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Staedtler Rally pencil

Staedtler Rally pencil

“Made of wood.” “Pre-sharpened.” If those were the only selling points, one would really have to wonder. But these pencils come from Staedtler, so the expectations are higher.

The Rally seems to come from an alternate Staedtler universe, with different centres of production. I’m not sure if the two versions represent different generations or not.

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There is also a “Cadet”, which is available online.

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The Rally is mentioned by Staedtler at their website. My guess is that it is a discount school pencil meant to compete with other discount school pencils.

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Have you used or seen this pencil?

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Koh-I-Noor Hardmuth Cesky Krumlov pencil

First, an apology. I only recently became fully aware that since a hosting change, the blog has lost full support for international languages. This is unfortunate, since a number of previous posts and comments that discussed the translation of pencil nomenclature (often Japanese to English) no longer make sense. If you might know the solution, or have a clue or hint, it would be appreciated.

The immediate problem is that it seems that the blog can’t 100% accurately render the name of the UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the home of Koh-I-Noor Hardmuth.

Koh-I-Noor is a major and important pencil company that I regret has received insufficient coverage at pencil talk. In the blog’s defense, their products are often quite difficult to obtain in Canada. Koh-I-Noor is a rival of Bic/Conté in being able to trace their history back to the origins of modern pencil making. I don’t know what records or archives they have been able to maintain, but hope a professional historian will someday be able to recount their story.

These pencils came from the best online source for European pencils that I’m aware of, Bundoki.com. Bundoki staff visited a number of European manufacturers in 2010, and picked up several goodies they have kindly made available to the rest of us.

This particular pencil is a special “home edition” or some something along those lines. Hexagonal and oversized with an oversize lead, with natural finish, it is a very impressive pencil.

Ceský Krumlov

Details of the imprint:

Ceský Krumlov

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Pencil news

Starting at home, David O. just left the 5000th comment at pencil talk! Thank you David and everyone else who has contributed!

2011 is looking like a year of nostalgia in the pencil realm.

As noted at Bleistift, Staedtler will be introducing pencil tins with retro/nostalgic themes, as well as a pencil making kit. That kit has been released in Japan in the past. (See Volume 1 of Stationery Magazine.)

Faber-Castell is now in their 250th anniversary year. Happy anniversary! Faber-Castell public relations staff are a class act and always represent their firm well. I am sure (without having confirmation or any insider knowledge) that they will be releasing a special pencil this year – how could they not? But maybe I am wrong. But what is announced is – a book!

Porsche Design has released their first Pelikan made writing instruments. 2500 Euros for a cartridge/converter pen? I’ll let the fountain pen and Porsche fans decide if either domain is done justice. There is a nice looking mechanical pencil as well.

And something I’m possibly even more excited about. CalCedar has announced what they call “Palomino-quality” private label pencils. We’ll definitely be keeping an eye on this one. I’ve already made some mental calculations about the pricing. Going back to 2005, I’ve been aware of regular requests for quality custom pencils, from many realms. Unless you are a large corporation, this type of service has remained very elusive. CalCedar’s announcement could really shake things up. I hope our friends in California launch this service soon.

Correction: The result of the Staedtler pencil making kit, a finished historic appearing pencil, has been sold in Japan, but not the kit itself.

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Midori Brass Bullet Pencil

Midori Brass Bullet Pencil

Originating in the rural US Midwest, the classic bullet pencil is reinterpreted by Japanese stationer Midori.

This particular item is part of a larger series of brass products meant to be accessories to the highly popular “Traveler’s Notebook”.

Midori Brass Bullet Pencil

The sample shown is almost brand new, yet already shows signs of tarnishing or brassing. There are painted versions (brown and white) that should be more resilient.

The included cedar pencil is beautiful and first rate – one wonders if a full size version could be made available.

The brass is what makes this product really different. It has a truly metallic look, feel, and aroma. While some may love it, this finish will definitely be a matter of personal preference.

Pencil and eraser refills are available. The pencil branding is hidden once inserted into the holder:

Midori Brass Bullet Pencil

It might just be the perfect thing for someone on the go who wants a very sturdy yet inexpensive pencil holder.

Midori Brass Bullet Pencil

I think Midori have created a very interesting interpretation of a classic.

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Penol Twin pencils

With many thanks to the kindness of blog reader Henrik (of Denmark), here is a box of Penol Twin 2011 double ended colour pencils.

Penol Twin pencils

Henrik tells me that Penol woodcase pencils are a brand revival. Penol seems to have done some regrouping, and are introducing older product lines, though these products are no longer made in Denmark.

Penol Twin pencils

The set has 18 pencils. They are hexagonal and factory sharpened. There is no statement of origin, though the packaging has text in Danish, Swedish, Norwegian, and Finnish.

Penol Twin pencils

All in all, a lot of fun!

See also: Double ended colour pencils. (pencil talk, October, 2009)