The chrome Cross Classic Century fountain pen is remarkably compact in that it is about the diameter and length of the traditional Classic Century ballpoint pen. The bottom of the capped pen appears to be a small sculptured bob, but it is actually a thread onto which the cap may be screwed when the pen is in use. This pen ONLY takes Cross slim cartridges (in blue, blue-black or black) and they are pretty small. (Neither of the Cross converters is slim enough to fit this pen.) The stainless tip is a smooth writer right out of the box. The pen is made in China rather than in Rhode Island but it still comes with the lifetime warranty. If you like classic Cross you will love this handsome pen.