--- title: "Montblanc Limited Editions" description: "Patron of Arts, Writers Edition, Skeleton, Diamond, Annual Editions and country-specific limited editions." language: en date_modified: 2026-05-19 date_published: 2026-05-19 license: CC BY 4.0 license_url: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ source_url: https://www.fountainpen.de/faq-chunks-en/04_montblanc-limited-editions.md landing_url: https://www.fountainpen.de/faq-llm-en.htm publisher: fountainpen.de author: Michael Steiner keywords: ['Limited Edition', 'Patron of Arts', 'Writers Edition', 'Hemingway', 'Skeleton', 'Diamond', 'Annual Edition'] entries: 220 --- # Montblanc Limited Editions > Patron of Arts, Writers Edition, Skeleton, Diamond, Annual Editions and country-specific limited editions. Knowledge base from the former fountainpen.de forum (anonymised, AI-curated). **220 entries** in this topic block. Full index: . ## Limited Editions ### What is known about the Starwalker Special Edition "Soulmakers for 100 Years"? It is the black Starwalker with a diamond in the acrylic dome of the cap; MSRP is 495 euros for the fountain pen and 395 euros for the ballpoint. Collectors report that the diamond "floats" beautifully in the acrylic body and shows off its facets, in contrast to the embedded diamond of the Solitaire Granit 1906 Edition. Delivery is expected in early April with the start of Montblanc's new business year. The silver-coloured Starwalker visible in the photo belongs to the 100 anniversary editions and is not identical to the black special anniversary edition. ### What facts are known about the Writers Edition 2005 "Miguel de Cervantes"? The edition is delivered in September 2005, comprises three writing instruments as usual and is dedicated to Miguel de Cervantes. The design recalls a periscope with tapering steps separated by gold-plated metal bands and a black-brown marbled lacquer body; the clip is also stepped. The nib engraving shows a windmill. Edition size and prices are unchanged from the previous years: fountain pen 650 euros MSRP, ballpoint 350 euros MSRP, set of three (fountain pen, ballpoint, mechanical pencil 0.7 mm) 1,350 euros MSRP. In dimensions the series is just below or on a par with the LeGrand models; weight is higher because of the materials, but the fountain pen does not reach Solitaire weight. Subscription prices can be requested from late July with Scription. ### What does the Montblanc Writers Edition Virginia Woolf look like, and what are the first impressions? On the first press images the Virginia Woolf appears rather restrained, but in hand it is much more convincing: the surface shows a dark brown shifting toward Bordeaux with a wave pattern alluding to Woolf's novel "The Waves". Gold fittings harmonise with the warm body; the clip is half polished, half satin-finished, and accentuated by a round red stone (presumably not a real ruby). It was debated whether it is a cartridge or piston filler — according to Stylo.ca a piston filler, although without a visible ink window. Market launch is expected in August/September; size is comparable to the 146-class Writers Edition models. ### What is known about the Montblanc Writers Edition 2007 William Faulkner? It is confirmed that the Writers Edition 2007 is dedicated to William Faulkner; design and materials were not officially announced at the time of the early hints. First indications from international forums suggest a brown colour scheme, which was received with reservation in the forum. It is discussed that Montblanc, in choosing the namesakes, has the US-American and Asian markets strongly in mind, since the German-speaking market accounts for only a small share of total turnover; German-speaking classics like Goethe or Kant have been wished for for years without success. Concrete nib engravings and detail shots were not expected until shortly before delivery. ### What is known about the Montblanc Writers Edition 2010 Mark Twain? The Writers Edition 2010 is dedicated to Mark Twain; on the nib a rope knot is engraved. First, still blurred photos circulated in international collector forums. A criticism from the early writing samples: the pens apparently tend to write broad. In parallel the forum discussed the Music Edition with John Lennon, whose stylistic logic in the line of previous Donation Pens (Bernstein, Menuhin, Solti, Karajan, Bach) provided material for debate. For a Goethe in the line, the German collector scene continues to wait in vain. ### What is already known about the Montblanc Writers Edition 2008 dedicated to George Bernard Shaw? The Montblanc Writers Edition 2008 is dedicated to George Bernard Shaw. The writing instruments are made of green marbled lacquer with inlaid platinum-plated rings and are offered in the usual breakdown of fountain pen, ballpoint and rollerball. First images and an English-language description circulated initially via the Fountain Pen Network forum; later, flyers with images of the entire edition were distributed in Montblanc boutiques. ### Which Montblanc models were honoured by the readers of Pen World 2003? Pen World is the leading US American magazine for high-quality writing instruments and bestows annual awards determined by the readership. In 2003 both essential titles went to Montblanc. The StarWalker was named Fountain Pen of the Year 2003, standing out through innovative design and convincing writing behaviour. The Jules Verne was named Limited Edition of the Year 2003, attracting attention especially through its novel surface. ### Why do Unicef special editions of the Montblanc 149 have an 18-carat gold nib, while older standard 149s only have a 14-carat nib? Current standard 149s are delivered with an 18-carat gold nib, while older variants of the 1990s often had 14-carat nibs, which explains the discrepancy between an older personal piece and newer special editions. The change to 18 carats took place in the early 2000s as a general upgrade in model maintenance. In France 18 carats was already common before, because there gold is only spoken of from this purity, which is why country-specific nib variants existed in the past as well. The 149s auctioned for Unicef as well as the three limited Unicef-4810-149s (e.g. Tom Sachs) carry 18-carat nibs, which underscores the special significance of the literacy project. ### What are Authograph Sets and picture frames of the Montblanc Writers Edition, and which official variants exist? The Authograph Sets of the Writers Edition are special packagings about twice as large as the standard version and contain additional material on the author. Included are an image of the author with a recreated but handwritten signature as well as reproduced handwritten texts. The picture frames likewise contain, alongside the writing instrument, a sheet with the author's portrait and a reproduced handwritten text. Official Authograph Sets include Oscar Wilde Pencil with Ident no. 09051, Voltaire Pencil with 09052, Dumas N Fountain Pen with 09053, Dumas N Pencil with 09054, the Dumas N 3-piece set with 09055, the Dostoevski Fountain Pen with the numbers 09104 in M and 09105 in B, and the Schiller Fountain Pen with 09108 in M and 09109 in B. Picture frames with an inset writing instrument do not count as part of the official product range; many of these frames were made for promotional purposes and were never sold regularly, which is why on the market additionally self-assembled pieces circulate. The edition sizes of the Authograph Sets and the picture frames are not known; they were produced primarily to sell off remaining stocks. ### What was the Music Nib Project by Tom Westerich around the Omas Philharmony Edition? The Music Nib Project by Tom Westerich publicly accompanied the conception and development of the Omas Limited Philharmony Edition. On the project's website photos of the prototypes were presented and the step-by-step improvement of individual details documented, so that interested collectors could follow the entire emergence process of the limited edition. Alongside this, the option of pre-ordering the fountain pen directly was available. ### What characterises the Montblanc Limited Edition Golden Dragon 2000? The Golden Dragon 2000 is a limited edition produced by Montblanc for the Asian market and is regarded as one of the most beautiful editions of the brand. Its design builds on model 139 and conveys a classically timeless appearance. Particularly striking is the clip in the form of a dragon, made of pure gold. Like all limited editions, this fountain pen also has an 18-carat gold nib and joins a tradition of Asian editions that, since the Imperial Dragon, has been a fixture at Montblanc. