Where to start with luxury pens?

Are you on the hunt for a truly exceptional gift for someone special in your life? Whether it’s a colleague, a loved one, or simply a treat for yourself, luxury pens are a timeless and sophisticated choice. With the new year well underway, it’s the perfect time to explore the latest offerings in the world of luxury pens. Maybe something to go with your luxury notebook.

Maybe you are a stylophile yourself, like me? I love the world of stationery and nothing feels better than writing with a pen that has a story or is simply just made with extra love and care.

A “stylophile” is a term that’s used to describe someone who is passionate about writing instruments, primarily pens. And I can relate!

It is a less common term than “pen enthusiast” or “pen collector,” but it essentially means the same thing. A little background here, but the word “stylophile” is derived from the Greek word “stylos,” meaning “pen,” and the suffix “-phile,” which means “lover of” or “enthusiast for.”

So, from sleek and minimalist designs to intricate, handcrafted pieces, there’s vast number of options available for those seeking the creme de la creme of the pen world. The act of writing is a uniquely personal experience, and a luxury pen makes this experience much more worth it.

In the rest of this article, we’ll explore some of the most impressive luxury pens on the market in 2023. We’re going to be delving into the details of each pen, examining the unique features and materials used to develop them.

Whether you’re seeking a classic and elegant design or something more modern and bold, we’ll have you covered here!

So sit back, relax, and prepare to be dazzled by the finest luxury pens of 2023. Whether you’re a seasoned pen enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of luxury writing instruments, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye. Let’s begin our journey into the world of the most impressive luxury pens for 2023.

What luxury pen brands to look out for?

There are many famous, and also not-that-well-known luxury pen brands and manufacturers around the world, we haven’t included everyone, but this is a pretty comprehensive list of luxury pen brands to look out for:

• Montblanc: Founded in 1906, Montblanc is a German-based company that is known for its high-end writing instruments and other luxury goods.
• Montegrappa: An Italian luxury pen manufacturer that has been in operation since 1912. Montegrappa pens are handcrafted by skilled artisans in the company’s factory in Bassano del Grappa, Italy
• Parker: An American company that has been making pens since the late 1800s, Parker is known for its classic designs and innovative technology.
• Waterman: A French manufacturer that has been making pens since the 1880s, Waterman is known for its high-quality materials and craftsmanship.
• Cross: An American company that has been in operation since 1846, Cross is known for its elegant designs and attention to detail.
• Pelikan: A German company that has been making pens since the early 1900s, Pelikan is known for its high-quality materials and precision engineering.
• Visconti: An Italian manufacturer that has been in operation since the late 1980s, Visconti is known for its innovative designs and use of unconventional materials.
• Aurora: An Italian manufacturer that has been making pens since the early 1900s, Aurora is known for its elegant designs and attention to detail.
• Faber-Castell: A German company that has been making pens since the early 1900s, Faber-Castell is known for its elegant designs and high-quality materials.
• Sheaffer: An American company that has been making pens since the early 1900s, Sheaffer is known for its classic designs and use of innovative materials.
• Lamy: A German manufacturer that has been in operation since the 1930s, Lamy is known for its modern and minimalist designs.
• Pilot: A Japanese company that has been making pens since the early 1900s, Pilot is known for its innovative designs and use of advanced technology.
• Sailor: Another Japanese manufacturer, Sailor is known for its high-quality materials and precise craftsmanship.
• Caran d’Ache: A Swiss company that has been making pens since the early 1900s, Caran d’Ache is known for its use of luxury materials and attention to detail.
• Omas:  An Italian manufacturer that has been in operation since the early 1900s, Omas is known for its handcrafted designs and use of unique materials.

Also note that a lot of Watch Brands, such as Rolex also offer luxury pens, and I’ve included a few of those below!

These are just a few of the biggest and most well-known luxury pen manufacturers. There are many other companies around the world that make high-end writing instruments, each with its own unique style and approach to craftsmanship.

Our Favourite Luxury Pens

Welcome to the first section dedicated to our favourite luxury pens! Here, we’ll explore some of the most beautiful and exclusive pens available on the market today. This list is pen-porn for avid pen collectors. It’s also inspiration for those looking to treat themselves (or a loved one) to a new luxury pen.

From elegant fountain pens to sleek rollerballs, we’ve selected a bunch of luxury pens and we’ll discuss the features that make each pen unique. Whether you’re a writer, an artist, an avid note scribbler, or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life (they’ll make good office art!), we hope you’ll find inspiration and enjoyment in this collection of our favourite luxury pens.

