About Platinum
Platinum is one of Japan's oldest and most respected fountain pen manufacturers, with a history stretching back over a century. Founded by Shunichi Nakata in 1919, the company began as a catalogue order business before being formally established as the Platinum Fountain Pen Company in 1942. Today, Platinum remains an independent Japanese manufacturer, producing pens that range from outstanding entry-level options to some of the finest writing instruments available anywhere in the world.
The History of Platinum
Platinum's early years were defined by innovation. They developed the A-Type fountain pen mechanism and were the first manufacturer in the world to produce a cartridge-style fountain pen, in 1957. A year later, their pen 'The Honest' was taken to the summit of Mount Everest to prove it would not leak under extreme conditions -- a remarkable demonstration of confidence in their engineering.
The company expanded internationally, opening factories in Mexico and Taiwan and establishing a sales presence in New York. In 1978, Platinum launched the now-legendary #3776 model, named after the height of Mount Fuji in metres -- a pen that remains in production and is widely regarded as one of the finest Japanese fountain pens ever made.
The Platinum Range
Platinum Preppy
The Preppy is one of the best entry-level fountain pens available at any price. Lightweight, reliable, and available in a wide range of colours, it is an ideal first fountain pen for younger writers or anyone curious about fountain pens without wanting to commit to a larger investment. It uses standard international cartridges, making refills easy to source. See our cartridge compatibility guide for more detail.
Platinum Plaisir
The Plaisir takes the Preppy's reliable nib and mechanism and houses it in a slim aluminium body, giving it a more premium feel at a still very accessible price. Available in a range of anodised colours, it is a step up in style without a significant step up in cost.
Platinum Balance
A mid-range option with a comfortable resin body and a smooth steel nib, the Balance offers a more traditional fountain pen feel at a reasonable price point. A solid choice for everyday writing.
Platinum #3776 Century
The #3776 Century is Platinum's flagship model and one of the most celebrated Japanese fountain pens in the world. It features Platinum's renowned slip-and-seal cap mechanism, which creates an airtight seal that prevents the nib from drying out -- even if the pen is left unused for extended periods. Available with gold or rhodium-plated gold nibs in a range of sizes, the #3776 is a pen for serious writers and collectors alike. See our nib width guide to help choose the right size.
Platinum Curidas
The Curidas is a retractable fountain pen -- a rare and practical design that eliminates the need for a cap entirely. The nib retracts into the barrel with a satisfying click, making it ideal for those who want the convenience of a ballpoint with the writing experience of a fountain pen.
Platinum's Slip and Seal Technology
One of Platinum's most distinctive innovations is their slip-and-seal cap mechanism, featured on the #3776 Century and several other models. The inner cap creates an airtight seal around the nib, dramatically reducing ink evaporation. Platinum claim a pen fitted with this mechanism can be left uncapped for up to two years without the nib drying out -- an extraordinary claim that owners consistently report to be accurate. For general pen care advice, see our guide to cleaning a fountain pen.
Which Platinum Pen is Right for You?
- First fountain pen or young writer: Platinum Preppy
- Everyday carry with a premium feel: Platinum Plaisir
- Convenient retractable option: Platinum Curidas
- Serious writer or collector: Platinum #3776 Century
Shop Platinum at Pure Pens
Browse the full Platinum range at Pure Pens, including fountain pens, cartridges, and converters. If you need help choosing the right Platinum pen, get in touch and we will be happy to advise.