InktendInktend / Pen library / Naka-ai Writer
Naka-ai Writer
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
A model in Nakaya's fountain pen lineup. Specs below reflect the typical configuration across Nakaya's core range.
This sits at the upper end of the hobby: a pen most people buy after they already know their nib and grip preferences, often as a long-term or milestone piece rather than a daily-carry first pen.
Specs
About Nakaya
Nakaya Fountain Pen was founded in 1999 by Toshiya Nakata of Platinum Pen, together with veteran craftsmen who had spent decades at Platinum's factory; the name comes from Platinum's original trading name, Nakaya Seisakusho. Pens are turned from ebonite and finished by hand in urushi lacquer, with maki-e and other decorative work available to order. They use Platinum-made 14k gold nibs in a wide range of sizes and grinds with a cartridge/converter filling system, and prices typically start around $500 and rise well beyond that for decorated pieces.
How to fill the Nakaya Naka-ai Writer
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. The Naka-ai Writer's gold nib will also flex slightly with pressure, giving line variation that a steel nib of the same size won't produce.
Keeping it clean
A quick flush with cool water every time you switch ink colors, plus a full clean every 4 to 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 Naka-ai Writer
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 Nakaya
Specs reflect the typical configuration across Nakaya's core lineup rather than this exact model. Check current listings before buying.