Collectors and enthusiasts have another reason to celebrate: Sailor has launched a new 1911 model in maple wood, once again proving its commitment to innovation and excellence. This exclusive release comes in three distinct color variations—Natural, Vermilion, and Indigo—with only 100 pieces available worldwide per color. Tempting, isn’t it?
If Sailor has been faithful to natural wood in past editions, this time the Japanese company made a bold switch. The new 1911 is crafted from wood-plastic composite (WPC), a hybrid material that blends natural wood with plastic particles.
Unlike you, maybe, I was surprised—I even wondered if it was a joke. But it actually makes perfect sense, and here’s why: this shift marks a step toward a more sustainable, forward-looking approach.This is likely the first time Sailor has used WPC—a material that’s not only durable, but also eco-conscious.
Some might argue that Sailor should have used natural wood instead of WPC—but the choice was intentional. This innovative technique not only preserves the natural beauty of wood, but also significantly enhances the pen’s durability.
To make the most of it, Sailor used a specialized coloring technique combined with a frosted finish—no small feat, given how notoriously tricky WPC can be when it comes to color consistency. The result? A refined, luxurious look that preserves the warm, organic texture you’d expect from high-grade wood, now with added resilience and sustainability.
The Collection
The latest collection reimagines the 1911 model through a refined palette that celebrates both material honesty and cultural depth. The Natural Maple captures the soothing warmth of unadorned wood. It’s a fairly understated model, but the beauty lies in its subtle grain and soft hue. To be honest, it’s my favorite because I’ve always been drawn to the raw beauty of wood.
Then there’s Indigo—an all-time favorite among enthusiasts—which, according to the manufacturer, brings a sense of quiet mystery through its intriguing shade. It’s followed by Vermilion, a sophisticated reddish-orange that may draw inspiration from the finish of classical instruments like violins and guitars.
Maybe the most interesting feature in this collection is the grip section, crafted from metal (brass) for the very first time. Though it may appear purely decorative at first glance, this design choice serves a practical purpose: by lowering the center of gravity, it ensures optimal weight distribution. This allows the pen to glide smoothly across the page with little to no pressure, offering greater control and an increasingly comfortable writing experience.
For those who found the standard 1911 lacking in heft, this edition might just hit the spot, coming in at around 29.1g. You’ll notice the difference right away—and in my opinion, it’s exactly what makes the pen feel more balanced and easier to control.
Each edition is limited to just 100 pieces worldwide, all fitted with Sailor’s renowned 21k gold nib in Medium-Fine (the only size available). The MSRP for the Hard Maple series is €990, with the official launch scheduled for June 2025. The collection will be available through authorized retailers or directly via Sailor Europe at sailor@sailorpen.eu.