I really enjoy the design of hooded nibs and the style of this nib is gorgeous. The pen has similarities to the Pelikan MK10 with exception of the gold trim and nib. The Mont Blanc No. 12 & 14 are the same pen with different coloured ink windows; no. 12 having an amber coloured ink window and the 14 is blue. The Mont Blanc brand has an imposing cost associated with it but I found that it is mainly the 146, 149, or limited editions that have high price tags.

Brand: Mont Blanc
Model: Meisterstuck No.12
Year: 1959
Nib: 14k gold, OBB
Colour: Black w/ gold trim


Appearance & Design
     Like most Mont Blanc designs the No. 12 has a simple elegance with an understated approach. The hooded nib section has a reveal cut unlike any pens of this type. This feature allows the nib and feed some exposure without your fingers getting to either when in use. The ink window has a faceted amber ring that plays with the light as the pen is rotated and large enough to be functional. The gloss black finish looks great against the rose gold trim and amber window. The iconic Mont Blanc star logo finishes the cap end or jewel and model number engraved on the cap band.

Construction & Quality
    The pen is well built and easy to maintain. The section easily threads off and all components fit well. The pen stands up to just about anything, it has aged well and the pen parts do not show signs of damage. The quality of the materials is apparent.

Weight & Dimensions
     The #12 is a mid-size pen. It feels light in hand and long to be used posted or not. The section promotes a grip of any sort without any discomfort. The clutch ring is designed into the ink window to maintain the sleek body shape.

Nib & Performance
     The nib in this pen is 14K gold and one of the smoothest writers I have experienced, the wet nature of the oblique double broad may have had something to do with it. The nib shape is similar to a stub but with a slight angle where the tines touch the page.The nib is flexible and instantly noticeable as you bounce across the page. I comes in a variety of sizes but this nob assembly is proprietary to the Meisterstuck model 12 and 14.

Filling System & Maintenance
      It features a piston filling system with a good amount of ink capacity ideal for an expressive nib such as this one. The section can be easily disconnected and disassembled for cleaning. The hooded nib design makes for simple filling and can be done at lower ink levels than an exposed nib design.

Cost & Value
    The Mont Blanc brand is well known for quality pens and the price point is reflective of that. I was drawn to vintage models in order to keep cost down, the MB #12 can be found in good condition at a lower cost than the popular 146 & 149 Meisterstuck models.

     The Mont Blanc Meisterstuck #12 is a great piston filler with a unique hooded design and so many great features. The writing experience alone is worth taking a serious look at this pen.