Empirical Writing Machine N°1
Empirical Writing Machine N°1
Meet The WM-1
A writing instrument crafted to elevate the act of writing itself.
“Writing isn’t lost—it’s just waiting to be experienced more deeply than we ever have.”
1 → Symbolises definition, assertion, & intentional beginnings.
Design Philosophy
A writing instrument designed not to impress, but to endure. Crafted from high-grade materials and carefully refined over multiple iterations, the WM-1 was selected for its weight, balance, and the tactile seriousness it brings to every page. We worked with an existing industrial form and redefined it from the inside out. Every detail, from wood sourced to the brass body and the ink feed system, was chosen to serve a single purpose: to make writing feel intentional again. This pen isn’t a reinvention of form—it’s a reclamation of meaning.
Designed For Precision
The WM-1 features a pensmith hand polished brass fountain head designed for smooth writing system and a modified ink feed system for consistent ink flow. Each stroke feels incredible and deliberate—built for those who write with intention.
Superlative Craftmanship
Crafted from high-grade brass and red wood mahogany, the WM-1 is assembled with obsessive attention to detail. Every component is selected not just for beauty, but for balance, weight, and longevity.
Value Driven
Fountain pens are often priced out of reach. The WM-1 changes that. Premium materials, modern refinement—delivered at a price that respects both the product and the writer.
What is the WM-1 Made Of?
WM-1 is made from solid c46400 naval brass and African Khaya mahogany. There are no coatings or synthetic finishes—just raw, honest materials that age naturally with use.
How is WM-1 built?
WM-1 was re-engineered from an industrial pen body. The proportions, balance, and weight were reworked and upgraded entirely to create a pen that feels intentional, substantial, and grounded. Notably it features new ink systems, reweighted barrels, hand polished nibs besides its upgraded material finishings. It's designed to reconnect you with the act of writing—not just to function, but to make you feel.
How does WM-1 compare to a regular pen?
Most pens are designed for convenience. WM-1 is designed for experience.
It’s heavier, warmer, slower. The brass and wood give it a tactile presence that turns writing into a ritual. In our performance tests, it has been described it as rediscovering the joy of writing—because it makes you pause, feel, and care about the words again.
How does WM-1 compare to WM-0?
WM-1 is the heavier, more grounded model—made for deep, deliberate writing. WM-0 is lighter, more compact, and better suited for field agility.
If WM-1 is a slow, meditative pen, WM-0 is its agile sibling. Many use WM-1 for journaling or focused sessions, and WM-0 for everyday notes or quick writing tasks.
Will the brass develop a patina?
Yes. The brass is intentionally uncoated. It will darken and evolve with time, reflecting your habits and touch. This isn’t wear—it’s character. If you do not like the wear, it may be easily repolished with a jeweler's cloth.
Is the pen refillable? What refills does it take?
Yes. WM-1 uses a custom intuitive vacuum ink system that makes refilling easy and clean. It can accept most commercial inks, making it a versatile instrument for desired writing. It comes already filled with Melvin Poh's favourite black ink, Iroshizuku Take-Sumi.
Why is WM-1 heavier than most pens?
Because it’s meant to be. The weight brings a sense of presence—encouraging slowness, care, and intention in each stroke.
Is WM-1 suitable for long writing sessions?
For journaling, letters, or thoughtful notes—absolutely. If you’re doing fast or high-volume writing, WM-0 may be a better fit.
Is the pen left-handed friendly?
Yes. WM-1’s cylindrical form and weight distribution make it suitable for both left- and right-handed users.
Will the mahogany crack or wear down?
African mahogany is a stable hardwood. It may develop subtle wear and surface variation over time—this is intentional. Like a well-used tool or book, it’s designed to age with you.