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Montblanc Imperial Dragon (1993): https://www.fountainpen.de/asia-imperial-dragon-1993-en.htm • Asia Edition Year of the Golden Dragon: https://www.fountainpen.de/asia-golden-dragon-888-en.htm ### Which Asia editions has Montblanc produced since 1993, and which numbers are known? Since 1993 Montblanc has repeatedly issued writing instruments specifically for the Asian market. The start in 1993 was made by the Imperial Dragon, of which 5,000 fountain pens and 3,500 ballpoints with silver dragon clip were made, of which 1,500 as sets with fountain pen, ballpoint and pencil; in parallel 888 pieces with gold dragon clip appeared. In 2000 followed the Year of the Golden Dragon with 2,000 pieces and a gold dragon clip, as well as the Precious Dragon in 88 examples with a gold, diamond-set clip; in the Royal Collection 8 sets of four fountain pens each with diamonds, sapphires, rubies and emeralds were additionally made. In the same year a Year of the Golden Dragon variant in 888 pieces emerged, whose cap and barrel consisted of Meissen porcelain. In 2002 the Qing Dynasty appeared in 2,002 pieces with a jade cap, a variant with 88 diamond-set examples and an eight-piece edition Qing Dynasty 8. Also in 2002 the SAKURA 333 came in 333 examples of Meissen porcelain with red-gold clip and rings, plus the Sakura Precious 88 with red-gold barrel and cap and floral motifs as well as the Sakura Precious Brilliant 8. In 2003 followed the Han Wu Ti 88 in an edition of 88 watches and 88 fountain pens, of which 44 were offered as sets, supplemented by the Han Wu Ti 8. For the Year of the Golden Dragon 2000 the master goldsmith Sabine Bach additionally made 8 bracelets with dragons of gold and diamonds, estimated at around 20,000 DM, as well as 66 rings with diamond-set dragon, estimated at about 10,000 DM, sold exclusively in the Asian boutiques. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Montblanc Imperial Dragon (1993): https://www.fountainpen.de/asia-imperial-dragon-1993-en.htm • Asia Edition Year of the Golden Dragon: https://www.fountainpen.de/asia-golden-dragon-888-en.htm • Asia Edition Sakura: https://www.fountainpen.de/asia-sakura-333-en.htm ### How is the Montblanc Historical Pen Anniversary Edition equipped, and do rollerball and ballpoint fit a historical edition? The fountain pen is as exact as possible a recreation of the first Rouge et Noir writing instruments and uses the slide mechanism of the Montblanc Semi-Safety of 1908, but with cartridge filling instead of pipette filling, which avoids contamination. The edition is limited to 15,000 fountain pens, 45,000 ballpoints, 30,000 rollerballs and 10,000 pencils; the combination with ballpoint and rollerball is criticised by some collectors, since these writing instruments do not historically fit the original, but is equally usual on earlier Writers Editions like Hemingway or Agatha Christie. The precious resin is disappointing for some collectors; some would have preferred celluloid in jade green or lapis blue. Modern materials and a modernised historical nib together with a matching leather case are used. The list price lies around 600 euros for the fountain pen. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Montblanc Writers Edition Hemingway (1992): https://www.fountainpen.de/writer-hemingway-en.htm • Montblanc Writers Edition Agatha Christie (1993): https://www.fountainpen.de/writer-christie-en.htm ### How is the Montblanc Patron of Arts Edition 2011 Gaius Maecenas designed, and at what price is it available? The edition is dedicated to Gaius Maecenas and exists in two variants: the 4810 version in white with silver and the 888 version with golden cap. The cap is provided with a verse, the clip is sword-like, the cap of the 888 version is modelled on Dali. The price of the 888 version lies around 7,500 euros. First official pictures are available via the Montblanc boutiques and via collector blogs. ### Which Limited Editions does Montblanc announce for 2017? The Great Characters Edition 2017 is dedicated to the Beatles; the annual edition leans on Yellow Submarine; the Limited Edition shows white with the UK flag. The Writers Edition is dedicated to Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. From 2017 the 4810 variant of the Patron of Arts is dropped and converted to an annual edition. The Unicef Edition appears in April and comprises a Skeleton variant at around 9,000 to 9,700 euros, a Solitaire in blue lacquer with silver-coloured letters of various alphabets, a Doué variant with laser-engraved metal cap and a standard variant in black precious resin with letter ring on the cap; supplemented by special ink, Booknote and Augmented Paper. There is also a fully silver-coloured Rouge et Noir edition with rubies and, with each limited edition, its own limited ink. ### Which models does the Montblanc catalogue 'Creations of Passion' cover in the new edition, and how are the Annual Editions structured? The new edition of the catalogue adds the Patron of Art 2004, the Writers Edition 2004 (Franz Kafka) and the Annual Edition 2005; the cover features an Imperial Dragon 888. The Writers Edition 2004 on Franz Kafka alternates formally between round and square cross-section as an allusion to The Metamorphosis and shows a cockroach on the nib. The Annual Editions have been organised since 2003 in three series: Classical Mythology (2003 Leda and the Swan, 2004 Europa on the Bull, 2005 Venus and Cupid), Venetian Carnival (2003 Coviello, 2004 Colombine, 2005 Harlequin) and Mythical Creatures (2003 Blue Lion, 2004 Flying Dragon, 2005 Phoenix). The launch regularly takes place in September of the previous year. The catalogue can be ordered free of charge via the Montblanc website. ### What is known about the Montblanc Writers Edition Collodi 2011, especially regarding availability and sales start? At market launch, only the complete set including cufflinks and special ink was offered; the individual writing instruments followed only a week later. Montblanc had unlocked its own website (montblanc-collodi.com) on the edition with elaborate product animation. Collectors rate the appearance overall positively and recommend a boutique visit for direct inspection. ### Which Montblanc Special Editions were released in 2011 alongside the Limited Editions, and may press photos be shared in the forum? The Special Editions 2011 include 'The Diva' Grace Kelly and the Donation Pen 'Alfred Hitchcock'. Advance photos from Montblanc may not be directly posted for copyright reasons; instead, an external source should be linked in order not to violate copyright. ### Which Montblanc Limited Editions were presented in 2014, and which writing instruments does the 90 Years collection comprise? The 2014 editions include the Writers Edition Daniel Defoe, the Patron of Arts Steinway, Great Characters John F. Kennedy and the Meisterstück 90 Years Collection. The latter comprises the models 149, 146 and 161, each with rose-gold-plated clips and rings and a special nib, supplemented by a 90 Years variant with special guilloché. Particularly highlighted are the Skeleton models of the 90 Years Collection, which regularly count as design highlights. ### What do the different edition numbers on fountain pen, ballpoint and pencil of a Montblanc Writers Edition like the Jules Verne set mean? The first number before the slash is the individual limitation number; the second the respective total edition of the individual writing instrument. On the Jules Verne, 16,800 fountain pens, 14,800 ballpoints and only 4,500 pencils were produced; the latter were offered exclusively in the set. The first 4,500 writing instruments of each variant were reserved for the sets; an individual number lower than 4,500 indicates that the piece comes from a set. When buying a set, identical limitation numbers on all writing instruments are to be ensured. ### Is it permissible for boutiques to sell individual mechanical pencils from Writers Edition sets (Schiller, Wilde), although the pencil is officially only offered in the set? On the Oscar Wilde, pencils with edition numbers between 5,001 and 12,000 were also sold individually, as Montblanc intended; the first 5,000 belonged to the set. With other sets like Schiller or Kafka, individual pieces mostly arise because collectors take only parts (pen and ballpoint, or conversely pencil) and the set is broken up by the dealer. From a pure collector perspective, breaking up sets is unfortunate, since the consecutive edition numbers of the set ware should remain together; from a user's view it is, however, often the only way to get individual pencils. ### Which features and dimensions characterise the Greta Garbo Special Edition as the first ladies' fountain pen of this line? The Greta Garbo edition is conceived as an unlimited Special Edition and, like the Donation series (Bernstein, Menuhin, Karajan), is made until a successor appears. The range comprises fountain pens (600 euros) and ballpoints (380 euros) in typical ladies' format. The fountain pen is fillable only with cartridge, not with converter, and is somewhat smaller than a 144 but significantly larger than the Mozart; the proportions and balance are specially optimised for women's hands. An additional third variant limited to 100 examples exists. ### Which material and design features characterise the Montblanc Patron of Art Edition 2007 'Alexander von Humboldt', and is it suitable for daily use? The edition consists of turned grenadilla, a nearly black South American precious hardwood also used in instrument-making (e.g. saxophone mouthpieces); clip, blind cap, cap top and fittings are of 925 sterling silver, in the 4810 variant with wood inlays, in the 888 variant with onyx. The bicolour nib with the sextant motif is described as particularly successful in design; the pen lies massively and heavily in the hand due to wood and silver and writes softly with the M nib. Grenadilla, like ebony, is heavier than water but, due to higher oil content, more pliable and so less prone to cracks, so normal use should generally not harm the material. On the wood's light sensitivity no firm statements exist; slight patina marks on silver through skin contact, by contrast, are usual. