The Namiki Yukari Royale Fountain Pen

The Namiki Yukari Royale is crafted with traditional Urushi lacquer techniques. Urushi lacquer is derived from the Urushi tree sap, an ancient Japanese resource originally used to protect and enhance the durability of plates, utensils, and other functional objects. Over time, this natural finish develops an elegant patina, making every Yukari Royale unique to its owner.

The Namiki Yukari Royale Urushi fountain pen is made in-house by Namiki, ensuring total control over every aspect of its design. Each component reflects the brand’s commitment to perfection, from the brass body to its meticulously lacquered surface and the handmade #20 solid gold nib.

Namiki sets itself apart with its multi-layer lacquering process. Each Namiki Yukari Royale Urushi fountain pen undergoes numerous Urushi coatings, requiring months of work between applications to achieve true depth, durability, and brilliance. This careful craftsmanship ensures that the Yukari Royale can withstand daily use while maintaining its luxurious appearance.

The Writing Experience of the Namiki Yukari Royale Fountain Pen

Smooth and Sophisticated Nib

The Yukari Royale features a #20 nib. It’s available in Fine, Medium, and Broad widths, offering versatility for various writing styles. The nib is smooth and precise, delivering a luxurious writing experience with effortless ink flow.

Comfortable Weight and Balance

With its brass body, the Yukari Royale has a satisfying heft, providing a sturdy yet balanced feel. Although the pen can be posted, it becomes top-heavy when doing so. Many writers prefer to use it unposted to maintain optimal writing comfort.

A thoughtful feature of the Yukari Royale is the felt lining inside the cap, which protects the Urushi lacquer when capping and uncapping the pen. This ensures that your pen looks pristine, even with frequent use.

Nib Options for the Namiki Yukari Royale

The Namiki Yukari Royale fountain pen offers three nib options—Fine, Medium, and Broad—for different writing preferences:

• Fine Nib: For precise, sharp lines, ideal for detailed handwriting or note-taking.
• Medium Nib: A versatile choice for everyday writing with a smooth stroke.
• Broad Nib: Perfect for bold, expressive writing styles or those who enjoy richer ink flow.

Each nib is expertly crafted from 18-karat gold to ensure a luxurious and seamless writing experience.

The Filling System

The Yukari Royale uses the Pilot CON-70 converter, a vacuum filling system that holds a satisfying amount of ink. This system combines convenience with capacity, ensuring you won’t need to refill frequently during your writing sessions.

Using the CON-70 is simple and efficient—push down on the plunger to fill the pen with ink, and you’re ready to go.

FAQs About the Namiki Yukari Royale

Namiki Yukari Royale vs. Pilot Custom Urushi

Both pens are exceptional, but they cater to slightly different preferences:

• Material: The Yukari Royale features a brass body, while the Custom Urushi is made from ebonite. The brass makes the Yukari Royale heavier, offering a more substantial feel in hand.
• Nib Size: The Custom Urushi has a larger #30 nib, offering more softness and flexibility compared to the slightly smaller #20 nib on the Yukari Royale.
• Design Options: While the Custom Urushi is primarily available in plain Urushi finishes (black, vermilion red, and now blue), the Yukari Royale also includes variants with intricate Maki-e designs, elevating it further as an artistic piece.

Both pens use the same CON-70 filling system, and while they are priced in a similar range, the Yukari Royale is sold at a higher price point. The added artistry of the Yukari Royale may justify the price difference for collectors.

Is the Namiki Yukari Royale a Good Investment?

Yes, the Namiki Yukari Royale can be a great investment, especially for collectors or those who value craftsmanship. Its handmade nature and heritage as a Namiki Yukari fountain pen make it highly collectible, with demand often outpacing supply.

Additionally, Pilot/Namiki tends to increase the retail price of its luxury pens every few years. While not a short-term investment, a Yukari Royale actively maintained over time is likely to retain or even grow its value.