LIMITED EDITION AND STRAW MARQUETRY WRITING INSTRUMENTS: CARAN D'ACHE CELEBRATES THE DRAGON

In 2024, Caran d'Ache is celebrating the Chinese zodiac sign of the Dragon with a number of limited editions and special editions, with a particular focus on straw marquetry. This year, our Swiss Maison is embracing the heritage and traditions of the Far East, skilfully fusing outstanding craftsmanship with the rich cultural tapestry of Asia. With writing instruments exquisitely crafted in straw marquetry, embellished with Chinese lacquer and gold, and iconic pens specially redesigned for the occasion, Caran d'Ache has created stunning masterpieces that transcend both time and borders.

The Varius™ fountain pen and roller pen, and the 849™ ballpoint pen and mechanical pencil are the new limited edition Caran d'Ache writing instruments, designed as an exclusive tribute to the legendary Chinese dragon.

 

Caran d'Ache has worked with craftswoman Agnès Paul-Depasse to create the Limited Edition Dragon, a straw marquetry work of art celebrating the fifth sign of the Chinese zodiac. Strictly limited to just 20 pieces, this design is available as a roller ball and a fountain pen.

Agnès Paul-Depasse is one of just a handful of cabinetmakers who have mastered the art of straw marquetry, a technique that imbues each piece with a unique iridescent beauty. This expert touch is evident in the exclusive use of rye straw, a unique plant fibre, crafted with the precision of a master goldsmith to create the intricate wooden dragon motif.

Each pen takes a week to create, during which time almost 100 straw scales are placed by hand to shape the wooden dragon. These scales undergo a painstaking process from cutting to dyeing, resulting in a gradient of yellows that reflects the incredible majesty of the dragon.

Each pen in this limited edition is coated in ten layers of authentic Chinese lacquer by Caran d'Ache master lacquerers. This resin, derived from the sap of the Chinese lacquer tree, adds exceptional depth and lustre to each writing instrument. This finish is perfected by meticulous polishing to give it a radiant, soft feel and exceptional writing comfort.

The elegance of this Limited Edition is further enhanced by the delicate engraving, designed by Caran d'Ache ambassador Jean-Philippe Kalonji, which brings out the full detail of the dragon. The 18 carat gold-plated embellishment, from the dragon's body to its claws, adds a stunning contrast and reflects the royal status of this mythical creature from the Chinese Empire.

Our meticulous craftsmanship makes each pen an ideal gift for collectors and admirers of Asian culture. Each Limited Edition piece captures the spirit of the Dragon, an iconic creature symbolising strength and good fortune, making these pens deeply symbolic gifts.

The exclusivity of this Limited Edition, where every detail is carefully conceived to express the true essence of the Dragon, ensures that each pen is not only a writing instrument, but also a unique collector's item. These pieces reflect the Geneva-based company's commitment to excellence, transforming each pen into a work of art that celebrates both traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation.

In addition to its straw marquetry Limited Edition, the Maison Caran d'Ache has created a special 849™ Dragon edition, celebrating the Chinese zodiac on this iconic model for the first time ever. Made in Geneva to Swiss Made label standards, the 849™ Dragon ballpoint pen and mechanical pencil pair the vibrant shades of garnet red with the radiance of gold, symbolising luck, power and prosperity. The body of the pen is embellished with a multitude of scales that contrast elegantly to match the gold clip and button, highlighting the iconic, timeless design of the 849™.

The 849™ Dragon ballpoint pen is compatible with Caran d'Ache Goliath Fine, Medium or Large refills.

Caran d'Ache also presents two Haute Écriture instruments inspired by the Dragon, the symbol of strength, success, creativity and imagination.

The Red Dragon Limited Edition writing instruments feature an intense red body, achieved through the exceptional skills of our master lacquerers. The dragon, designed by Caran d'Ache ambassador Jean-Philippe Kalonji, is finely engraved on this radiant lacquer, adding depth and energy to each pen. The metal details, including the clip, button and grip sections of the fountain and roller pens, are plated in 18-carat gold, creating a striking contrast with the red lacquer.

Each fountain pen also has a hand-polished 18-carat yellow gold nib, available in EF, F, M and B sizes. The Red Dragon fountain pen comes with a piston pump as well as idyllic blue refills, compatible with our range of Chromatics cartridges, ensuring a smooth and long-lasting writing experience.

Limited to 888 fountain pens and 888 roller pens, each writing instrument is individually numbered, the number 8 being considered good luck and a symbol of perfect balance in Chinese culture.

This Limited Edition is not just an artistic celebration of the Chinese new year; it also represents the 100% Swiss Made expertise of our Maison, combining the art of guilloché with delicate engraving to create writing instruments of unrivalled quality.