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Patron of Arts Alexander von Humboldt: https://www.fountainpen.de/patron-humboldt-en.htm ### Which features characterise the Montblanc Limited Editions 2012 (Writers Edition Jonathan Swift, Donation Pen Brahms, Patron of Art Joseph II), and what is to be considered in the material change of the 888 edition? The Patron of Art Edition 2012 is dedicated to Emperor Joseph II with king motif; striking is that the 888 variant for the first time is no longer made of solid gold but only of 925 sterling silver with white-blue translucent lacquer, which, given the previous prices (around 7,500 euros), is criticised as significantly overpriced. Among the special editions presented the Einstein stands out with silver, formula-engraved barrel, black 'striped cap' and a planet clip end; the Picasso has a brushed gold-plated barrel with red strokes and a cap window in the form of a Picasso artwork. Alongside, a Statue of Liberty Artisan Edition is also being announced. The growing number of parallel limited editions in general is seen critically. ### What characterises the Montblanc Limited Edition 'Soulmakers for 100 Years' Solitaire Granite 1906, and how is availability at specialist trade regulated? The edition appears in an edition of 1,906 pieces each and consists of sterling silver with a cap of real Mont Blanc granite, crowned by a specially designed, 43-facet-cut Montblanc diamond in an acrylic dome in star form. Alongside, a cheaper Special Anniversary Edition of the Starwalker with a smaller diamond in acrylic dome is offered. Montblanc Germany has, for 'fairness reasons', decided to allocate each dealer only three examples of the 1906 writing instruments, regardless of pre-orders, which strongly limits the reservation situation. Collectors highlight especially the symbiosis of white metal, fine stone and the diamond as successful; the nib design is partly seen critically. ### What is the meaning of the quantities 4810 and 888 on the Montblanc Patron of Art editions, and what consequences arise for price and material choice? The number 4810 refers to the height of Mont Blanc in metres and is interpreted as a homage to highest aspirations; the 888 variant stands as a triple eight in Asian symbolism for highest happiness and marks the more exclusive edition. 888 models are often of solid precious metal, additionally provided with gemstones or special decoration and correspondingly more expensive. Each Patron of Art edition also has its own nib engraving, by which the model can be identified. Limitations arise both quantitatively (number) and temporally through production limits and meet collectors' wish for 'something special'; as sole purchase motivation, however, limitation does not count. ### What is known about the design of the Montblanc Writers Edition 2011 'Carlo Collodi' (Pinocchio), and which further editions are announcing themselves? The Collodi edition takes up the Pinocchio motif via an extendable clip symbolising the 'long nose'. Collectors rate the design predominantly as unbalanced: the cap looks inconsistent; the 'nose' idea seems forced and unsuccessful; and the overall impression appeals rather to a female target group. Alongside, a fully white Meisterstück fountain pen/rollerball, a Donation Pen Edition Gustav Eiffel and a Hitchcock Limited Edition are announced. The growing number of parallel Limited Editions (Writers, Patron of Arts, Donation, Special) is increasingly questioned critically. ### What is the meaning of special prefixes like 'S/' or 'Sample' in the serial numbers of Montblanc Limited Editions, and how are writing-instrument sets numbered? The prefix 'S' (e.g. S/0503) stands for 'Service' and marks writing instruments whose cap was exchanged at the factory; since for service no consecutive original numbers are reserved, these replacement caps receive their own S numbers. Prototypes carry the designation 'Sample' with three-digit number and are delivered, among others, to boutiques and country representations. With Limited Editions the total edition is always the sum of single sale and sets: example Marcel Proust: 17,000 fountain pens and 16,000 ballpoints as single pieces plus 4,000 sets yield consecutive numbers up to 21,000 or 20,000 respectively. The Hemingway formed an exception without total numbering and without set, since the ballpoint was only later produced at the request of the US market. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Montblanc Writers Edition Hemingway (1992): https://www.fountainpen.de/writer-hemingway-en.htm ### Is Montblanc planning a celluloid edition, special give-aways or a comprehensive editions catalogue for the 100-year anniversary? A celluloid edition will appear for the anniversary, presumably as a Safety reissue, which on photos, however, looks rather like the Bohème; whether it is actually celluloid or marbled synthetic resin/acrylic (as on Poe, Dumas, Wilde) remains to be seen. Special give-aways for collectors are not envisaged; pins and smaller commemorative pieces are reserved above all for employees and on eBay achieve sometimes high prices (e.g. peppermint tins of aluminium for 67 euros, MB golf balls for 43 euros). A comprehensive editions catalogue is also not planned. ### What subscription prices and material features does the Montblanc Patron of Art Edition 2005 'Pope Julius II' have? The Pope Julius II 4810 has a shop price of 1,700 euros at a subscription price of 1,465.50 euros; the more exclusive 888 variant with rhodolite stones on the cap top, guilloché cardinal-red lacquer and 18-carat yellow-gold filigree lies at 4,850 euros shop price or 3,950 euros subscription price (each plus 6.90 euros shipping). With prepayment the subscription conditions apply. In content the edition takes up Pope Julius II (Giuliano della Rovere, 1443–1513), who reigned from 1503 to 1513 and entered art history e.g. as the patron of St Peter's Basilica and supporter of Michelangelo and Raphael. First original photos circulated via Russian pen websites. ### How is the Montblanc Writers Edition 2009 'Thomas Mann' assessed regarding design, haptics and collector value? The Thomas Mann lies, due to its weight, well in the hand and is also suitable for daily use; collectors rate look and workmanship predominantly positively. Critically remarked is that the body shape is again modelled on the 146, which on several consecutive Writers Editions is felt as little inventive; some collectors would have preferred for a literary personality of Thomas Mann's rank a shape modelled on the Meisterstück 139. The edition is also for the first time delivered with a rollerball as additional writing instrument; the wish for the same serial number for set and rollerball can rarely be fulfilled by production reasons; usually only consecutive numbers are available. The shape is occasionally criticised as rather Donation-Pen-like, which puts the price into perspective from a collector view. ### What characterises the Limited Edition Montblanc Rouge et Noir 100 for the brand anniversary? The Rouge et Noir 100 is a replica of the first Montblanc safety pen, released for the 100-year brand anniversary in 2006. Edition: only 100 pieces worldwide, sales price 3,900 euros. The pen is made of vulcanised hard rubber with integrated ink tank; the 18-carat gold nib carries the historical engraving 'Simplo Pen Co 4' with breather hole; the cap is bright red, the body black. It is delivered in an orange-red box together with historical packaging, travel inkwell of hard rubber and a booklet with old advertising. Due to the small quantity rapid sell-out is to be expected. ### Which writer is honoured in the Montblanc Writers Edition 2006, and is a price increase to be expected as with the Patron edition? The Writers Edition 2006 is dedicated to Virginia Woolf; hints to this circulated for a while in the Montblanc dealer intranet and on third-party sites and were partly removed again, which is interpreted as a consequence of the strict secrecy policy towards dealers. Since the pen will apparently be equipped with a diamond, some collectors suspect a price increase over previous editions, but secured information was not available at the time of discussion. ### How is the Montblanc Limited Edition Charlie Chaplin 88 to be assessed regarding design, workmanship and price? The Charlie Chaplin 88 counts among many collectors as one of the most beautiful Skeleton editions of Montblanc, with very elaborate and detail-rich artisanal work that goes clearly beyond the level of usual Artisan pieces. Others find it overloaded because too many Charlie Chaplin aspects are united in tightest space. The price lies around 20,600 euros and thus exceeds the budget of most collectors. Live the pen seems, according to reports, more impressive than on the press photos. ### Who is the honoured inspirator of the Montblanc Patron of Art Edition 2006, and which visual features does the pen show? The Patron of Art Edition 2006 honours Sir Henry Tate, British sugar producer and patron, who in 1872 acquired the