Ordered a pen online and the email said expected delivery. Turns out the pen was sent on that date, five days after I ordered. It's supposed to be a gift and will arrive too late. Horrible service. Don't order from them. read more

This is the Sara Lee of pen stores. Everybody doesn't like something, but nobody doesn't like Bertram's Inkwell. ALWAYS top service and products. read more

I cannot express how much fun I had with the gentlemen at Bertram's. Bert himself and Al primarily helped me, and both were delightful and knowledgeable. I'm ashamed that I didn't get the name of the gentleman who asked me if I'd like coffee when he dashed out for Dunkin Donuts. So much kindness and flair from all. David Silber, a vintage pen restorer and seller, was setup with a table full of the most fascinating pens. He let me try over a dozen, I'm sure of it. I walked away from his table with 5 new friends. In situations such as these, I sometimes wonder if I'll experience condescension. I'm a woman with a fair knowledge of fountain pens, but I definitely wanted and needed guidance. I never once felt awkward or met with anything other than exceptional, attentive service when necessary. Everyone inked up anything I wanted and let me scribble away for a couple of hours. Bert switched around nibs for me in a new Regatta and let me know what sorts of rose gold nibs I could get for another pen I bought. He also special ordered me a Pilot Vanishing Point, and while it might be logical to send it directly to me, he's going to look at it first before sending it my way (I live in Colorado!). Highly recommend. read more

Bertram's Inkwell - There I am with Al, a Bertram's employee, and David Silber, a vintage pen seller. - Office Equipment Near Me - Rockville, Maryland

This is an amazing place with great atmosphere. It's not just a store to get a ballpoint refill or a ream of paper and leave. This is an oasis that welcomes me and nourishes the senses that the current, rushed world tries to squelch. Thank you Bert, Steve&Al read more

Bertram's Inkwell - Bert Oser, Owner, Pen Afficionado, Pen Shows Organizer - Office Equipment Near Me - Rockville, Maryland

Great service and good variety of inks, fountain pens and notebooks/pads/paper. You'll not be disappointed

Arrived in town and was excited to see there was an actual FOUNTAIN PEN store half a mile from where I was staying. I went there to buy a pen he had on the website only to find out they didn't stock it there. My only disappointment but there were more than enough pens in my price range and a plethora of inks. I bought a Pilot Custom 823 , some ink and a pad. The owner was very friendly, let me try the pens and I never felt rushed at all. We will be back I. Glen in three weeks and I'm going back!! read more

Very poor experience today. Visited for the first time (I live in VA) to buy some ink and a new pen or two. I walked in, and there were three people behind the counter; one serving a customer and two hunched over a computer. So I wait. And wait. And wait some more. Several minutes elapsed, and there was no head nod, or "we'll be right with you," or any other lind of acknowledgment whole I wandered the store. So I left. Not going to spend serious money at a store that doesn't want to know I exiist. read more

Great pen store for the addicts out there. Great new and used pens for the budget conscious, inks,papers,notebooks. No Sailors brand. More of European brands. Friendly service. Free to try. Street parking on weekends is free. read more

See all

Extremely friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. If they don't have it, they can get it. All price ranges. Although mostly newer pens, vintage dealers and nib adjusters appear regularly. Clearly the best place for pens, pencils, ink in the area. read more

They have a nice selection of pens to choose from and a great selection of inks. I was sad to see the small choices of good writing paper. That day they had a gentleman with some older beauties. I fell in love with an 1920 pen. Will have to save this in my specialty store read more

Best place for fountain pens in Maryland. Great service and helpfulness and would recommend them.

I have always loved fountain pens and the past few years have been using them more. I bought a used Monte Blanc Noblesse a few years ago. Did not use it much, but when I did, I was not a huge fan of how it wrote. I slightly regretted buying the pen. BTW I did not buy it from Bertrams. One day, I was washing my clothes and I heard a noise out of the washing Machine and opened it up and to my horror. I left my pen in my shirt pocket. The cap came undone and bent the nib greatly. There was no way to get this pen working again without taking it to a place that can do nib repair. I came to Bertrams, it was my first time there and I dropped off my pen for repair and then spent the next 30+ minutes in awe at the store. It was amazing. If you ever need to get a fountain nib repaired. Word of warning... BE PREPARED TO WAIT... and WAIT... and WAIT.... It can take a few months to get it back. This was the case for me. There was a slight hiccup in me getting the pen back. No big issue. I worked with Bert, and he was extremely nice and helpful in figuring out what happened. I now have my pen back and I can stop writing with it. The service they use is utterly amazing. I have another fountain pen. a Parker which the finish came off of it, But it writes and again, never was a big fan of how this writes. I got this for free. So I am thinking about taking it to Bertrams to have it sent off to have the nib checked and adjusted. My next pen I purchase will be from Bertrams. If you have been a long time customer, they recently moved to a new location in Rockville. Floor space wise, its about the same size but the layout and flow is much better. If you are looking for a pen store to buy a pen or get a pen serviced. Look no further than Bertrams... read more

