Pilot Custom 823 Amber Fountain Pen
Launched in the year 2000 as a modern interpretation of the Custom collection, the Pilot Custom 823 – Amber embodies the perfect balance between elegance and tradition. Crafted in translucent amber acrylic resin, its body offers a warm visual depth and reveals the pen’s sophisticated internal mechanism.
Concept and Design
This pen is designed for those who experience writing as a daily ritual. The transparency of the resin allows you to monitor the ink level at all times, while the gold-finished accents add a refined and timeless presence. The large 14-karat gold nib ensures a smooth and expressive writing flow, worthy of any moment of inspiration.
Functionality and Filling System
The vacuum filling mechanism allows you to fill the ink chamber (approx. 2.2 ml) in a single motion. To fill it, fully unscrew the tail cap, pull back the plunger, immerse the nib in ink, and push the plunger down in one firm stroke. As the vacuum breaks at the end of the movement, the ink is drawn efficiently into the reservoir.
To write, the tail cap must be slightly unscrewed to open the valve and allow ink flow to the nib. Once writing is finished, we recommend screwing the tail cap fully closed again. This action seals the valve and prevents leaks, making the pen perfectly safe to carry in a shirt pocket or on a flight—where the ink remains securely sealed with no risk of spillage.
For thorough maintenance, the cleaning wrench for Pilot 823 is also available in our store. This tool allows safe disassembly of the filling system and ensures complete internal cleaning.
Package Contents
The pen is presented in an elegant case, accompanied by official Pilot documentation. Additionally, this piece includes free shipping from our store in Spain, as part of our commitment to the best service.
Technical Specifications
- Body material: Translucent amber acrylic resin
- Nib: 14k gold, size #15
- Filling system: Vacuum filler
- Ink capacity: Approx. 2.2 ml
- Closed length: 149 mm
- Posted length: 164 mm
- Maximum diameter: 15.7 mm
- Weight: 29.6 g
- Made in Japan
Brand History and Philosophy
Pilot was born in Japan in 1918, when two naval engineers, Ryosuke Namiki and Masao Wada, created a fountain pen that could withstand the challenges of the sea. At the time, metal nibs often rusted from saltwater exposure, so they developed their own design using corrosion-resistant materials.
They named their brand "Pilot" as a tribute to the lead ship of a fleet—the one that guides others safely through unknown waters. That same spirit of guidance, innovation, and resilience still defines Pilot today.
Over a century later, the company remains faithful to five founding principles that continue to shape its identity:
- Sansha Teiritsu (三者鼎立) – A balanced relationship between the manufacturer, the retailer, and the user.
- Ukiwa Seishin – Shared joys and sorrows: a principle of mutual solidarity.
- Nankan Toppa (難関突破) – The courage to overcome difficulties, like sailors facing storms.
- Ichinichi Ishiin – Progress step by step, day by day, with determination and consistency.
- Sishei Shinken – A sincere and committed approach: anything is possible with effort and integrity.
Pilot continues to combine cutting-edge technology with craftsmanship, offering writing instruments that are precise, reliable, and emotionally meaningful.
"Writing is the reflection of the soul; with the Pilot Custom 823, every word comes to life."
Good buying experience and best price
Nice experience buying this Pilot at this shop. I got a nicely written letter and a bottle of ink send together with the pen. The price of this shop is in Europe unbeatable.
The only downside is the shipping period; it took 8-9 days to be send from Spain to the Netherlands. But overall it is a brilliant shop.