patent for sugar cubes (he did not invent them himself) and with his fortune founded the Tate Gallery. The pen has a striking red surface that recalls for collectors the Pope Julius II 888 or the Jules Verne, with a shape similar to the Frederick II. The official presentation took place first in the USA; in Asia, brochure photos circulated already beforehand. ### To which person is the Montblanc Patron of Art Edition 2010 dedicated, and which materials and colouring are to be expected? The Patron of Art Edition 2010 will be dedicated to Queen Elizabeth I (1533–1603). Provided are a 4810 variant in brown with yellow gold and an 888 variant in red with red gold. Collectors who have already seen them rate the design rather restrained — it is rated as a matter of taste and not as a highlight. Advance photos should not be uploaded oneself but at most linked on existing sources, since Montblanc does not desire advance publication. ### What does the striking notch on the cap of the Montblanc Jules Verne pen stand for, and is its ink tank smaller than that of a 146? The notch in the cap represents the porthole of a submarine or a sight window and refers to Verne's 'Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea'; in addition the cap shape is interpreted as an allusion to a diving helmet, and the symbolism is also found on the nib. The ink tank of the Jules Verne is in fact smaller than that of the 146, because the sealing piston in the limited edition — as on all editions — was structurally changed. ### What is known about the individual Mario Barth Limited Edition by Montblanc, and why does the official product picture show deviations? Mario Barth had, as one of the first private customers, a tailor-made 1/1 edition made by the Artisan Studio; the piece was seen in the studio before completion together with brass samples and contains a diamond in the form of the Montblanc star on the cap. The final version is in white gold, while the photo depicted on the Montblanc website apparently shows a master sample in yellow gold with a white-gold nib — a material combination that was not used in the final piece. Barth received his copy at a preferential price; subsequent individual editions are, according to statements from the manufactory, considerably more expensive. ### Should the forum maintain a public list of all collections of individual Montblanc collectors to ease sale and trade? A public full list of all writing instruments of individual collectors is rejected by the forum admin and the majority, because members appear largely anonymously and such a listing would have no practical use. Collectors also generally have only a part of their stock actually for sale, so a complete list would receive many enquiries without result. Instead the section Offer and the module MyPMS exist for internal communication; for sale and trade activities reference is made to separate platforms like morepens.de. Collection size alone is also not regarded as a quality feature. ### Which Patron of Art Edition does Montblanc release for the year 2008? The Patron of Art Edition 2008 is dedicated to François I; corresponding flyers and first pictures were available around the start of 2008; in the boutiques hardly any information was given in advance. Stylistically the edition seems to some collectors disappointing and comparatively plain, with comparisons drawn to a mix of Delta and Montegrappa designs; by collector opinion it does not reach Writers Editions like Proust or Poe. Both the 4810 and the 888 variant appeared. ### Are photos of the rings and bracelets made by Sabine Bach for the Montblanc Year of the Golden Dragon 2000 edition available, and are the pieces obtainable in Germany? Montblanc offered for the Year of the Golden Dragon Edition 2000 strictly limited rings and bracelets by jewellery designer Sabine Bach, produced exclusively for the Asian market. Each depicted only the dragon. Published photos are found in Werben & Verkaufen 10/2001 of 09.03.2001, but these images are subject to copyright and cannot be posted on the forum; in the W&V online archive only the text, not the photos is available. In Germany the pieces are barely findable and correspondingly high-priced; an occasional hint to jewellery motifs is found on the Montblanc website under Precious Dragon 88 (Flash version). ### Which variants and quantities of the Montblanc Teatro alla Scala exist, and is a 600-euro edition based on the 149 available? According to the press text there are three variants: a 78 edition, a 7 edition with diamond setting and a single piece. Alongside, Montblanc Customer Service has confirmed a separate 149 special version at a price of around 600 euros sold exclusively in Italy; partly a limitation of 2,004 pieces is mentioned. This 149 variant differs from the standard 149 only by box, companion booklet and a large engraving on the cap and is, due to the manageable price, comparatively attractive for collectors. ### How can one classify counterfeits offered as commercial on eBay, brazenly described, including counterfeit watches with positive ratings, and what protection mechanisms exist? Even professional suppliers with disclaimer may, in Germany, generally not sell counterfeits; a disclaimer does not exclude criminal liability. The positive rating situation of such suppliers does not necessarily prove reputability, since the eBay verification seal can be imitated by HTML manipulation; the actual PostIdent procedure via Deutsche Post AG, by contrast, is built on identity-card basis and harder to fake. With watches especially the box (Montblanc uses black, not red boxes) is an indicator; a first counterfeit with a real automatic movement would already require a minimum calculation beyond 300 euros, which permits doubts about movement quality. Bidders should check supplier and auction behaviour critically and report violations to the trademark holder. ### What is known about the Montblanc Artisan editions Otto von Bismarck and Fortune 88, and what price is to be expected for the Fortune 88? The Otto von Bismarck edition is limited to 75 pieces, executed in white gold with oak-leaf inlays, filled with cartridges and has a twist closure of the cap directly behind the nib. The skeleton Fortune 88 is intended for the Asian market, kept in red gold, formally modelled on the Skeleton 333, and shows interlocking eights as the Asian lucky number. According to Montblanc, the Fortune 88 is to cost around 22,000 euros; collector estimates beforehand were between 15,000 and 18,000 euros. Photos can be viewed in the forum holdings and on fountainpennetwork.com. ### How is the new Skeleton Edition Tchaikovsky by Montblanc to be assessed in relation to the Duomo, the limitation of 130 pieces and the price of 17,900 euros? The Tchaikovsky Skeleton Edition is design-wise close to the Duomo and so seems to collectors rather conservative; the classic shape, however, basically fits the composer theme. At a sales price of around 17,900 euros, the limitation to 130 pieces (oriented on a premiere) is felt as too high to still speak of a true limitation; Montblanc could harm itself in the long term thereby. In the further course, editions like a 241 Artisan piece (oriented on a march length) are announced, often available in markets outside Germany. Pictures of both Tchaikovsky variants can be found on cruzaltpens.com. ### Which filling mechanism does the Montblanc Rouge et Noir replica of 2006 have? The Rouge et Noir replica exists in two variants. The more expensive variant, limited to 100 pieces, takes over the historical safety filling system (slide pen) of the original, in which the nib is protected by sliding the mechanism in and out. The cheaper variant, produced in 15,000 pieces, is despite similar look a cartridge pen with a special slide mechanism: instead of unscrewing the nib as on the Bohème, the grip section together with part of the body is pushed backwards. ### Are the leather-bound Montblanc special catalogues for the Limited Editions still available in the boutiques? The black leather ring binders titled 'Limited Editions' lay exclusively in the Montblanc boutiques, generally with only one example per boutique. They were mostly not openly displayed but could be inspected on polite request. Updating of these folders was discontinued in 2002 and not resumed since. As a replacement a consumer brochure was later distributed free in the boutiques; in normal specialist trade these special catalogues are not available. ### Does a Montblanc special edition 'Beethoven Bernstein 9' actually exist, and how is it to be classified? The edition, after research at Montblanc, comes indeed from the Artisan department and was at short notice in September 2004 made on demand of marketing for a concert of the Philharmonic of the Nations in China. It was rated factory-side as very inconspicuous and qualitatively little convincing ('the ugliest thing we ever produced'). The pieces are genuine, but the porcelain cap with the photorealistic motifs arose under time pressure. The whole Artisan line was not officially advertised, which is why even with renowned collectors little knowledge circulates about it. ### Should one actually use high-priced Limited Editions like the Montblanc Patron of the Art line (e.g. Tate) or only collect them? Within the collector scene