Inktend / Pen library / Mystique
1836cc
Mystique
A model in 1836cc's fountain pen lineup. Specs below reflect the typical configuration across 1836cc's core range.
A solid mid-range option once someone has decided fountain pens are a habit worth investing a bit more into.
Specs
About 1836cc
1836cc is the one-man artisan pen brand of Nathan Booth, based in Willis, Texas. Booth makes one-of-a-kind handmade fountain pens using a wide range of materials and techniques, selling through Etsy and the fountain pen community. He was profiled in The Pen Addict's "Meet Your Maker" series in 2024, by which time he had been crafting custom pens for about six years.
How to fill the 1836cc Mystique
Fill it two ways: snap in a pre-filled international cartridge for convenience, or use a converter — a small plunger or twist mechanism that installs the same way a cartridge does — to draw ink from any bottle. The converter route opens up the entire world of bottled ink, which is where most of the hobby's color variety lives.
Choosing a nib size
Nib size determines line width, not writing pressure — fountain pens are meant to glide, never press. Extra-fine (EF) suits small, dense handwriting and thin paper; fine (F) is the most broadly recommended default; medium (M) shows more ink character and shading; broad (B) and stub grinds favor bold, expressive strokes and calligraphy-adjacent writing.
Keeping it clean
A quick flush with cool water every time you switch ink colors — and a full clean every 4–6 weeks of regular use — is enough to keep the nib and feed performing well. Inktend's cleaning reminder is tuned to a 21-day baseline and adjusts naturally to how often you actually refill.
Pairing inks with the Mystique
Because refills are quick with a cartridge or converter, this is a good pen for rotating through several colors rather than committing to one; sample vials work especially well here.
Frequently asked questions
More from 1836cc
Specs reflect the typical configuration across 1836cc's core lineup rather than this exact model — check current listings before buying.