The city of Monza is probably best known for the Autodromo Nazionale Monza - the Grand Prix race track located nearby. The main industry around the city, though, isn't automotive - it's textiles and publishing. So the city probably gets through a lot of dye and ink. Which leads us nicely, if a little tentatively, to the Monteverde Monza.

The design is simple, without much decoration. The transparent body allows you to see the ink, keeping you from running out unexpectedly. The clip is simple, too, but effective. Chrome plating gives a beautiful shine to the clip and cap ring, but again, without looking too fussy. There are ridges inside the barrel, to add a little interest, without getting in the way. The little domed plug in the end of the barrel makes the end a more interesting shape than if it just tapered away, but not distractingly so.

The feed adds another subtle twist to the style - it's transparent. As with the rest of the design features, it doesn't grab your attention, it's just something a little different when you happen to notice it. The cap screws on, for a good seal, and an o-ring helps the barrel to open and close neatly without putting stress on the joins.

The package adds more value - a matching sturdy plastic case is supplied as a gift box. Supplied inside are 3 nib sections: fine, medium and omniflex; 3 converters, 2 standard pattern ink cartridges and 1 barrel. Three pens in one!

It's a pen that's made for everyday use making marks on paper; and to get through a lot of ink, just like its namesake city.

136mm capped, 119mm uncapped, 147mm posted. 12mm wide, 9-10mm at grip. Weighs 16g.