Specifications

Brand: Pilot

Model: Custom 74

Body Material: Resin, Lacquer, Maki-e Sticker

Filling System: Cartridge or Converter (Pilot Proprietary)

Nib: Pilot #5 14K-585 Gold Broad Nib

Color: Red/Black/Gold
Maki-e Design: Sakura and Cat

PRESENTATION 

Pen + Box

Custom 74

The Pilot Custom 74 is one of Pilot’s most celebrated fountain pens, combining timeless design, dependable performance, and exceptional craftsmanship. As a cornerstone of the renowned Custom series, it has earned a reputation as one of the finest everyday fountain pens available, appreciated by both newcomers and experienced enthusiasts alike.

Crafted from high-quality resin, the Custom 74 features a classic cigar-shaped silhouette that reflects Pilot’s understated approach to design. Its balanced proportions and comfortable weight make it well suited for extended writing sessions, while the clean, elegant styling ensures a timeless appeal that never goes out of fashion.

Designed to deliver a refined writing experience, the Custom 74 embodies Pilot’s century-long dedication to precision engineering and writing comfort. The pen's reliable construction, practical filling system, and exceptional attention to detail have made it a favorite among fountain pen users around the world.

As part of Pilot’s prestigious Custom collection, which includes iconic models such as the Custom 742, Custom 743, Custom 823, and Custom 845, the Custom 74 stands as a modern classic--offering the perfect balance of performance, craftsmanship, and everyday usability. Whether used as a daily writer or added to a growing collection, the Custom 74 remains one of the most respected and enduring fountain pens in Pilot’s lineup.

Pilot #5 14K Gold Nib

The 14K #5 gold nib of the Pilot Custom 74 is one of Pilot’s most respected nib designs, offering an exceptional balance of smoothness, precision, and everyday practicality. Though smaller than the larger #10 and #15 nibs found on higher-end Custom models, the #5 nib delivers the same level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that has made Pilot a favorite among fountain pen enthusiasts worldwide.

Crafted from 14K gold, the nib provides a refined writing experience with a smooth, controlled feel on paper. It is designed to offer consistent ink flow and excellent reliability, allowing the pen to perform effortlessly whether used for daily writing, note-taking, journaling, or professional work. The nib's moderate size contributes to a precise and responsive writing character, making it particularly comfortable for users who prefer accuracy and control.

The nib features Pilot’s classic engraved design, combining elegant scrollwork with the Pilot logo and gold content markings. Its clean proportions complement the Custom 74 perfectly, creating a harmonious balance between aesthetics and functionality.

One of the defining characteristics of the #5 nib is its versatility. Available in a wide range of nib grades and specialty options, it showcases Pilot’s expertise in nib manufacturing while maintaining the smoothness and consistency for which the company is renowned. The writing feel is firm yet comfortable, with a subtle natural softness that cushions the writing experience without sacrificing precision.

Handcrafted  ·  One of a Kind

Base pen condition: [A - S Tier]

This pen has been customized with Lacquer paint by our local housewives. We are not Urushi artisans and this is not an Urushi Lacquer fountain pen. It is a Lacquer paint that we use to decorate this pen adding a new aesthetic and new look. The artwork is done by our local artist.

This pen is a creative experiment and an artistic customization, not a traditional Urushi or artisan Maki-e piece. It is offered as a unique, one-of-a-kind art object meant to be enjoyed for its individuality, community story, and playful exploration of materials.

Lacquer & decoration: [Brand New Hand-Painted]

As each pen is individually handcrafted, minor variations in coating texture, leaf placement, and surface character are natural and form part of the piece's unique identity. They are not defects.

Design Inspiration  ·  Golden Neko

Golden Neko is a heartwarming and whimsical design set against the timeless silhouette of a Pilot Custom 74. Grounded on a deep midnight-black background, the focal point of the composition is a sweet, sleeping calico cat (Mi-ke Neko) curled up contentedly along the lower barrel.

Rendered in soft porcelain-white, shimmering gold, and gentle pink ear accents, the feline brings an undeniable sense of warmth and peaceful charm to the writing instrument. Spreading across the rest of the dark body is an organic field of mottled gold leaf (Kin-haku), creating a luminous, starry atmosphere that complements the sleek gold trim and dark cap.