Pelikan – Souveran M800 ’40 Year Anniversary’ (Limited Edition)

This absolute beauty of a pen is a special edition that was released by the German luxury pen manufacturer Pelikan in 2019 to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Souverän line of pens. The Souverän line is well-known amongst stylophiles for its classic design and top-of-the-range materials, and the M800 model is probably the most popular in the line.

The ’40 Year Anniversary’ edition has a super unique design (as you can see above) that pays tribute to the original Souverän pen that was introduced by the company way back in 1950. The pen is made from top-quality resin that has been coloured in an enchanting deep blue-green that is reminiscent of the original design. We also get features a gold-plated clip and trim that adds to its elegance and sophistication.

One of the most notable features of this pen is its nib (Michael Scott that’s what she said).

The pen comes with a two-tone 18-karat gold nib that has been specially engraved with the Pelikan logo and the number 40 to commemorate this event. The nib is available in a variety of widths, including extra fine, fine, medium, and broad, to suit the preferences of the writer.

The Pelikan Souverän M800 Limited Edition is a highly coveted pen amongst enthusiasts and collectors around the globe. Only 4,000 pens were ever produced, making it rare and super exclusive. It’s a must-have addition to any collection. The pen comes in a special presentation box that includes a certificate of authenticity, making it an ideal gift for those luxury pen lovers.

Sailor – Wabi Sabi 1st Fountain Pen Red

Another limited edition – there are a few in this collection.  This is the Sailor Wabi Sabi 1st Fountain Pen and it’s made by the Japanese pen manufacturer Sailor. The Wabi Sabi series is inspired by the Japanese aesthetic of Wabi Sabi, which celebrates the beauty of imperfection and impermanence – more about that here.

This pen features a unique design that reflects plays perfectly to its story. It’s made from ebonite, which is actually a natural rubber material that has a warm and organic feel to the hand. The body of the pen is hand-turned (classically) and finished with a very nice matte red urushi lacquer that gives it the rustic look you can see above.

More nib talk – the pen has a 21-karat gold nib that has been specially designed for the Wabi Sabi series. The nib is engraved with the Wabi Sabi alongside the Sailor logo. You can get it in a variety of widths, including fine, medium, and broad.

The Sailor Wabi Sabi 1st Fountain Pen is a limited edition pen, with only 1,000 pens produced worldwide. Each pen comes in a special wooden box with a certificate of authenticity (as standard). Fancy it?

Caran d’Ache – “Year of The Tiger” Pen (Limited Edition)

It’s 2023, the year of the tiger – so it’s fitting we included this stunning limited edition. The “Year of The Tiger” Pen is a very special fountain pen that was released by the Swiss pen crafters Caran d’Ache to celebrate the year of the tiger in the Chinese zodiac calendar.

The pen is made from black lacquer and features intricate tiger patterns that have been engraved using a special laser technique. The tiger is a symbol of courage, strength, and power in Chinese culture, and the pen captures the spirit of this animal in its design.

The pen has a 18-karat gold nib that is available which is customisable and also comes with a choice of widths. The nib is designed to provide a smooth and effortless writing experience, and it is suitable for both everyday writing and calligraphy.

A major plus for this pen is its packaging. The pen comes in a hand-crafted, special wooden box that’s decorated with a stunning tiger motif, and it includes a story booklet that narrates the symbolism of the tiger in Chinese culture. 

If you’re a collector, then the Caran d’Ache “Year of The Tiger” Pen should be on your list. An even more limited run here, with only 888 pens being produced, making it a rare and super valuable.  Fancy a pen that’s a symbol of good luck, prosperity, and success? Here’s your weapon of choice.

Caran d’Ache – 1010 Timekeeper Fountain Pen

Watches and pens just go together right? Well, the 1010 Timekeeper Fountain Pen by Caran d’Ache is the second unique and innovative writing instrument on our list. It combines the art of traditional watchmaking with the craftsmanship of high-end pen manufacturing.

This is one of my favourites and is inspired by the timeless elegance of mechanical watches, and it features a number of design elements that pay homage to the rich history of Swiss watchmaking.

It’s made from high-quality materials that are both durable and beautiful. The body of the pen is crafted from brass, which has been finished with a glossy black PVD coating that gives it a sleek and modern look. The cap of the pen is topped with a delicate ornamental pattern that feels like the intricate workings of a watch movement.

The pen, as you could expect, comes in a special package that is shaped like a watch case (this, I love!), complete with a cushioned interior and a transparent lid that allows the pen to be displayed like a treasured timepiece – perfect for an office, or man-cave (or woman-cave) display piece.

