Aurora Optima 996Cx Nib Size M Burgundy Fountain Pen

A true classic

In 1929 Pelikan was the first company in the world to introduce the differential piston mechanism. This technique makes the shaft inside the fountain pen rotate faster than the tip or filling sleeve, thanks to two differential threads. To this day, this fountain pen is available in many different versions, and although its design and technical details have improved over time, the basic mechanism remains the same.

In 1950 the model 400 was launched. With its green striped body, it has become the global symbol of the Pelikan brand. During the 80s, the series was baptized with the name Souverän, although popularly it has also been called “Stresemann” because it was reminiscent of the secretary of state of the “Weimar Republic”, famous for his striped suits … Souverän with black and blue striped vitola were added to the product range in 1995.

Making the vitola is a painstaking task, as the cotton material – its formula was developed especially for Pelikan – must undergo many manufacturing processes to create this piece of striped material. It is bent and smooth, and its contours are diamond cut. The characteristic double rings on the back of the body and lid are then integrated into the material. This is done with the utmost precision to obtain a virtually seamless transition between materials. The instrument is then polished to a high shine before mounting the clip with a light spring and the famous stylized pelican shape.

If you like the classics, you will own a Souverän writing instrument

Fountain pen

The illustration above shows the size comparison between one part and another. Please refer to the table below for actual sizes.

Model Size / length in cm with cap closed Size / length in cm with cap on end Weight in grams without ink
M 800 14.1 16.4 29.3
M 600 13.3 15.4 18.0
M 400 12.5 14.6 15.3