Just amazing people they made the pen buying experience so nice and I will def finally come back to buy more

I always come here for pens and they are always attentive to me. If you are looking for customer service and advocate, this is the place for you. Bert and his crew are class acts and leaders in their trade. read more

Brilliant service. Wonderful selection. Remarkable variety of the premium pens and paper. Knowledge friendly staff- free parking.

Do yourself a favor if you enjoy a great writing instrument and visit Bertram's Inkwell. If you're lucky like us, Bert himself will help you find the perfect ink pen or mechanical pencil. Extremely knowledgeable staff, great environment and a superb selection. A bit hard to find but once you're there you're treated like a long lost friend. Thank you Bert! We're looking forward to using our new fountain pens. You have new and loyal customers now. Sincerely, Pepper & Bob from NC read more

Thanks to the staff for getting my Diplomat Aero to me quickly and securely. I ordered the pen from Amazon Marketplace who uses Bertram's to fill the order and I'm impressed with their service. The pen is as close to perfect as it can be and writes that way as well. Special thanks to the person who packaged the pen for shipment; someone who takes pride in their work. I know this wasn't a priceless object, but it was packaged like a Faberge Egg. Thanks again, Eric N. Costa Mesa, CA read more

great store and the best selection of pens in the DMV.

Great service and great selection. Recently started collecting. Love their advice. Thanks. Highly recommend.

Love this place! Went here to get my pen repaired, and Jack fixed it right up. Now, it is good as new!

Friendly, helpful, and informative. I had a great experience picking up a new pen, ink, and paper. The atmosphere was great. Thanks. I'll be back. read more

I first found this store when it was in White Flint mall, back when the world was young and my hair was not grey. I have been buying fountain pens here ever since. The staff has changed over the years, but every single one of them has been knowledgeable and courteous--which I have to think is a testament to the integrity and decency of the owner. These guys know their business inside out, love fine writing instruments and want you to love them too. Their inventory is fabulous, as is the service they provide. Prices are completely reasonable, and sometimes outstanding. Buy with confidence, and enjoy! read more

I stumbled upon this store when I first moved here. It's a well lit and supplied store. Bert and his staff are friendly and patient. On my first visit I purchased ink to see how things went. I attended an open house with pen suppliers at the store some months later. It was crowded and the people were awesome. I bought some paper and Bart gave me a cloth pen case out of many he had in in his garage. Once a year, I purchase one of my grail pens, and unlike past years, I went to Bert's store. I got a great deal on a pen. I really like this store, it's staff, and being able to quickly find what I need from knowledgeable folks. If you're in the market to purchase a quality pen, give Bertram's Inkwell a visit. read more

If you get to know the owner (Bert) and his best employees (Eileen and Adam), this is a great place to shop. I always call ahead to see who is working though. One of their other employees is a bit condescending, and both my husband and I refuse to go into the store when he is there. He adamantly insisted that what I went in there for DIDN'T EXIST, and that since he had worked there for 10 years he should know, and that I was mistaken, when not only did it exist, but it was regularly stocked store merchandise, and was sitting right next to the register. Sticker prices are sometimes higher than what you find online, so know how much something should be before you shop. That having been said, they have a great variety, and several high-end collector pens at any given time. Lay-away is an option, and they also handle repairs. read more

So about a week ago I went to a pen convention/show with my dad. We always attend this event, but every year I always forget to buy something I need. Sadly, this time around I forgot to find and pick up two important things: a carrying case, for my fountain pens, and a journal. So I decided to start looking for places that might have the things I need. At first, I didn't have much luck with my local Staples or Walmart. So I decided to search, on my Yelp app, for fountain pen shops. Bertram's inkwell. "Oh where do I begin." Besides finding ,exactly, the things I needed. I was surprised by the great customer service. Bert and his assistant were very welcoming. Besides helping me find a carrying case and journal, they repaired my cousins Parker 51 on the spot. For free! The shop isn't huge, but they have a nice selection of ball point and fountain pens, as well as other accessories. Overall, I definitely recommend you pay this place a visit if you're interested in collecting or maintaining your pens. "They'll absolutely help you." read more

