Pilot Custom 823 - Clear Fountain Pen

Pilot Custom 823 – Clear Fountain Pen

Released in 2000 as a modern reinterpretation of the Custom collection, the Pilot Custom 823 – Clear offers a full visual experience of Japanese engineering. Its completely transparent body reveals the inner workings of its elegant vacuum filling system.

Concept and Design

This pen is made for those who appreciate not only the act of writing, but the mechanics behind it. The clean, transparent design highlights the gold trim and the purity of ink flow. The large 14k gold nib ensures smooth writing with excellent character and control.

Functionality and Filling System

The Custom 823 uses a vacuum filling mechanism that draws approximately 2.2 ml of ink in one smooth motion. To fill the pen, fully unscrew the tail cap, pull back the plunger, immerse the nib in ink, and press down firmly. The vacuum created inside the barrel breaks at the end of the stroke, drawing ink efficiently into the chamber. 

When writing, slightly unscrew the tail cap to allow ink to flow to the nib. After writing, we recommend closing it again to seal the shut-off valve. This ensures maximum safety and makes the pen ideal for carrying in a shirt pocket or while traveling by plane—no leaks, no mess.

For deep maintenance, you can also purchase the cleaning wrench for Pilot 823 from our store. It allows safe disassembly of the filling system and thorough internal cleaning.

Package Contents

The pen comes in an elegant case, along with 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: Transparent 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 founded in Japan in 1918 by two naval engineers, Ryosuke Namiki and Masao Wada, who developed a pen resistant to seawater for use on merchant ships. The name “Pilot” honors the lead ship of a fleet—the one that guides others safely through uncertain waters.

Over a century later, Pilot continues to follow five guiding principles that define its philosophy:

• Sansha Teiritsu (三者鼎立) – Balance between manufacturer, retailer, and user.
• Ukiwa Seishin – Shared joys and sorrows: solidarity in every relationship.
• Nankan Toppa (難関突破) – The courage to overcome challenges with a sailor’s resolve.
• Ichinichi Ishiin – Daily progress, step by step.
• Sishei Shinken – A sincere, committed approach: nothing is impossible with full dedication.

Pilot continues to combine precision technology with artisanal sensibility, creating tools that are durable, responsible, and emotionally meaningful.

"Writing is the reflection of the soul; with the Pilot Custom 823, every word comes to life."