Hold the star emblem, the pinnacle of writing instruments worldwide, in your hands— MONTBLANC writing instruments, which have etched history alongside executives around the globe, continue to captivate adults. Isetan Men's unravels the reasons behind this, and introduces the noteworthy lineup.

Writing with a MONTBLANC pen is a refined pastime for adults.

I pick up a MONTBLANC fountain pen. As I unscrew the cap, the nib is revealed. The act of filling it with ink brings a sense of calm. Then I begin writing on paper suited to a fountain pen. If it's a letter, my feelings for the recipient are expressed in the words, and the way the ink bleeds conveys warmth. This whole process feels like a ceremony in everyday life, much like calligraphy, and gradually I become captivated by the charm of the fountain pen, unable to let go.

MONTBLANC shop on the 1st floor Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building has a special tool that allows you to pick up a fountain pen and try out different inks, so you can find a fountain pen that fits the size of your hand and your writing style.

View all MONTBLANC products at ISETANMITSUKOSH ILUXURY

Unraveling the reasons why MONTBLANC is loved, from the past to the present, through its history.

Now, let's trace the origins of the Montblanc brand and explain why MONTBLANC writing instruments continue to be loved as a status symbol.

MONTBLANC 's origins trace back to 1906, when three businessmen—a stationery shop owner, a banker, and an engineer—started manufacturing fountain pens in Hamburg, Germany.

The key to success was evolving with the changing times.

At that time in Europe, transportation methods such as automobiles, ships, trains, and airplanes were developing, and there was a growing need for writing instruments that could be carried and used anywhere. In that era, when Montblanc developed and began selling the "safety pen" that did not leak ink, they quickly rose to the top of the writing instrument industry. This is the root of MONTBLANC .

The pursuit of quality symbolized by the brand emblem.

MONTBLANC writing instruments have been created with advanced technology and uncompromising quality control since the company's founding.
The white star-shaped brand emblem, created in 1910, is inspired by the perpetual snow on the summit of Mont Blanc, Europe's highest peak, and continues to shine as a symbol of "a promise of the highest quality."


In the artisan atelier located in the heart of the Hamburg workshop, specially trained craftsmen combine traditional craftsmanship with modern manufacturing techniques to create every aspect of MONTBLANC fountain pen, including the nib, which is the very soul of the pen. Creating each item requires extensive knowledge and skilled hands, with the nib itself undergoing 35 steps, followed by a further 70 steps of assembly and inspection before completion.


Furthermore, in pursuit of the ultimate writing instrument, skilled nib polishers conduct rigorous quality tests, not only evaluating the writing feel but also discerning the smoothness from the sound the nib makes as it glides across the paper. This special inspection reflects MONTBLANC 's pride and commitment to providing the finest writing instruments.

A thorough explanation of the "Meisterstück" fountain pens that captivate executives worldwide!

MONTBLANC "Meisterstück" collection, whose name means "masterpiece" in German, remains the brand's most famous collection even 100 years after its launch in over 60 countries in 1924. Embodying the finest craftsmanship, this collection continues to exist as the ultimate writing instrument, a symbol of writing culture, and an icon of luxury.



The Meisterstück pens come in three series: the "149" with the thickest barrel, the "LeGrand" with the next thickest barrel, and the slimmest "Classic." The "LeGrand," with its 14K nib, is popular for its slightly softer, more comfortable writing feel than the 18K "149," and its moderate weight, allowing for effortless and natural writing. The "Classic," also with a 14K nib, has a slimmer barrel, making it a comfortable fit for women's hands and allowing for a subtle yet distinctive presence.

What is "149," a brand that has made history alongside executives around the world?

Featuring a body made of MONTBLANC 's unique "precious resin" and an 18K gold nib, the "149," often called the "king of fountain pens," was introduced in 1952, 28 years after the birth of the Meisterstück. Its reputation spread through its use by celebrities and writers, and it has been used in historically significant and memorable occasions such as treaty signing ceremonies and royal weddings.

Its appeal lies in the exquisite balance of the pen's thickness and length, and the fact that it allows you to write freely and smoothly with a clear, thick line that never skips or skips from the very first stroke. The fact that it was particularly favored by writers who wrote thousands or tens of thousands of pages of manuscript paper speaks volumes about its undeniable quality.


The smooth writing feel and dynamic writing experience of the "149" pen allow you to directly feel the texture of the paper in your hand, making handwriting a truly enjoyable experience. Once you hold the "149" in your hands, you too will be captivated by its charm.

For yourself, or as a gift, you'll want to know about the popular collections that Isetan Men's is paying attention to.

Now, let's introduce two popular collections that are also available at ISETAN MEN'S . We'll pick from a wide range of options, including timeless bestsellers and limited editions that pay homage to past achievements.

1. Starwalker

In contrast to the classic Meisterstück, the StarWalker collection, launched in 2003, offers modern writing instruments.

The trademark white star appears to float within the translucent dome at the tip of the cap, representing the Earth rising above the lunar horizon as seen from the moon. It's almost like holding "space" in your hand.
The StarWalker line includes four types of cartridge-type pens: fountain pens, ballpoint pens, rollerball pens, and fineliners. A new model is released every year, so be sure to check it out.

