Step into the heart of Birmingham’s storied past with my visit to Yard-O-Led. From witnessing the artistry of Amy, a young craftswoman chasing intricate patterns by hand, to uncovering the parallels between pens and watches with Emma Field and Giles English.
The streets of Birmingham were freezing cold when I arrived on November 18th. The chill was sharp and relentless, setting the tone for what would become an unforgettable experience. By the time my trip ended, the city was wrapped in a massive snowstorm—a fittingly dramatic backdrop to my visit to Yard-O-Led.
Walking through Birmingham, I couldn’t help but notice the old, industrial buildings around me. They had a charm of their own, standing tall as reminders of the city’s storied past. The sight of these weathered structures immediately brought a sense of nostalgia, as if I had stepped back into another era. This feeling only deepened when I entered the Yard-O-Led atelier.
The workshop was small but buzzing with life. Craftsmen were busy at their benches, working on silver pens with an incredible level of precision. What struck me was how they used tools and machines that were over a hundred years old. These weren’t just machines—they were pieces of history, still playing a crucial role in creating something so refined. It felt like I was watching time stand still.
Amy, a young and incredibly talented craftswoman, stood out as she worked on chasing intricate patterns into a pen barrel by hand. Carefully guiding her tools with patience and focus, she transformed silver into art. Watching her work was mesmerizing. It wasn’t just about making a pen; it was about creating something that carried a story, something meant to last.
Alex, the Workshop Manager, guided me through the fascinating steps involved in creating a Yard-O-Led. Alongside him was Emma Field, the owner of Yard-O-Led and former founder of Salon QP, whose passion for the craft was evident in every detail she shared. Holding a Yard-O-Led Perfecta Pencil, a Lucky Pencil, or a Viceroy Grand is one thing, but understanding the process they go through gives you a whole new appreciation for these incredible writing instruments.
In the afternoon, I had the privilege of interviewing Emma Field and Giles English, co-owner of Yard-O-Led and founder and former owner of Bremont Watches. We talked about their vision for the brand and the surprising parallels between the pen and watch industries. If you’re curious about their insights, I’ve shared the full interview in a video that I think you’ll find inspiring.
Watch here
The whole atelier had this aura of dedication. Every pen that left their hands wasn’t just a product—it was the result of skill, tradition, and passion. In a world where everything feels mass-produced and disposable, this kind of craftsmanship felt rare and special.
The next day, as the snowstorm hit, I couldn’t stop thinking about what I had seen. The storm was wild and chaotic, yet the pens I’d seen being made were the opposite—precise, thoughtful, and timeless. It was a contrast that stayed with me.
Leaving Yard-O-Led, I realized it wasn’t just about the pens. It was about what they represented: the power of tradition, the value of taking time to do something right, and the connection between history and the present. If you want to dive deeper into this incredible experience, check out my YouTube video about the visit: here. This trip reminded me that even in today’s fast-paced world, there are still places where craftsmanship and passion thrive. And that’s something worth celebrating.