Yard-O-Led has unveiled its latest model, announced yesterday: built on the imposing Grand chassis, the largest in the brand’s portfolio, the new Martelé reaffirms the British manufacturer’s commitment to preserving craftsmanship, while paying tribute to the ancestral hammering technique, elevated here to an art form.
Used since ancient times to transform raw metals into tools and weapons, the hammering technique assumes a new dimension today – safeguarded by a rare circle of artisans, among them Yard-O-Led, who have mastered its artistic potential and thoughtfully integrated it into their creations.
This technique requires not only a great deal of skill, but also direct mechanical action, each piece in this edition being the result of repeated strikes with a planishing hammer, executed entirely by hand by craftsmen in the Birmingham workshop.
The challenge is even greater given the use of solid 925 sterling silver – a precious material that demands exceptional care during processing – yet the result is a unique finish that reflects light with subtle variation and depth, offering not only a striking visual display when illuminated, but also a tactile experience appreciated by enthusiasts of analogue writing.
“This technique, achieved by hand, ensures no two pens are exactly alike,” states Yard-O-Led.
This edition also marks the beginning of a new chapter in the evolution of the Grand series, introducing a new screw-cap system – the first of its kind for the Grand line –designed to enhance functionality while preserving the timeless character and original design of the collection.
Personally, I salute this new feature introduced by the brand on its Grand models, not only for improving the seal, but also for tackling a problem many users have likely faced: scratches on the grip section.
The Grand Martelé is offered in two configurations: a fountain pen, equipped with an 18k gold nib available in fine, medium, and broad, and a rollerball version for added convenience in everyday writing.
Priced at €2,700 and produced in limited annual quantities, the edition reinforces Yard-O-Led’s commitment to low-volume manufacture and enduring quality. Available via the manufacturer’s official website and selected authorised retailers.
Technical details:
Fountain Pen
| Length | 148mm |
| Width | 13.0mm |
| Weight | 66g |
| Type | Fountain Pen 18 carat gold nib |
| Finish | Martelé |
Rollerball Pen
| Length | 148mm |
| Width | 13.0mm |
| Weight | 66g |
| Type | Rollerball |
| Finish | Martelé |
Let us know your thoughts on this new release, and stay tuned for more news from the industry.
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