Pen Review: Sailor x Bungubox- Pro Gear Mini Slim "Aquarius"

Today we’ll be reviewing a limited edition pen from Sailor x Bungbox. Sailor is one of the “big 3” pen companies in Japan (next to Pilot and Platinum). They boast quite a large lineup of pens which range in size from Mini (pocket-sized) to King of Pen (comparable to a Montblanc 149). Bungubox is a fountain pen store located in Shizuoka, Japan. They frequently collaborate with Sailor to release limited edition inks and pens.

This particular collection was inspired by the Zodiac signs. The pens are only available in the Pro Gear Slim Mini size, and are paired with a Zodiac-themed ink. I opted for the Aquarius model (I’m a Pisces) because the green teal instantly appealed to me.

Shipping was relatively fast and the pen arrived within 2 weeks of the order placement. The best way to contact Bungubox is through their email, bung@bung-box.com. They responded promptly, often within 24 hours of my inquiry.

Design (4/5): This is a small pen by design. It measures only 103 mm in length (4 inches) and weighs 15.8 g (0.56 oz). When posted, the length is approximately 132 mm (5.1 inches), around the size of a regular Pro Gear Slim. Despite being fun-sized, I found that it was comfortable to use both posted and unposted. I liked the flat-top design and felt that the clear finial was an excellent touch. The finial contains silver waves juxtaposed against a black background and represents the symbol for Aquarius. This is my first “pocket-sized” pen and it exceeded my expectations!

Color (5/5): The color was quite hard to photograph as it can be either blue or green depending on the light source. This is a minty green turquoise that leans more towards the green, rather than blue, end of the spectrum. It reminds me of Colgate toothpaste rather than Tiffany Blue.

Nib (5/5): This pen is available in EF, F, M-F, M, B, Music, and Zoom sizes. I opted for an 18k medium nib which provides little feedback while writing. The nib is smooth, impossibly gorgeous (look at that engraving), and mightier than the sword indeed.

Ink Capacity (3/5): Unfortunately, this fun-sized pen is cartridge-only. One cartridge holds roughly 0.7-0.8 mL.

Overall (4/5): This is an adorable little pocket-pen! I’m very excited to incorporate it into the turquoise/teal family.