The Waterman Exception was launched, in 2005, to replace the L'Etalon as the top of the range 'flagship' Waterman model. This pen was bought from Jespers, Harrogate, in November 2006.

Instantly recognised by it's square shape, the Exception is of superb quality, as expected from a range topping pen.  

Despite it's designation as an 'Exception Slim' this is not a particularly slim pen and the posted length of 16.6cm. is a good deal larger than average.  it is certainly a pen to get noticed but it is much more than that, the Exception simply oozes class.  This is evident in the striking design, the magnificent build quality and the materials used.

The pen body and cap are made from solid brass, as is the ferrule connecting the nib section to the barrel, this has an O ring and a stop so that the section always aligns correctly .  The body and cap are finished in Black Lacquer, applied in multiple layers to give a very deep, lustrous, hard wearing shine.  The trim is heavy 23Ct. Gold plate.

A cartridge/converter filler, the pen is fitted with the original Waterman ink converter, and an unused box of cartridges is located under the tray, which has some creases.  There is also a memory stick which would probably contained information about the pen but is in a format that cannot now be accessed.  I've left it in the box as it was clearly there when the pen was new.  The instruction leaflet is dated for November 2006.

The nib is clearly marked, twice, for 18Ct. Gold, '18K' and '750',  The name 'Ideal', stamped on the nib, along with a stylised globe motif, refers back to the 1884 name of the Waterman company, the 'Ideal Pen Company'.  As expected from a pen of this quality the nib performs very well.  It produces a wonderfully smooth medium line and has a pleasing 'soft' feel.

A truly 'executive pen', the unique design and superb build quality suggest its future as a fountain pen classic is assured. As a luxurious but discreet cartridge/ converter filling fountain pen the Waterman Exception is about as good as it gets.