COVID compliant and the staff were friendly and super helpful! I learned so much from going to this store and was able to dip-test a lot of pens that I'd heard about online. The person I talked to walked me through all the pens, inks, and notebooks and knew so much about all the products offered there. If you're like me and has only known about fountain pens through the internet so far, I highly recommend checking this place out because you can learn so much from trying and seeing the pens, inks, and notebooks in person; I'm definitely hoping to come back and purchase something from them in the future! read more

I made my first purchase at Bertram's Inkwell on 12-12-1996 and have been a faithful customer ever since. It's become my favorite, and only, pen store. Bert is knowledgeable, takes note of a customer's preferences and budget, and then dispenses good advice with cheer. This cozy store (earlier in White Flint Mall and now across the street) is well-stocked. And if Bert doesn't have what you want, he'll get it for you in short order. His prices are competitive and he is generously reasonable. A pen lover could not ask for more. Prakash Narayan read more

I became interested in fountain pens recently after reading about them in Anne Fadiman's book Ex Libris. After researching more about them online, I really wanted to get a starter pen that was affordable. I'm not gonna lie, I looked at Amazon first to see if I could order a pen but I was overwhelmed with options. I happened to come across Bertram's Inkwell and thought why not, since it was so close to my work. Since I really don't know anything about pens, I was a little worried that I would get intimidated at the store- but I was so wrong! Bert was very welcoming and friendly. I never felt like he was pressuring me to buy a product; he was just informative and you could tell he loves what he does. I ended up with a Pilot fountain pen for $30, which is a similar price to other cheaper fountain pens on Amazon. But since I went to Bertram's, I now know how to refill ink, clean the pen, and maintain it over time. I am very satisfied with the staff at Bertram's and will visit again read more

I feel an internal obligation to write this review, I need to let my community and local pen enthusiasts an understand of what awaits them at Bertram's Inkwell . So, Here we go.. I somewhat stumbled upon this absolute gem of a store, not really knowing the just how amazing of a store Bertram's Inkwell is. The first time leaving the store I was taken back by the sheer depth of knowledge & expertise pertaining all things Pens; from the various types of note pads, to the rich selection of quality ink, to the actual writing Instruments them selves, Ive never met any individual who knows more about pens than Bert along with his also amazingly helpful/knowledgeable employee, Tori, who helped me find two of my now favorite pens. Besides their experience and expertise on the subject of Pens (fountain, roller ball, gel, ball point, and even mechanical and traditional graphite pencils) they are so freaking friendly and accommodating. I never felt rushed or cold when being helped. If you go there you will not only be amazed by the immense and broad selection of pens, paper, and ink, you'll also experience what exemplary customer service is. I felt regarded as a friend instead of a potential buyer, I never had the slightest feeling of pressure to purchase something even though I took an hour and a held of their time. Bertram's Inkwell has gained a customer for life. I feel an obligation to write this review, to inform people of the wonderful experience that awaits them at this store. I don't write many reviews, It's just not something I do, but this shop, Bert, and his staff deserve this as well as all the stellar reviews that are to come. THANK YOU BERT, THANK YOU TORI! Thank you for yet another wonderful visit to your store. read more

I dropped off two Mont Blanc Starwalkers for service, and while I walked around the showroom, I decided to buy another pen; nothing like a Mont Blanc, but I wanted something nice and under $100. Bert, the owner, suggested a pen and I loved it. He knew what business I am in and he suggested a very appropriate pen. He pointed me towards a refill for my Lamy, as well. I'll definitely be back for the Urban Starwalker. Forget Amazon, Bertrams's Inkwell satisfies instant gratification and great services with very competitive pricing. Support this local business and work on your penmanship at the same time. I don't understand how business people close deals using a bic pen. Who wants to sign off on a contract for millions of dollars with a 50 cent pen??!! See Bert. read more

I had a bunch of old (1920's) fountain pens that needed to be restored. I wanted to go some ware local because I just don't trust mailing them to a stranger. I brought them to the store and Bert helped me sort through them and decide what was worth being restored and gave me plenty of helpful advise. Out of the 30 pens I brought in we decided 5 of them were worth restoring. They were sent out to a repair person in the area and were back in three weeks. They were in fabulous condition. I was very happy with the advise and service. read more

Excellent shop, huge selection of pens, and very good prices! Excellent customer service.

