Luxury goods are, for the most part, statements of success and wealth, or at least, a demonstration of image.  Sure there are good materials, history, blah blah blah, but a lot of that stuff can be found in items that do not have the brand name, for much less.

So that being said, an expensive pen makes that statement.  And why would someone want to make that statement?  To post on LYN?  Probably not.

For me, it's a little bit about business and some more about interest.  Doing business with people that are successful and appreciate the finer things in life.  When I break out an expensive pen, the bloke on the other side of the desk knows that I am serious about what I do and appreciate detail.  It is the same reason why it's best not to go into a business meeting with a t-shirt and shorts.  The suit is more appropriate because of the statement you are trying to make, whether it be a professional one or one that shows respect for the person you're meeting with. 

I remember having a great conversation with a CEO over his IWC watch and my Panerai.  I think he looked at me quite different after it, and there was some mutual respect, even though he was at least 15 years older.
In the end, we never got the deal done, and there are times where the decision maker could care less about what kind of pen, watch, shoes, wallet, accessories, car, etc, that you have.  But, it's the time that it does have some impact that we look forward to.

With atta posting a pic of a fine pen, a collector like myself appreciates the decision he has made and the choice to spend that kind of money and (hopefully) the hard work he put into earning it.  I view him differently as a result (in a good way).

---

Added on June 16, 2011, 12:18 pm

to save money, you have to earn it, yeah?  or someone has to give it to you.

do you mind me asking how you come about it?