About Sailor
Sailor is one of Japan's most celebrated fountain pen manufacturers, with a history stretching back to 1911. Renowned for producing some of the finest nibs in the world, Sailor occupies a special place in the hearts of serious fountain pen enthusiasts. Their pens combine traditional Japanese craftsmanship with meticulous engineering, and their gold nibs in particular are widely regarded as among the best available at any price.
For the full story of how Sailor came to be, see our Sailor history article.
What Makes Sailor Special
Sailor manufacture their own nibs entirely in-house, which is increasingly rare among pen brands. Their 21-carat gold nibs are a signature of the brand — softer and more expressive than the 18-carat gold used by most competitors, they offer a distinctive writing feel that many enthusiasts consider unmatched. Sailor also produce a remarkable range of specialty nibs, including their celebrated Naginata Togi and Zoom nibs, which produce dramatic line variation. See our nib width guide for help choosing the right nib size.
As with all Japanese pen brands, Sailor nibs run finer than their European equivalents. A Sailor Fine writes closer to a European Extra Fine. Bear this in mind when choosing a nib width.
The Sailor Range
Sailor Pro Gear and Pro Gear Slim
The Pro Gear is Sailor's flagship everyday pen, a classic cigar-shaped design with a 21-carat gold nib and a satisfying weight in the hand. Available in a wide range of colours and finishes, including numerous limited editions, the Pro Gear is the pen most associated with the Sailor name. The Pro Gear Slim is a slimmer, lighter version of the same design, popular with writers who prefer a more compact pen.
Sailor 1911
The 1911 takes its name from the year Sailor was founded and is the brand's other core model. Similar in design to the Pro Gear but with a slightly different profile and cap style, the 1911 is available in Standard and Large sizes. Like the Pro Gear, it features a 21-carat gold nib and is available in a range of colours and finishes.
Sailor Reglus
The Reglus is a more affordable entry point into the Sailor range, featuring a steel nib rather than gold. It offers the Sailor writing experience at a lower price point and is a good choice for those who want to try the brand without committing to a premium model.
Sailor Compass 1911
The Compass 1911 is designed as an accessible introduction to Sailor's gold nib pens, with a 14-carat gold nib at a more approachable price than the full Pro Gear or 1911 range. An excellent step-up pen for writers ready to move into gold nibs for the first time.
Sailor Inks
Sailor produce a well-regarded range of bottled inks, including their popular Jentle ink line and the stunning Shikiori seasonal collection. Their inks are known for excellent flow, good shading, and a wide range of beautiful colours inspired by Japanese nature and culture. For tips on swatching and comparing inks, see our ink swatching guide.
Which Sailor Pen is Right for You?
- Introduction to Sailor gold nibs: Sailor Compass 1911
- Classic everyday writer: Sailor Pro Gear or 1911 Standard
- Slim, lighter option: Sailor Pro Gear Slim
- Larger, more substantial pen: Sailor 1911 Large
- Steel nib at lower price: Sailor Reglus
Shop Sailor at Pure Pens
Browse the full Sailor range at Pure Pens, including fountain pens, inks, and accessories. If you need help choosing the right Sailor pen, get in touch and we will be happy to advise.