Graf von Faber-Castell Pen of the Year 2009

The Graf von Faber-Castell Pen of the Year series is an annual limited edition that experiments with materials and techniques for decorating the barrel and is the pinnacle of the Graf von Faber-Castell collection. Each one is produced for one year only.

For 2009, the chosen material is horsehair. This traditional material is individually woven by Dorit Berger, Germany's only hand weaver. To create the filigree pattern of the Pen of the Year 2009, hairs are carefully selected for colour and uniform thickness. Horsehair is short and thick and so quite difficult to weave. Around 70 hairs per centimetre are required and hair by hair a weave is created with alternating light and dark , contrasting with the cool platinum finish of the metal parts of the pen.

This superior magnum-sized plunger-action fountain pen is platinum-plated for durability. Each 18-carat bi-colour gold nib is run in by hand before leaving the workshop. Nibs are available in fine, medium or broad. Medium normally available immediately, with fine and broad nibs currently subject to a 2-week lead time.

Each Pen of the Year is a unique piece and a work of art. They are individually numbered on the head of the pulnger mechanism, and presented in a luxurious case with descriptive brochure and a certificate guaranteeing that the edition is strictly limited.