Author Archives: kuncoro

Yard-O-Led Viceroy

Yard-O-Led, a venerable British company rooted in the craftsmanship traditions of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, has held a distinguished place in the world of writing instruments since 1934. Originally known for its uniquely engineered mechanical pencils that ingeniously carried twelve three-inch leads—hence the name “Yard-O-Led”—the firm eventually turned its attention to fountain pens, marrying mechanical ingenuity with the aesthetics of classic British design. Every Yard-O-Led writing instrument remains a testament to artisanal precision, with each piece hand-assembled and meticulously hallmarked in accordance with the traditions of British silversmithing.

The Yard-O-Led Viceroy Standard Barley Fountain Pen is a shining emblem of this heritage. Crafted entirely in sterling silver, it upholds a lineage of British elegance and uncompromising quality. The Viceroy series, especially the Standard Barley variant, serves not only as a practical tool but also as a bridge to a bygone era, when fountain pens were objects of dignity and status. It contributes to the United Kingdom’s legacy of fine pen-making, standing shoulder to shoulder with other giants of European craftsmanship.

What sets the Viceroy Barley apart in the modern world of fountain pens is its deliberate refusal to bow to trends. It does not chase lightweight materials or space-age aesthetics; rather, it leans into the tactile and visual opulence of traditional silversmith work. The pen’s body is engraved with a Barleycorn guilloché pattern—an intricate diamond-shaped motif that catches the light in an understated yet captivating way. This engraving is not simply decorative; it enhances grip, balances reflection, and underscores the pen’s handcrafted nature. The pen’s clip is die-struck, not merely stamped, with a classic “YARD-O-LED” inscription.

True to its form, the Viceroy Barley is constructed of high-purity 925 sterling silver, a choice not made for mere ostentation. Sterling silver not only carries tactile warmth but also ages gracefully, developing a patina unique to the user—an intimate and evolving signature of ownership. British hallmarking on the barrel, including the sponsor’s mark “YOL”, fineness marks, and assay office insignia, confirms its authenticity and ties it to a centuries-old tradition of precious metalwork.

The nib is an 18ct gold unit, plated in rhodium for durability and aesthetic harmony with the silver body. It is engraved with the Yard-O-Led scrollwork motif, echoing the symmetry and flourish of vintage British design. The nib featured here is a Fine (F) size, offering a precise and consistent line, ideal for both personal writing and formal correspondence. Smooth yet firm, it balances expression with control, much like the pen itself—a dignified blend of subtle luxury and mechanical clarity.

In the realm of contemporary writing instruments, the Yard-O-Led Viceroy Barley is less a competitor and more a category unto itself. It is a pen for those who value tradition, tactile beauty, and a deliberate pace. One does not rush through prose with such a pen; one composes. Each stroke is a continuation of legacy, and in an age of disposability, that is nothing short of revolutionary.

The Quill

The fountain pen, i.e. that elegant reservoir of ink and intellect, did not arrive fully formed from the minds of nineteenth-century inventors. It was the culmination of centuries of refinement, the answer to a perennial challenge: how might one write fluidly without constant interruption to replenish ink? Before Waterman’s clever feed mechanism or the gentleman’s pocket clip, there was the quill—humble in origin, yet unrivalled in its contribution to human thought. For nearly a thousand years, this sharpened feather served as the principal writing instrument of the world, etching scripture, law, poetry, and revolution into parchment and paper alike.

A well-made quill is a marvel of natural engineering. Drawn from the flight feathers of geese, swans, or turkeys, its hollow shaft functions as both reservoir and conduit. With care and craft, the calamus is cured—hardened through heat and stripped of its soft pith—then carved with a penknife into a nib that flexes ever so slightly under the hand. The slit cut into its point permits ink to flow through capillary action, and the result is a line that can dance from whisper-thin to richly bold with the mere flick of a wrist. In the right hands, it becomes not merely a writing tool, but a brush for thought.

The quill’s heyday stretched from the early Middle Ages into the nineteenth century. Monastic scribes toiled by lamplight, copying sacred texts with painstaking fidelity. The Book of Kells, the Lindisfarne Gospels, and countless illuminated manuscripts were born beneath the rhythm of dipping and scratching. In the courts and chancelleries of Europe, laws were drafted and sealed under the sharp tip of the quill. And in the bustling city of London, William Shakespeare inked the immortal lines of Hamlet and King Lear, dipping his feather into a dark inkwell as actors rehearsed their lines by candlelight.

