How do I choose my nib?

At Conid we use the high-quality nibs from Peter Bock. Since we strive to deliver the best possible nibs, we choose to fine-tune each and every nib that leaves our premises.

Nib choice

At Conid we use the high-quality nibs from Peter Bock. Since we strive to deliver the best possible nibs, we choose to fine-tune each and every nib that leaves our premises. Furthermore, each nib is accompanied by a certificate which guarantees that the nib writes as requested. When no specific request has been added, we will provide the nibs with a good, generous flow without being too wet or dry. These parameters can be slightly affected by the use of different inks or paper but those variations should be minimal.

Writing pressure is also a factor to be taken into account. We certify our nibs with a rather light writing pressure because that is when the tines will not, or at least not much, spread and change the line thickness.

Line widths

Conid offers only the standard Fine, Medium and Broad nibs from Peter Bock. Since both Bock and Conid are European manufacturers, we use Western line widths.

This means that the written line of a Fine nib will be approximately 0,4 mm.The Medium will be approximately 0,5 mm and the Broad nibs will be closer to 0,7 mm. Eastern or Japanese line widths are usually about 0,1 mm smaller than their European counterparts.

At Conid we will always talk about the written line width as this is the only way to offer a clear representation of how thick a line will be.

Some manufacturers talk about the width of the tipping itself which means the written line will eventually come out quite a bit smaller. This is due to the fact that the tipping is rounded and does not touch the paper with its full diameter.

What’s the difference in the various numbers in the nibs, e.g. #7 and #8 Broad?
Can different numbers be used on the same Kingsize pen?

The size is the form factor. This number only describes the design of housing and feeder, and has nothing to do with the tipping or writing width.

#8 –> Kingsize
#6 –> Regular, Minimalistica and Giraffe
#5 –> Slimline

I was wanting to know how to pass along the nib specifications when I order?

I would be ordering a medium nib, which I see I can select easily enough, but I would also like to specify smoothness and wetness.
Just put all your desires and specs into the comment box of the order form.
We try to follow them up as close as possible.

Can I change the grind of my nib after its arrival if I change my mind afterwards?

Yes this is possible. Grinding nibs is no problem at all. We can change the grind on your nib if you so desire. The only downside would be that you will have to send it back to us and wait for it to be ground.

I would like to order a BB gold #8 nib with an Architect grind. Although I found a page on your site that says you do architect grinds, I don’t see the option in the webshop. Please let me know if this is something I can order, and if so, how I should go about it.

Yes, we can provide an architect grind. In fact, Johan’s work on this kind of grind has been complimented allot. We choose not to list it in the dropdown box, as we see it as an “advanced grind” (so is the oblique grind for example) which could be an issue-magnet when selected out of curiosity by pen-users that don’t really know what they want.

Please do be informed that the architect grind is the most time consuming, therefore ending up on 36,00 EUR (taken care of by separate payment request after receiving the order).

It is very useful to specify the desired linewidths in the comment box (plural: cross and down stroke) as well as your elevation angle of pen and paper, and Johan will work towards your desires. If he has additional questions he will surely contact you again.