and the exploration of limitless colours – including of those in the appealing orange spectrum.

Another significant factor contributing to its legacy is the pen's design longevity. It has remained largely unchanged since its original introduction, rendering it truly timeless. In 25 years' time, the Lamy 2000 you purchase will look the same as the one available today or the very pen I acquired during my lunch hour so many years ago.

The Pine Green in the mix

There have been select ‘special editions’, reminiscent of the offerings from Brompton. These editions typically encompass various colour variations - most notably blue, brown, and my personal favourite, ‘Pine Green’. The latter, I simply had to acquire through a somewhat grovelling note to Santa last year.

So, despite having owned numerous flagship pens from the premier brands of Europe and Japan, I continue to utilise one of my Lamy 2000 pens daily. The parallels between the iconic design of the Brompton and the Lamy 2000 are evident; both are undeniably timeless. Perhaps this shared essence is the reason for my affection for both.

Allow me to conclude with a final musing: Might Lamy consider releasing a Lamy 2000 in orange? You may suspect, as I do, that I would be first in line to purchase one!!

Until next time, stay safe out there people!