You simply can’t build a proper pen collection without at least one Caran d’Ache pen, and you’ll understand why as soon as you go through my selection. Even though the Geneva-based manufacturer has many other beautiful models, the following pens I’ve selected exude a unique charm and deserve a little more attention.
But before I move on to the pens themselves, let me tell you why I think a Caran d’Ache pen is a must-have. In addition to tradition, which is quite important, a Caran d’Ache stands out for its Swiss excellence and refinement, but recently developed projects show that the brand also cares about the environment and puts a lot of emphasis on the reliability of their products (see the Caran d’Ache 849 Nespresso ballpoint pen – born from an ecological collaboration between Caran d’Ache and Nespresso).
Caran d’Ache Leman Grand Blue – to see the waves bathed in light
Perhaps one of the most beautiful model in the Leman collection, the Grand Blue is built from brass then covered with a transparent navy lacquer and beautifully decorated with a “waves” guilloché motif. Equipped with an 18k gold nib – like any other fountain pen in the Leman line – the pen is a pure delight when held under the light showcasing different shades of blue and a marvelous wave effect. Although the construction of the pen is solid, it is well balanced and very comfortable while writing. Also, if you’re a rollerball or ballpoint fan, you’ll find this gorgeous design in these variations too.
Price: EUR 740
Caran d’Ache Ecridor Retro palladium-coated – simply iconic
Introduced in 1947 as a mechanical pencil, followed by ballpoint version in 1953, each in the Ecridor line is a must-have classic. And sticking with the classics, my favorite model is the Ecridor Retro that comes with an iconic hexagonal shape and displays a finely engraved guilloche – for which the Caran d’Ache artisans are already very well-known and appreciated. Just looking at this pen you instantly come to one conclusion: there is no reason to believe that this pen won’t be timeless. As for writing performance, each ballpoint comes equipped with a famous Goliath ink cartridge that allows the user to write up to 600 A4 pages (probably one of the most generous ballpoint ink cartridges on the market)
Price: EUR 130
Caran d’Ache Varius Peter Marino – an unmistakable Limited Edition
With an absolutely unmistakable biker style, Peter Marino, the famous American architect inspired one of the limited editions in Caran d’Ache’s Varius line, and personally, I think it’s one of the pens you want to make a statement with. The pen is by far one of the boldest in the Varius line with a hexagonal brass body wrapped in French-sourced calfskin and adorned on cap with a rhodium and silver-coated skull with black onyx eyes of 0.5 carat. Also, Peter Marino’s signature can be found on the cap as a fine engraving. Special pens require special packages, that’s why Caran d’Ache created a unique leather-patterned case with visible black seam provided with a special stand made to fit the skullcap.
Price: EUR 2’500
