Honestly, I get the most satisfaction from “bargain shopping” when stocking The Curated Shop. Buying the expensive, high-end stuff can be fun - especially when you’ve discovered a new product that doesn’t get much attention anywhere else - but to me the most interesting products are those workhorse pens, pencils, and notebooks that don’t cost very much at all yet provide enjoyment and performance well beyond their price point. Perhaps the best example of this that I currently have in stock is the Caran d’Ache “Infinite 888” Ballpoint and Mechanical Pencil, which comes in a wide array of colors, and is refillable, yet costs $6!
For my own personal set, I chose the dark blue pen and pencil!
The Caran d’Ache Infinite 888 ballpoint uses the “Swiss Glide” refill, which might be perfect for those who find the standard “Goliath” cartridge (used in the classic Caran d’Ache 849) too dry or light. The metal “nose cone” on the front of both the ballpoint pen and mechanical pencil adds a touch of heft for a nice balance. Hey, anytime you can give yourself a matching pen and pencil set for $12 (maybe $20 for the “Swiss Cross” collection).
For those interested in a needle-tip ballpoint that writes a finer line than the Infinite, which is more of a standard 1.0mm medium, you should definitely check out the Mark’style “Tous Les Jours” ballpoints!
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