While I agree that fountains the the stuff of pen 'purists'(much in the way that we are passionate about the difference between mechanical and quartz watches), there is most certainly a place for ballpoints. First of all, as you noted, there are definitely occupations that require ballpoints. Try signing a triplicate prescription for opioids with a fountain pen, and you'll soon be asking your buddy for a ballpoint pen to re-write the script. Further, MOST people (in the USA, anyway) are used to using ballpoints, so if you regularly ask people to sign documents, a ballpoint or roller is a must.
Anyway, ballpoints are by far the most popular form of high end pens sold in the USA. If your friend is a pen enthusiast, then perhaps a fountain is a better choice. Instead, if this is a very kind gesture for someone who may appreciate nice things but is not as into pens as us maniacs, then I think it's fantastically appropriate.
For disclosure, my own collection approximates foutains to ballpoints/rollers ~15:1, but I do own a few ballpoints.
Thanks,
Brian
P.S. Mark, are you familiar with Facom tools? Prestigious enough to prep the Scuderia!
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