Mightier than the Sword…
Those who perceive pens as merely tools for writing, fail to understand its
potential as an instrument that wields not only great power, but also one that presents an insight into one’s personality, RANVIJAYSINH JHALA finds out
TO some, a pen is a pen—something to write with. It needs to work on paper, and that’s all there is to it. Such perspectives might change, but mostly, those who appreciate fine stationery are the ones who will continue to do so. One’s love for good stationery might originate from the first time they used such objets d’art, or from employing an exceptional product. Broadcast journalist Apoorva Talkwalkar, who uses a Schaeffer and enjoys collecting any kind of interesting stationery, says, “I love using a variety of pens, be it in different coloured inks, nib-textures and so on. However, anything that can give me a break from regular writing would be welcome.” She explains, “I definitely wouldn’t complain if I had a Montblanc, but the brand of a pen doesn’t matter to me as much as how well it functions.”
Signature Style
In an age where even digital diaries are regarded obsolete, the utility of a pen has clearly diminished over time. PDAs, cellular phones, telephonic conferencing, e-mails, etc. have replaced the pen, and are now a way of life. However, Nikhil Rajan, President of William Penn, the nationwide retail chain of premium pens, disagrees. He says, “No matter what, you will always need a pen for a signature, won’t you?” Signatures: the ultimate use of a pen—a thought rightly expressed. Therefore, the concept of a signature pen exists. And now, it has gained importance as it remains one of the few integral uses of a pen today.
Signatures make an impact in a way that nothing else can. Consider how important a simple signature can be. If a document requires only your signature in particular, it shows how important the act of your signing is. Rajan defines a signature pen as, “Any large-sized fountain pen that allows you to sign with a flourish!” Sign with a flourish indeed! Jagdeep Singh Chandail, an agriculturist and investor, who owns a Lanvin, a Cross, a Schaeffer and a Montblanc, considers such pens especially for signing. “Pens like Montblanc are not meant for daily usage,” he concurs. “They are meant for ceremonial signing purposes—at times when the way you present yourself really matters.”
Personality Personified
It is true—your pen can influence people’s perception of you. It aids in enhancing the impression you make, and the way you present yourself. “Today, pens are more than just a tool for writing, they have become a status symbol,” states Patrick Normand, Managing Director, Cartier—Middle East and South Asia. He adds, “A signature pen portrays one’s style and personality.” As far as business professionals are concerned, a pen is one of the few means through which an impression can be made in, say, a boardroom. “A classy pen is for men, what diamonds are for women,” offers Rajan.
A pen may not be used at all times, but the pen-clip is constantly seen on a man’s breast-pocket, contributing to his appearance. Chandail recalls, “It was after Rajiv Gandhi was seen using a Montblanc, and wearing it on his pocket, that branded pens became quite the craze in India. Besides holding the office of Prime Minister, he was also an icon for India in many ways.”
Preeti Sanghai, a product developer who uses a Cartier, a Montblanc and a Dupont, feels that using a branded pen says a lot about you. “It is a clear indication of someone with good taste in quality products.” The use of such products does more than reflect one’s personality, or act as a status symbol. In fact, there is a general feel-good factor that comes into play. Sanghai elaborates, “Wherever I go, I like having a different pen in my bag. Besides looking good, using pens of such high quality has a charm of its own. I feel great when I use them.”
Branded!
While Montblanc has become synonymous with fine pens and writing instruments, there are several other brands that come out with new, exclusive collections each year. Limited editions by brands become coveted items for collectors. “Each Cartier pen has its distinguished signature and style,” says Normand. “An example is the latest Rock ‘n’ Roll limited edition, targeted at the creative and artistic. On the other hand, the Diabolo caters to a more understated and sophisticated individual.” Cartier pens are considered as pieces of contemporary art. With each pen crafted with great skill and care, the brand creates masterpieces. “Some pens are studded with diamonds and other precious materials,” adds Normand, reinforcing what Rajan said about pens being equivalent to jewellery.
When it comes to bejewelled pens, Montblanc definitely makes its presence felt. While Rajiv Gandhi helped popularise the brand in India, Montblanc also has a set of renowned international personalities that it pays tribute to, through its limited editions. Sunil Gautam, Managing Director of Hanmer & Partners Communications Pvt. Ltd., says, “As far as signature pens are concerned, I’m particularly fond of Montblanc, especially their limited editions.” The brand is like an ambassador of writing—a form of cultural expression and art. Owing to this, is their collection of autograph pens based on those who created history in their fields of work. Primary focus in this collection of limited editions was obviously on famous writers. While the Voltaire autograph pen, inspired by the fascinating works of the writer, is more classic, the adventure-writer and playwright, Alexandre Dumas’ pen is bolder in design. Also in the collection is a Greta Garbo pen, which, like the diva of the silent-film era, is sensually shaped. Another classic line by Montblanc is their Meisterstuck collection. “The pens from this line have been around since 1924. In fact, we’ve recreated it in a new version this year, and will continue doing so every year. It is an element of Montblanc tradition,” says Patrick G. Beyeler, the International Marketing Manager (Watches), Montblanc.
While on the subject of classic pens, one cannot ignore Dunhill’s Sentryman collection of accessories. Several pens from this line pay a tribute to the colour black. Classic combinations of the mysterious colour, with metals like gold and palladium, make their presence felt in pens and mechanical pencils. In Chopard’s ‘Accessories for Gentlemen’ line, there is a collection titled Mille Miglia, inspired by automobiles and car-racing. The rubber exterior of these pens is textured like the grooves on car tyres. The pen-caps are transparent and reminiscent of wind-screens. These pens are available in box-sets, which could include a watch, wallet or cufflinks from collections that have similar inspirations.
One of Schaeffer’s latest limited editions is called ‘The Roaring Twenties’. It pays tribute to the ’20s, an era when art and culture experienced new levels of creativity. The pens have a mural-type sterling silver texture with symbols of the era, including architecture and aviation. German brand Pelikan has a special collection called the Souverän, which boasts of the biggest gold nibs in the world. These large pens are surprisingly very light in weight.
The Write Point
While a classic like the fountain pen was losing popularity a decade or two ago, the brands that manufactured writing instruments made it a point to keep up with the trends. They made ball-point and roller pens, as well as mechanical pencils. However today, fountain pens are regaining their importance. Says Rajan, “There is a perception that fountain pens are difficult to maintain, but the truth is that modern fountain pens have evolved into ones that require very little care.”
Those who own and use fountain pens treasure them immensely. Commercial artist Rakesh Singh, who values his Montblanc pen, explains, “Ball-point and roller-balls need refill changes, so their nibs are temporary. However, if you protect it from damage, a fountain pen nib can last you for life. The older the nib gets, the smoother it writes.” As such, fountain pens make for the ultimate writing instruments.
Status symbols, a means to establish cultural identity, an indication of one’s personality, and of course, the ultimate way to enjoy writing—pens can evoke several perceptions. While we live in an age where we may not write as much as we used to, the allure of pens will still live on, especially with tools like fountain-pen nibs maintaining the classic definition of fine stationery.
Aromatic Splendour
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