I write a lot, maybe more than the average stay at home mom. I’m old school. I come from the last generation of humans that actually knows that the proper way to send thank you notes, invitations and letters is to hand write them and send via the post service a.k.a. snail mail. As I am sure you can imagine, because I write a lot, I love a good pen. For me, the definition of a good pen is one that is weighted properly, has the right length and thickness and glides across my paper effortlessly.
I was extremely delighted when BzzAgent.com invited me to participate in their new bzzcampaign for Cross Pens. Cross, well known for pens has been making pens for over 165 year. Their pens have a suggested retail value range of $25 all the way up to the 18 karat gold Classic Century which runs a whopping $1500. The pen I was sent to try is the modest Cross Advantage in the Black Mosaic style which has a MSRP of $42.
So what’s in the box? Well first of all the Advantage come in a very nice high quality cardboard gift box. Inside, you will find the pen, paperwork, a complimentary “Switch-it” converter which converts the pen to a pencil and 1 medium black ballpoint refill (8513) in the pen. The pen itself features a slim and sleek design, swivel action propel/repel tip feature, and uniquely engraved black and chrome mosaic finish. In addition, as with all cross pens, it is backed by a lifetime mechanical guarantee.
My take on the Cross Advantage: 4 out of 5 Stars
For me, I found the Advantage to have just the right amount of weight, it wasn’t too heavy or light. I personally prefer a much thicker pen and for me this one just didn’t measure up. Cross does offer other pen style though and I think one of their thicker versions may be better suited for me. I did however really like the way it writes. It glides effortlessly across the paper and delivers smooth, even pen strokes. I like the quality of the ink it comes with, it appears on the paper very rick and thick. Over all, I do think I will enjoy writing with this pen. However, because of it’s slimness, I would probably not be able to use it for any prolonged writing task. For me, this will be a perfect purse pen – pretty to pull out and write when I just need to jot a few things down.
Cross’s quality is definitely top notch and I will definitely be considering their pens for some upcoming gift occasions life graduations and Father’s Day. If you’re looking for a great gift idea, visit www.cross.com and browse their extensive selection. Use coupon code SHOPCROSS by 07/31/2011 and save 20% off regularly priced items and receive free shipping!
