The Phileas is a $50 pen that can usually be found for under $40. I picked one up new for $25. Phileas nibs run a little broader than normal, so take this into account. Both of mine are medium nibs and they write smoothly with plenty of ink flow. The nib is stiff and unresponsive, but well tipped, allowing for a custom nib grind (both of mine have been reground to cursive italics).