Cartier, refined writing instruments

There are no other objects in human history linked to such signification and history as the tool enabling us to write and witness history, capable to keep and broadcast ancient knowledge to insure the future.

From 1860 Cartier would use his talent as a jewelry maker to create scribing objects, following a tradition of several thousands years that first started with the Egyptian civilization which invented but also paid a deep attention to the making of these instruments.

A ballpoint and fountain pen by Pasha de Cartier, end of the 20th century
© Bukowskis

Cartier started to produce pens from 1868. Thanks to its unique know-how, Cartier could quickly propose to its clients pens with the same creativity and attention to details as its jewels or watches. Thus, the worldwide fame of Cartier is due not only to the incredible and spectacular jewels made for some of the most important people over time but also for its broad range of daily use objects, functional and decorative, proposed by the brand since its birth.

So from the very beginning Cartier started to propose to its clientele objects different from jewels, first because they had the know-how that could be transferred to other fields and also for economic reasons as the House knew well that the dangerousness to be dependent of only one speciality in case of economic changes. The beginning of the 20th century was a time where people used to write a lot, sending invitation letters, letters to friends and lovers for various reasons… basically everything that we are now doing with a phone. The nib pen holders were therefore very usual objects and many celebrities were ordering these precious writing instruments from Cartier on Place Vendome.

Cartier
Pair of gem set and gold fountain pens 'Louis Cartier'
© Sotheby’s

In the 1880s, under the impulsion of Lewis Edison Waterman, the “modern” pen with an integrated ink tank was invented, much more convenient and easy to use than the nib pen holders.During and after the first world war, numerous wealthy clients of Cartier lost interest for expensive pieces but the luxury House adapted quickly by increasing its production of more affordable jewels and everyday objects such as pens at a time where letters exchanges were at the highest due to war.

In the 1920s Cartier would also distribute in their stores pens from the most famous manufacturer in the world such as the Japanese manufacturer Namiki which produces some of the finest lacquer pen pieces. Cartier would modify some of them by adding some precious ornaments.

Cartier
A limited edition stainless steel and gold “Santos” ballpoint ben , circa 2007
© Sotheby’s

Among the most original and also notorious pens created by Cartier is the Bamboo model, imagined in the 1930s at a time where the West had a strong interest and drew his inspiration from Japanese culture. This tree is the symbol of Taoism, representing power and virility, furthermore its shape is well suited to create a scribing instrument. This model was crafted either out of real bamboo or solid gold. Today it is one of the most sought after models by pen collectors and often fetch high prices at auction.

A rare yellow gold and bamboo pencil by Cartier, 1960s
© Drouot

After the Second World War, during the late 1940s and 50s, the luxury world faced a strong crisis during which even the richest families and individuals were reluctant to display any signs of wealth. In the 1970s, under the impulsion of its new president Robert Hocq, Cartier aimed to become more accessible with the creation of the “Must de Cartier” products line and also stores opening all over the world. New writing instruments were created under the “Must” label.

Cartier Must
A “Vendôme” gold plated fountain pen, circa 1980
© Drouot

Among the notable creations of this period would be the “Vendome” model created in fountain pen but also ballpoint which was becoming more and more popular. This oval piece in gold plated reminds us of the shape of a lighter and at his top is placed the trinity ring, one of the symbols of the brand.