there are two main positions: some lovers use all their writing instruments including limited editions in everyday life and take them to the office; others deliberately buy two examples, one for the display case, one for writing. That dealers refuse trial writing on Patron of Art pieces has a factual reason: these editions are predominantly acquired by collectors who only want 'virgin' examples in their collection, and on shows inked pieces are significantly harder to sell. Ultimately it is a personal decision — anyone not prioritising the value aspect can use the pieces without having to justify themselves. ### What is known about the Montblanc Skeleton Limited Edition 'Eiffel Tower', especially price and availability? The Skeleton Edition 'Eiffel Tower' was offered in selected boutiques (e.g. Hamburg, Neuer Wall) at a price of about 17,000 euros. The edition counts as successful; a quick sell-out is, however, not expected — other Artisan editions also lie longer in boutiques without all storing for two or more years. For example, the last Chaplin was acquired only two years after edition start. Anyone wanting to inspect the edition up close can ask the boutique or the Artisan Studio for detail pictures or display pieces. ### Who bears the design and technical responsibility for the Visconti/Dörrbecker 'Quintessenz', and how is the writing instrument to be assessed? The Quintessenz is a cooperation: design was largely co-determined by Axel Dörrbecker; in particular cap rings and cap top emblem come from him; the nibs were also chosen by him. The technology (especially the striking 2-chamber filling system) comes exclusively from Visconti (Dante). Collectors praise the Quintessenz as a hand-flatterer of beautiful celluloid with a particularly large ink supply — a plus for heavy writers. The writing instrument has proven itself in practice and is recommended further in collector circles. ### What is the Montblanc Leonard Bernstein Edition worth, and how can authenticity be checked? The Bernstein edition is no real Limited Edition — the quantity of writing instruments produced is not limited — which dampens the collector price. For value determination, the established valuation guide in the collector scene is referenced, providing among other things comparison with current eBay auctions. Authenticity indications: on the fountain pen there should be a small gold sticker with the inscription 'B Germany'; the ballpoint typically carries no visible inscription. The correct spelling 'Montblanc' (not 'MONTblanc') is an important authenticity criterion — deviating spellings are often found on counterfeits. ### Which versions and peculiarities does the Montblanc Alfred Hitchcock Limited Edition have? The edition appears in two variants: a red version of white gold limited to 80 pieces with 25-layer red lacquer and a black-white edition limited to 3,000 pieces in silver with 8-layer lacquer, each as fountain pen and rollerball. Characteristic are a Vertigo effect on the cap, a clip designed as a knife and slightly liftable, 56 strokes for the 56 films on the black-white variant and a film-roll look and 80 dots for Hitchcock's 80 years of life on the red variant. Accompanying it, a separate red ink was announced to come on the market in parallel with the pen launch. ### Which models and versions does the Montblanc Unicef edition comprise, and is there a special Limited variant? The regular Unicef edition was introduced on 11 May 2009 and comprises the Meisterstück models 145, 146, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165 and 167; characteristic is a blue gemstone in the form of a water drop on the cap top. Accompanying it, there is a true Limited Edition with lapis-lazuli caps, executed in 750 yellow or white gold (not platinum-plated), in 100 pieces each. In September 2009 the line was supplemented with women's and men's jewellery and a collection. Proceeds flow into the joint education programme 'Schools for Africa' of UNICEF and Nelson Mandela Foundation; special individual cases as part of the action are not known. ### When is the Montblanc Johannes Brahms Donation Edition officially sold, and at what prices? The Brahms edition has been officially available in Montblanc boutiques since the beginning of May. Prices are 590 euros for the fountain pen, 490 euros for the rollerball and 390 euros for the ballpoint. Visually and conceptually it resembles the other Donation Pens, which is interpreted as a deliberate line guidance of the Montblanc strategy for this series. Companion brochures are available in the boutiques. ### Which variants exist of the Montblanc Limited Edition Albert Einstein, and what properties does the matching ink have? The Einstein edition is offered in three edition strengths (2, 99 and 3,000 pieces); cufflinks with space-curvature motif (around 350 euros) supplement the theme. Accompanying it, a grey ink appears that on writing shows a slight lilac tone and remains visibly on the skin compared with other Montblanc inks unusually long. Availability is initially uneven: individual pieces appear before the regular trade start on eBay, while boutiques and stationery dealers partly have not yet received display pieces or ink. Meaningful pictures can be found on Fountainpennetwork. ### What current market value does the Montblanc Limited Edition Agatha Christie Vermeil with sapphires have, and where can auction prices be reliably researched? The price depends strongly on condition; in mint condition with original packaging 1,200–1,300 euros were named. The Vermeil variant is equipped with blue sapphires; only the gold version limited to 4,810 pieces carries rubies, in distinction from the 30,000 standard edition in sterling silver with rubies. Reliable indications are provided by ended auctions national and international (especially eBay), with ultimately the current supply-demand state deciding. The market for such editions is dynamic; a sale at currently weak dollar is not currently recommended. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Montblanc Writers Edition Agatha Christie (1993): https://www.fountainpen.de/writer-christie-en.htm ### What characterises the Montblanc Donation Pen Sir Georg Solti as successor to the Karajan model? The Donation Pen 2005 honours Sir Georg Solti as the fourth artist of the Donation line, an initiative for cultural support: per fountain pen sold, 20 euros, per ballpoint 10 euros flow into international classical-music projects. Solti, born 1912 in Budapest, was one of the most important conductors of the 20th century. Visually the writing instrument counts as plain and avant-garde, without return to yellow-gold fittings. Since the Karajan edition can run out, securing remainders timely via Scription or specialist trade is recommended. Concrete dimensions, weight or sales price of the Solti were not conclusively named in the thread. ### Is a sales price of 25,000 USD for a factory-sealed Montblanc Skeleton 333 appropriate? The Skeleton 333 is sold out worldwide and counts as one of the outstanding Montblanc editions, but 25,000 USD is in the forum rated as significantly excessive. The original sales price was around 7,500 euros for the pen plus about 3,500 euros for the matching watch. Concrete collector offers in the same discussion lie around 12,500 euros in mint condition with full Montblanc warranty and original papers, without US import taxes. As alternative, the newer Pompidou Skeleton is named; current market prices should be compared via ended international auctions. ### What is known about the Montblanc Writers Edition 2013 Honoré de Balzac? The Writers Edition 2013 is dedicated to Honoré de Balzac and, corresponding to the corpulent stature of the author, conspicuously voluminously designed. First pictures appeared early in the duty-free shop assortment (Heinemann Frankfurt); the price range was between around 630 and 810 euros for the various writing-instrument variants. Collectors judge the model as very special and agree that a final assessment is only possible on direct view in the boutique. ### What is known about the UNICEF special edition of the Montblanc 149? Within a UNICEF donation campaign three different special editions of the Montblanc 149 were released, designed by André Putman, Helmut Jahn and Tom Sachs. Each of the three editions is limited to 4,810 pieces. They are factually regular 149s delivered, however, in specially designed boxes; the writing instruments themselves carry no limitation marks, which meets with mixed echo among collectors. The boxes appeared first in French Montblanc boutiques. ### How is the Montblanc Meisterstück Le Petit Prince II edition designed? The second Petit Prince edition comes on the market in April. The standard version in dark-brown resin counts as rather plain, without engravings, with a sheep on the nib and without aviator motif, which causes disappointment to some collectors. Doué and Solitaire versions are more elaborately designed, with wave pattern on metal (Doué) or leather (Solitaire), although the Solitaires are partly felt as too heavy for longer writing. The ink appears in dark brown; added is a matching brown notebook in 146 format. Prices lie at the level of the first edition. ### What is known about the Montblanc StarWalker Special Edition for the 100th anniversary of the company's