The Jotted Line

What’s the best Cross fountain pen? That’s the question I’m going to try and answer in this article. The A.T. Cross company is one of the most popular pen brands in the world, but while they’re one of the more fancy fountain pen brands, they’re still often in very high demand because of their affordability and reliability.  This list is primarily for those not familiar with the Rhode Island-based pen company, for those who want a wider picture of Cross pens. The way I’ve ranked my list of the best Cross fountains is quite loose given the fact that they all tend to write fairly similarly. The writing experience for each is quite similar; almost all of them have stainless steel nibs. However, the gold-plated ones tend to feel a bit more smooth, less harsh on paper.  The major differences come in the design of these Cross brand luxury pens themselves, their weight, solidity, and comfort in the hand, so I’ve ranked them primarily by which ones I find the most elegant and the comfortable. In this list, I’ve done something a bit out of character and not really considered the price as I usually do. You’ll see that I’ve ranked some of the pricier Cross pens at the top. The reason behind this is that usually people looking for a fountain pen have a bit of a more flexible budget. But, without further ado... My Top 5 Cross Fountain Pens Here’s the shortlist: 5.) The Calais 4.) The Classic Century 3.) The Bailey 2.) The Townsend 1.) The Century II Here’s a deeper look at each of these high-quality pens 5.) Cross Calais Fountain Pen The Cross Calais is one of our best-selling pens at Dayspring pens because it represents a sort of standard in entry-level metal pens. Its Art Deco design gives it a kind of simplicity without looking cheap, but it is super affordable. In addition, a lot of people order them with personalized engraving because it really stands out on the wider barrel.  The Calais is solid with zero plastic-y clickiness. The nib isn’t super high-quality; it’s made of stainless steel, so it's unlikely to break. That being said, it just doesn’t flex a whole lot. But I haven’t ever had a problem with the ink flow or anything else to do with nib functionality.  Overall, the Calais fountain pen is a great starter pen and makes an even better gift pen.  Related Reading: How To Store a Fountain Pen Properly 4.) Cross Classic Century Fountain Pen The Classic Century is a crowd favorite.  This slim, jet-liner style pen is one of the staple Cross pen designs.  One of the things you’ll notice on a lot of Cross pens, especially on the more professional-looking pens, is two gold ribs ringing around the bottom of the cap. You’ll see it on the close cousins of the Classic Century: the Century II, the Townsend, and even the Peerless 125.  While the Classic Century fountain pen has a great deal in common with all these pen designs, it doesn’t have the rings, instead taking certain cues from the other Art Deco-style Cross pens like the Calais and the Aventura.  The lack of rings makes it slimmer and simpler. For the chrome-based Classic Century pens, there are instead some etched ribs that run the length of the barrel, reducing slippage. It sort of looks like the fuselage of a small Boeing airplane. I prefer the black and gold fountain pen design because it looks more subdued (the black and gold Cross pens, just look better), and chrome tends to make me feel like I’m holding something that fell off a bicycle.  Learn More: How to Clean a Fountain Pen 3.) Cross Bailey Fountain Pen  The Cross Bailey was actually my first ever fountain pen; it was a great gift from a friend. I had some brown ink for it, too, which made me feel like I was in 1915, writing a love letter from a muddy trench to a girl back home… or something.  Anyway, the Bailey fountain pen is a step up in design from the Calais. The major differences are in the ring around the top of the cap attached to the clip and the etched cuff around the bottom. It also has a barrel that tapers more towards the back. The Bailey Medalist fountain pen mixes chrome with gold appointments, and it’s one of the most popular models. I recommend this pen especially for first time fountain pen users. Further Reading: How To Write With a Fountain Pen: The 3 Simple Steps 2.) Cross Townsend Fountain Pen The Townsend is the most expensive pen in our list. Preferred by a number of U.S. Presidents, it stands out as one of the best luxury pens in the Cross company line. The Townsend features a medium-sized barrel which I think is best in black lacquer with 23k gold appointments.  The nib features gold plating too, just to add that little bit of extra fancy pen energy.  What I really like about the Townsend fountain pen is the substantial feel in the hand. Compared to a lot of the other Cross fountain pens, it’s just got that oomph that says, “I know what I’ve got, and I know what I’m doing.” It makes a great gift pen for special occasions and big shows of gratitude. Discover More: How to Refill a Fountain Pen: The Beginner's Guide 1.) Cross Century II Fountain Pen  The Century II is my favorite in the Cross fountain pen line. I’ve actually written a more in-depth review of the Century II elsewhere. In design terms, the Century II is situated between the Classic Century and the Townsend—a bit slimmer than the Townsend, a bit more stylish than the Classic Century. In my opinion, it’s got the best writing experience and the best design out of any of the other pens in our list. That’s it for the list of best Cross fountain pens. But before we go, let’s answer some Cross fountain pen FAQs... People Also Ask… How do I use a Cross Fountain Pen? Writing with fountain pen nibs might seem like it requires some secret, special skill. However, it’s really not all that different from writing with any other pen.  You simply write with the nib-side up, feed-side down, and at a slight angle from the page.  For more, check out my Guide to Writing with a Fountain Pen. How do I find the right Cross pen converter? Cross pens have their own sized blue and black ink cartridges, but they also have their own particular size for converters.  Check out Cross’s own website for their fountain pen converters. How do I load a Cross fountain pen? Every Cross pen design has at least two major pieces which unscrew apart between the section (the part where you grip the pen when you write) and the barrel.  When you unscrew it, there will be an ink cartridge or a converter connected to the section. Simply take the cartridge/converter out carefully (so as not to get ink everywhere), maybe clean your fountain pen if it’s been a while, and replace the cartridge/converter with a fresh one. For more, read our guide on How to Load and Use a Fountain Pen. Pro tip: I’ve found that the Cross fountain pen ink is kind of gloopy, so get yourself a converter and load it with an ink that doesn’t leave little spider web strings between strokes. Conclusion This has been The Dayspring Pens list of the best Cross fountain pens; I hope it’s been helpful for you to get acquainted with the options available to you. Some final tips for moving forward:  To save money on buying more than one pen, consider getting a gift set of Cross pens. At Dayspring, we offer exclusive double pen sets which combine two types of pens in one. Combine a fountain pen with a Cross rollerball pen or a ballpoint. If you’re looking for pens in order to give them as a gift, aiming for something more affordable will still make a decent gift if it’s got a personalized engraving on it. The best personalized pens aren’t always the most pricey; just put some thought into the words you want engraved on the pen.  Also, be sure to check out more in-depth pen reviews on Cross products to find out what you’re really getting with your pen choices. Goldspot and Goulet Pens offer great reviews. That’s all! If this article has helped you, let us know which Cross pens you’re interested in or which ones you prefer. Leave a comment! Daniel Whitehouse is the President and CEO of Dayspring Pens. He uses his expertise with premium writing utensils to create exceptional, intentional products and craft easy-to-understand articles that help both new and experienced users learn more about their writing tools. He lives in Virginia where he and his wife are raising their four children. To learn more about him and his insights about custom engraved gift pens, follow Daniel on LinkedIn.

