The Art of Sailor’s Special Nibs

Have you ever wondered how a simple nib can completely change the writing experience? With Sailor, the answer is clear: with its special nibs, writing stops being a daily act to become a personal art. These Japanese nibs are unique in the world and are designed to offer dynamic, expressive, and surprising strokes. Today we invite you to explore them in depth so you can understand why so many collectors and writing enthusiasts consider them irreplaceable jewels.

A century of masterful heritage

Founded in 1911 in Hiroshima, Sailor has been a benchmark in the manufacture of high-end fountain pens since its beginnings. Its obsession with perfection led the Japanese house to develop not only pens of great quality, but also an exclusive catalog of special nibs. These pieces are not mass-produced: they are crafted and tuned by hand by Japanese nibmeisters with decades of experience. Each nib is the result of knowledge passed down from generation to generation.

What makes a special nib different?

Most fountain pens come with standard widths such as F (Fine), M (Medium) or B (Broad). Sailor’s special nibs go far beyond that: they modify the cut, polish, and tip geometry to achieve unique line-variation effects. This means that a single nib can produce ultra-fine lines and, seconds later, bold, wide strokes—depending solely on the angle you use or the pressure you apply.

The result is a living writing experience, where every word becomes an opportunity for expression. Writing stops being mechanical and turns into a dialogue between the pen, the hand, and the paper.

Sailor’s catalog of special nibs

Naginata Togi

The most famous and probably the most versatile. Its tip is ground into an elongated shape reminiscent of the traditional Japanese naginata sword. Thanks to this grind, the Naginata Togi varies line width based on writing angle: fine when writing upright, broad when you tilt the pen. It’s perfect for those seeking expressive, flowing lines—ideal for calligraphy and artistic writing. A classic within the Sailor range.

Naginata Concord

A nib that breaks the rules. In the normal position, the Naginata Concord offers a fine, controlled line. But if you invert the pen, the stroke widens dramatically. It’s like having two nibs in one: discreet and precise when needed, yet capable of a dramatic, eye-catching style in a single gesture.

Naginata Fude de Mannen

Designed to emulate the feel of a Japanese brush, this nib allows broad line variations with subtle angle changes. The Naginata Fude is a favorite among lovers of traditional calligraphy and those who enjoy a freer, more artistic style. Its name literally means “10,000-year brush nib,” evoking longevity and tradition.

Cross Point

The Cross Point is designed for those who love bold strokes and abundant ink. It’s a generously flowing nib with a smooth, velvety contact on the paper. Every word gains weight and personality. Ideal for titles, signatures, or creative calligraphy, it has become a coveted piece among collectors.

Cross Concord

An evolution of the Concord, the Cross Concord can lay down ultra-fine or very broad lines depending on orientation. This dramatic contrast makes it especially appealing to those who enjoy extreme expressiveness and experimentation.

Cross Music

A hybrid between the Music nib and the Cross Point. The Cross Music offers even more range, capable of producing fine, medium, and broad lines in a single movement. It’s especially appreciated by calligraphers and enthusiasts seeking maximum flexibility in one nib.

Emperor

True to its majestic name, the Emperor is one of Sailor’s most distinctive nibs. Its design incorporates an additional metal “tongue” over the nib that regulates ink flow and allows wide, wet, and highly controlled writing. Perfect for those seeking power and elegance in every stroke.

Music

Inspired by music notation, the Music nib features two ink channels and a broad tip that produces fine horizontal lines and thick verticals. Although conceived for musicians, many use it for expressive writing or to add an artistic touch to everyday notes.

Zoom

The Zoom is one of the most accessible and fun special nibs. It lets you vary line width by angle: fine when writing upright, medium with a slight tilt, and broad when you lower the angle a lot. Ideal for those seeking day-to-day versatility without advanced technique, offering a dynamic, creative experience.

The experience of writing with a Sailor nib

Beyond technique, what makes these nibs special is the feeling they produce. When writing with a Sailor nib, you discover that not all lines are the same: some seem to dance, others unfold with force, others flow as if alive. This dynamism makes every text unrepeatable.

They do require practice and patience. These are not nibs designed for fast, careless writing, but for those who enjoy the mindful act of writing. Once mastered, the reward is immense: a highly personal handwriting that a ballpoint—or a keyboard—can’t replicate.

Which models feature special nibs?

At Iguana you can find models like the Sailor 1911 or the Professional Gear, available with different nib configurations, including Music and Zoom. And of course, there’s a collection dedicated exclusively to the previously mentioned special nibs. These pens are not only writing tools but also collectible pieces that reflect Japanese mastery.

The value of the unique

A Sailor special nib is not just another accessory: it’s a symbol of individuality. In a world dominated by digital, uniform writing, these nibs remind us that every stroke can reflect our personality. Using them, we don’t just write words: we write emotions, stories, and moments.

Writing with a Japanese soul

Sailor’s special nibs are an invitation to rediscover the beauty of handwriting. Each offers a different experience, but all share the same essence: transforming writing into art. If you’re looking for more than just a tool—if you want a lifelong companion to inspire you every day—a Sailor nib could be the start of an unforgettable journey.

Do you have questions? Want a personalized recommendation? Contact us and we’ll be delighted to help