2. Author Series

Since 1992, MONTBLANC has released an annual Writers Series. These limited editions pay tribute to the creativity and cultural influence of great writers who have left their mark on the world of literature. The 2022 edition is themed on the Brothers Grimm, who enhanced the value of numerous folk tales by preserving them in writing and are also known for compiling a German dictionary.


The pen's overall shape is reminiscent of an old walking stick used for wandering through the forest, and it features a rugged, root-like clip with a silhouette of the Brothers Grimm's profile. The nib of the fountain pen is shaped like a blazing flame, and the end of the barrel is modeled after a spindle, a common motif in fairy tales.


Furthermore, in addition to its Writers Series, MONTBLANC offers numerous limited editions, including the Patron Series, Great Characters, and High Artistry Collection. These limited editions are produced in fixed quantities, and once production is complete, all blueprints and molds are discarded, ensuring they are never made again. This meticulous approach has caused the value of each collection to skyrocket year after year. Due to their rarity, they are highly coveted items for collectors.

How to choose a MONTBLANC writing instrument? "Fountain pen/Rollerball/Ballpoint pen guide"

1. How to choose a fountain pen

Fountain pens, with their varying ink shades that create depth and lingering resonance, are an item every adult should own at least once.
Why not experience the joy of handwriting with a fountain pen and enjoy a higher level of quality in your lifestyle as a companion to your writing?

MONTBLANC fountain pens offer eight different nib sizes, ranging from fine to broad, and even nibs with an angled cut, allowing you to choose the perfect nib to suit your writing style and preferences. Choosing the right nib for your individual writing style allows for a smoother writing experience, which is one of the great pleasures of using a fountain pen.




Fine nibs are suitable for writing small letters, such as for notes or meeting minutes, while broad nibs are suitable for writing letters or signatures, where you want to create a distinctive style of writing. Choose the nib thickness according to your intended use.

"At first, the idea of 'writing with a fountain pen' might seem daunting, but I personally write down my to-do list every morning with a fountain pen, and then erase it with the same pen when I get home," says Hiroto Masuno, boutique manager of Montblanc on the first floor Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building . He says that writing down his to-do list on his favorite paper with a fountain pen every morning helps him remember it, and he gets a sense of accomplishment from erasing it with the fountain pen.

Some people have the impression that fountain pens are difficult to write with and prone to ink clogging, but if you follow the basics, they are easy to maintain and can truly be a lifelong companion.

[Video Explanation] How to care for your MONTBLANC fountain pen

▼Click here for instructions on how to refill the ink▼

▼Click here for washing instructions▼

2. How to choose a rollerball pen

For those who want to choose the best writing instrument depending on the situation and purpose, MONTBLANC 's rollerball pens and ballpoint pens are also popular choices.

Ballpoint pens use oil-based ink and are popular in Japanese business settings where carbon copies are common. They are capless and retractable, making them convenient for use on the go. Rollerball pens use water-based ink and are popular for their extremely smooth writing feel and vibrant colors. Their caps give them the appearance of a fountain pen, adding to their appeal. They are easy to use daily, making them well-suited for diaries and journals, and are even used in formal settings in China.

MONTBLANC 's noteworthy leather collection

The "Meisterstück" leather collection, which incorporates designs that carry on the brand's tradition and heritage, is now being chosen as a lifelong partner.

This leather collection, which combines generations of craftsmanship, cutting-edge technology, and timeless design cultivated in writing instruments, is characterized by the use of high-quality leather and the incorporation of the nib of the Meisterstück fountain pen—the very soul of Montblanc—in details such as stitching, zipper pulls, and handles.



Montblanc writing instruments are still made in Hamburg, Germany, and leather goods are made in Florence, Italy.

Frequently Asked Questions at ISETAN MEN'S

We will answer some of the most frequently asked questions from our customers.


[Q1] The ink flow in my fountain pen has become poor.

--The ink may have dried up. Try soaking the pen tip in lukewarm water for a while.


[Q2] Is it okay to use fountain pen ink from another manufacturer?

--Each brand develops inks that are specifically suited to the nibs of their fountain pens, and we do not recommend using incompatible inks as this can cause malfunctions. At Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building , we have the standard Mystery Black, Royal Blue, and Midnight Blue inks, as well as limited edition inks, so you can choose your favorite color.


[Q3] How should I store my fountain pen?

--When not using the pen for a while, immerse the nib in a container of water or lukewarm water and repeatedly open and close the barrel end to completely rinse out the ink. Leaving ink in the pen for a long period of time can cause the ink to harden and lead to malfunction.

View all MONTBLANC products at ISETANMITSUKOSH ILUXURY

Photograph: Tatsuya Ozawa
Text: Makoto Kajii

＊All prices include tax.
＊The information in this article is current as of the time of publication. Product information may be revised or changed without notice.
*Prices have been revised due to a price increase effective October 1st. October 12th (Wed)


For inquiries, please contact Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building 1st Floor, Leather Goods Department, Tel: 03-3352-1111 (Main number)
For inquiries via email, please click here.