The quill was not merely a writer’s tool—it was a craftsman’s companion. A single feather, properly cut and maintained, might serve for a few days’ work, though professional scribes often kept several at hand, each suited to a different purpose: one for fine marginal notes, another for bold headings, a third trimmed anew after the previous had worn dull. A penknife was always near—not for defence, but for reshaping a tired nib. Ink, typically iron gall, was caustic and permanent, requiring precision and care, lest a blot undo hours of labour.

Even as Enlightenment dawned and printing presses multiplied, the quill remained in daily use. Thomas Jefferson, that restless correspondent, kept a flock of geese at Monticello partly to secure his own supply. The Declaration of Independence, so often read in solemn tones, was transcribed by hand with a quill. And across Europe, philosophers, poets, and reformers carried feathers in their writing boxes, trusting them with the weight of revolutions both political and poetic.

But progress, relentless as ever, rendered the quill increasingly impractical. The 1820s saw the rise of machine-stamped steel nibs in Birmingham—durable, uniform, and cheap. These metallic successors required no feather, no curing, and no cutting. By the late nineteenth century, the fountain pen had arrived, its internal ink feed solving the quill’s great inconvenience: the need to dip. By the mid-twentieth century, the mass-produced ballpoint had dethroned them all, trading grace for utility. Then, surely, entered the computer era.

Yet the quill did not vanish entirely. In the hands of calligraphers, it remains a living tool. The United States Supreme Court lays a white goose quill at each counsel’s desk, an emblem of legal gravitas. Artists and historians have revived the craft, cutting and tempering feathers not merely as anachronism, but as homage to a tradition in which the act of writing was itself a form of ceremony.

Egyptomania

The Montblanc Heritage Egyptomania fountain pen is a refined tribute to the enduring mystique of ancient Egypt—its geometry, its symbols, and its sense of permanence. Inspired by the design codes of the 1920s, yet with a distinctly modern execution, the pen pays homage to a time when egyptology captivated the world. This fascination, often referred to as egyptomania, surged after the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922, and Montblanc’s pen reflects this spirit not through overstatement, but with a quiet, intelligent elegance.

The pen’s cap and barrel are crafted from deep black resin, offering a pleasing weight and polish. The hardware is rendered in a warm bronze-coloured metal, subtly aged, which evokes the patina of ancient artefacts. The hieroglyphs engraved along the cap translate to “Montblanc” or more literally, “white mountain”, but unlike Montblanc’s usual bright white star emblem, the logo here is simply engraved into the bronze cap top—unobtrusive, respectful to the overall aesthetic, and perfectly in tune with the design’s restraint.

There is a symbolic richness in every detail. The clip is shaped like a stylised scarab beetle, one of the most iconic and spiritually resonant symbols in Egyptian iconography, representing renewal, rebirth, and the protection of the sun god Ra. On the Au750 solid gold nib—mine in a Fine size—Montblanc has engraved the crook and flail, the traditional regalia of the pharaohs, once held across the chest of Tutankhamun in his golden death mask. These motifs are not arbitrary; they reflect an intentional alignment with the core Egyptian values of wisdom, leadership, and eternity—elevating the pen from a writing tool into a portable emblem of timeless power.

While its aesthetics are rich with meaning, the pen is also remarkably functional. Its slender profile makes it suitable for daily writing, and the Fine nib offers a precise, smooth stroke—ideal for taking notes in meetings, outlining concepts, or writing down structured thoughts, including technical ideas and programming logic. The piston filling mechanism, hidden within the resin body, is reliable and offers a generous ink capacity for those who write extensively. What I appreciate most is the feeling of balance in the hand—the pen sits firmly but lightly, never slipping, never fatiguing.

I chose this pen not because of its ornamentation, but rather for its clarity of design. It represents the kind of simplicity I value deeply—where nothing is unnecessary, and every line has purpose. The black and bronze colourway is both elegant and subtle, conveying seriousness without ostentation. The small hieroglyphic engraving feels like a secret shared with the past, and the absence of bright logos keeps the focus on the pen itself. I picked it up at Harrods in London, June last year. An indulgence, yes, but a meaningful one — a modest gift to myself. Since then, the Egyptomania has remained a constant companion in my work and travels. It feels less like an object and more like a fragment of a larger story—where the wisdom of the past meets the craft of the present, and where every stroke of ink connects thought, hand, and history.

