If you’re a fountain pen enthusiast who loves deep dives into the minds of industry insiders, Alexandra Richardson’s latest upload is a must-watch. In a special “Revisited” episode of her popular series Fountain Pen 20 Questions, Alexandra sits down with Michael Hammer, the President of SamPro Fine Writing, amidst the bustle of the Empire Pen Show 2025.
A Gentleman of the Industry
For those new to the series or the industry side of things, Michael Hammer is a fascinating figure. As the head of SamPro, he has decades of experience in the fine writing and art supply world (you might know them for distributing Princeton Artist Brush Co. and other fine brands).
Alexandra describes him in the video description as “evidently always the gentleman” with “decades of passion,” and that dynamic shines through immediately. Unlike a standard review where we just look at a pen, this interview offers a glimpse into the preferences of someone who has lived and breathed stationery for over 40 years.
The “Revisited” Format
The “20 Questions” format is a staple of Alexandra’s Art Insanity channel, but the “Revisited” twist adds a layer of intrigue. We’ve seen Michael answer these questions before (in his first appearance), so this episode serves as a time capsule. Have his tastes changed? Has a new ink caught his eye?
In this rapid-fire session, viewers get to hear Michael’s current takes on the classic inquiries, such as:
Preferred Nib Size: Has he shifted from broads to fines, or stuck with a classic medium?
Desert Island Pen: If his collection vanished, what is the one pen he would buy immediately? (In the past, industry veterans often lean toward classics like the Visconti Homo Sapiens, but you’ll have to watch to see Michael’s pick).
Ink & Trends: What does a distributor think is the “next big thing” in the fountain pen world?
Why You Should Watch
Filmed on location at the Empire Pen Show, the video captures the authentic energy of the pen community. It’s not just about the answers; it’s about the conversation between two people who genuinely love the hobby. Michael’s perspective is unique because it blends the appreciation of an end-user with the sharp eye of a business owner who knows what sells and what lasts.
Whether you are looking for validation on your own pen habits or just want to see what a true industry veteran keeps in his rotation, this interview is a delightful 15-minute break.
