Fountain Pen Hospital — Local services in New York

A bit of a long story but it has to be said: I have been to this place a few times and really love(d) it, as a big fountain pen enthusiast and this being the only true fountain pen store with a large selection in NYC. I went in a few days ago with the intention of buying a precise pen, my grail of many years: a Pelikan M800 F in green-black. The staff that helped me was initially friendly, answered my questions and let me try different nib sizes to confirm my preference of a fine and just gave me space and time. As I had made my decision and was ready to purchase, he told me that they actually did not have any more green bodies. There was a misunderstanding about this because I mentioned I wanted the green at the beginning, but that's not the point. I was very disappointed of course because I took a day off especially to come here and I was bummed. However, he was kind enough to say that he would go check in the back to be sure.

He comes back shortly with a green body with a fine nib! Exciting! He said that the owner just "had it in his hands" because he had just "opened it" and it was perfect timing. I was overjoyed, tried it and realized something was off. Not only was it not a fine nib, but it was clearly a used pen, and not the same model. It was the tortoiseshell model from the 90s. It was scruffed up a bit and was full of ink. They tried to scam me not once but twice. First of all he was not forthcoming that this was a used pen, but said that the owner was "willing" to sell it to me for the same price as a new M800 (about $650). You can find these online for $400-450. Worse of all, he spun me this story that this is a very rare pen as it is old (true) and it is not made anymore (also true), that it is pre-vintage and that "pens will real tortoise shell will never be made again since that is now illegal" (true but false)! Pelikan pens were never made with real tortoise shell, that simply refers to the pattern. I'm sure they know that, they just thought I was a noob and were trying to sell me an old pen for way too much money by spinning me a tale about the use of such an exotic material as tortoise shell.

Extremely disappointed as I loved this store, but I cannot accept this type of scammy behavior. I sadly will...

I would like to start my review off by noting that I have worked in retail (at various levels) for more than 30 years and I have never seen or have personally experienced such outstanding service as I received yesterday (January 14th, 2020). While I have been collecting pens for several years, I still get very excited when thinking at expanding my collection. When I arrived, I was quickly greeted by a seasoned veteran who took her time to listen to what I was hoping to find (I can be a little particular). After patiently showing me several pens at various price points (and explaining the pro/cons of each one), I was still not sure which one to choose so she asked another staff member if he could make some other recommendations. Identical to the first staff member, the gentleman showed as much kindness, patience and professionalism (with a very finicky customer) as his colleague. After spending close to two hours with me (and being shown and testing close to 20 different pens), I finally selected the Sailor 1911 Large. Though I had planned to purchase a much higher end pen (I.e Mont Blanc), amazingly, they listened to my needs carefully, attentively and never once attempted to upsell me to a higher price point. Words cannot express how incredibly impressed I am with this one of a kind store. For any true pen lovers who are looking for that old fashioned fantastic service with an extremely knowledgeable, patient and honest staff, this is the place to go - simply outstanding! I will remember this experience for a long time...

What can I say, this is my secret passion .. fountain pens. They have a superb staff, and an overthetop selection of fountain pens, etc. You can get everything from pens to mechanical pencils, ink, customs, and even top-notch work on your vintage pens. Prices are the best in the city. You can spend as little as $5 and walk out with a fountain pen. Do yourself a favor and just take a trip over there to see all the goodies. You won't be disappointed.

UPDATE: I found myself in a desperate situation and had to sell some of my pen collection to help pay for medical and funeral bills; of course, I decided on FPH as I needed funds in a hurry. I arrived today (8/22/2025) and was referred to the manager, Jesser, for assistance. Jesser reviewed my pens, took photos, and let me know he had to wait for approval. He was kind and understanding about my situation, and we even spoke about some of my pens. After no longer than 15 minutes he was able to help me with the sale of my pens. During this time other FPH staff was very cordial and respectful as well. Yes, I had to sell some pens that I had become attached to, and even held some emotional value to me, but at times we have to do what we have to do. One day I will get back into my favorite hobby. Thank you Jesser, and the staff at FPH, for helping me at such a hard time. Looking forward to coming back again and starting my...