Parker Pens is one of those storied brands that's been around for over a hundred years. In particular, Parker rollerball pens are popular collectors items. People tend to be pretty brand loyal to Parker. But! If you are new to Parker or are thinking about branching out from your favorite writing style, then this article is for you. 5.) The IM 4.) The Sonnet 3.) The Premier 2.) The Urban 1.) The Jotter I am going to break down the top 5 best Parker rollerball pens to get you started on your new lifelong obsession. Our list of the best Parker rollerballs are as follows: And away we go! Let's take a deeper look at each pen on our list.  The Top 5 Rollerball Pens by Parker 5.) The Parker IM  Let's starts off with the Parker IM product line which is all about being professional and affordable. It's a welcome entry level luxury pen. The Parker IM is a medium bodied pen with simple design lines and comfort in mind. This pen isn't trying to rock the boat or win any awards. It is here to do the work and not stand out. This anonymity may sound like an odd call out for a name brand pen, but professionalism is not about making a big statement. It is about consistency, politeness, and reliability, and that's what you get in an IM. Notable features of the Parker IM: A capped rollerball with a black Quink medium point refill The iconic Parker arrow clip A selection of color lacquer finishes and precious metal appointments Is available as a set with a matching ballpoint or fountain pen Price around $42 4.) The Parker Sonnet Rollerball The Parker Sonnet is one of the classic Parker rollerball pen designs that says "I'm all 1960s elegance and class". This capped rollerball looks like it could be pulled right out of Jackie O's handbag. Its chiseled finishes and engraved patterns make the Parker Sonnet equal parts sturdy writing pen and stylish accessory.   A personal recommendation goes to the Ciselé finish and the Sonnet Silver Mistral finish.   What you get with a Parker Sonnet:   Medium point black Quink refill High gloss color lacquers and precious metal accents Capped rollerball Assembled by hand and individually checked  Related Reading: What Is a Rollerball Pen? 3.) The Parker Premier Rollerball The Parker Premier is one of the most premium of the Parker Pen lines. It not only looks prestigious and iconic, it also has the weight and precision balance that are the hallmarks of a pen made to be an heirloom. Each Parker Premier is a hand crafted item meant to make an impression in the corporate boardroom with the etched banding, high gloss finish and tapered barrel. The Premier is a fancy pen that make no excuses for being a luxury item. It's the kind of pen you expect to see pulled out of an impeccably tailored suit. Here's the rundown on the Premier Rollerball: Cap screws on Iconic Parker arrow clip Medium point black ink refill Comes in a premium Parker gift box Price starts around $315 2.) The Parker Urban Rollerball The Parker Urban is a massively popular pen design; it features a slight undulating curve, widening at the section (the place you grip your pen for writing). This makes it a bit more ergonomic and comfortable than most of the other Parker pens. I like the Urban because of this design feature: it's a user-focused pen rather than a mere status symbol. And yet, it doesn't go overboard with its unique style. A lot of ergonomic pens can go a bit too far with ergonomics and suffer for it. They're eyesores.  The Urban blends functional design sense with formal taste. Here's the rundown: Iconic Parker arrow clip Medium point black ink refill Postable cap Price starts around $30 1.) The Parker Jotter Gel Pen  It won't take a big search to find the greatest rollerball pen from Parker since the Parker Jotter is the most recognizable, affordable Parker pen available. The Parker Jotter is a durable, bullet shaped, all-metal construction pen. With a slimmer barrel size, this Parker rollerball is the most portable of our list. What's so great about the Jotter? First off, the click on this pen is ridiculously satisfying. Next, this thing is a tank that will survive the deepest bowels of your purse or the bottom of a book bag. Lastly, it is a fine point rollerball that just won't quit. The Jotter is actually known for being Parker's go-to ballpoint. However, I prefer it as a gel ink rollerball and so does the staff at Dayspring Pens. The brief on the Parker Jotter Rollerball: Click-action rollerball, compatible with the Parker ballpoint refill Comes with a fine point black ink refill All metal construction with finishes in black, red, and blue available Price at a glorious $20 That's it for the list of best Parker rollerball pens, but stick around for some more helpful info on related topics... What makes a rollerball pen worth it?     Of the three most popular writing styles, the rollerball is a middle-ground between fountain pens and ballpoints. A ballpoint has oil-based ink and a small ball at the tip that spins when pressure is applied to release the ink. The ballpoint's strength is its convenience since the ink won't dry out. Its weakness is that the oil-based ink has a tendency to skip and require added pressure which means hand cramps. A fountain pen has a nib and feed that bring liquid ink from a reservoir in the fountain pen down to the point. The strength of the fountain pen is the experience and liquid smooth writing it provides. Its weakness is the labor involved in using and maintaining it. Now, settling in right in the sweet spot between the ballpoint and the fountain pen is the rollerball pen. It has the same ball mechanism as the ballpoint with the liquid ink of the fountain pen. You get the convenience of the ballpoint with easy writing like the fountain pen. It is a one stop shop if you are trying to explore the world of pens. Why choose a Parker pen? Now that we have glossed over rollerballs as a pen style, why should you choose to use a Parker product? Because of three things: The design, the reliability of the brand, and the Quink. We will talk more about the design as we break down the top 4 rollerballs. For now I am going to talk about the brand and the Quink. Parker Pen Brand  Parker Pens is a classic, storied business that has been responsible for innovations in fine pens in the turn of the 20th century. Two of their products (the Jotter and the Parker 51) have been manufactured since the 1940s because the pens just really are that good. When you buy a name brand like Parker, there is the reliability of a business that has worked out the kinks in their products. What's more, there's the relief of a two year warranty against any mechanical issues in the pen. Shop Now: Personalized Parker Rollerball Pens Quink When Quink (quick ink) was first developed in 1931, Parker wanted to solve the issues with fountain pen ink clogging up the fountain pen. Because of this problem in the history of the fountain pen, we reap the sweet benefits of its solution. Quink provides a steady, smooth flow, resisted water (less bleeding through the page), is non-corrosive, and dries fast. This ultimately means when you write with a Parker rollerball, you don't have to think about it. No worries. No stress. Ink Refills for the Parker Rollerball One of the great things about buying a name brand pen from Parker is that you get the body of a reliable, luxury crafted pen, but have the freedom to mix and match inks. If you find you want to experiment with other types of rollerball ink in your Parker pen body, here is an incredible in-depth list of refills that are compatible with Parker pens from the Well Appointed Desks. Conclusion There you have it for my list of the best Parker rollerball pens. I hope this has helped you with your shopping. If you are looking for a selection of Parker rollerball pens, check out what we have at Dayspring Pens site. We are a certified brand seller and are happy to offer a free line of personalized engraving and free domestic shipping to every customer. If you're looking for a Parker pen in a different writing style, be sure to check out our other list of Parker Fountain Pens. But now it's your turn: What is your favorite Parker rollerball? Let us know what it is and why you love it in the comments below! Sam Di Nardo is an author for Dayspring Pens, where she has honed her expertise in ballpoint, rollerball, gel and fountain pens since joining the team in 2018. From her initial role as an Engraver to becoming the Production Manager, Sam's journey has been marked by her passion for the history, manufacturing, and the unique value of gifted writing instruments. A graduate of Regent University with a degree in English Literature and a special interest in Old Norse literature, dive deeper into Sam's world and discover why she's your trusted guide in the realm of gift pens. Follow Sam on LinkedIn.

Cross fountain pens are often passed over by most highfalutin luxury pen enthusiasts, but that’s really unfair. I think the Cross Century II fountain pen is a great example of a luxury pen that does everything we need it to for a reasonable price—purists be hanged. And so many people agree with me; it’s one of our best sellers. So, here’s my Cross fountain pen review of the Century II.  The Best Things About the Cross Century II The best things about the Century II are its... Price Design Weight Texture & Grip Nib I’ll talk about each of these aspects individually. Price The price is so much more reasonable than, say, a Montblanc fountain pen. While a Montblanc is definitely a worthwhile investment, their cheapest fountain pens begin around the $500 mark and ascend well over a grand. The Century II price range begins just under $100 and will generally hang around the $143 mark. Design of the Cross Century II Fountain Pen The pen of choice for numerous recent presidents including Obama, Biden, and (briefly) Trump, the Century II's design features clean-cut, noble-looking lines. It sort of looks like the secret love-child of the slimmer Classic Century and the much more substantial Townsend Cross pens (pictured below). It’s just a really beautiful pen, and it looks good any way you look at it. Weight & Construction  It’s not what you’d call a heavy pen, but also it certainly doesn’t feel cheap. While it’s construction is mostly metal coated in a black lacquer, it’s not filled in.  Some luxury pens these days are built like a tire iron, and the space within the pen is filled up as much as possible. The mentality seems to be “the heavier the pen, the better the quality”, but that’s honestly not good design sense.  Weight does not equal quality, and luckily a lot of other reviewers of the Century II understand this. Waste of materials also does not equal quality.  I’d rather pen designers do more with less than try to convince me by any other means that the pen with which I’m writing is the best because it taxes my hand to write. If that macho man mentality is anywhere in the pen design world (which, luckily, I don’t think it is), then I’ll be very happy with a Bic Cristal, perhaps the best designed ballpoint pen of all time.  Texture & Grip Like I said, the black Century II fountain pen is coated in a smooth lacquer. Some people might find this plastic-y, but I honestly love it. It’s got a feel similar to fine bone suit buttons. And I like that. The grip has some ribbing that runs in line with the barrel. It just gives it the slightest bit of catch so you’re not having to crank down on it with your fingers and crap. I hate when I have to keep adjusting my fingers (I think everyone does), so the ribbing just helps to reduce that quite a bit. Nib Performance of the Cross Century II fountain pen Probably the most important aspect of writing with a fountain pen, however, is the nib. If the nib is crummy, it’s honestly not going to be worth your time. Luckily, the Century II fountain pen nib is surprisingly smooth (take that, naysayers!). Zero scratchiness, zero catching or spluttering. The flow is smooth and consistent.  Shop Now: Ink refills from Dayspring Pens The Only Thing I Didn’t Like... The only thing I didn’t enjoy about the Cross Century II was the ink—it’s kinda… gloopy. I used one of the Cross brand blue fountain pen cartridges. While the nib is on the page, the gloopy ink feels kind of magnetic and smooth, but when you lift up a little string of blue ink will hold on for dear life to both the page and the nib. This means that if you’re writing fast, you get these annoying little lines between letters. My recommendation here is to find a better ink brand to go in a decent convertor for the Century II. That’s my only bit of criticism. Conclusion  This has been my Cross fountain pen review of the Century II. I hope it’s helpful to those of you looking for an affordable fountain pen or a pen for professionals. Not everyone is a purist when it comes to luxury pens—in fact, most people aren’t. Most people are looking for a luxury pen that gets the job done, stands out distinctly from their Pilot G2, and just adds that extra something to their writing. We also don’t need to be spending $400 just to avoid an overly invested pen enthusiast’s nit-picky criticism: it’s got to be more or less affordable. That's why I think the Century II is a great option. If, however, you're interested in Cross ballpoints or gold Cross pens, be sure to check out what we've written on them. If you need a second take on the Century II, be sure to also read The Pen Addict's great in-depth review. But now it’s your turn: tell me what you love (or don’t love) about the Century II in the comments. Daniel Whitehouse is the President and CEO of Dayspring Pens. He uses his expertise with premium writing utensils to create exceptional, intentional products and craft easy-to-understand articles that help both new and experienced users learn more about their writing tools. He lives in Virginia where he and his wife are raising their four children. To learn more about him and his insights about custom engraved gift pens, follow Daniel on LinkedIn.

