Nahvalur Eclipse in Cobalt with Rose Gold trim
Nahvalur introduced the Eclipse retractable fountain pen in late 2024 to much fanfare. A completely redesigned retractable fountain pen that no longer had a long knock (button) on the back to extend and retract the nib, a removable clip, and faceted design in three initial colors; gold, obsidian, and iridium. Well just about one year later, Nahvalur has released an updated version with a newly engineered feed system designed to improve ink flow as well as an updated end cap to add to the durability. Released in either fine or medium in two colorways; Hepatizon (Purple) with silver or rose gold trim, and Cobalt (Blue) with black or rose gold trim. At the recent D.C. pen show, I picked up the Cobalt with rose gold trim in medium for review. Thanks go out to Nahvalur for allowing me to review this pen and share my thoughts. If you are interested in getting an Eclipse for yourself, contact your favorite pen shop or follow the link to Nahvalur’s website.
Packaging: The pen comes in a simple black box with a magnetic lid closure. There is a cutout showing the Nahvalur logo printed in silver. Inside the lid is the word “Navahlur” as well as a QR code for the manual and instructions. The pen rests inside the box in a fitted foam insert.
First Thoughts: The design, finish, and trim are attention grabbing and perfectly executed.
Design: The tip of the pen is flat where the nib extends and retracts. The tip is cone shaped and tapers out to the clip band. The rose gold clip and clip ring are removable or adjustable to a different location if you choose to change them. The clip has a curved wave shape which is springy and holds securely. and ends just before the word “Nahvalur” printed on the barrel. The barrel has 12 fluted facets with cutouts showing the inner barrel which allows the mechanism to function, the front and back of the barrel press together to extend and retract the nib. The facets end with a rose gold barrel band before the tapered end finial. The end finial unscrews to release the two halves of the pen allowing it to be opened for filling or cleaning. The mechanism is easily engaged one handed and is smooth and solid and clicks solidly into place.
Nib Performance: The pen comes with an inhouse made stainless steel nib with the Nahvalur logo and “M” for medium. I received a medium nib and it wrote beautifully right out of the box with no feedback. The nib laid down a balanced line, not too wet or dry. Knowing that retractable pens have a tendency to dry out when sitting for longer periods, after using this pen Iet it sit for two weeks and it started right up. Your results may vary depending on conditions and ink used.
Filling System: Converter (included)
Value: $99 USD
Overall: This pen has quickly become my favorite retractable pen that I have owned. This model is nearly half the price of its competitors and punches way above its weight class. The option to adjust the location of the clip or to remove it was a great decision on the design. The lightweight but durable aluminum make this pen easy to use one handed. The fluting and facets of the pen give it a modern look. I feel the color options and price point would allow you to even coordinate the pens to match your outfits if you choose to.
Specs:
Name: Nahvalur Eclpise
Design: Aluminum
Length: 5.9 in (150mm) closed 5.83in (148mm) open
Posted: Not able to post
Diameter: 0.55 in (13.91mm)
Weight: 1.2oz (34g)
Nib: Stainless Steel
Filling System: Converter
Pros: Lightweight and durable material, smooth nib, great price point
Cons: Only available in Fine and Medium
In the same price range:
Opus 88 Jazz
Laban 325
Conklin All American Orange Demo
