Pilot Fountain Pen 78G Review: The Iconic Gold-Plated Nib Pen That Defined a Generation
May 30, 2026
Few fountain pens have achieved the legendary status of the Pilot 78G. With its distinctive 22k gold-plated nib, reliable converter filling system, and timeless design, the Pilot 78G has been a favourite among fountain pen enthusiasts for decades. In this comprehensive review, we'll explore why this iconic Japanese pen continues to captivate writers across the UK and why it remains one of the best value fountain pens available today.
A Brief History of the Pilot 78G
The Pilot 78G has a long and distinguished history. Originally introduced in Japan as an affordable yet high-quality fountain pen, it quickly gained a reputation for its exceptional nib quality and reliable performance. The pen has been updated and refined over the years, but its core character — a smooth, gold-plated nib at an accessible price — has remained constant. Today, the 78G is considered a classic of the fountain pen world, beloved by beginners and experienced enthusiasts alike.
Design: Classic Japanese Elegance
The Pilot 78G has a clean, understated design that reflects the Japanese aesthetic of functional elegance. The pen is available in several colour options, with a smooth, polished barrel that feels comfortable in the hand. The gold-plated trim adds a touch of luxury without being ostentatious, and the overall proportions are well-balanced and pleasing to the eye.
At approximately 13.5cm capped and 15.5cm posted, the 78G is a comfortable size for most hands. The pen can be used both posted and unposted, though most writers find it well-balanced in either configuration. The cap snaps shut with a satisfying click, ensuring the nib stays moist when the pen is not in use.
The Star of the Show: The 22k Gold-Plated Nib
The defining feature of the Pilot 78G is its 22k gold-plated steel nib. This is not a solid gold nib — the gold plating is applied over a steel base — but the result is a nib that looks and writes beautifully. The gold plating gives the nib a warm, lustrous appearance that's genuinely attractive, and it adds a degree of corrosion resistance that helps maintain the nib's performance over time.
The nib is available in fine, medium, and broad sizes, as well as a soft fine option that offers a degree of flex for those who enjoy expressive writing. The fine nib is particularly popular in the UK, producing a crisp, controlled line that's ideal for everyday writing and correspondence.
Writing with the 78G's nib is a revelation. Pilot nibs are renowned for their smoothness and consistency, and the 78G is no exception. The nib glides across the page with minimal feedback, producing consistent lines with excellent ink flow. It starts reliably after periods of inactivity and writes consistently throughout the ink supply.
Filling System: Converter Included
The Pilot 78G comes with a converter included, allowing you to use bottled fountain pen ink immediately. The converter is easy to operate and holds a reasonable amount of ink. The pen also accepts Pilot's proprietary cartridges, which are widely available and offer a convenient alternative for travel or when you want to switch inks quickly.
For those who want a larger ink capacity, the CON-40 or CON-70 converters are compatible with the 78G and offer significantly more ink. This is a worthwhile upgrade for heavy writers who don't want to refill frequently.
Ink Compatibility
The Pilot 78G works beautifully with a wide range of fountain pen inks. It's particularly well-suited to Pilot's own Iroshizuku ink range, which is renowned for its vibrant colours and excellent flow properties. However, the pen performs equally well with inks from other manufacturers, giving you access to the full spectrum of fountain pen inks available on the market.
The pen handles both water-based and pigmented inks well, though we recommend flushing the pen regularly when using pigmented inks to prevent clogging. The nib's gold plating provides some protection against corrosive inks, making the 78G a more versatile choice than many steel-nibbed pens.
Value for Money
The Pilot 78G represents extraordinary value for money. You're getting a gold-plated nib, a reliable converter, and the full backing of Pilot's quality control — all at a price that makes it accessible to virtually everyone. For UK buyers looking to experience the pleasure of a gold-plated nib without the associated cost, the 78G is an obvious choice.
Who Is the Pilot 78G For?
- Fountain pen beginners who want to experience a gold-plated nib for the first time
- Students who need a reliable, comfortable pen for everyday use
- Writers and journallers who appreciate the smooth writing experience of a quality nib
- Collectors who want a classic Japanese pen in their collection
- Gift buyers looking for a pen that looks and feels premium without the premium price
Shop the Pilot 78G at TTPEN UK
Experience the legendary Pilot 78G for yourself. Available now at TTPEN UK with fast UK delivery.
Final Verdict
The Pilot 78G is a classic for a reason. It offers a smooth, reliable writing experience, a beautiful gold-plated nib, and the quality assurance of one of Japan's most respected pen manufacturers — all at a price that makes it accessible to everyone. Whether you're new to fountain pens or a seasoned enthusiast, the Pilot 78G is a pen that deserves a place in your collection.