founding? The StarWalker Special Edition for the 100th founding year was officially launched in April; the fountain pen was to retail at 495 euros, the ballpoint at 395 euros. However, the first pieces had already appeared on eBay in advance at significantly inflated prices. The design polarises the collector scene: some find it cheap-looking, others appreciate the line and deliberately collect various StarWalker variants such as the RubberLine. Overall, the 100-year anniversary edition is visually placed behind the 75-year edition, whose 1924 and 75 limiteds are regarded as more convincing in design. ### How has the market value of the Montblanc Writers Edition Franz Kafka developed, and is the fountain pen available individually from the set? The Kafka fountain pen was originally offered for around 650 euros; current collector prices are about 800 euros, corresponding to a moderate increase in value of around 150 euros over seven years. Writers Editions are generally delivered in special book packaging. Acquiring the fountain pen individually from the three-piece set is officially not provided for; boutiques and dealers usually only sell the complete set. Through collectors or dealer relationships, individual pieces can occasionally be obtained by passing on the unwanted parts within the collector community. ### Is it worth buying a new Montblanc Leonardo Da Vinci for 2,500 euros with a view to a possible increase in value? Increases in value with Montblanc Limited Editions are not guaranteed; even experienced collectors have had luck and losses over 20 years. Individual pieces offered on eBay beyond 5,000 euros do not necessarily reflect actual sales prices. It is recommended to look at actually realised closing prices of completed auctions before any purchase decision and not to rush into anything. A purchase should be made primarily out of collector interest, not as a pure investment. ### Is there an overview of Montblanc Special Editions like the Willy Brandt Edition, and by what criteria are such special editions issued? A complete listing of these Special Editions does not exist. In the Corporate Gifts area, Montblanc offers possibilities to individualise Meisterstücks with company logos, engravings or special nibs; from a corresponding minimum order quantity, customers can have their own special editions issued. Packaging and inserts are designed partly directly by Montblanc, partly by external providers. Since the conditions are not communicated publicly, such editions can hardly be catalogued systematically. ### Is there a separate certificate of authenticity for insurance purposes for the Montblanc Limited Anniversary Edition 1924 (146 Solitaire LeGrand)? For the Limited Anniversary Edition 1924 as well as many other high-priced Special Editions, Montblanc does not issue a separate certificate of authenticity; only the usual warranty card and the standard service guide are supplied. Some editions like Writers, Patron of Arts or Asia editions do have special packaging and service guides, but a separate certificate is unusual. For household contents insurance, in the case of damage, a proof through purchase invoice and photo is usually sufficient; the precise requirements should be clarified with the insurer. Additionally, household-contents documentation on a CD at an external storage location is recommended. ### How many pieces are produced per design of a Montblanc Annual Edition (Meissen porcelain), and are official figures available? Annual Editions are Special Editions whose number is not officially published, since the limitation refers to the production period and not to a fixed number; Montblanc does know the produced quantities but deliberately does not disclose them. The assumption of around 7500 pieces per design (i.e. 22,500 per year) can therefore not be officially confirmed. Pictures of all three editions per year can be found in the catalogue "Montblanc Collectables, Creations of Passion" (autumn 2004), which is available in all boutiques worldwide. The official price per pen was 1350 euros in 2005; special offers can be requested from Scription (info@scription.de). ### Which official Authors Sets of the Montblanc Writers Edition exist, and what status do the pieces offered in picture frames have? The following Authors Sets were officially issued: Oscar Wilde pencil (09051), Voltaire pencil (09052), Dumas fountain pen (09053), pencil (09054) and 3-piece set (09055), Dostoyevsky fountain pen (09104 M and 09105 B) as well as Schiller fountain pen (09108 M and 09109 B). They were issued mainly in order to sell off remaining stock more quickly; a marketing strategy in the narrower sense did not lie behind it, and the edition sizes are not known. Writing instruments framed in picture frames are not official, but were partly produced by Montblanc for promotional purposes and never regularly sold; partly such frames are also home-made. ### Is there a website that fully documents all limited Montblanc editions such as Patron of Art, Writers Edition and Donations Pens? A complete online overview of all editions since 1991 does not exist; the official Montblanc books and brochures list editions from a run of 333 pieces with text, pictures and launch prices, but are no longer being reprinted. An extensive, although not exhaustive, picture source is www.cruzaltpens.com (Paco Cruz), although predominantly in Spanish and only partly translated into English; the provider is regarded as serious. An older list maintained by Axel and Michael (up to 2006, available as a newsletter PDF on fountainpen.de) also shows that many editions with small runs (sometimes only four pieces) are publicly hardly documented. A central, current source thus remains a desideratum. ### What edition sizes, prices and background does the Montblanc Limited Edition Mahatma Gandhi have? The Mahatma Gandhi edition appears in two variants from the Artisan workshop: a run of 3,000 fountain pens each (price approx. 2,500 euros) and 3,000 rollerballs (approx. 2,200 euros) as well as a small Artisan edition with only 241 fountain pens at 17,000 euros each. The numbers refer to Gandhi's famous Salt March of 241 miles, on which 3,000 companions are said to have walked. Collectors criticise the edition of 241 pieces at this price level as too high for a really exclusive collector's piece and see it more as a marketing strategy. The look of the 241 variant, however, is described as very noble. ### Is it more worthwhile when collecting Montblanc Limited Editions (Writers Edition) to complete existing LEs, fill gaps in the year sequence or buy exclusively according to taste? Increase in value should not be the primary goal in collecting, since writing instruments — similarly to wine, classic cars or watches — usually do not represent a reliable investment; one should buy primarily according to personal liking. Fountain pens are basically easier to resell than ballpoints or pencils. Anyone who nevertheless collects in a structured manner should first complete the fountain pen series and not put themselves under time pressure but rather observe the market and have patience. As a supplement, the Patron of Art editions with a quantity of 1,000 or 4,810 also come into question. ### What information is there on the Montblanc Limited Edition "Meisterstück 149 – 25 Years Fall of the Wall"? The Special Edition celebrates the 25th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall and is based on the Meisterstück 149. The hand-finished 18-carat gold nib shows an engraving of the Quadriga of the Brandenburg Gate; the fountain pen is delivered in individually designed packaging with a black ink bottle. A more precise figure on the run was not given in the thread; further pictures and discussions can be found in the Fountain Pen Network. The edition is regarded by some collectors critically as a commercially motivated extension of the LE programme. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Montblanc Meisterstück 149 (Grand Format): https://www.fountainpen.de/c-montblanc-meisterstueck-149-en.htm ### Which Montblanc Limited Edition is a hard-to-recognise skeleton fountain pen depicted in a magazine? Collectors discuss as candidates the Asia Golden Dragon 888, the Beethoven & Bernstein, the Max Reinhardt as well as the Sakura 333. The Golden Dragon is excluded because of the missing flames on the body, the Max Reinhardt because of differing cap motifs and stronger body images. A certain similarity to the Annual Edition 2006 Pantalone is perceived as motivic resemblance. Because of the unsharp source, the determination remains speculative; a better source would be needed. