Initially, their vision of innovative writing products was not as profitable as hoped and, as you will see, the company changed ownership several times. The first instance that we see the Kaweco brand name appear is with Heinrich Koch and Rudolph Weber when they took over the Heidelberg dip pen company in 1899. The name ‘Kaweco’ came from the founders surnames; KOch, WEber and COmpany. Although we now know the brand as Kaweco, initially the name referred to only one fountain pen series. The majority of the manufacturing process was completed by hand using a workforce of 25 skilled workers who produced the pens and also ebonite eyedroppers. The nibs used were imported from the US company, A. Morton who were based out of New York.

Kaweco’s foundations began in Heidelberg near the University city of Bonn, an ideal location as its college town status particularly of the arts and science meant that reliable writing instruments were in high demand. The writing instrument industry had begun to boom with the creation of the steel nib which slowly overtook its predecessor the Goose Quill. Mercents Carl Luce and Friedrich Enßlen started out in 1883 with the production of wooden dip pens as well as the sale of imported steel and gold nibs. Franz: These Kaweco Perkeo pens fascinate me. It is a substantial pen compared to the Kaweco Sport and the colors may be subdued but at the same time they are enthralling. The fine facets of the barrel makes it an elegant looking pen and makes the Perkeo stand out. Katherine: The Perkeo is a little weird to me. My initial reaction was “ooooh facets!” then “hm… the facets on the body and cap are different…” I like the colors overall, but have clear favorites.Franz: The Perkeo joins the ranks as one of the recommended starter pens. The only thing to consider is the fact that a converter is not supplied with the pen and is an additional expense. But hey, the Lamy Safari and/or Al-Star does not come with a converter either. I love that the Perkeo takes a standard international one! Image replicated with thanks and all credit to Kaweco - ' The first safety fountain pen patented by KAWECO, D.R.G.M. 224101' I don’t need any more fountain pens (obviously!) but when I do, I’ll no doubt be looking at another Lamy. The ink flow on the Perkeo is.. strong? It definitely uses a lot more ink during use than any of my other pens. As a result, everything I write takes longer to dry.

Roz: My first impression of the Kaweco Perkeo was how attractive and friendly its colors were. While the colors are solid and the pen has no sheen or gloss to it, I think the facets really give it a subtle eye catching quality. Pam: For the times I “crave” for a “chubby” line width, I gravitate towards a Kaweco EF nib. What I love about the Kaweco EF nib is that it creates a very round line that can sometimes compliment my writing style.From 1910, the company which predominantly produced dip pens recorded hundreds of options in their catalogue. It was unusual to find such variety. The dip pens were so varied, in part, due to the use of a multitude of materials, including; tonkin pipe, Brazil pipe and German sump pipe as well as wooden options in polished and matte finishes, ebonite and glass options. All the pens have variety within their material grouping too, with rounded and sleek designs alongside more angular offerings. Most impressive of all the pens were produced were the highly prized (and suitably priced) ivory and mother-of pearl options.