In collaboration with Convergence, VOICE OF ASIA is proud to present timeless articles from the archives, reproduced digitally for your reading pleasure. Originally published in Convergence Volume 21 in 2013, we present this story on Montblanc, on how the classic pens made their mark on the world.
It requires the perfect conditions to reach the top of a mountain. A good climate, determination, leadership, courage… In 1906 the founders of a fountain-pen company began their ascent to the top of an industry by creating implements that – as any Montblanc owner can attest to – represent an epic journey to the pinnacle of success.
A Simplo Solution
Established by three men in 1906, the Hamburg-based firm was originally called the Simplo Filler Pen Company. banker Alfred Nehemias brought the financial savvy, engineer August Eberstein helped develop the technology – such as the patented inkwell – and they were joined by Claus-Johannes Voss, who brought the business acumen. inspired by the surge of innovation at the turn of the century and sensing a cultural shift to the fountain pen as the writing implement of choice, they made a confident beginning to a new venture. ‘Manufacturers of high-class gold and fountain pens’ their company motto proclaimed, as they aimed straight for the summit.
Fountain of Excellence
The pen may be considered mightier than the sword, but before 1909, the apparatus was liable to cause leak-stains on the shirt due to unreliable construction. Simplo assured that their superior writing implement would leave clothes pristine. The company’s first foray into the market was Rouge et Noir, a ‘safety’ pen with a built-in ink-well – ‘No blots on The Sunday best’ the company assured. Though it did not carry the Montblanc name, the pen had all the hallmarks of brand excellence and just a year later the mountain-inspired name was registered.
The business trio then created the iconic logo that would forever be associated with the name – the famous, snow-capped white star, also recognised as the Alpine-flower the Edelweiss – on the cap of the pen. Reminiscent of the highest European mountain, said the founders, it is a symbol of the company’s commitment to high-quality craftsmanship. Montblanc expanded operations into London and Paris, aligning themselves with the influential, fashionable elite. A star was born.
Cloud 149
It was in 1924 that the ultimate writing instrument was created by the company. In response to the uncertain economic climate following the World War, Voss, Eberstein and Nehemias realised that a ground-breaking product was needed for customers to revitalise the market. Thus, the Meisterstuck 149 – German for ‘Masterpiece’ – pen with its lifetime warranty and superior writing quality, became the standard-bearer for the company’s elite reputation.
Ultimate visionaries, the founders ensured the Montblanc name was known in over 60 countries by the mid-1920s, and was reaching a level that other pen manufacturers could not reach – in the skies. in a stroke of advertising genius and the first ever use of aeroplane advertising, Montblanc had its name painted on bi- and tri-planes. And thanks to stunning pen collections like the Solitaire, the company continued its dominance, becoming a household name.
Part of Montblanc’s America’s Signatures for Freedom series, this special-edition pen is dedicated to the 7th President of the USA, Andrew Jackson. Made of solid white gold it is bejewelled with a sapphire – in reference to his blue eyes – and the tip contains Jackson’s signature and the dates of his legislative period engraved on it.
Modern Day Leadership
Earlier this year, global powerhouse the Richemont Group – current owners of the Montblanc brand – announced that Jérôme Lambert would be installed as CEO, taking over from Lutz Bethg. At the helm since 2007, Bethg was involved with the company for over 23 years, and witnessed it grow to have a presence in more than 70 countries with over 360 specialised Montblanc boutiques – including one at KLIA. Lambert is taking over a flourishing brand that has diversified into producing a number of other luxury goods – a decision made when Montblanc was taken over by Alfred Dunhill back in 1977. Clients who ‘opt for the best’ are now buying into a brand which offers the White star quality on products such as jewellery, eyewear, watches, fragrances and leather goods. Whether applied to tourbillion timepieces or the scent of seduction, Montblanc symbolises classic reliability.
