Pilot Capless
The world's first capless fountain pen. One click, and you're ready to write.
Open your notebook, click once, and the nib appears — ready to go. Capless is PILOT's capless fountain-pen series, first released in 1963. When retracted, a shutter mechanism in the head section seals the nib to help prevent ink from drying out. The lineup includes the classic Capless, the slim and lightweight Capless Decimo with an aluminum body, and the Capless LS featuring a quiet "knock & twist" mechanism. Same concept, three distinct personalities in hand.
PROFILE Company & Brand Story
Capless began with a simple wish: make the fountain-pen gesture lighter and quicker. By removing the cap and letting the nib appear with a single click, PILOT turned a daily routine into a smooth, ready-to-write moment. Since its 1963 debut, it has remained a staple for over half a century.
Speed alone is not the whole story. Capless houses a shutter mechanism in the head section, sealing the nib when it is retracted. This helps reduce ink drying, making the knock-style format feel genuinely "fountain pen" in everyday use.
The series branches neatly by use. The classic Capless is the core, while Capless Decimo is built with an aluminum body for a slimmer, lighter profile. The name "decimo" means "tenth" in Spanish — positioned as the 10th model since the first Capless release in 1963.
Capless LS takes a different route with its "Luxury & Silent" concept. It extends the nib quietly with a knock, then retracts smoothly by turning the small projection on the tail crown — the "knock & twist" mechanism. From classic colors to Raden and Wood finishes, Capless makes the choosing process part of the enjoyment.
Released in 1963: the world's first capless fountain pen
Capless debuted in 1963 as the world's first fountain pen without a cap. It has been in continuous production as a long-running series for over half a century — famous for starting to write with a single click.
A shutter mechanism that seals the nib
Instead of a cap, Capless uses a shutter mechanism built into the head section. When the nib is retracted, it seals tightly to help prevent ink from drying out — one reason the knock-style format works so well as a fountain pen.
Three series, three distinct feels
The lineup includes the classic Capless (basic), the Capless Decimo with an aluminum body for a slim, lightweight feel, and the Capless LS featuring a "knock & twist" mechanism. Each carries the same concept with its own personality in hand.
Finishes that go well beyond "basic"
Alongside the color-focused basic series, Capless is available in premium finishes such as Raden (maki-e with raden technique) and a Wood series using birch — adding another layer to how you choose your pen.
PRODUCTS Featured Products & Services
PILOT Capless Fountain Pen (FC-15SR) — Made in Japan
The classic knock-type Capless fountain pen. One click to extend the nib, one click to retract it. Shutter mechanism seals the nib when stored. 18K nib available on some models; CON-40 converter specified.
View DetailsPILOT Capless Decimo (FCT-15SR) — Made in Japan
A slim, lightweight Capless with an aluminum body. The name "decimo" marks it as the 10th model in the series. A natural match for planners and smaller notebooks.
View DetailsPILOT Capless LS (FCLS-35SR) — Made in Japan
"Luxury & Silent." The nib extends quietly with a knock and retracts smoothly with a twist of the tail crown. A refined alternative for those who want a calmer, more deliberate pen experience.
View DetailsPILOT Capless Wood Series (FC-25SK) — Made in Japan
A Capless with a birch body. The natural grain gives each pen a different texture and look, adding a warmer dimension to the lineup.
View DetailsMEDIA Media, Awards & Initiatives
- 1963: Capless was released as the world's first capless fountain pen.
- A shutter mechanism seals the nib when retracted, helping prevent ink from drying out.
- The current lineup includes Capless, Capless Decimo, and Capless LS.