Rotring 600 Newton Rollerball

Rotring is a formerly German brand that produces technical writing instruments and drawing tools. Originally German, it was purchased by Newell brands in the late 1990’s and it might be safe to say that the products released after this time was more mass produced at a lower price point than previous products.

The Rotring 600 Newton (not to be confused with the Rotring Newton – which falls into the mass produced, lower cost category) is part of the famous 600 series. The Newton sports a smooth finish, compared with the 600’s knurled grips, and typically costs less than the 600. Unfortunately, this entire range (with the exception of a ballpoint and a mechanical pencil series) has long been discontinued by Rotring. There are still some New Old Stock, or second hand pens in good condition, available but these typically command very high prices now.

The Newton is made of brass, the edges of which you can now see showing through the matte black coating. The matte black finish seems to smooth over time with general use and wear and tear. I’m not sure if you can tell from the photos, but the pen section is much shinier than the cap. What’s also great about this pen, that you don’t get in the Ystudio (reviewed here), is that the Rotring is designed so that the cap must close with its facets aligned with the pen body. I love it!

Although its made of brass, the pen doesn’t feel as heavy as some others in my collection – 41 grams, compared to 55 grams of my Rose Gold Ajoto which is a beast. Plus, being a capped pen, when using it uncapped, its even lighter. Enough weight in it to feel substantial, not so much that it cripples you when you try to use it.

The Rotring uses a standard European rollerball refill (Schmidt 888/5888 or Schneider Topball). Plus, it takes a standard gel retractable refill (like a Uniball Signo Rt, Pilot G2/Juice, Pentel Energel) which makes replacing the refill extremely cost effective with many options available to you.

If you ever come across a Rotring 600 rollerball at reasonable price and in good condition, I’d recommend picking one up. Its really a beautiful pen that’s a great workhorse.