If you're in search of a Cross ballpoint pen, but don't know which one is best for you, we want to help! Cross is a popular, high-quality pen products brand with a number of classic pen designs. We, at the Dayspring Pens shop, are the largest vendor of Cross pens, and our service goal is to help every customer find the best ballpoint pen for them. Cross's ballpoints are a lot more popular than their pens with other writing tip models like fountain pens and rollerballs. So in order to assist each customer shopping for Cross ballpoints, we've compiled a list of the top 7 ballpoint pens based on popularity, price, and key design features. In addition, be sure to explore our other ranking lists for the overall best Cross pens and Cross gold pens. Here's the short version for the ballpoint pens: 7.) The Townsend 6.) The Bailey 5.) The Tech3+ 4.) The Coventry 3.) The Classic Century 2.) The Calais 1.) The Century II   Let's take a closer look; in this list, I'll offer some helpful information on each pen, one by one. 7.) The Townsend Cross Ballpoint in Black Lacquer and 23k Gold Appointments Number 7 in our list of the cross ballpoint pens is Townsend. The black Townsend is a fine Cross ballpoint pen. Despite its steep price tag, the high-quality construction materials and iconic design paired with the signature Cross ballpoint refill results in the pen-of-choice for numerous Presidents of the United States. It's the type of pen that says, "I've got the money; I've got the time." Here's a short list of the Townsend's main features: Twist-action ballpoint High gloss black lacquer barrel and 23 kt gold appointments with black ink Ships in a deluxe Cross gift box Personalization appears gold Lifetime Mechanical Warranty Perfect for career milestones, birthdays, anniversaries, and promotions 6.) The Bailey Medalist Number 6 in the list of Cross ballpoint pens is the Bailey Medalist ballpoint pen. The Bailey medalist is one of the more recognizable Cross pens in chrome and gold; you can probably even find one of these pens in Office Depot. A medium Cross ballpoint pen like this is one of the bang for your buck buys: it's got a lot of class for not too much cash. What's more, these pens not only make great personal daily writing pens, but also make fine promotional items. See if the Bailey is right for you with some information on its main features: Twist-action medium-sized pen barrel with ballpoint tip oil-based black ink Takes standard Cross ballpoint refills Polished chrome body and 23 kt gold-plated appointments with black ink Ships in a premium Cross black gift box Engraving shows brass Lifetime Mechanical Warranty Perfect for colleagues, corporate logos, birthdays, and congratulations Learn More: How to Get a Ballpoint Pen to Start Writing Again 5.) The Tech3+—Translucent Red Next, the 5th best Cross ballpoint pen is the Tech3+ in translucent red. The Tech3+ isn't strictly a ballpoint; it's a multi-functional pen featuring two different ballpoint tips—one black, one red—along with a 0.7mm mechanical pencil tip. With a twist of the barrel, the different writing tips retract in and out consecutively. Above all the other Cross ballpoint pens, the Tech3+ is the type of writing instrument crafted with innovators and progress-oriented thinkers in mind. Additionally, it's a staff favorite at Dayspring Pens and my personal pen of choice for my crossword puzzle, especially because of its fine tip ballpoint. I give this multi-functional pen 5 stars! Here's the breakdown: Black ink ballpoint, red ink editing pen, 0.5 mm pencil with eraser, and stylus tip all in one finely crafted design Twist-action, medium-sized barrel in translucent red finish Ships ready to give in a Cross pen gift box Laser engraving shows silver Lifetime Mechanical Warranty Also available in blue and chrome Gift for student, graduate, editor, educator, or crossword puzzle enthusiasts  4.) The Coventry Blue Ballpoint Pen     Coming in fourth in our list of Cross ballpoint pens is the Coventry ballpoint pen. Different from any other brand, Cross ballpoint pens span a wide price range from below $30 to well above $600. The Coventry ballpoint is at the lower extreme of that spectrum; it offers the most accessible entry point into the world of fine luxury pens. Only available as a ballpoint pen or a ballpoint and mechanical pencil set in Chrome, this item has the feel of a reliable, expensive pen without the sometimes ludicrous cost. It is best for corporate gifting to your professionals. The Coventry has: Medium sized twist-action Cross ballpoint pen Compatible with standard Cross ballpoint refills and 0.7mm lead Available in Black, Red, or Blue finishes with chrome appointments Comes in a basic two-piece Cross brand gift box  Lifetime Mechanical Warranty by Cross  Popular gift for women, men, graduation, administrative assistants, and corporate orders with a logo  Related Topic: Who Invented the Ballpoint Pen?: A Brief History 3.) The Classic Century in 23k Gold The number three Cross ballpoint pen is the exquisite Classic Century 23k Gold Ballpoint Pen. The most iconic of all the Cross ballpoint pens, the Classic Century offers a slim barrel, low profile, and textured ribbing along the barrel, all covered in the luxury of 23k gold. Its a small pen jam packed with some classic style. The feel of the medium point tip writes as delightfully smoothly as the twist mechanism slides into place. This pen offers a huge variety of color finishes and writing styles from which to select. See it with gold appointments, satin black finishes, translucent blue lacquer, shining shimmering chrome splendor...Heck, there is more variety than an episode of the Gong Show. In addition, Cross offers a Chrome Classic Century pen and pencil set. It comes with 0.7 mm lead and an eraser under the cap. The ballpoint pen is compatible with the standard Cross ink refill. Click here for more on Cross pen and pencil sets. What makes the Classic Century a classic: Twist-action ballpoint Lustrous chrome finish with black ink Ships in a premium Cross gift box Custom engraving shows light brass Lifetime Mechanical Warranty by Cross The traditional gift for graduations with styles and finishes from budget-friendly to highest of fancy pens 2.) The Calais in Chrome Next, the #2 Cross ballpoint pen is the chrome Calais ballpoint pen This is far and away the best selling pen we have at Dayspring. Why? Because this Cross ballpoint pen was made to be a perfect middle of the road pen - the perfect size for text and logo engraving, a perfect medium barrel to fit any hand, and medium point black ink refills for a perfect, consistent line. Different lacquer finishes from red to black are available at the same affordable price generally coming in the $30s range. Quantity discounts will get an even lower price. It can be a hard search to find ballpoint pens that are made for everyone, but the Calais has the best results. Here's some info on the main features of the Calais: Twist action ballpoint Lustrous chrome finish with black writing ink Comes in a Cross pen gift box Personalization appears as a light brass Lifetime Mechanical Warranty Great gift for men, women, graduation, business, and corporate orders with a logo 1.) The Century II in Black Lacquer and 23k Gold Appointments The #1 pen to close out our list of Cross ballpoint pens is the Cross Century II. This Cross ballpoint pen is about as delightful as you can get. Somewhere between the Classic Century and the Townsend, the Century II blends the low profile and elegant lines of one with the pronounced cap and professional finishes of the other. The oil-based ink tip of the ballpoint refill offers almost the same writing experience as the select tip rollerball so every signature and jotted note feels quality. The timeless, classy Century II has the perfect weight for comfort without feeling hollow or cheap and the finishes are chef's kiss. Honestly, this Cross ballpoint pen gets you exactly what you pay for...excellence. Key features of the Century II: Twist-action ballpoint Glossy black lacquer finish and 23 kt gold-plated appointments with black ink Ships in a premium Cross pen gift box Personalized engraving shows gold Lifetime Mechanical Warranty Great gift for men, women, career milestone, promotion, birthday, and anniversaries Conclusion That's our rankings for the best Cross ballpoint pens out there. We at Dayspring Pens spend quite a lot of time with Cross products and are excited to share the information we have learned. Cross craft historic pens whose classic style and consistent service make them well earn the title of professionalism they built their brand on. Now it's your turn! Let us know in the comments which Cross ballpoints you prefer! Daniel Whitehouse is the President and CEO of Dayspring Pens. He uses his expertise with premium writing utensils to create exceptional, intentional products and craft easy-to-understand articles that help both new and experienced users learn more about their writing tools. He lives in Virginia where he and his wife are raising their four children. To learn more about him and his insights about custom engraved gift pens, follow Daniel on LinkedIn.

