Few pen brands inspire the kind of devoted following that Kaweco does. With a history stretching back to 1883 and a design that has barely changed in over a century, Kaweco pens are a testament to the idea that if something works perfectly, there is no need to change it. Here is everything you need to know about the brand.
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The History of Kaweco
Kaweco was founded in 1883 in Heidelberg, Germany, by founders Luce and Ensslen under the name Heidelberger Federhalterfabrik (Heidelberg Dip Pen Factory). The name Kaweco comes from the initials of Koch, Weber and Co., who took over the company in the early twentieth century.
The company grew steadily through the early twentieth century, producing a wide range of writing instruments. Their most iconic design, the Sport, was first produced in the 1930s as a compact pen that could fit in a sports jacket pocket. The octagonal barrel and short body became the defining Kaweco look.
The company went through several changes of ownership over the decades and production ceased for a period, but Kaweco was revived in 1994 and has gone from strength to strength since, becoming one of the most beloved pen brands in the world.
The Kaweco Design Philosophy
Kaweco pens are defined by their compact size, octagonal barrels, and no-nonsense build quality. The Sport series in particular has become a cultural icon, recognised by pen enthusiasts and design lovers alike. Kaweco releases regular special edition colours and materials, making their pens highly collectible.
The Kaweco Range
The Sport is the heart of the Kaweco range. Available in plastic (Classic Sport), aluminium (AL Sport), brass (Brass Sport), and steel (Steel Sport), the Sport series offers the same iconic design in a range of materials and price points. The plastic Classic Sport is one of the best value fountain pens available, while the Brass Sport has a satisfying weight that many writers love.
The Sport is a pocket pen: short when capped, it posts to a comfortable writing length. Available in nib widths from Extra Fine to Broad, plus a 1.1mm stub. See our guide to removing the Kaweco Sport nib unit for tips on swapping nibs.
The Skyline Sport is a colour-focused variant of the Classic Sport, released in a rotating range of vibrant and pastel colours. It has become a favourite among collectors who enjoy building a rainbow of Kaweco pens. For something more distinctive in materials, the Marble Ocean from the Collection series is well worth a look.
Kaweco Perkeo
The Perkeo is a larger, full-sized Kaweco that does not need to be posted to reach a comfortable writing length. It is made from lightweight plastic and is available in a range of colours. A great option for writers who love the Kaweco aesthetic but prefer a larger pen.
The Liliput is Kaweco's most compact pen, a slim metal pen that fits easily in a pocket or bag. Available in brass, copper, and aluminium, it is a beautifully minimal writing instrument. The Liliput in Copper is a perennial standout -- warm, weighty, and instantly distinctive.
Kaweco Inks and Accessories
Kaweco produce a range of bottled inks and cartridges in a good selection of colours. Their inks are well-behaved and reliable. Kaweco uses a standard international cartridge fitting, so their pens are compatible with a wide range of cartridges and converters from other brands. See our cartridge and converter fitting guide for full compatibility details.
Which Kaweco Pen is Right for You?
- First Kaweco or budget pick: Kaweco Classic Sport in plastic. See our first fountain pen guide.
- Step up in materials: Kaweco AL Sport (aluminium) or Brass Sport
- Full-sized everyday writer: Kaweco Perkeo
- Ultra-compact carry: Kaweco Lilliput
- Collector colours: Kaweco Skyline Sport
Shop Kaweco at Pure Pens
Browse the full Kaweco range at Pure Pens, including fountain pens, ballpoints, inks, cartridges, and converters. If you need help choosing, get in touch and we will be happy to advise.