I don’t know about you, but the holidays seem to be approaching much faster this year. Perhaps it has something to do with now being vaccinated, so I am antsy to travel. Perhaps it is simply something to look forward to in the doldrums of winter. In any case, Hanukkah is this week and Christmas is a month away.
And if you are a procrastinator (like me), then this may be a bit of a scary thought. Luckily for you, I’ve put together a list of ten brands that would make excellent gifts this month. Each of these brands have a certain cachet that’s fit for a corporate gift or a girlfriend (and maybe something for yourself, too).
Consider it a sort of Pantheon of Good Taste. I know I do.
Otto Hutt design07
The consideration put behind the design07 is unparalleled. It’s no wonder we’re big fans of the brand at Inkstable and why Otto Hutt’s name is synonymous with quality. This pen, with its sterling silver body and guilloché threading make it as handsome a gift as any for the holiday season.
Montegrappa Zero Zodiac
Do you know your lover’s astrological sign? Ditch the birthstones and get him or her a fountain pen inspired by their Zodiac sign instead. This is a level of personalization that goes beyond the ordinary and adds a bit of thoughtfulness for the recipient. Montegrappa currently stocks Capricorn, Sagittarius, and Scorpio.
Patron of Art Homage to Napoléon Bonaparte Limited Edition 4810
A regal pen for the gentleman in your life. With a repeated bee design inspired by Bonaparte’s Fountainebleu, a sword-shaped clip, and a laurel crown atop the cap, your gift will give the recipient the courage to conquer anything.
Caran D’Ache Lèman Bicolor Turquoise
Just as beautiful as a Tiffany’s box, but twice as useful, the Caran D’Ache Lèman Bicolor in Turquoise is Swiss design done right. The soft lacquered body against the silver hardware makes this pen as welcoming as an après ski.
Graf von Faber-Castell Classic Anello Ivory
The Classic Anello has a mid-century feel to its design that bridges the gap between Old World and New. I quite like the Ivory color option, which isn’t a common option for many pen brands. It’s a bit matrimonial, but I don’t think that’s a bad thing.
Esterbrook Pen Company Scarlet Estie
Just released, the Scarlet Estie is a romantic callback to the Golden Age of Hollywood. A gorgeous acrylic body with a blend of blues and reds is as handsome as it is beautiful. The bullet body and lightweight balance is a favorite for newcomers to fountain pens (and the price point isn’t bad either).
S.T. Dupont Atelier, in Brown
I haven’t seen such a rich brown for a while and I’ve had S.T. Dupont’s Atelier on my Christmas list for some time. I can picture the scene now: a mahogany desk, a green banker’s lamp, a library full of well-worn books. The Atelier would sit nicely next to a humidor and a scotch (on the rocks, of course).
Namiki Nippon Art Maki-e – Chinese Phoenix
In mythology, the Chinese Phoenix reigns over all other birds. Would it be glib to say this pen reigns over all other Namikis? Possibly, but I do believe it. The lacquered finish looks more like a piece of art than a writing utensil and would be, quite possibly, more cherished than anything you could frame.
Sailor 1911 King of Pens, Black and Gold
I consider the Sailor 1911 King of Pens to be one of the most classic designs on the market. Detailing this one in black and gold gives it universal appeal that could have been on your grandfather’s desk as easily and it could be on yours. A great alternative to the hackneyed corporate gifts, a Sailor sets you apart and lets your boss know you have great taste.
Aurora 88, Blue Mamba
The Blue Mamba hit the market a few months ago and I’m still seeing this beauty all over Instagram. With a blue resin barrel finished in a grano di riso style to mimic the pen’s namesake’s skin, it’s one of a kind. This pen is probably the most unique on the list, but that shouldn’t take away from the detail and attention Aurora is known for.