Inktend / Pen library / Retro
Kaco
Retro
A model in Kaco's fountain pen lineup. Specs below reflect the typical configuration across Kaco'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 Kaco
KACO is a Shanghai stationery brand founded in 2011 and operated by Shanghai Wencai Industrial Co., focused on minimalist, design-led writing instruments. Its pens, including the Retro and Edge fountain pens, have won international design prizes such as the Red Dot Award, iF Design Award and Japan's Good Design Award, positioning KACO among China's modern design-oriented pen makers.
How to fill the Kaco Retro
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 Retro
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 Kaco
Specs reflect the typical configuration across Kaco's core lineup rather than this exact model — check current listings before buying.