In this article, I'm going to tackle all the details about name brand Cross pen pencil sets—what's so great about them, what types of pen sets Cross offers, and where you can get them. Pen and Pencil sets are often overlooked by pen buyers, but we think they're some of the best Cross products available. They're also great way to save a little cash when you're growing your luxury pen collection. And so we begin! What's so special about a Cross pen and pencil set? Though the world of luxury pens is vast, it's actually surprisingly difficult to find a good luxury mechanical pencil. I'll be honest, I find this to be kind of shocking since the mechanical pencil dates back to 1565! It is a luxury pen and pencil set. With history older than the fountain pen, I would think the market for a premium mechanical pencil would be larger, but alas there are only so many brands out there. Fortunately, the all-American brand AT Cross is one of them. What is great about the Cross pen pencil set is a higher quality of materials that make the writing instruments more durable, longer lasting, and way better looking on your desk and in-hand. Not to hate on the old Bic Mechanical Pencil variety pack, but it makes quite a different impression in the business world compared to say a 14k gold pen and pencil set. Ultimately, its about prestige and style as well as an incredible writing experience. It is a more appropriate gift As a gift for graduation, retirements, or any of the major achievements in life, giving a gift that matches the occasion matters. Whether the occasion is at home or in the office, a fancy pen set speaks more to the value you have in the person and the event that is happening. It is also more personal and more satisfying to give a gift of a better quality. All these things are worth considering when shopping for the best pen and pencil set. Quality works better And ultimately, the Cross brand pen pencil set is one of the best available for the price. Each Cross pencil is twist-action to match the pen that goes with it. There's a sizable eraser included, hidden under the cap, and each one features medium point 0.7 mm lead. There's lots of written material about Cross ballpoint pens so I won't go into much detail. One thing is certain, though: it's difficult to find one with a more professional reputation. Solid metal construction, premium building materials, and beautiful design are all backed up with the Cross Lifetime Mechanical Guarantee for added peace of mind. Essentially, a Cross pen and pencil set works to be the only set you'll ever need. What types of pen pencil sets does Cross offer? All Cross pen and pencil sets include a black ink, medium tip ballpoint pen and a 0.7 mm lead mechanical pencil with an eraser under the cap. All Cross pens come in a Cross gift box. Classic Century Pen and Pencil Set The Classic Century is far and away the most popular of the Cross ballpoint pen and mechanical pencil sets. It has long been considered a traditional graduation gift and is perfect for business professionals. The Classic Century is among the best Cross gold pens since its inception the 1940s. It's notable for the thin barrel profile and etched lines, available in a variety of finishes starting at $74.54. Lustrous Chrome Classic Century Set Medalist Classic Century Set (Lustrous Chrome body with 23k gold appointments) Black Classic Century Set with 23k gold trim 10k rolled/filled gold Classic Century Set 14k rose gold Classic Century Set   "It was a gift for my 11 year old grand daughter. She loved it with the engraving of her name. Loves to use both." MJW   Coventry Pen and Pencil Set The Cross Coventry set has a medium barrel body in lustrous chrome. The Coventry features a strong profile with black lacquer banding. It is also the most affordable pen set at a price of $44.09, which includes a free line of custom engraving, a service offered by Dayspring Pens. Cross Tech3+ Multifunction Pen Cross Pens The Cross Tech3+ Multifunction Pen is not so much a pen set as it is multiple writing instruments in one medium body. It comes with a black ink ballpoint pen, a red ink ballpoint pen, a mechanical pencil with eraser, and a stylus for electronic devices. Each of the features can be accessed by twisting the barrel. This is also the only fine point ink refill pen that Cross offers without exchanging the refills yourself. The Tech3+ has a modern style without sacrificing the classic Cross elements of fine etching and superior craftsmanship. It's a staff favorite at Dayspring Pens available in multiple colors and finishes:   Lustrous Chrome Translucent Red Metallic Blue   "My son got a job as a college professor so I thought a personalized pen would be a nice Xmas gift. He was happy and surprised to see his name on it and likes it very much." Dallan J   Where can I buy Cross Pen and Pencil Sets? There are always the usual channels such as Amazon and the AT Cross site for buying Cross brand pen and pencil sets. I would also recommend checking out Dayspring Pens. We have a wide variety of finishes, are one of the only sellers of the Coventry, and offer a free line of personalized engraving as well as free shipping in the US. I may be slightly biased, but it's definitely worth checking the Dayspring Pens site to see if we can meet your needs. Where can I sell Cross pen pencil sets? If you are looking to sell your Cross pen and pencil set, here are some good places to start: Ebay Etsy The Pen Market What other pen sets does Cross offer? Looking for more than just pen and pencil sets? Cross offers a whole slew of pen sets with any number of combinations of Cross fountain pen, gel ink rollerball, and ballpoint pen. Some incredibly popular pen gift sets for writing include: The Calais Chrome and Blue Ballpoint Set The Bailey Medalist Ballpoint and Rollerball Set The Classic Century Black Pen and Pencil Set Conclusion Whether you are looking for a set as a graduation gift or for your home office, Cross has the best selection of luxury pens and pencils. Whether you prefer chrome, black, or gold pen finishes, there's something for every taste. Try the slender, historic Classic Century, the study, reliable Coventry, or the modern, versatile Tech3+. None will disappoint! Do you have a favorite Cross pen set? If so leave a comment below and let us know what it is and why! Sam Di Nardo is an author for Dayspring Pens, where she has honed her expertise in ballpoint, rollerball, gel and fountain pens since joining the team in 2018. From her initial role as an Engraver to becoming the Production Manager, Sam's journey has been marked by her passion for the history, manufacturing, and the unique value of gifted writing instruments. A graduate of Regent University with a degree in English Literature and a special interest in Old Norse literature, dive deeper into Sam's world and discover why she's your trusted guide in the realm of gift pens. Follow Sam on LinkedIn.

The A.T. Cross Pens company has produced high-quality writing instruments since its founding in 1846, and it represents this century's ideal in luxury pens—especially its line of different gold pens. In this post, we want to look over the 9 best Cross pens from the Tech2 to the Bailey, from the Peerless 125 to the Classic Century. Additionally, we'll give you some helpful information on the best-sellers, like the presidential Townsend and the jet-lined Classic Century pen, so that you can purchase the best possible Cross pen for you. But if you're trying to buy a Cross pen as a personalized gift for someone else, be sure to check out our video on the 5 Best Cross for Gifts.  But if you're looking for the best A.T. Cross pens overall, then the rest of this article is for you. Let's get started! Here's our list of the 9 Best Cross Pens:     Here's 9 Best Cross Pens at a glance: 9.) The Tech2 8.) The Click 7.) The Townsend 6.) The Tech3+ 5.) The Coventry 4.) The Bailey 3.) The Century II 2.) The Classic Century 1.) The Calais 9.) Cross Tech2 The Cross Tech2 is a slim barreled, twist-action ballpoint pen with a stylus on the cap. The A.T. Cross company's affordable younger brother to the Tech3+ (featured later), the Tech2 comes in chrome, red, blue, and black. "What's the point of a Tech2," you ask? The Tech2 is one of the best Cross pens for daily, multi-functional use. To put it another way, it spans the gap between page and touch-screen. Discover the Tech2 at Dayspring Pens!  8.) Cross Click The Cross Click is a little known gem in the Cross pen line. In fact, by simplifying the icon Classic Century Pen into a streamline of slender, well balanced barrel, the Click removes any of the decorative flair of other Cross pens thereby presenting a pen for the minimalist. Moreover, the pen has a click-action feature in the top that snaps sharply to release an oily Cross ballpoint tip. Additionally it's available in lustrous chrome, midnight blue, translucent red, and matte black. Interestingly, the Click has one hidden option: the Cross jumbo ballpoint refill inside can be swapped for a Cross rollerball or felt tip cartridge, thus offering greater versatility. Discover the Cross Click  7.) Cross Townsend The Cross Townsend is next in our list of the best Cross pens. Interestingly, the Townsend is one of the top picks for pens among US presidents and has one of the most recognizable, classic profiles for any pen in production. While it has aesthetic similarities to the Classic Century and Century II, the Townsend nevertheless has its own distinct form, thereby setting it at the peak of executive and professional pens. Available in ballpoint, gel ink rollerball, and fountain pen versions, the Townsend also features a number of color variations like the chrome, 23k gold pen, and black and with gold appointments. Write like a President with a Cross Townsend  6.) Cross Tech3+ The Cross Tech3+ is a top tier achievement in multi-functional pen engineering. It makes an incredible everyday carry pen. Here's why: Featuring three different writing tips (a black ballpoint, a red ballpoint, and 0.7mm pencil), each is engaged with a single quarter-turn of the twist-action pen. One writing tip is replaced by another with a satisfying click. The Tech3+ also features a stylus used for touch screen devices. The point of the Tech3+ is to span the gap between multiple writing surfaces and tasks in one pen all the while keeping the pen light-weight and unobtrusive. Available in multiple style colors including Chrome, black, and gold, the Tech3+ is one of the best Cross pens for the innovative type and no-fluff forward thinkers. Give the gift of an engraved Cross Tech3+  5.) Cross Coventry The Cross Coventry brings us back to the more economical level of writing instruments. It comes in at #5 in our list because it's one of the most affordable luxury pens on the market. A close cousin to the Bailey and the Calais, the Coventry is the type of pen that's perfect when used for daily writing tasks without standing out too much. Available only in the ballpoint version at Dayspring (with the notable exception of the Chrome Pen and Pencil Set), this Cross pen comes in a number of different color options including chrome/silver, black, blue, and red pen color options.  