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Asia Edition Sakura: https://www.fountainpen.de/asia-sakura-333-en.htm ### What is the first impression of the Montblanc Writers Edition 2012 Jonathan Swift and from when is it commercially available? The Jonathan Swift is regarded as a visually very successful edition with an impressive triangular cap and finely worked nib. Despite its large appearance, it lies well in the hand thanks to a surprisingly pleasant weight and is comparable in size roughly to the Toscanini. The precious resin appears slightly reddish-translucent in the light. Delivery to dealers occurred, depending on region, between August and September 2012; the matching green ink was at the time of the first sightings partly not yet available. ### Where on the Montblanc StarWalker Soulmakers for 100 Years fountain pen from 2006 is the individual limitation number located? On the Special Edition of this series, the serial number is engraved on the clip ring, while on the Limited Edition variants it is mostly placed at the end of the pen. The rollerball also bears its number at the end of the pen. A complete absence of the number would be untypical; usually the supposed absence is simply an overlooked engraving. The 1906 edition comprises correspondingly numbered examples, which secures the authenticity check via the correct numbering. ### Which Montblanc fountain pen is regarded as the most expensive and what distinguishes it? Regarded as the most expensive series model so far is the Mystery Masterpiece, a cooperation with Van Cleef & Arpels, of which there are three examples each in red, blue and green; the price stated was around 558,000 euros. The piece is set with numerous diamonds and coloured precious stones. Upwards, however, individual pieces or later editions are basically open, so this price does not represent a final upper limit. Further details can be found on the official Montblanc page for the model. ### Where can the Montblanc Donation Pen Leonard Bernstein still be obtained? The Leonard Bernstein is occasionally offered on the private collector market, but is no longer regularly available in normal trade. Forum members occasionally arrange contacts to collectors who are giving up a complete Bernstein set including original packaging and papers, both as fountain pen and as ballpoint. Direct contact with the webmaster of the collector site or enquiries in collector circles are the usual source. ### Is it worth buying a Montblanc Artisan Edition Picasso when only a particular individual number out of 91 examples is available? The buying decision should depend primarily on personal liking, not on investment considerations. Only a few Limited Editions have actually risen in value; at the same time, the sheer quantity of Limited and Artisan editions is now so large that the term limited has lost meaning. If the piece is subjectively worth the price to one, nothing speaks against the purchase; as a pure investment, however, it is not to be recommended. ### Is it normal that on the Montblanc Jules Verne the cap shows a different colour tone with a reddish tint than the barrel? The Jules Verne has a special lacquer coating that produces strongly varying colour impressions under different light, partly even up to a purple shimmer. Slight colour differences between cap and barrel are therefore frequently due to lighting; a clear reddish tint independent of lighting only on the cap, on the other hand, is untypical and suggests a later exchange of a component. Original packaging with intact seal makes a subsequent exchange unlikely but does not necessarily rule it out. Recommended is a comparison with further Verne examples in very bright daylight or white lamp light. ### What features, edition size and availability characterise the Montblanc Limited Edition Brandenburg 89? The Brandenburg 89 is the first Montblanc Limited Edition produced exclusively for German boutiques, with a total run of 89 examples. The skeleton of transparent dark-blue precious resin carries an 18-carat solid-gold overlay reminiscent of the Brandenburg Gate, is set with 108 brilliant-cut diamonds (total approx. 0.75 carat) and shows the Quadriga in relief on the cap as well as the Victoria on the 18-carat nib. The piece was exhibited, among other places, in Heidelberg and Hannover; due to the high price, it is not affordable for most collectors. A picture appeared in the magazine Kult am Pult No. 4-2004 on page 25. ### What is the background story of the Montblanc edition limited to 5 pieces, presented in 2011 in the Paris fashion shop Colette? The correct name of the edition is not "Montblanc Nike" but "Montblanc Marinière for Colette". The striped pattern quotes the then jersey of the French national football team, and the blue corresponds to the colour of the Colette logo. As part of the campaign, the Paris fashion boutique Colette invited several brands (e.g. Longchamp, Montblanc) to reinterpret one of their leading products. The fountain pen was made of white Meissen porcelain and limited to 5 pieces at 2500 euros each. ### What does the serial-number marking "S/0503" on a Montblanc Agatha Christie mean? The leading "S" stands for "Service" and indicates that the writing instrument has already been at Montblanc for repair once. Since for every limited edition a complete spare-parts inventory cannot be kept, exchanged parts receive this special S marking. Specifically, only caps are given S numbers, since the limitation number is engraved there; on non-limited writing instruments no such limit number exists, only the production coding. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Montblanc Writers Edition Agatha Christie (1993): https://www.fountainpen.de/writer-christie-en.htm ### Is it worth bidding on the rare Montblanc 162 rollerball from the 75th Anniversary Edition on eBay? With the seller specifically discussed, caution is advised; despite a high rating count, individual collectors after payment have received neither the goods nor their money back in full. More reliable are other providers like pekebuddy. The 75th Anniversary Edition is regarded as exceptionally desirable; the 144 and the Mozart sizes of this edition can be viewed e.g. in the Düsseldorf Montblanc boutique; a 146 of this range is extremely rare. Before bidding, it is recommended to have the auction evaluated by experienced collectors and, if appropriate, to consider direct offers from private collectors. ### Do two nib variants in 14kt and 18kt gold actually exist on the Montblanc 147 of the Special Anniversary Edition, and how does that come about? Both variants are original. Montblanc traditionally delivers writing instruments for the French and Swiss markets with 18kt nibs, since French law only speaks of "gold" from 750/1000 gold content; in the rest of the market, 14kt nibs (585) are fitted. For the respective variants, Montblanc has different ID numbers. Since Montblanc writing instruments are internally identified primarily via the clip-ring numbers, it can also happen with a mix-up that, e.g., the body of a Solitaire Doué (with 18kt nib) is combined with other components. Montblanc customer service is sometimes not informed about this 18kt variant and wrongly classifies such pieces as fakes. ### What is to be made of the Montblanc Heritage Collection 1912 Limited Edition, and which variants are announced? Alongside the titanium version limited to 333 pieces, a cheaper regular variant of precious resin is also appearing; the black version is felt by collectors to be more in keeping with the classical design of 1912. The exchangeable rings are regarded as a nice but rarely used detail in everyday life. The combination of machined titanium and the classic safety design is partly criticised as ill-fitting. Further pictures and discussions can be found in relevant collectors' forums like the Fountain Pen Network. ### Where can one currently acquire a Montblanc Jules Verne fountain pen or pencil, and at what price level? At a concessionaire in the Ruhr area (Oberhausen), a disassembled set with the fountain pen for 650 EUR and the pencil for 350 EUR was offered; the pencil was already sold at the time of the discussion. The address will be passed on by private message on request. Since limited editions sold individually are usually quickly sold out, prompt contact is worthwhile. ### Which versions, edition size and prices does the Montblanc Writers Edition 2016 William Shakespeare have? The Writers Edition 2016 appears in two versions: a regular variant as well as a version limited to 1564 pieces with a price of about 3500 EUR. Accompanying this, a limited ink is offered, presumably in red. First pictures and impressions are documented in the Fountain Pen Network. The highly limited version is felt by collectors price-wise to be partly too expensive. ### Is a freely movable small spring in the ink tank of the Montblanc Kafka normal, and what function does it have? The Kafka has no converter but a fixed piston mechanism that merely looks similar to a converter. The freely movable coil spring in the ink tank is regular and can also be found in newer Montblanc converters. It prevents the ink from sticking at the tank end and the ink flow from breaking off. The component is therefore a simple but effective construction and no defect. ### Does Montblanc offer a nib exchange and repairs for the Limited Anniversary Edition 1924? Montblanc has in the past carried out nib exchanges and repairs (e.g. of leather parts) of the Limited Anniversary Edition 1924 without problems; reported is, among others, a successful nib exchange in spring 2004. A direct, friendly telephone enquiry to Montblanc service is the recommended path, especially since these pieces have not been newly produced for some time. Warranty periods should be heeded; nevertheless, generous handling is possible. ### What characterises the Montblanc anniversary edition "Meisterstück Solitaire Mammoth 100" for the 100-year jubilee, and in what edition size