Opus of the Squirrel

Happy Squirrel Appreciation Day! Here’s a member of Opus 88’s celebrated “Mini Forest Creatures” series, featuring a vivid squirrel motif delicately painted on a translucent green barrel—an ode to woodland whimsy. Opus 88, a Taiwanese marque founded by Michael Hsu in 1988, quickly earned a reputation for combining functional engineering with artistic flair, producing pens that are as reliable as they are beautiful.

Its appeal today rests on a dual legacy: craftsmanship and creativity. Opus 88 pens are renowned for their generous Japanese-style eyedropper filling system—boasting up to 3.5 ml of ink capacity—complete with a shutdown valve to prevent leakage when travelling. This practical design elevates them from charming collectibles to everyday workhorses, much admired in the global fountain pen community.

This squirrel edition is unique in its joyful aesthetic. The cap and barrel are adorned with playful squirrels among acorns and foliage—a motif that suggests both mischief and intellect. These whimsical illustrations are crisp, colourful, and clearly printed, reflecting an attention to decorative detail that sets Opus 88 apart from more austere designs.

Beyond its visual charm, the pen’s build is solid and thoughtful. The cap screws to secure tightly, the clip is slim but sturdy, and the flat-top silhouette offers a vintage-inspired comfort. Once posted, it balances superbly in the hand, encouraging long and pleasurable writing sessions without fatigue.

Mechanically, the pen uses a JoWo No. 6 nib unit—standard in many models—which allows for nib-swaps to suit your writing preference. The steel nib provided is smooth, reliable, and wet, demonstrating why Opus 88 is called a maker of “workhorse” instruments. The eyedropper mechanism and valve system reflect Michael Hsu’s engineering pedigree, honed over decades and through OEM work for luxury brands.

Pelikan M700 Tolédo

In 1931, Pelikan adopted a technique of Damascus steel engraving into a design of its fountain pen. This method, brought to Spain by the Arabs and perfected in Tolédo, involves engraving patterns into steel or iron surfaces, overlaying them with a thin sheet of gold, and heating the object to oxidise the steel while leaving the gold to shine brilliantly​​. Today, Pelikan still uses this technique for two Souverän series: M700 and M900. The elegant M700 has arrived last week.

The M700 Tolédo features a decorative sleeve made from a single piece of 925 Sterling Silver, which is intricately hand-engraved and covered with a layer of gold. This results in a beautifully contrasting design that combines the dark oxidised silver with the luminous gold patterns. The cap, front piece, and end piece of the pen are crafted from high-quality black resin, adding to its overall elegance and durability​​.

Pelikan M700 Tolédo is similar in size to the Pelikan Souverän M400, with a length of approximately 12.5 cm when capped and 14.7 cm when posted. It has a comfortable weight of about 23 grams, making it well-balanced and easy to handle for prolonged writing sessions​​.

One of the most distinguished features of the M700 is its nib. The pen is equipped with an Au750 (18K gold) nib adorned with rhodium accents, available in various sizes. Mine has medium size. This bi-color nib not only enhances the pen’s aesthetic appeal but also ensures a smooth and pleasurable writing experience. The pen utilizes a high-capacity piston filling system, which is both efficient and easy to use​.

Each M700 fountain pen is a unique piece, individually designed, hand-signed, and numbered. The intricate hand-engraving process means that no two pens are exactly alike. Due to the extensive manual labor involved, only a limited number of these pens —up to 200— can be produced each month. This exclusivity adds to the pen’s allure as a collector’s item and a piece of art​.

The pen is presented in a luxurious silk-lined wooden gift box, adding to its prestige and making it an excellent choice for a cherished gift. This thoughtful presentation underscores Pelikan’s attention to detail and dedication to providing a premium product experience​.

M700 is not just a writing instrument — it is a piece of history. The pen’s design has remained virtually unchanged since its introduction, preserving the heritage and craftsmanship of the Tolédo technique. This makes owning a Tolédo M700 akin to owning a small piece of art history​.

University of Cambridge — Onoto

The University of Cambridge has a rich history that spans more than 800 years. Its origins can be traced back to 1209, when a group of scholars migrated to establish ofa new centre of learning in Cambridge. By 1231, the institution received a charter from King Henry III, which granted it significant privileges. This charter marked the beginning of the university’s official recognition and its rise as a prominent academic institution.

The university is organised into a series of colleges, with the first college, Peterhouse, founded by Hugh de Balsham in 1284. Each college is an independent institution with its own property and income, but all are part of the university, contributing to its rich academic and cultural environment.