Try a Cross Coventry from Dayspring Pens 4.) Cross Bailey Indeed, anyone can see why the Cross Bailey ranks high on our list the best Cross pens. It even ranked #43 in The Strategist's List of 100 Best Pens. The Bailey represents a major step up from the economical line of Cross pens without much of an increase in price. Being a close cousin to the Calais, the Bailey is distinct by its cuffed appointments. Furthermore, the most popular model of the Bailey is the medalist ballpoint pen (pictured above) which features a chrome barrel with gold appointments. Additionally, the Bailey can make an excellent gift for graduations, employees, or Christmas. Moreover, this Bailey is available in multiple color options and in ballpoint, gel ink rollerball, and fountain pen writing point models. Choose your personalized Cross Bailey  3.) Cross Century II     The Century II from the A.T. Cross pen company is one of the all-around best cross pens. Seemingly the median point between the ultra slim Classic Century and the larger Townsend, the Century II is nevertheless in a league of its own. The Century II is the latest pen favored by US Presidents Obama and Biden Available in the classic black lacquer with gold appointments, the Century II also has a unique white lacquer and rose gold model (pictured above) in ballpoint, gel ink felt tip rollerball, and fountain pen versions. Find your favorite Century II  2.) Cross Classic Century     It's easy to see why the Cross Classic Century comes in at #2 in our list of Cross pens. The Classic Century is a massively popular pen because of its varying styles (from the chrome ballpoint pen to the 13k rose gold pen and pencil set), solid body, and smooth ink distribution. The super slim style and clear lines of the Classic Century make it reminiscent of the body of a streamlined jetliner. One of the most popular purchases our customers make is the Classic Century chrome pen and pencil set or the medalist ballpoint (chrome with gold appointments). Another popular model is the black ballpoint with gold appointments. The Cross Classic Century is especially popular as a graduation gift (this slim little writing instrument is even available with a graduation clip emblem). Take this Classic Century Pen  1.) Cross Calais     The Cross Calais is far and away the best Cross pen and our best-selling personalized pen. It's the most affordable in its class with impeccable, silver-styled art deco design sensibilities. In terms of design similarities, it's a close cousin to the Coventry and Bailey. The cigar-like barrel is much larger than the Classic Century and fits comfortably for those who like a more substantial grip. The ink flow in every writing style (whether ballpoint pen, gel ink rollerball pen, or fountain pen) is consistent, smooth, and effortless. The three most popular models of this particular Cross pen are the Calais chrome ballpoint pen, the Calais chrome and blue lacquer ballpoint, and the Calais black ballpoint. Dayspring Pens offers the exclusive Calais Chrome and Blue Lacquer Double Pen Set (pictured above). The Calais pen is the most popular engraved pen because its medium sized barrel (usually in chrome) displays custom engraving clearly and distinctly. There's a surprising amount of space to fit logo engravings for corporate professionals, making this one of the most sought after promotional pens. Affordability in price, reliability in writing, and aesthetic style all make the Calais the #1 best Cross Pen. Discover why the Calais is the #1 Cross pen for yourself    Conclusion     This list is based off which pens spans the gap between our best-selling pens and which pens offer the highest quality/function for the best price. At the end of the day, our customers know what's up: the Calais (especially the chrome and chrome/blue lacquer ballpoint models) tops out the list of best cross pens because the most affordable for the highest quality. The Classic Century and the Century II follow closely behind for similar reasons—and for their variety in design and function. We pretty much guarantee that the writing experience with any of these luxury writing instruments will be absolutely superb and worth the price. Anyway, I hope all this information was of some help to you in finding the best Cross pen for you! People also ask... How much is a Cross pen? Prices vary between models, writing styles, and construction materials Here's a breakdown of prices by pen line from most affordable to the most ridiculously ex-PEN-sive: The Coventry: $30.99-$50.99 The Click: $33.99-$38.89 The Calais: $35.99-$77.99 The Tech2: $42.99-44.99 The Classic Century: $43.99-$317.99 (The Classic Century has the most variations of style so its worth exploring all your options here; of special note is the Classic Century chrome pen and pencil set) The Bailey: $52.99-$118.99 The Tech3+: $68.99-$78.99 The Century II: $88.99-$224.99 The Townsend: $118.99-460.99 Where can I buy Cross pen refills? Dayspring Pens has a great selection of Cross pen refills here. Also be sure to check out our Cross refill guide How do I fix my cross Pen? The Cross company provides a lifetime mechanical warranty service which Dayspring Pens also upholds. So, if your pen has a mechanical failure, you can get it repaired or replaced at no cost to you. How do I use my Cross fountain pen?     Cross fountain pens are like any other fountain pens. That means that if you know how to use any other fountain pen, it's pretty much the same deal! I've written another article on how to load and use a fountain pen to answer this question more fully. I hope this list has helped you find the personalized Cross pen you're looking for. That's all for the top Cross pens list! Let us know in the comments which Cross pen YOU prefer! Sam Di Nardo is an author for Dayspring Pens, where she has honed her expertise in ballpoint, rollerball, gel and fountain pens since joining the team in 2018. From her initial role as an Engraver to becoming the Production Manager, Sam's journey has been marked by her passion for the history, manufacturing, and the unique value of gifted writing instruments. A graduate of Regent University with a degree in English Literature and a special interest in Old Norse literature, dive deeper into Sam's world and discover why she's your trusted guide in the realm of gift pens. Follow Sam on LinkedIn.

Cross pens is known for their popular, reliable luxury pen lines. Today, you're going to read specifically about gold Cross pens which are some of the top-selling gift pens—especially pens for professionals. At Dayspring Pens, we've worked to show the public that Cross pens make some of the most meaningful, high-quality, and affordable personalized gifts available online, such as their gold pens. There's tons of product listings for gold pens out there in any Google search. However, what I want to do here is provide a helpful guide to the best Cross gold filled rolled pens. With this guide, you'll be able to (1) shop smart by comparing price tags and features, (2) figure out which gold pen will make the best gift, and (3) know where to look to buy your Cross pen. So, without further ado... Here's our list of the 5 best Cross gold pens: I've ranked these gold pens: 5.) Cross Tech3+  With a starting price at $125.00, the Cross Tech3+ is a staff favorite at Dayspring Pens for a myriad of reasons but the biggest one is just how well it writes. The Tech3+ in 10k gold is a 3 in 1 multifunction pen. You get a black ballpoint pen, a red ballpoint pen, and a 0.7mm pencil all rolled into one. Twisting the barrel reveals the different writing utensils. The "+" model means the stylus on the cap allows the pen to work on all tablet screens. What's more, there's an eraser which shows when you unscrew the cap. Unlike the rest of the Cross ballpoint pens on our list, the Tech3+ is one of the only fine tip gold ballpoint pens that don't require you to change out the refill. This fine point, oil-based ballpoint pen glides with little to no interruption or skipping. The mechanics of the Tech3+ are what make the pen a phenomenal choice as a writing instrument. However, as an added bonus, it's available with a 23 karat filled rolled gold or a rose gold plated finish taking it from an incredible professional pen to a practical luxury item. 4.) Cross Peerless Starting at $346.49, the Cross Peerless is considered the most premium of the luxury gold Cross pens. The Peerless was a success at its original manufacturing in 1889. Since then, it has been revamped in the Peerless 125 to show the classic, iconic history of Cross. If you are looking for a show stopper, this is it. Details of 23kt pattern engraved gold plating with 23kt appointments, a round bezel jewelry setting complete with a premium Swarovski crystal, and high gloss lacquer inlays make this one fancy pen.  The Peerless is available as a medium point ballpoint pen, gel ink rollerball pen, or a solid 18kt gold wide nib fountain pen. Moreover, it allows for conversion to a porous point felt pen and a jumbo ballpoint pen with a refill. This is a large pen so if you are looking for a wide barrel gold option, look no further. This pen also comes in a special premium Cross gift box with a free glass cut pen rest. Learn More: Cross Pen Refill Guide (Step-by-Step Instructions) 3.) Cross Century II Starting at $199.49, the Cross Century II features a bolder, more modern look compared to the Classic Century style. Add the 10 karat gold filled rolled finish to it and you have a Cross pen to go down in the books. What's great about this pen is the size. It is somewhere between a slim and a more medium size barrel (think about the diameter of a standard Sharpie). This makes it a pretty universally comfortable pen no matter who is using it. The Cross Century II has actually been made the official pen of the Biden Administration. In addition, Obama and Trump used this pen at different times. This is honestly a really sharp looking pen. It comes in a variety of versions including s black medium tip ballpoint pen and rollerball pen. The fountain pen version of the Cross Century II 10k gold filled rolled pen features a hand-finished stainless steel nib. Also, the pen allows you to convert it to a porous point felt pen with a refill. 2.) Cross Townsend Starting at $178.49, the Cross Townsend may be one of AT Cross's most illustrious pens. It's easy to see why it got the title of "The Pen of Presidents". The black lacquered, gold appointed version of this pen was the official pen of the White House under the Bush, Clinton, and Obama administrations to name a few. The 10 karat filled rolled gold finish Townsend is an all-American pen. Art deco lines, distinctive finishes, and finesse are the hallmarks of this gold ballpoint pen. That's why The Strategist ranked it #24 in their master list. The Cross Townsend is a medium girth pen that has a weight and balance fine-tuned for comfortable writing and a large cap perfect for a custom engraving. This 10k gold plate pen is available as a black ballpoint pen, a gel ink rollerball, and a medium nib fountain pen.  Related Reading: How Much Are Cross Pens Worth? 1.) Cross Classic Century The Cross Classic Century 23k gold pen comes in first for the best gold Cross pens. It's not only a fantastic gold ballpoint pen, but also carries sheer variety and history. The Cross Classic Century has been an icon of American pen design since 1946. The Peerless 125, the Century II, and the Townsend all owe part of their distinct styles and aesthetics to this original masterpiece. The Classic Century 23 karat gold finish ballpoint pen is a traditional graduation gift and law enforcement gift that often becomes an antique heirloom.  This is a thin barrel pen features a fine point in each writing style - ballpoint pen, rollerball pen, fountain pen. The Classic Century pen and pencil set features a 0.7mm mechanical pencil to pair. It is also one of the only Cross designs still manufactured as a pen and pencil set. What are affordable alternatives to solid gold Cross pens? Have you been looking for a more affordable alternative to gold Cross pens? I suggest looking at pens that aren't completely gold plated. Instead, go for those that feature gold plated appointments. The alternatives are Medalist pens and black lacquer pens with gold appointments. 1.) Medalist pens Starting at $49.34, the medalist line of Cross pens are chrome plated barrels and caps with 23k gold filled rolled appointments. These will be the most affordable price wise. They can be found in the Classic Century, Cross Century II, and Townsend lines as well as in the popular Cross Bailey pen line. Cross medalist pens are available in multiple writing styles as a ballpoint pen, a rollerball pen, a fountain pen, and a mechanical pencil. 2.) Black pens with gold plated appointments Starting at $60.89, the Cross black pens with gold accents are a beautiful alternative to a Cross filled rolled gold pens. Part of what makes these pens a crowd pleaser is how well they look with engraving no matter the writing style. The Classic Century black ballpoint pen and pencil set has a matte black finish while the Cross Century II and the Townsend are high gloss black lacquer. All these pens feature 23k gold accents. Each of these pens is available as a rollerball and a black ink fountain pen. Conclusion Every gold Cross Pen comes equipped with black ink with the brand lifetime mechanical guarantee. Additionally, each pen arrives in a free fine gift box. Are you searching for the perfect gold Cross pen to give as a business gift? Look no further than Dayspring Pens. We are happy to offer free engraving service for a single line for a personalized gift. Whether you need an engraved pen in 23k gold, rose gold, or 10k gold Cross pens, Dayspring Pens is at your service. Be sure to check out our list of the Best Cross Pens Ever. Let us know which gold Cross pen you prefer in the comments below! Sam Di Nardo is an author for Dayspring Pens, where she has honed her expertise in ballpoint, rollerball, gel and fountain pens since joining the team in 2018. From her initial role as an Engraver to becoming the Production Manager, Sam's journey has been marked by her passion for the history, manufacturing, and the unique value of gifted writing instruments. A graduate of Regent University with a degree in English Literature and a special interest in Old Norse literature, dive deeper into Sam's world and discover why she's your trusted guide in the realm of gift pens. Follow Sam on LinkedIn.

