Based in Taiwan, TWSBI offers entry-level demonstrator pens for a slightly higher price than other manufacturers’ entry-level segments. Its Eco and Eco T lines, excluding special editions with rose gold adornments, cost between € 30.- and € 40.- and are available in a range of colours, both opaque and transparent. Most colours are limited runs, so TWSBI definitely plans its strategy with collectors in mind.
This pastel pink version is a past limited edition that, to my knowledge, is not being produced any longer. I was only able to snatch up a fine-nibbed version of this particular colour; my preferred medium was already sold out everywhere and even removed from most stores’ “temporarily out of stock” sections—for a lack of the “temporarily” qualifier, most likely.
Across an embarrassing number of pens, I have never experienced any difficulties with TWSBI nibs. This fine nib does have a bit too much feedback for my tastes, but there are many penpeople who like this kind of writing experience.
The transparent plastic of the barrel, whilst interpreted as a sign of cheapness and lack of class by some, is sturdy and weighty. TWSBI Ecos can withstand some abuse, at least now that rumoured cracking issues have apparently been solved and are an artifact of the past.
The Eco will most certainly never be the favourite pen of anybody with a preference for business-like or noble-looking pens, but its writing performance is sublime, and connoisseurs of popping colours and pastels alike will love the design—if they don’t mind the hexagonal (Eco) or triagonal (Eco T) design.
Suggested ink: Robert Oster Signature Cherry Blossom