Why do I love the Leonardo Momento Zero so much?
Materials, for starters. I mean, look at this Mango model with black trim. I’m not strong enough to take a pass on this one, despite having a few other colorful MZ’s in the library already. The colors are bright and fun, while having a certain depth and complexity upon closer inspection.
Materials aren’t the only external feature that I enjoy - the barrel shape is practically perfect. It is a classic silhouette, with modern refinement. From the slight peaks on the end caps, to the triple-ring cap band, to the simple but stylish clip, it is clear that Leonardo Officina Italiana takes great pride in their manufacturing process.
From a writing perspective, it meets or exceeds all expectations. The Extra Fine steel Jowo nib is tuned perfectly right out of the box, and has a nice firmness - with a medium ink flow - when writing. The black plating is stunning, and doesn’t seem to add to the line width, which I’ve experienced from other plated nibs.
It’s well-balanced in the hand unposted. When posted, it is obviously top-heavy, but it still may be workable for those who like larger pens.
If there is any question about the writing feel, it would be the section design. The upper part of the section is the widest point, which then tapers towards the middle, and finally into a flat area leading to the end of the barrel. I’m not sure I have another pen with this exact shape, but it works well for me. Why? Because I’m a low-gripper by nature. My fingers lock into place as soon as I pick it up, and never budge.
I think you will be fine with a higher grip as well. The barrel threads are relatively tame and never caused me any issue as I moved my grip higher. I do wonder, though, if us low-grippers have a built-in advantage.
Too keep my fawning session rolling, I’ll tell you this: This is my favorite ink converter. Sure, it is simply a Jowo with a fancy metal sleeve over the plastic twist mechanism, but darn it if it doesn’t make me feel special! Oh, by the way, there is a blind cap on the end of barrel for easy access - if you are in to that kind of thing.
Making me feel special is the kicker with the Leonardo Momento Zero. It feels great every time I pick it up and use it. And when I’m not using it, I’m thinking about using it. That’s a clear sign that a pen is perfect for me. Will it be perfect for you? Who knows. But I think it is about as good of a starting point as there is.
The Mango model with black trim retails for $199, and provides great value. Not only do I personally love it, it also ranks as the #2 recommendation on my Top 5 Fountain Pens between $150-$200 list. Additionally, you can find other models, or even the tapered-end Furore model, starting at $169 for some colors - with zero difference in performance.
I’ve been impressed with what Leonardo has brought to an ever-growing fountain pen market since their launch. Luckily for me, and us, they show no signs of slowing down any time soon.
(Goldspot provided this product at no charge to The Pen Addict for review purposes.)
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