Personalized gifts are, without a doubt, one of the best ways to show appreciation to your hardworking bosses. Why? Because it strengthens your personal and professional relationship with them. It shows that you didn’t just go out of your way to buy a gift. You also went the extra mile to think about them as an individual and as a mentor figure. That’s something that no mass-produced gift off a retail shelf can offer. While there are many terrific personalized gifts you can give your boss, you should be wary of some bad ones as well. Assuming that your company culture fosters a healthy gift-giving culture, you probably won’t get fired by giving these “bad” gifts. But it may leave a sour taste in your boss’s mouth, even if you had good intentions. So, mind your etiquette. Here we’ll give you a glimpse of the best personalized gift items to give to your bosses. Additionally, we’ll also list the ones that are best avoided. Let’s begin! Good Gift #1 - Engraved Pens An engraved pen makes for a fantastic tool to give to your boss. The versatility, functionality, and sharp looks make it one of the best personalized gifts out there. A professional pen also comes in a range of prices, from wallet-friendly rates to top-of-the-line luxurious price tags. Looking for some good and affordable customizable pens? Here are some fantastic ones that your boss can enjoy: Cross Calais Rollerball Pen - Chrome Woodmark Rosewood Ballpoint Pen and Case Alexandria Rollerball Pen - Blue Waterman Expert Stainless Gold Trim Ballpoint From rollerballs to fountain pens, you’re brimming with unique gift options that are sure to suit your boss’s needs. Bad Gift #1 - Cheap Jewelry Sure, buy your boss a branded Bvlgari or a Tiffany & Co. necklace. But if you’re looking for a simple and affordable gift, you may be enticed to scour online retailers for a discount brooch or earrings for your boss. Stop right there. Unfortunately, that idea may fall flat. Not only do these knock-off jewelry pieces lack in the quality department, but they also have high levels of unsafe chemicals in them, notably lead, chromium, and nickel. Having said that, the good ones tend to fall under the more expensive side. So, you’re typically better off looking the other way, lest you don’t mind splurging. Good Gift #2 - Desktop Clock With a glossy and gorgeous piano wood finish, a desk clock accentuates a sense of professionalism and high class. With its own custom nameplate and two pen stands, this gift is perfect for bosses who’ve performed beyond expectations when mentoring and handling their respective teams. Product Features: Wood set with clock and two gold-plated pens Golden custom nameplate against a black finish Bad Gift #2 - Lingerie Giving lingerie to your boss is an inappropriate idea, plain and simple. It denotes a relationship beyond work and is suggestive, embarrassing, and extremely unprofessional. If your boss is particularly irritable, they’d have no problem escalating the act to the HR department too. Play it safe and give work-related gifts to your boss. If any prying eye finds out, nasty, unproductive gossip could spiral as well. Trust us; it’s not worth it. Good Gift #3 - Customized Name Plate Looking to give your boss something extra special? Nothing gets more personalized than a custom name plate. A rosewood name plate with custom engravings is a great item that beams professionalism and reverence for everyone to see. Some name plates come with added features, too; this Rosewood name plate comes with a business card holder and a beautiful black plate. Product features: Rosewood finish wooden wedge Beautiful gold engravings against a black finish Bad Gift #3 - Expired Food Food and snacks are great gifts. A box of Belgian chocolates, crusty and oven-toasted pizza, souvenir dried fruit from the tropics—all these make for a swell gift to give your boss. But be absolutely certain that the food you’re giving is still fresh and edible before handing it over. You may be tempted to give some old packaged food from the holidays, for example, only for it to have expired days or weeks before. It’s easy to overlook the expiration date of the item, so get it right the first time! Good Gift #4 - Custom Stuffed Animals Want to give something soft and easy to carry around? A stuffed toy is a great gift item you can send to your boss. Many online stores offer custom stuffed animal services to get the perfect one for you, all with the specific modifications. From color to size to body type, the options for your stuffed animal idea are near limitless. Bad Gift #4 - Anything Scented I have a firm policy that this also includes scented soaps, lotions, candles, etc. The products people like to use and the scents they prefer are incredibly personal. Nobody wants a surprise Cotton Candy Apple Candle. It is awkward to have to smell a gift that makes your nose tickle in a bad way and then have to smile and says "wow I had no idea glistening frost smelled like that!". Now, that being said, if you know your boss loves a certain brand of candle or a particular brand of hand sanitizer then there are always exceptions to the rules.  To keep things safe and amicable, give a safe office gift that can be placed on a desk. Good Gift #5 - Custom Artwork Do you reckon yourself as a talented artist or painter? Or a woodworker? Depending on your craft and proficiency, you can spend a couple of hours creating custom-made gifts for your boss. You can draw an image of their likeness, or one of a show they enjoy. These are great gift ideas if you’re running on a tight budget! Bad Gift #5 - Prank Items Sure, your pals back at the bar would love these prank gifts. Send your friends your gag toys and worm-in-a-cans. But for your boss, it’s a whole different story. It’s important to maintain a professional relationship. This means restricting your gift ideas to things that’ll highlight work successes, triumphs, and prosperity. And, to be frank, a poop toy doesn’t even come close to falling under that category. Good Gift #6 - Customizable Padfolio Does your boss love good old-fashioned note-taking? If they’re a notorious note-taker, this is one gift you can send their way! This product comes in a variety of different color palettes, namely gold on black, black on brown, and gold on brown.  Whether your boss is celebrating a promotion or you just want to reward them for their hard work, a padfolio is a spectacular item that they’re sure to adore. Product Features: 7 x 9 inch Comes with a folder sleeve and business card holder Pen loop on the inner spine Comes with free logo stitching and personalization Ships with replaceable pad paper Buy the Customizable Leatherette Padfolio. Bad Gift #6 - A Pet Have you ever heard your boss express their grievances over a lost pet? Or their desire for one? Though a dog or cat definitely seems extreme, sometimes the temptation can arise for a fish or an ant farm. My aunt has received at least two living creatures, given with best intentions (the person thought my little cousin would love having a Beta fish and then also love raising caterpillars to see them transform into butterflies. The end result...a dead fish and my aunt having to bring a giant net of cocooned Monarch butterflies on a road trip to the family beach house so they wouldn't be trapped in the net when they hatched...) In general, offering a pet as a gift can do more harm than good. What if your boss can’t take care of it? What if they already adopted another furry fellow a few days ago? A pet is not a one-and-done gift, it requires constant attention and care. It’s a responsibility, and you may even be adding extra stress to your boss by giving them that little puppy. Want to Browse for More Gift Ideas? Find Them at Dayspring Pens! At Dayspring Pens, we have a wide variety of amazing gifts for your boss. From pens to clocks to stationary, a premium selection of corporate gifts awaits you. We also offer customization services to each of our products. Ask us to sprinkle a touch of individuality in your item, and we’ll do it right before we ship it to you! Have a gift you want to send out? Order and craft your individual message easily on any product on our store page. Daniel Whitehouse is the President and CEO of Dayspring Pens. He uses his expertise with premium writing utensils to create exceptional, intentional products and craft easy-to-understand articles that help both new and experienced users learn more about their writing tools. He lives in Virginia where he and his wife are raising their four children. To learn more about him and his insights about custom engraved gift pens, follow Daniel on LinkedIn.

