Faber-Castell is a German family company founded in 1761, which became—in the mid-nineteenth century—the leading manufacturer of wooden pencils across Europe. The firm takes its name after the 1898 wedding of Ottilie von Faber and Count Alexander zu Castell-Rüdenhausen, a descendant of one of Germany’s oldest noble families. The firm’s current owner is Count Anton Wolfgang Graf Von Faber-Castel, who, inspired by the ancient writing instruments manufactured by the family, has created a unique selection of fountain pens named Graf von Faber-Castell Collection. The timeless designs of this collection pay homage to the past using the latest technology.

Sanssouci Potsdam.

The Sanssouci Potsdam pen is part of this notable group. Recognized as the 2015 Pen of the Year, the special edition of this gold plated fountain pen was limited to 1,000 individually numbered pieces. Its design draws from the emblematic architecture of the New Palace of Sanssouci, built on the outskirts of Berlin following the plans drafted by Frederick II the Great, King of Prussia.

The Herbert Stephan gemstone atelier was in charge of fabricating this exquisite writing instrument. The designers demonstrated their virtuosity with this precious work that masterfully combines 24 karat gold plating, green serpentine and chrysoprase, Frederick the Great’s favorite gem. The price of this unique pen is $6,500.

Catherine Palace.

Another celebrated pen in the Graf von Faber-Castell Collection is the luxurious special edition of Catherine Palace, which combines 24 karat gold plating with excellent craftsmanship. Six jasper stones are set in beautiful rosettes meticulously crafted in 24 karat gold and hand-crimped in precious ebony colored resin while two Russian yellow quartz stones crown the body and the cap of the pen.

The special edition of Catherine Palace features a bicolor 18K gold nib engraved by hand. The platinum-plated cap protects the knob of the plunger mechanism of this fountain pen, which is a tribute to the aesthetics of the era of the czars and a lasting memory of one its most famous rulers: Empress Catherine II of Russia. Its price? $3,500.

Intuition Platino Wood.

A third jewel from the Graf von Faber-Castell Collection is the Intuition Platino Wood pen, a more affordable model, but no less beautiful. A symbol of good taste and minimalist design, the Intuition Platino Wood features platinum plating, ebony, and other certified exotic woods. The concave contours of the grips on this elegant pen provide greater comfort when writing and a platinum cap with the coat of arms of Graf von Faber-Castell enhances the beauty of its hardwoods.

The Intuition Platinum Wood fountain pen is a collector’s item especially suitable for those seeking delicacy and finesse in writing. It sells for $750. ■