The university played a significant role in the Renaissance and the Scientific Revolution. Notable alumni include Sir Isaac Newton, who developed the principles of modern physics in the 17th century while at Cambridge. In the 20th and 21st centuries, Cambridge continued to expand and evolve, becoming a globally recognised and respected institution for higher learning and research. It has maintained a strong emphasis on scientific research and innovation, contributing to technological advancements and the development of new fields of study. Today, this university consists of over 30 colleges and numerous academic departments, faculties, and schools. It continues to be a leading centre for education and research, attracting students and scholars from around the world. The university’s commitment to excellence in education, research, and contribution to society remains steadfast, ensuring its place among the top universities globally for years to come.

I have an Onoto fountain pen designed for the University of Cambridge. It is a Magna Black & Gold model with the logo of this university on its crown, and a Trinity College crest; with Au750 F-sized nib. It is my second Onoto after the one designed for Oxford University.

Onoto, a prestigious brand of fountain pens from the United Kingdom, has a rich history and a strong reputation for quality, innovation, and cultural significance. The brand’s journey began in the early 20th century, making it an integral part of the fountain pen industry’s history and development. Its history dates back to 1905 when the brand was established by Thomas De La Rue & Co. The first Onoto pen, the Onoto Patent Self-filling Pen, was launched in 1905 and quickly gained fame for its innovative plunger-filling system, which was a novelty at the time. This filling mechanism allowed for a more straightforward and cleaner way to refill the pen, setting Onoto pens apart from their competitors.

Onoto pens are renowned for their high quality, craftsmanship, and durability. The brand has consistently emphasized the production of pens that are not only functional but also beautiful, often using precious metals, high-quality resins, and intricate designs. Collectors and users of Onoto pens value them for their smooth writing experience, balance, and the tactile pleasure they provide. In the 21st century, Onoto has experienced a revival, appealing to both collectors of vintage pens and enthusiasts of luxury writing instruments. The brand continues to produce limited editions and bespoke pens, often commemorating significant historical and cultural events, further enhancing its cultural significance and appeal to connoisseurs of fine pens.

University of Cambridge — Onoto

The University of Cambridge has a rich history that spans more than 800 years. Its origins can be traced back to 1209, when a group of scholars migrated to establish ofa new centre of learning in Cambridge. By 1231, the institution received a charter from King Henry III, which granted it significant privileges. This charter marked the beginning of the university’s official recognition and its rise as a prominent academic institution.

The university is organised into a series of colleges, with the first college, Peterhouse, founded by Hugh de Balsham in 1284. Each college is an independent institution with its own property and income, but all are part of the university, contributing to its rich academic and cultural environment.

The university played a significant role in the Renaissance and the Scientific Revolution. Notable alumni include Sir Isaac Newton, who developed the principles of modern physics in the 17th century while at Cambridge. In the 20th and 21st centuries, Cambridge continued to expand and evolve, becoming a globally recognised and respected institution for higher learning and research. It has maintained a strong emphasis on scientific research and innovation, contributing to technological advancements and the development of new fields of study. Today, this university consists of over 30 colleges and numerous academic departments, faculties, and schools. It continues to be a leading centre for education and research, attracting students and scholars from around the world. The university’s commitment to excellence in education, research, and contribution to society remains steadfast, ensuring its place among the top universities globally for years to come.

I have an Onoto fountain pen designed for the University of Cambridge. It is a Magna Black & Gold model with the logo of this university on its crown, and a Trinity College crest; with Au750 F-sized nib. It is my second Onoto after the one designed for Oxford University.

Onoto, a prestigious brand of fountain pens from the United Kingdom, has a rich history and a strong reputation for quality, innovation, and cultural significance. The brand’s journey began in the early 20th century, making it an integral part of the fountain pen industry’s history and development. Its history dates back to 1905 when the brand was established by Thomas De La Rue & Co. The first Onoto pen, the Onoto Patent Self-filling Pen, was launched in 1905 and quickly gained fame for its innovative plunger-filling system, which was a novelty at the time. This filling mechanism allowed for a more straightforward and cleaner way to refill the pen, setting Onoto pens apart from their competitors.