Overall, we’d recommend this stunning writing instrument that combines the best of traditional watchmaking with the precision and craftsmanship of high-end pen manufacturing. It does come at a price though at around $12,000.  It is a symbol of Swiss excellence and innovation, and it is sure to impress!

Mont Blanc – High Artistry “The First Ascent” Fountain Pen

Now if you want to talk about a showstopper pen, then may I introduce this luxury pen that pays tribute to the history of mountaineering and exploration. The pen is part of the “High Artistry Collection” by Mont Blanc, which is an exclusive collection which is difficult to get hold of!

It’s inspired by the first successful ascent of Mount Everest in 1953 by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay (see the image above). The pen is composed of a combination of precious materials, including 18-karat gold, diamond, and mother-of-pearl, to create this stunningly beautiful and intricate piece.

The body of the pen features a relief map of Mount Everest that has been painstakingly carved and finished by hand. The map is set against a background of dark blue lapis lazuli, which represents the sky and the infinite possibilities of exploration. The cap of the pen is adorned with a diamond that represents the peak of Mount Everest and the triumph of human achievement.

It’s sure to impress anyone who values luxury and history and writing instruments.

Here are some luxury, but less exclusive pens

While luxury pens can be one of the greatest gifts for a stylophile or collector, they (as you can see above) can also come with a hefty price tag that may be out of reach for some. However, this doesn’t mean that you have to compromise on quality and style when buying a new luxury pen. There are plenty of options available that are still regarded as high-end with exceptional craftsmanship but are more accessible when it comes to pricing.

Below we’ve put together some of the best luxury pens that offer that premium quality you’re looking for (and style) without breaking the bank. These pens may not be as exclusive as some of their higher-priced pens above, but they are still a testament to the art of fine pen-making.

Again, whether you are looking for a gift for a loved one or a special treat for yourself, these pens are an excellent choice for those who value quality and style.

While luxury pens can be quite expensive, there are still plenty of options available for those who are looking for a premium writing instrument on a budget. Here are some of the most luxurious pens you can buy for under $200:

Lamy – 2000 Fountain Pen 

This iconic pen from Lamy is a modern classic and offers a sleek, minimalist design that is perfect for those who appreciate understated elegance. The pen features a piston-filling mechanism, a 14-karat gold nib, and a body made of Makrolon and brushed stainless steel. It’s a steal for around $175.

Parker – Sonnet Fountain Pen

The Parker Sonnet is a timeless writing instrument that has been a favourite among pen enthusiasts for decades. The pen features a stainless steel nib, a classic design, and a wide range of finishes and colours to choose from.

Waterman – Expert Fountain Pen

The Waterman Expert is a sophisticated pen that is perfect for business professionals and anyone who values a high-quality writing experience without a huge price tag. The pen features a stainless steel nib and a lacquered brass body. It’s a really comfortable writing experience.

Faber-Castell – Ambition Fountain Pen

The Faber-Castell Ambition is a super stylish pen that offers a unique combo of modern design and traditional pen craftsmanship. The pen also features a stainless steel nib, but has a resin body, and a variety of finishes and colours to choose from.

Pilot – Vanishing Point Fountain Pen

The Pilot Vanishing Point is a unique writing instrument that features a retractable nib and a sleek, modern design. The pen is perfect for those who are note taking quickly. It also includes an 18-karat gold nib.

Cross – Century II Fountain Pen

The Cross Century II is a classic. It’s a pen that features a sleek, slim design and a 14-karat gold nib. The pen is available in a variety of finishes, including chrome, black lacquer, and 23-karat gold-plated.

Diplomat Esteem Fountain Pen

The Diplomat Esteem is another sophisticated addition that, whilst a slightly thinner alternative to the Diplomat Excellence range, it feels great in the hand! The pen is available in a variety of finishes, including black, blue, and red.

Sheaffer Prelude Fountain Pen

The Sheaffer Prelude is a traditional cigar-shaped silhouette pen that’s a luxurious accessory for any professional. The pen is available in a variety of finishes, including glossy black, brushed chrome, and satin blue – it also comes in a ballpoint version.

Overall, this list of “less-exclusive” pens offer great value for their price and they are a perfect choice for those who are looking to improve their writing experience without breaking the bank.

Time to ditch the biros and free conference pens!

Have I missed one you’d love to see here, then drop me a line and I will update the list

What do you think about these Pens?

I hope you enjoyed this article, be sure to let me know what your favourite pen is! If you’re a luxury scriber, let me know if you’d consider one of these high-end pens.

If you enjoyed this article and are interested in other luxury items, check out the top things that every luxury home needs or perhaps our luxury gift-giving guide.

If you’re looking for somewhere to write with your new pen, then check out our luxury notebook guide!