Nestled in the heart of Bologna, Scribo is one of the reputable producers of fine writing instruments. Founded in 2016 by Luca Baglione, Scribo has quickly paved its way to success with its striking designs and the impeccable quality of its nibs, which are coveted by collectors around the world. Unlike other brands, since the beginning, Scribo limited its production number to only 219 pieces/design per year, which shows the commitment to quality and exclusivity in their product offerings. Recently, Scribo has expanded its portfolio by introducing a new collection inspired by the ancient Tamenuri technique.
To create this edition, the Italian brand has partnered with one of Japan’s renowned Urushi Masters–Arakawa-San. This is the first time that Scribo is embarking on such a grand project, bringing to its users the famous Urushi technique, renowned for its unparalleled craftsmanship and luster. Being the debut edition, I also see potential in collecting it. I’m wondering what the user feedback is once they receive it.
The Edition
Meaning “feather” in Japanese, the new edition is named Hane, complementing the spirit of the PIUMA collection, whose name also means “feather” in Italian. “This shared symbolism reflects the pen’s lightness, grace, and precision—qualities that transform the act of writing into an art form.”- according to the brand.
Applying the Urushi lacquer on a surface is basically like painting on a canvas and requires patience, precision and incredible technique. The process begins once the items arrive in the artist’s studio in Japan. After a proper inspection, Arakawa-San begins applying the Urushi lacquer, layer by layer, allowing enough time for each layer to set.
Once the lacquering process is complete, Hariya-San, a renowned artisan, imbues each piece with a mark of distinction. Using Katakana script, he carefully applies SCRIBO on one side and Arakawa-San’s name on the other. This subtle yet significant touch ensures each Hane pen is a one-of-a-kind creation, a true collector’s piece.
This is not the last step, as the work is not completed without quality control by a third person. All pieces made by Arakawa-San and Hariya-San are quality checked by Rabea Gebler before they are sent back to Bologna for final assembling and packaging.
Design & Features
Who needs a fancy design when the finish speaks for itself? Well, the design of this edition is as simple as it can be – an oval shape with two facets, but the beauty lies in the reddish-black Tamenuri. The chassis of this pen (cap, barrel, knob and nib-holder) is handcrafted from resin and lacquered using the Tamenuri technique in Japan. The nib and section ring are made of gold or ruthenium, contrasting with the other elements of the pen.
Each pen is fitted with an exclusive SCRIBO nib (with Ebonite feeder ø 6,50) made in 18k gold or in Flexible 14k gold, with sizes ranging from extra-extra-fine to double-broad for the 18k gold nib, and extra-fine, fine, medium and broad for the flexible 14k gold nib. There is also a SCRIBO pen pouch made of genuine kimono fabric inside the box of each edition.
Being a special edition, the production is limited to only 50 pieces for the gold trim version, as well as 50 pieces for the ruthenium trim. As expected, the PIUMA Hane is already sold out, and that’s no surprise to me at all; the price (€816,39) was more than fair. For more information, visit SCRIBO’s website.
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