Onoto pens are renowned for their high quality, craftsmanship, and durability. The brand has consistently emphasized the production of pens that are not only functional but also beautiful, often using precious metals, high-quality resins, and intricate designs. Collectors and users of Onoto pens value them for their smooth writing experience, balance, and the tactile pleasure they provide. In the 21st century, Onoto has experienced a revival, appealing to both collectors of vintage pens and enthusiasts of luxury writing instruments. The brand continues to produce limited editions and bespoke pens, often commemorating significant historical and cultural events, further enhancing its cultural significance and appeal to connoisseurs of fine pens.

Ravenclaw

November — one of the most inspiring months, with its dark season in most populated part of the earth. Darkness, reducing the ability to see with our eyes, but opening our heart wider to see the wisdom of our life, of the universe. And at the first week of November, we celebrate Fountain Pen Day. This year, we celebrate it on November 3rd — just between Nov 2nd and Nov 4th for sure. And the pen I choose today is Montegrappa Harry Potter Series: Ravenclaw!

Montegrappa has produced a special edition fountain pen inspired by the Harry Potter series. I have displayed the Gryffindor design last year (URL). Now proudly I show you the Ravenclaw.

At Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, each house has its own unique qualities and values, contributing to the diversity and richness of the Hogwarts student body. In contrast to the other houses (Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, and Slytherin), Ravenclaw stands out for its emphasis on intellectual pursuits and a love of learning.

The unique characteristics of Ravenclaw can be summarised as follows:

  • Intelligence and Wisdom: Ravenclaw house values academic achievement and intelligence. Ravenclaw people are known for their intellectual curiosity, love of learning, and a desire to expand their knowledge.
  • Creativity and Originality: Ravenclaws are often associated with creativity and original thinking. The house encourages people to think outside the box and approach problems with innovative solutions.
  • Wit and Cleverness: Ravenclaws are known for their quick wit and cleverness. They appreciate a sharp mind and the ability to think on one’s feet.
  • Love of Learning: Ravenclaw people have a passion for learning and seek to understand the world around them. The house common room, located in a tower on the west side of Hogwarts, is filled with books and is a quiet place to study and contemplate.
  • Individuality: Ravenclaws often value individuality and independence. They appreciate uniqueness and are accepting of diverse perspectives and ideas.
  • Lack of Prejudice: Unlike some other houses, Ravenclaw is known for its lack of prejudice and acceptance of people from all walks of life, as long as they exhibit the qualities valued by the house.

The most prominent Ravenclaw character at the Harry Potter series is surely Luna Lovegood — a beloved character known for her individuality, kindness, and unwavering belief in the magical and mysterious aspects of the wizarding world. The individuality here includes her distinctive quirky appearance and dreamy expression. Luna is portrayed as open-minded, kind-hearted, and unapologetically herself. She is not easily affected by the opinions of others and remains true to her beliefs and values.

Luna is often considered eccentric by her peers, but she is comfortable in her uniqueness. But her loyalty, bravery, and willingness to fight for what she believes in are evident during the final intense and dangerous confrontation of the series — making her one of the most important character of the story.

Ravenclaw

November — one of the most inspiring months, with its dark season in most populated part of the earth. Darkness, reducing the ability to see with our eyes, but opening our heart wider to see the wisdom of our life, of the universe. And at the first week of November, we celebrate Fountain Pen Day. This year, we celebrate it on November 3rd — just between Nov 2nd and Nov 4th for sure. And the pen I choose today is Montegrappa Harry Potter Series: Ravenclaw!

Montegrappa has produced a special edition fountain pen inspired by the Harry Potter series. I have displayed the Gryffindor design last year (URL). Now proudly I show you the Ravenclaw.

At Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, each house has its own unique qualities and values, contributing to the diversity and richness of the Hogwarts student body. In contrast to the other houses (Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, and Slytherin), Ravenclaw stands out for its emphasis on intellectual pursuits and a love of learning.

The unique characteristics of Ravenclaw can be summarised as follows:

  • Intelligence and Wisdom: Ravenclaw house values academic achievement and intelligence. Ravenclaw people are known for their intellectual curiosity, love of learning, and a desire to expand their knowledge.
  • Creativity and Originality: Ravenclaws are often associated with creativity and original thinking. The house encourages people to think outside the box and approach problems with innovative solutions.
  • Wit and Cleverness: Ravenclaws are known for their quick wit and cleverness. They appreciate a sharp mind and the ability to think on one’s feet.
  • Love of Learning: Ravenclaw people have a passion for learning and seek to understand the world around them. The house common room, located in a tower on the west side of Hogwarts, is filled with books and is a quiet place to study and contemplate.
  • Individuality: Ravenclaws often value individuality and independence. They appreciate uniqueness and are accepting of diverse perspectives and ideas.
  • Lack of Prejudice: Unlike some other houses, Ravenclaw is known for its lack of prejudice and acceptance of people from all walks of life, as long as they exhibit the qualities valued by the house.

