Every year, Pelikan blesses us with a bunch of special edition writing instruments – and inks.

Among the writing instruments, Pelikan often comes up with excellent finishes and color schemes to excite the stationery connoisseurs out there. One of the most eagerly anticipated materials is the famous “tortoise” – or “Schildpatt” – that Pelikan makes some of their pens in since decades.

While the red or brown tortoiseshells are among the most popular ones, they are not new, but rather a nod to older vintage times where similar colour schemes had already appeared. So what Pelikan did with the 2022 Special Edition was truly special in at least two ways.

One, Pelikan launched a black tortoiseshell material pen, which to my humble knowledge had never happened before. Second, they brought the tortoise finish to an X05-pen body – meaning: this is the first tortoiseshell finish ever on a silver coloured / palladium plated pen. All other tortoise finishes this far have been on gold accented pens.

This, in my opinion, is one of the most appealing finishes that Pelikan has launched. And I totally expect this pen to be a future classic and rarity.

Before we hop into the review, I would like to take the opportunity to thank Appelboompennen for supporting the review of this pen. You can also buy the Pelikan M605 Tortoiseshell-Black in their webshop (no affiliate – just a friendly pointer).

Check out the video-review below, which is as always preceded by some quick facts. Again, I hope the review is helpful and that you enjoy watching it!

Quick Facts

• Pelikan M605 Tortoiseshell-Black (2022 Special Edition)
• Barrel made from black resin / tortoiseshell-patterned stripes in hues of silver, blue-black, and white, made from cellulose acetate
• Platinum plated accents and trims
• 14k gold nib, rhodium plated
• Piston filling-mechanism
• Available nib options: Extra Fine (EF), Fine (F), Medium (M) and Broad (B)
• Price: around 365 €

Video Review

Picture Gallery

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