It has already become a tradition for Graf von Faber-Castell to launch “The Pen of the Year”, their most anticipated edition and the one that positions them at the forefront of the luxury writing instruments industry. Inspired by the different eras that have shaped the history of mankind, this year’s edition is centered around the “Turquerie” period – the era between the 16th and 18th centuries in which the splendor, aesthetics, and exotic culture of the Ottoman Empire reached Europe.
For this year’s edition, the German brand has explored new horizons, leaving the entire design process in the hands of designer Serdar Gülgün – a leading expert in Ottoman art who has collaborated with the world’s most prestigious hotels and brands in the past and whose work played a pivotal role in preserving and revitalizing Ottoman design traditions, making them accessible and relevant to contemporary audiences worldwide. With his unique vision, the artist has transformed the classic edition of the German brand into a sophisticated piece of art. Gülgün’s mission with this piece is clear: “I am a translator, I transform the old into something new.”, says the designer. By reviving the splendor of Ottoman-inspired “Turquerie,” he bridges Eastern and Western cultures in a modern expression of historical elegance.
Ottoman Motifs & Symbols
At first glance, the pen’s design elements evoke a sense of history and artistry that defined the Ottoman Empire. The cap end piece, shaped to mirror the dome of an Ottoman tent, is not only an aesthetic choice but also a tribute to the era’s regal tents that adorned European gardens and palace grounds. “Those blue and white striped tents decorated with tassels and arrow patterns were my greatest source of inspiration for the Pen of the Year. They are expressed in the form of guilloché chevron ornaments under blue lacquer inlays between the platinum-plated metal strips,” explains designer Serdar Gülgün. The Ottoman crescent moon symbol, prominently displayed on the cap, represents power and prosperity—a symbol cherished as a good omen.
The Charm of Tassels and Tortoises
The tassels on the pen cap are reminiscent of those worn as status symbols by Ottoman nobility, a nod to Gülgün’s careful incorporation of iconic motifs. Intriguingly, the pen also features an engraved tortoise on the domed cap end—a symbol of longevity and wisdom in Ottoman culture. “The tortoise is my favorite animal, the symbol of longevity and wisdom,” says Serdar Gülgün. The engraved tortoise not only stands for the luck it promises, but it also recalls an event from the tulip era: Ottoman sultans had candles attached to the shells of living tortoises and watched the animals, which bathed the flowers in mystical light at night, as they leisurely wandered around their magnificent tulip gardens – a tribute to slowness.
High-quality Materials & Impeccable Craftsmanship
This year’s edition reflects the opulence of Ottoman culture through the high-quality materials used in its production. As the Ottomans used generous quantities of sparkling gemstones to enhance jewelry, weapons, and precious objects, the entire body of this pen is covered in luxurious materials and adornments. The barrel and cap are platinum-plated and feature guilloché chevron patterns, evocative of Ottoman tent designs, brought to life with blue lacquer inlays while 18 cabochon rubies, each 2.2 millimeters in diameter, encircle the pen. Serdar Gülgün says: “I used cabochon stones for the Pen of the Year to evoke associations with the splendid aesthetics of the Ottomans.”
Inside, the pen’s platinum-plated barrel is elaborately decorated, unveiling an inner beauty that reflects the hidden treasures of Istanbul’s Topkapı Palace – one of the world’s most important cultural heritages. When the barrel is unscrewed, these decorations become visible, a nod to the secret luxury kept behind high palace walls. As a finishing touch, the bicolor 18k gold nib crowns the edition, promising a writing experience at least identical to the impressive aesthetics.
The Pen of the Year edition is limited to only 315 fountain pens and 85 rollerball pens worldwide, available at authorized retailers starting this month, according to the manufacturer.
Pen of The Year 2024 – Ottoman Culture
Technical data fountain pen
Barrel platinum-plated metal strips & guilloché with lacquer inlays
Nib 18-carat magnum bi-colour gold nib
Nib widths F, M, B
Filling mechanism Piston
Weight approx.94.4g (without ink)
Total length approx. 139.3 mm
Production 315 pieces
Price 5.900,00 CHF
Technical data rolleball pen
Barrel platinum-plated metal strips & guilloché with lacquer inlays
Mine Magnum fromat, black
Weight 104,3g (with refill)
Total length approx. 139.3 mm
Production 85 pieces
Price 5.600,00 CHF
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