The most prominent Ravenclaw character at the Harry Potter series is surely Luna Lovegood — a beloved character known for her individuality, kindness, and unwavering belief in the magical and mysterious aspects of the wizarding world. The individuality here includes her distinctive quirky appearance and dreamy expression. Luna is portrayed as open-minded, kind-hearted, and unapologetically herself. She is not easily affected by the opinions of others and remains true to her beliefs and values.

Luna is often considered eccentric by her peers, but she is comfortable in her uniqueness. But her loyalty, bravery, and willingness to fight for what she believes in are evident during the final intense and dangerous confrontation of the series — making her one of the most important character of the story.

Le Petit Prince #3 — Montblanc

As a personal joke, I call it an example of a cognitive dissonance, or specifically on the aspect of cognitions importance — the greater the perceived value of something, the greater the magnitude of the dissonance in the relation. The dissonance on the importance values result sometimes in unpredictable things. An example is the activity of collecting fountain pens (in the 21st century nonetheless). Another example is the cohesion to the books and other artefacts related to Le Petit Prince. That is the reason that I choose this very day to exhibit another, or two other, artefacts from both collections: Montblanc, Le Petit Prince Series of the 3rd Year, in burgundy.

I have also explored my other Montblanc pens collection related to Le Petit Prince:

Obviously, I skip MB The Meisterstück Le Petit Prince #3 on purpose — albeit an inapparent reason.

This Montblanc LPP Series #3 were launched in 2020, with burgundy colour, and with gold nibs (Au 585) carved with The Little Prince cleaning his planet from the sprouts of bad seeds. The Chapter 5 of Le Petit Prince book describes on the little prince’s planet, as on all planets, there were good plants and bad plants, and so of course there were good seeds from the good plants, and bad seeds from the bad plants. But seeds are invisible. They lie dormant hidden deep in the dark of the earth until one of them has the notion it would be a good idea to wake up. This little seed will first have a stretch, then grow slowly, ever so slowly, up towards the sunlight, until at last there it is, a sweet little innocuous twig of a plant. If it is the first shoot on a radish perhaps, or the early sprig of a rose, then it can be left to grow on as it wishes. But if this is a bad plant, you should pull it up at once, the moment you recognise it for what it is. “It’s just a question of self discipline,” the little prince explained later.

I have two size of this excellently designed pen: Le Grand (146 size, above) and the Classique (145 size, below). The Meisterstück 146 is larger and has a slightly thicker barrel compared to the Meisterstück 145. The 146 is often considered a full-sized pen, while the 145 is slightly smaller and more compact. Both have similar nib design, albeit with obviously different size, and consequently different detail. The 146 has an internal piston, while the 145 is equipped with a cartridge.

Having two fountain pens with different size and similar design makes it easier to compare the experience of using these quite standardised pen (in term of size). Since the Meisterstück 146 is larger, it tends to be slightly heavier than the Meisterstück 145. The weight difference is generally not substantial, but some individuals may have a preference for either a lighter or heavier pen. While both pens offer a smooth writing experience, some users find that the larger size of the Meisterstück 146 provides a more comfortable grip and balance. However, this can vary based on personal preference and hand size.

The the previous Le Petit Prince -themed pens, these pens were designed in collaboration with Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s Estate. Le Petit Prince, authored by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, is a beloved and timeless literary work that has captivated readers worldwide. Montblanc’s collaboration with the Estate of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry allows them to pay homage to the author and his iconic characters while creating a special connection with literature enthusiasts and fans of Le Petit Prince.

Surely we are all curious that Montblanc released three different pen designs related to Le Petit Prince in three consecutive years. Or four, if the pen released in 2017 to commemorate Antoine de Saint-Exupéry is also counted. But releasing the pens in different colours each year has successfully created a sense of exclusivity and limited edition allure. It can also incentivise collectors to acquire all three pens (at least), appealing to the desire to complete a set or collection. This approach allows Montblanc to tap into the passion and enthusiasm of collectors who seek to possess the entire series. Each new colour or design release also keeps the story and its themes fresh in the minds of fans, fostering a continued connection with the narrative. And this is why I started it with a mention of cognitive dissonance.