Parker IM Ballpoint

The Parker IM is range is probably one of the most popular starter “high end” pens that people typically come across during their “pen journey”, along with the Parker Jotter. It’s a bit more expensive than the Jotter and a bit sturdier and comes in a Ballpoint, Rollerball and Fountain pen. The version I have here is the IM Premium Pink Pearl edition that came out some years ago and I picked it up when I went through a pink, rollerball/gel phase.

The Parker ballpoints take the Parker G2 refill, which makes finding a replacement easy – I use the Pierre Cardin Gel refill (reviewed here). Parker also makes a gel refill which is quite a nice refill with a broad wet line, but it typically runs out very quickly – I recall using up an entire refill in 1 day, which is expensive and inconvenient, but I find that it is smoother than the Pierre Cardin option.

Having owned the Jotter and the IM – I much prefer the IM. The Jotter feels cheap and the threads didn’t line up on my edition, so as I wrote I could feel the gap between the top and bottom of the pen. Its also slimmer and the click button was a bit stiffer than the IM. I enjoy the additional weight and girth of the IM and the click is smooth and satisfying. The Retro 51 is also another option in this price range, I find it less readily available in Australia and the Parker IM wins with having a clicky button, rather than the twist in the Retro 51. Although the Retro comes with the Schmidt P8127, which is a superior refill.

This pink edition is now sadly discontinued but other IM models are available with standard and premium models available. If you’re looking at upgrading from your jotter or you are looking for something a bit fancier than your average ballpoint/gel pen, the Parker IM is a great option.