I had a great experience buying a new pen and some ink here. The man who helped me (didn't catch his name, but it wasn't the owner) was friendly, knowledgeable, and patient. I wasn't 100% sure what I wanted, so I tried a handful of different pens and asked a lot of questions, and he never acted like it was a chore. You could tell he was truly enthusiastic about pens! When I've gone into other pen stores, I have sometimes been treated like I was not a serious buyer/not worth their time, so I especially appreciated receiving good customer service and the non-snooty vibe. The pen selection is very good -- lots of different brands, styles, price points, etc. Although I didn't get any paper, they stock a number of quality notepads/notebooks. It's definitely worth a trip. read more

Bert (sp?) was so helpful with my Twsbi pen!! I thought I broke it but turns out a part was just stuck. He not only fixed it for me free of charge but also lubed the piston and put it back together! Took only about 5 minutes of my time and I couldn't be happier with the service. I will definitely be visiting, and hopefully making a new pen purchase, soon! read more

I had a wonderful experience with Bert and his team! We needed a nice pen fast to give as a gift, and Bert called the supplier directly to get us an out-of-stock pen within 2 business days! Other pen stores were sold out, but Bert went above and beyond. His team was always helpful when I called, and consistently called me back to help me place this order. The pen came two days earlier than expected, and was in perfect condition. I will definitely go to Bertram's Inkwell first for all our future pen needs! read more

I want to like Bertram's but have never felt that I was a valued customer. I went in recently and got a glance and a grunted "Hi" (sounded like "huh") from the employee working. I browsed for a few minutes and he ignored me and never asked if I needed help. A man then walked in and got a robust hello from the employee. The customer did not seem familiar with the store. The employee chatted it up, asked about the weather, what did he need today etc. Sorry, but I did feel the pain of being slighted. I am a woman and have never received any assistance or kindness in my prior visits from any of the other men that work there. The female employee once helped me buy a Lamy and I was grateful for her customer service, knowledge, and imparted experience. I will only ever enter that store if she is working. That is my experience. read more

I have had a very bad experience with Bertram's Inkwell. I order a J Herbin special edition ink from them in Washigton DC Pen Show in August and I prepaid for the product including shipping chanrge. I didnt receive the product for almost 4 months. I have been calling them in between to check up on it and they have been telling me its not yet in stock and they have ordered it from parent company. Eventually I conculded if manufacturer has not sent them the product for 4 months so either they never ordered it or manufacurer just doesn't care about them so I called them for one last time and asked about it. Some a**hole guy answered the phone. I mentioned about my order and asked where is my product. He simply answered they never got it. I asked so what are you going to do with my money? He said oh I didn't know you paid the money. Really? you take orders and charge people's credit card in planned manner, never fulfill the order, don't update your customer about not being able to deliver, keep the money to yourself and you dont know you owe your customer money? I am never doing business with this company. No wonder these brick and mortar stores a closing. Sandeep read more

i purchased a collectors pen in Colorado last year and it finally ran out of ink. i looked up the replacement cartridge on the internet and Bertram's inkwell came up through amazon site. i click i got a photo of the item i was looking for, click to place order and two days later i had my replacements. A personal note was written on the invoice as well as a a candy treat. Excellent customer service and they really want to know how they performed. Well i give them 5 stars and will use them for all my future needs. read more

Awesome service at incredibly reasonable prices! I had a problem with a Cartier pen that is really a piece of junk. Cartier tried to overcharge me to repair their defective product.and so I had it sent back to me. I then searched the internet and found Bertram's Inkwell. I called them up and described my problem. The man was most helpful and told me to mail him the pen. He said if they could not fix it then there would be no charge. I mailed it to them and a few days later I got a call saying the pen had been repaired and the total bill with shipping and tax was $19.95! They are truly the nicest and most reputable people I have come across in a long time. I sent my pen in for repair and got in back in my hand in 9 days and three of those days were the Labor Day weekend and I am way down here in Texas. They are honest, fast, and courteous. I could not have asked for a better experience. As an aside, don't ever buy a Cartier pen. It is a piece of junk and the company won't stand behind the product. Can you tell I am angry at Cartier? read more