Good design transcends nationality, culture, and industry. It’s hard to define, but easy to see when done. There are, in every industry, giants who not only define that industry, but also pushes it forward. One could say that Paul Smith and Caran d’Ache are two of these industry giants.
Both British designer Paul Smith and Swiss pen company Caran d’Ache have a lot in common. Both companies have built an empire on designing classics with a twist. Both have an eye for design while pushing the classic into the contemporary. And, perhaps most importantly, both have a dedicated following who are looking forward to this newest edition from the two design behemoths.
With Edition 4 in the collaboration, Caran d’Ache and Paul Smith look to add a new wardrobe (pardon the pun) to the classic 849 model. The motto of this partnership is “surprise, contrast, clash, and coordinate”. By looking into Smith’s archives of some of his more bold color combinations, Caran d’Ache and Paul Smith look to excite, delight, and amuse longtime collectors with their color mash-ups such as pink and yellow, red and purple, and two tones of teal. The packaging mirrors the pens’ two-tone look with the Paul Smith logo emblazoned next to the legendary Swiss brand.
Each pen, as described by the pen firm, is built to be a unisex pen that complements and pushes the limit of masculine and feminine. It’s a pen built for the person, mixing elements of femininity with a bold, strong personality.
The 849’s geometric body further plays into this concept. The rigid edges of the hexagonal pen belies the interesting and creative interplay of two-tone colors. It’s a pen for anyone with an eye for design and an appreciation of quality craftsmanship.
This is a ballpoint-only model and is available now directly through Paul Smith and Caran d’Ache, as well as retailers, and is currently retailing for around $65.
