The Luxurious Pen: An Investment, an Heirloom, or a Status Symbol?

Why do a significant number of people opt to invest substantial sums in exclusive pens? Let's dive into the discussion and unravel the allure of these high-end writing instruments.

Text: Hugo Carlson
Photo: Finn Christian Peper

Publiceret 16-12-2023

"Sell me this pen," says Mr. Belfort in a scene from the movie Wolf of Wall Street (2013). In front of him, a group of stockbrokers takes turns providing hesitant arguments about the positive qualities of the pen. When Mr. Belfort then asks one of the men to write down his signature, the man looks around the room and asks, "Does anyone have a pen?" Mr. Belfort's message about the importance of customer needs is thus conveyed.

But what is the difference between an ordinary pen and one from, let's say, Montblanc? Investing in an exclusive pen may make sense for some individuals, while others raise their eyebrows over such a costly investment. In the currently trending documentary, Beckham (2023), his teammates Roy Keane mentions as he describes Beckham's genuine appreciation for luxury: "Who buys a pen for thousands of euros?" : expensive designer clothes, cars, and even precious pens. It's not the need to write at all that drives the luxury pen buyer but rather the desire for that little extra, the exclusive touch, the finesse, the luxury, which is also a part of the lifestyle.

Imagine this: You're in the midst of an important meeting, jotting down notes with your exquisite, expensive pen, while everyone else is using ordinary ballpoint pens they got for free in some promotional giveaway. With your high-quality pen, you're not just taking notes; you're making a statement. And the best part is, your pen isn't just a pen; it's a work of art in your hand. Montblanc's Fountain Pens require 35 skilled steps to craft a nib and an additional 70 steps to assemble and test the fountain pen, handcrafted with 14k or 18k gold. Whether it's a ballpoint pen or a fountain pen, it may be a tribute to the piano virtuoso Frédéric Chopin, or Jules Verne and his classic adventure novel from 1873, or any other significant figure. Perhaps the pen has a more sentimental history as a family heirloom with a personal engraving of your grandfather's name.