Regardless of how at peace they are with their decision, the last days for an exiting employee can be pretty nerve-wracking.  Without a smooth and commemorative farewell, there’s a good chance the exiting employee might end up feeling unappreciated, and staff morale could take a hit. Not many employers have a sustained tradition of going all out for their departing employees. But the few who do, understand that it’s important to make an employee’s send-off a memorable one.  It’s not enough to simply sign their recommendation letter and bid them adieu. Most employers who pride themselves on taking care of their employees understand this, and the convention for such an employer is usually to get the departing employee a parting gift.  At Dayspring Pens, we believe the pen, as with other everyday stationery, can be as much an office tool as it is a way to express appreciation to another. If you’re keen on showing your employee how much you value them but are stumped about what to give them, we’ve prepared a list of gifts you might want to consider. But first things first:  Things to Consider Before Getting a Gift for Your Exiting Employee Company Policies Depending on the specific rule set adopted by your company, you may be able to splurge on your exiting employee. Or you might be forced to limit your gift to a set price threshold.  No need to go all Patrick Bateman and get a gift with shell parts that have been forged in deep Mongolian sea caves.  Our advice? Check with the company rulebook to determine the set limits of gifting, so your item won’t end up being returned.  Further Reading: The Ultimate Guide to Professional Gifting Etiquette The Employee’s Interests Deciding on what to buy is a big challenge when it comes to gift-giving.  In most cases, you might now know your employees on a truly personal level. Your best bet is to try and be privy to clues that your employee may share about what they like, their hobbies, etc.  These tidbits of information will give you an idea of what to buy. A frequent traveler will greatly appreciate practical gifts such as personalized flash drives or travel bags. At the same time, someone obsessive about punctuality might love a clock and pen-holder set. Nature of Work: Field? Working from Home?  It wouldn’t make much sense to get a foot hammock as a gift for a field worker, i.e., an employee rarely ever seated at their station.  Likewise, it would make even less sense to get a construction helmet for your soon-to-be ex-accountant. Unless, of course, it was meant to serve as the punchline to a company in-joke, in which case that would be a valid exception. Quality, Packaging & Personalization Gifts that you give your employees must always reflect on you and your company’s image. This means that you need to put some thought and effort into choosing the best possible gift.  Just as important to choosing the right gift is presentation. The packaging of the item itself will say a lot about how you feel about your exiting employee. Spending time and money on how your gift is presented will show much you valued your professional relationship. 4 Employee Gift Ideas to Choose From A Fancy, Well-Designed Pen  OUR PICK: Cross Century II Pen     Century II Black Gold Trim Rollerball Pen If your exiting employee spots a palate that sways in the direction of classy, this pen should do it. The richest, smoothest writing experience, a pen worthy of your signature! Dayspring Pens offers a personalized Cross Century II that’ll stand head and shoulders above every other rollerball pen. Plated in opulent 23-carat gold with matching appointments, the pen is a statement of purpose and taste, perfect for the distinguished professional. Liquid-based ink and a rollerball tip mean that this pen will positively glide across paper, effortlessly tracing clear, bold lines. It’s one of the most impressive writing instruments ever produced and, with a custom engraving by Dayspring Pens, would make an absolute sentimental treasure for an exiting employee.     A Desk Nameplate  OUR PICK: Woodmark Rosewood Desk Name Plate with Business Card Holder Personalized/Engraved Woodmark Perhaps your employee just got their own office at a new firm. A custom engraved rosewood nameplate is just the ticket! With this, they can place their very own business cards in the slot, add their name and credentials to the nameplate, and then place it on their desk for everyone to see.  It comes with a rosewood finish, and you can custom engrave it with brilliant gold against its glossy black. This desk nameplate would make an excellent gift for employees who just clinched a promotion. A Pen + Case Set Our Pick: Deluxe Rosewood Pen and Pencil Set with Case     The pen is comfortable with a medium barrel size, reliable, and long-lasting, perfect for uninterrupted daily use and is perfectly complimented with a 0.9mm lead pencil.  You can put your custom company logo engraving on both the pen and the case and make this a gift pen your recipient will be sure to remember for years to come. It features a twist-action ballpoint pen and pencil in a matching rosewood case; a rosewood finish with gold accents and black ink; and can be personalized with his or her name engraved in black on the pens and case. A Padfolio Our pick: The Dayspring Pens Natural Leather Padfolio Dayspring Pens A4 Natural Leather Padfolio In this simple, yet elegant design, this journal lets you carry and display your pen with style.  Available in a small A5 and a large A4 size, the padfolio features a high-quality brown leather with an adjustable clasp and a slot for papers and a pen. Inside, you’ll find 40 pages of heavy 100 gram dot paper, perforated for ease and flexibility in note-taking, journaling, or sketching. The padfolio comes with custom engraving inside the padfolio. Other creative options for a great gift:  A supermarket gift card A wine/gift basket A signed company-personalized card Personalize a Farewell Gift With Dayspring Pens Whether you’re searching for a meaningful gift for someone who’s retiring or moving on up the corporate ladder, Dayspring Pens is here to provide you with the right luxury pens and exemplary customer service to match.  Our personalized pens have been featured by Team Building as one of the Top 10 Best Employee Gifts. We have a great selection of personalized and corporate gift pens for any occasion, from milestone anniversaries, birthdays, or bar mitzvahs to corporate celebrations, graduations, and promotions.  We have a fixed engraving time of 5 days and a reliable support team to help you find just the right gift. And, if you ever need a personal, affordable luxurious gift in a hurry, we also offer fast delivery of 1-day rush pens. We boast a wide selection of AT Cross, Parker, and Waterman pens available fast with our One Business Day Rush Production option.  Daniel Whitehouse is the President and CEO of Dayspring Pens. He uses his expertise with premium writing utensils to create exceptional, intentional products and craft easy-to-understand articles that help both new and experienced users learn more about their writing tools. He lives in Virginia where he and his wife are raising their four children. To learn more about him and his insights about custom engraved gift pens, follow Daniel on LinkedIn.

 Personalized pens make a stellar corporate gift for your hardworking employees. The reason? It combines all the goodness of function, flair, and affordability (or luxury) in one high quality gift—all with the option to engrave any message you want. Whether you want to engrave a heartfelt “thank you” message, or insert witty one-liners, you can customize any personalized pens of your liking, courtesy of us at Dayspring Pens. All that with a rush option to deliver in just one day. Show your love or appreciation with your colleague, children, friend, or partner with our personalized pen gifts for all budget ranges. The Selection of Personalized Pen Gifts Are you looking for gold encrusted fountain pens that go for several dollars a pop? Let me check my list... we have that. Yep! Or are you looking for a reliable, engraved pen that won’t break the bank? Of course. We’re drowning in those. With a short description of each, here are the type of pens that serve as fantastic gifts for your boss, employee, or loved ones: PEN DESCRIPTION Ballpoint Versatile and works on any smooth surface Fountain Pen Luxurious, functional, a little less practical Rollerball Enables smooth writing; ballpoint mechanism with liquid-based ink Gel Pen Similar to a rollerball, just with gel ink Felt Tip Pen Porous fibers make up the pen nib. Think of highlighters, markers, and Micron pens! Stylus Glides through computer screens Now you must be wondering: are they all customizable? You ask a lot of questions! Yes, with Dayspring Pens, they’re customizable within a day’s order (except for the Deep Cut Color-Filled Engraving Style) — regardless of price. All done in-house and, once fully engraved, you can choose to have them shipped out in a day. Curious about how it works? The engraving process is one wherein you cut into the surface of some material to permanently imprint a message or design, through a laser or a heated metallic tool.  Through this process, not only can you make customizable pens, but you can etch many other engravable gift items as well. This includes mugs and wooden frames, for instance! That said, let’s browse the selection of pens fit for all occasions and price ranges. The Most Affordable Personalized Pen Gifts Under $35 - Cross Calais Ballpoint Pen   Cross Calais Chrome and Blue Ballpoint Pen Set   Product Features: A twist-action pen A light brass finish on the laser engraving Black ink with a lustrous gray body The gift box is certified Cross-branded Cross lifetime mechanical warranty Can attach a logo; great for men, women, and corporate settings A chrome sheen makes up the exterior of this stylish-looking pen. It perfectly balances affordability and high quality, cementing its place as one of the top sellers of Dayspring Pens. The Calais is versatile—capable of fitting in any hand size, whether you have a tiny grip or a hand size that frightens even the Hulk. If you’re searching for a good pen that won’t burn a hole in your pocket, the Cross Calais pen is a phenomenal choice.  Buy the Cross Calais Ballpoint Pen — Lustrous Chrome $25-30 - Parker Jotter Parker Jotter Waterloo Blue Ballpoint Pen Product Features: Stainless steel barrel with variety of finishes including lacquers and gold trim. A slim tapering barrel with an arrow clip and a resounding click-action A beautiful tone-on-tone custom engraving The gift box is made with love from Parker A 2-year warranty Good gift for men, women, business professionals, graduates, and loved ones Reliable and with a smooth movement across paper, this Parker pen is great for daily use. Refilling is easy, making this a great first choice for a durable everyday carry pen. And with a long history in the pen world, you might be surprised by just how often you see this pen without knowing it.  