Inktend / Pen library / Settimo
Settimo
A model in Radius's fountain pen lineup. Specs below reflect the typical configuration across Radius's core range.
A solid mid-range option once someone has decided fountain pens are a habit worth investing a bit more into.
Specs
About Radius
Radius was an Italian fountain pen brand trademarked in 1934 by SAFIS of Turin, whose Superior line was regarded as rivalling the best Italian makers such as OMAS and Aurora before production ended in the late 1950s. The brand was revived in 2019 as Radius 1934, producing Italian-made fountain pens in collections such as Settimo and Superior.
How to fill the Radius Settimo
Fill it two ways: snap in a pre-filled international cartridge for convenience, or use a converter (a small plunger or twist mechanism that installs the same way a cartridge does) to draw ink from any bottle. The converter route opens up the entire world of bottled ink, which is where most of the hobby's color variety lives.
Choosing a nib size
Nib size determines line width, not writing pressure: fountain pens are meant to glide, never press. Extra-fine (EF) suits small, dense handwriting and thin paper; fine (F) is the most broadly recommended default; medium (M) shows more ink character and shading; broad (B) and stub grinds favor bold, expressive strokes and calligraphy-adjacent writing.
Keeping it clean
A quick flush with cool water every time you switch ink colors, plus a full clean every 4 to 6 weeks of regular use, is enough to keep the nib and feed performing well. Inktend's cleaning reminder is tuned to a 21-day baseline and adjusts naturally to how often you actually refill.
Pairing inks with the Settimo
Because refills are quick with a cartridge or converter, this is a good pen for rotating through several colors rather than committing to one; sample vials work especially well here.
Frequently asked questions
More from Radius
Specs reflect the typical configuration across Radius's core lineup rather than this exact model. Check current listings before buying.