This is almost an accidental post. While arranging some office supplies, I noticed that I had accumulated a few of Faber-Castell’s “special” pencils – their design series pencils, the Graf von Faber-Castell pencils, and “perfect pencil” refills.

Individually, they are all nice, but together they display an amazing array of achievement in modern pencil manufacturing.

Today’s best pencil or best manufacturer may be debatable – but on the design front – I don’t think there is a competitor.

I respect the utilitarian history of the pencil. And these pencils are highly usable – well made, solid, possessing excellent grips, and having good quality leads.

Yet they don’t exactly scream ‘utilitarian’. They stand out because of their wonderful design and the clear commitment to create something exceptional in an era when using handheld writing instruments is a choice.

The textures and surfaces amaze and delight.

Approaching their 249th anniversary, Faber-Castell seems to be full of innovation.

What pencil could celebrate their 250th anniversary?