Buy the Parker Jotter here   $25-50 - Dayspring Pens Monroe Pen and Pencil Set Monroe Gold Ballpoint Pen and Mechanical Pencil Set Product Features: Features a click-action pen and pencil Custom engraving looks tone-on-tone gold 18 karat gold-plated barrel with ergonomic rubber grip Comes with a Dayspring Pens gift box 3 year warranty  Ideal gift for office giveaways and graduations Don’t stuff this pen in a dusty, dark drawer. Its gold outer layer shines with 18 karat gold, exuding class and glamor rivaling treasure extracted from the Cave of Wonders. For all its luster, it is still a workhorse that will easily handle the needs of daily writing. It's relatively lightweight and features a lovely ergonomic grip that maximizes comfort. Give this to your boss—and they’ll be beaming from ear to ear.  Buy Monroe pens here   The Middle of the Pack Engraved Pens $50 - Parker IM Rollerball Pen Parker IM Rollerball Pen Product Features: Comes capped and with black ink 23 karat gold-plated appointments, sleek black finish Engraved pens are available Two-year Parker warranty Comes in a Parker box Highly recommended gift for special dates Handcrafted with precision and comfort, this prestigious rollerball is a staple for any esteemed executive. Both smooth and reliable, this pen rolls over any paper with comfort and ease, making it a fine addition to premium, high-floor office tables.  Buy the Parker IM Rollerball Pen   $50-100 - Waterman Hemisphere Ballpoint Pen Waterman Hemisphere Stainless Gold Trim Ballpoint Pen Product Features: Comes capped Gold, custom, and engraved pens Three-year warranty 23 karat gold on a brushed stainless steel barrel Comes in a Waterman gift box Gift to executives and professionals, men or women This pen exceeds the boundaries between what is traditional and what is modern. The beauty of the Hemisphere is the practical durability of its design and writing mechanism with the luxury finish and intentional aesthetic. Allow your writing to flow in luxury with this nice, professional ballpoint. Buy Waterman Hemisphere Pen    $50-150 - Cross Classic Century Pen       Cross Classic Century Black Pen & Pencil Set   Product Features: A set of pens and pencils: 0.7 mm pencil with eraser and a twist-action black ink ballpoint Matte black lacquer with 23 karat appointments Ships in a Cross box Engraved pen with a personalized message  Cross provides lifetime warranty Celebrated on momentous occasions like anniversaries and birthdays The slender barrel of this historic pen is with accompanying pencil makes for a trusty sidekick—like Batman and Robin. The pen features a lightweight barrel, luxury finishes, and a variety of options. Buy Cross Classic Century Pens    “Let Me Get My Credit Card” Pens $120 and up - The Cross Townsend Pen Cross Townsend Rollerball Pen Product Features: Capped pen Black lacquer, 23 karat gold plate and appointments From Cross brand gift box Engraved pen historically used by American Presidents Lifetime AT Cross mechanical warranty Recommended for executive men and women The crowning jewel of the pen universe. The Cross Townsend is reserved for the most esteemed professionals. With unparalleled writing functionalities, and lifetime durability, this pen is one of the finest writing tools to exist. Buy the Cross Townsend    Sam Di Nardo is an author for Dayspring Pens, where she has honed her expertise in ballpoint, rollerball, gel and fountain pens since joining the team in 2018. From her initial role as an Engraver to becoming the Production Manager, Sam's journey has been marked by her passion for the history, manufacturing, and the unique value of gifted writing instruments. A graduate of Regent University with a degree in English Literature and a special interest in Old Norse literature, dive deeper into Sam's world and discover why she's your trusted guide in the realm of gift pens. Follow Sam on LinkedIn.

If you're looking to maximize the reach of your advertising budget then a promotional pen might be just what you need. Indeed, there isn’t a promotional product more user-friendly and cost-effective than a custom pen. You may be wondering, “But who really uses pens anymore?”  Despite the use of modern mobile and tablet stylus pens, more and more people are using pens. Statistics show that the pen industry will grow to 19 BILLION dollars in 2025 compared to 2017's 15 BILLION.  Pens are not only becoming increasingly popular personal items, but exponentially popular promotional items because they are simple, functional corporate tools that can easily display a company's logo on the side.  Related Reading: The Ultimate Guide to Professional Gifting Etiquette   At Dayspring Pens, we help thousands of businesses every year achieve premium tangible marketing with logo engraving on all of our promotional pens styles for things like: Corporate awards Commemorative business gifts Retirement presentations However, what makes us really special is our ability to engrave our Rush Gifts in-house in a single business day. The Best Promotional Pens Did you know that 81% of people keep promotional products for more than a year? Not only that, but pens are a great promotional tool for your business. In fact, they are a constant source of advertising as their owners see your brand each time they use them. People frequently use them at work, school, training workshops… practically everywhere They also allow you to mix and match your promotional items, say promotional pens alongside banners at a media event or a pen with a desk plate. Certainly, our selection of sleek, stylish, and colorful ballpoint, rollerball, fountain, and gel pens are all ready to showcase your company logo. At Dayspring Pens, we offer quantity discounts of up to 20%, so you can save even more on your promotional items. Our best selling styles for business gifts CROSS CALAIS CROSS BAILEY CROSS CLASSIC CENTURY WATERMAN EXPERT Cross Calais Ballpoint Pen $25.99 Cross Bailey Medalist Selectip Rollerball Pen $55.99 Cross Classic Century Ballpoint Pen $37.99 Waterman Expert Black Ballpoint Pen $129.99 Cross Calais Ballpoint Pen $26.99 Cross Bailey Medalist Ballpoint Pen $46.99 Cross Classic Century 23 Karat Gold Rolled Ballpoint Pen $149.99 Waterman Expert Back Gold Trim Rollerball Pen $139.99 Cross Callais Blue and Chrome Double Ballpoint Set $47.99 Cross Bailey Fountain Pen - Medalist $63.99 Cross Classic Century Pen & Pencil Set $70.99 Waterman Expert Ballpoint - Black Chrome Trim $129.99 Without a doubt, at Dayspring Pens, you’ll find the right type of pens that make your brand name and company logo indelible, displaying your brand at a low price via high-quality pens of all types. Think of it like a business card that keeps showing up everywhere but instead, a pen is an even better promotional item because it has more utility. In fact, we've engraved pens for some very prestigious corporate clients. How Do I Place an Order for Promotional Pens? Online Select your preferred product or, if you’re in a hurry, shop our collection of rush eligible products, which can be personalized and shipped in one day. Select the Personalization Style: "Logo Engraving" and upload your logo file as an EPS, AI, or PDF Adjust the quantity and checkout. We will send you complimentary proof for approval prior to mass production. Receive Free Consultation Contact us for a quote and art layout with your logo file and any other preferences you have for the order, including budget restrictions. We will send you a complimentary proof for potential orders of over $500 and line item estimate for review. Once you’re ready to move forward, you can approve your design over email and remit payment securely online at your convenience. Learn More: Which Font Should I Choose for Engraving? Frequently Asked Questions What Are the Coolest Promotional Pens? Logo Engraving Information We know you’re spoilt for choice with our wide variety of personalized pens, but whatever style you choose, the best promotional pen is the one that gives the most accurate representation of your business. Consider choosing pens with these features to show that your business is both creative and practical: Pens with at least two features: Show how your business stands apart from the crowd with promotional pens that are a combination of writing instruments. These are available as the pairing of pens with highlighters, pencils, or even a stylus. Pens with a message banner are cool pens that only reveal your message when your banner is displayed. Special grip pens are perfect for people who prefer a cushioned grip when using a pen. Executive pens are tried and tested writing instruments that offer exceptional quality and styling. What Are the Cheapest Promotional Pens? Here are the cheapest promotional custom pens going for less than $25: Name Image Product Features Price Monroe Ballpoint Pen Click-action ballpoint pen Black barrel and 18 kt gold-plated accents with black ink Ships in a Dayspring Pens gift box Custom engraving shows gold $19.99 Parker Jotter Gel Pen Stainless Gold Trim Click-action gel ink pen Stainless steel body accented with iconic gold Parker appointments Ships in a Parker gift box with black gel ink Tone-on-tone colored monogramming Two-year Parker mechanical warranty $22.99 Lumen Light Up Pen - Red Twist-action ballpoint and stylus Red barrel with chrome trim and black ink Pen ships in a velvet gift sleeve. Custom engraving reveals a white engraving that lights up when clicked This pen does not accept replacement batteries. Available in black and blue colors $14.46 Parker Jotter Gel Pen Click-action gel ink pen Stainless steel cap and red body, accented with iconic polished chrome Parker appointments Ships in a Parker gift box with black gel ink Tone-on-tone colored monogramming Two-year Parker mechanical warranty $22.99 Furthermore, the more promotional pens you buy, the higher your discount. Quantity Discount 2 - 9 8% 10 - 49 11% 50 - 99 15% 100+ 20% Where Can I Buy Customized Pens? Look no further than Dayspring Pens. Dayspring Pens And now you’re thinking, “What possibly makes us the best for promotional pens?” As a business, we are committed to streamlining our business processes making purchasing easier for you at every step. But in terms of brass tacks, what really makes us the best? We offer the largest variety of executive gift pens. You get free personalized engraving on every item standard. You get free shipping on every order. You get the fastest turnarounds possible so that your order accommodates your timetable. Few branded promotional products deliver bang for your buck like our promotional pens — a budget-friendly writing instrument that’s easy to carry and is used regularly has never looked so good. “Great Company! The pens were very high quality and the engraving was beautiful. This is a rare company that gets back to you with any concerns or questions. I could not have asked for anything more! 5 stars in my book.” - Patricia. R Daniel Whitehouse is the President and CEO of Dayspring Pens. He uses his expertise with premium writing utensils to create exceptional, intentional products and craft easy-to-understand articles that help both new and experienced users learn more about their writing tools. He lives in Virginia where he and his wife are raising their four children. To learn more about him and his insights about custom engraved gift pens, follow Daniel on LinkedIn.