A practical guide to five signature Onoto pens
Every hand is different. Some writers want a slimmer, lighter pen; others prefer length and presence. Below is a detailed guide to our key pen models comparing length, weight and balance, so that you can get the most out of Onoto pens.
Heritage — based on the signature “N-type” from Onoto’s early period
The Heritage collection features an ebonite body with a subtle grid band at the barrel end. It has a vintage-inspired section with a calm taper and an uninterrupted grip.
Capped: 140 mm
Uncapped: 133 mm
Posted: 173 mm
Weight: 14.5 g (with added weight 21.5 g)
Writing weight: 11 g (with added weight 18 g)
Standard nib: No.7 gold-plated stainless steel (18ct upgrade available)
Magna — Onoto’s most iconic design of all time
The Magna collection draws on the 1937 profile and pairs polished resin with crisp cap rings. It maintains a centered, all-day balance, and the long, gentle taper settles naturally in the hand. All Magna pens are fitted with sterling silver, gold plated trim.
Capped: 144 mm
Uncapped: 127 mm
Posted: 166 mm
Weight: 25 g (with added weight 32 g)
Writing weight: 12 g (with added weight 19 g)
Standard nib: No.7 gold-plated stainless steel (18ct or No.8 upgrade available)
Scholar — A modern version of a “petite Magna”
The Scholar is also based on the Magna shape but without the precious metal trim, the Scholar keeps weight low while preserving control. It is slightly shorter when capped, and the narrower section places the fingers close to the point for tidy, precise writing. It offers an uncompromised writing experience with simplicity in mind.
Capped: 135 mm
Uncapped: 125 mm
Posted: 170 mm
Weight: 25 g
Writing weight: 15 g
Standard nib: No.7 gold-plated stainless steel (18ct upgrade available)
Aviator — A modern twist with an engineered torpedo shape
The Aviator pen takes its cues from the iconic Supermarine Spitfire which was famously powered by the Rolls-Royce Merlin. It features a titanium nose cone and a clip based on the shape of propellers. The Provenance Spitfire and Hurricane pens also share the same shape with materials used from provenance metals.
Capped: 156 mm
Uncapped: 136 mm
Posted: 170 mm
Weight: 28 g (with added weight 35 g)
Writing weight: 15 g (with added weight 22 g)
Standard nib: No.7 gold-plated stainless steel (18ct upgrade available)
Excel — Slim and delicate: a piece of writing jewellery
The Excel pen keeps a compact footprint with a slim but more defined profile. The smaller No. 3 gold nib brings the fingers closer to the point for precise control. The use of sterling silver on the top and cap band brings extra elegance with distinct contrasts.
Capped: 130 mm
Uncapped: 120 mm
Posted: 160 mm
Weight: 20 g
Writing weight: 10 g
Standard nib: No. 3 in 18ct gold
Size and weight at a glance