or at what price does it appear? The edition was issued on the occasion of the Montblanc 100-year anniversary in a run of 3 x 100 examples, 100 LeGrand piston fountain pens each in yellow gold, rose gold and white gold; the threefold 100 limitation refers to the three founders Voß, Nehemias and Eberstein. Barrel and cap show a guilloche of running-out Montblanc stars with inlays of mammoth ivory from the Siberian permafrost soil; the cap carries a specially designed 43-faceted diamond in star form, cast in acrylic. The 18-carat gold nib is colour-matched to the body with partly platinum-plated year number. The retail price is €15,000 per piece; further writing instruments (ballpoints etc.) do not exist; in Germany about 5 examples each are available. ### Is it normal on a Montblanc Patron of the Arts Copernicus that the two middle sections and the cap ring sit loosely and are rotatable? On comparison examples, the rings sit firmly and cannot be rotated, which suggests that loose rings represent a defect. It is recommended to contact Montblanc customer service (also by telephone in Germany) for an official assessment and, if applicable, repair, although Patron of Arts pieces are not in every case repairable. ### How are the market prices for the Montblanc Skeleton 333 (149 variant) to be classified, and is a mint-condition example for around €10,500 reasonably valued? The Skeleton 333 had a former shop price of about €7,500; used pieces were temporarily offered for around €3,700 plus shipping, money-transfer fees, customs and import VAT, which gave a total final price of around €5,000 and was at the time regarded as a bargain. In mint condition the collector price is hardly under €10,000 any more, so an offer around €10,500 is to be regarded as market-appropriate. ### Where can the current fountainpen.de newsletter (with Limited Editions list, ink reports etc.) be downloaded, and is the list complete? The newsletter (no. 1/2007) is available in the newsletter archive of fountainpen.de in two resolutions (low resolution about 636 kB, high resolution about 1.37 MB) and has been downloaded over 2,300 times by now; older newsletters are also archived. The included Limited Editions list ("The List") is very extensive but can never be complete — e.g. the George Washington (50) from 2006 is missing. In terms of content, among others, the ink reports, Ribeiro, the Aurora visit and the Dortmund CAS get-together were highlighted positively. ### Did Montblanc pencils of the Writers Edition Dumas exist individually really only with son's signature, or also with father's signature? The pencil of the Dumas edition existed, contrary to earlier statements, in both variants — with son's and with father's signature. The older information on fountainpen.de, according to which the father's variant was not separately available, is based on a then-reliable source and will be corrected accordingly on the website. ### Should one choose the standard or the Putnam/UNICEF packaging for the Montblanc 149, and how can the nib widths F, EF and M be sensibly compared? The choice of nib width is a matter of taste and should be tested in the specialist shop with the usually used paper, since the line width appears different depending on paper type; on smooth high-quality paper a nib appears broader than on absorbent copy paper. The differences between EF, F and M are clear, although some EF and F nibs overlap in practice. The Putnam/UNICEF packaging has additional charm and supports a charitable purpose. A supposedly identical serial number of fountain pen and case does not exist; a dealer can at any time deliver a new 149 to the existing box or have the nib exchanged free of charge by Montblanc within two weeks of purchase in the desired width. ### Can a Montblanc Hemingway ballpoint be converted to a Hemingway mechanical pencil? A clean conversion is technically very elaborate, since among other things an internal thread would have to be removed and pencils of the range are plug-in; in addition, a LeGrand pencil would be needed as a parts donor. Possible would be a variant via an adapter made on the lathe with subsequent press fitting; in this solution, however, the eraser on the mechanism is omitted. An original mechanical pencil in Hemingway look is thus not to be made, only a technically functioning pencil in the Hemingway body. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Montblanc Writers Edition Hemingway (1992): https://www.fountainpen.de/writer-hemingway-en.htm ### How is the Montblanc Max Reinhardt 2010 (limited edition of 20 pieces) judged in the collector environment, and how does its price fit into the line of predecessors? Collectors evaluate the Max Reinhardt 2010 as a successful piece but point to the pronounced edge between the middle barrel and grip section, which can make writing uncomfortable. Compared to the previous years, the price is regarded as relatively moderate: the 2007 editions were around €19,000, 2008 and 2009 about €18,500, more recent pieces of the line around €11,000. The edition size of 20 pieces is small; individual pens were still available via German dealers after the initial delivery. ### Which versions and edition sizes does the Montblanc Artisan Edition Henry Moore comprise, and how is it judged in the collector circle? The Artisan Edition Henry Moore appears in two variants: yellow gold limited to 88 pieces at around €31,000 and white gold limited to 5 pieces at around €65,000. The design is described as interesting but addresses only a very narrow target group because of price and edition size. ### How is the numbering on Montblanc Writers Editions to be understood, and do the entries on the Montblanc website agree with the actually engraved edition numbers? On the Writers Editions, the total number of all produced fountain pens is engraved, with the first examples of every edition reserved for the three-writing-instrument sets. Serial numbers are not assigned twice; a change of the numbering logic has never taken place. Edition sizes vary from edition to edition (e.g. Faulkner 16,000, Kafka 18,500, Wolfe 16,000, Collodi 12,000). Confusion arises because the Montblanc website lists partly only the individually sold pens, partly only the sets and partly partial quantities; what counts is always the figure engraved on the writing instrument itself. ### Is a strikingly unusually designed StarWalker as a supposed Limited Edition from eBay an original? The offer in question is unambiguously a counterfeit. Such replicas come from Chinese production and cost there 1 to 2 euros per piece. eBay removes such auctions on notice from Montblanc, which actively pursues trademark violations. ### Has the packaging of the Montblanc Writers Edition changed over the years, and are there counterfeit packagings, e.g. for the Agatha Christie edition? The book form of the packaging was retained over the years, but details changed several times: on the Hemingway there was still a slightly removable sticker on the front; on the Agatha Christie the pen was fixed at the cap top and pen end with an easily breakable clip clamp under the silk cloth. Vertically embossed stripes on the book spine are original. Packaging is now also being counterfeited, which is why even existing original packaging is no compulsory authenticity proof; the evaluation must always include the writing instrument and the packaging together. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Montblanc Writers Edition Agatha Christie (1993): https://www.fountainpen.de/writer-christie-en.htm ### Is there an official Montblanc Special Edition on the topic of Ronald Reagan, or is it merely an individual engraving? At first glance a 'Reagan' engraving on a 146 looks like a regular customer engraving. If, however, the auction includes its own Montblanc certificate with Reagan reference, that speaks for a special production and not for a standard engraving that any customer can order. Such personalised special editions occasionally crop up in the politician and diplomat environment. ### How high is the official edition of the Montblanc Kafka ballpoint, and is an engraved number 18,500 a counterfeit indication? Of the Montblanc Kafka ballpoint, 12,000 pieces individually plus 4,500 in 3-piece sets, that is in total 16,500 ballpoints, were officially produced; the number 18,500 would thus lie above the edition and would be a counterfeit suspicion. However, Montblanc itself states for the line 14,000 fountain pens and 12,000 ballpoints, so the number 18,500 as overall numbering pen plus ballpoint can quite well fit an original. With uncertainty, comparison with documented fakes (e.g. maxpens.de) and the check whether the digits were correctly read are recommended. ### Why are there in the Montblanc Flag Series skeleton editions for other countries but no German flag? The Flag editions (e.g. Tricolore, Stars and Stripes) were initially launched on the opening of the Montblanc flagship stores in Paris and New York and then expanded after demand. A regular edition with the German flag does not exist, which is explained by both restrained domestic demand and the abroad delicate reference to German national symbols. Via the Atelier Privé of Montblanc, individual pieces with desired motifs (also black-red-gold) can be commissioned; the prices are then in the range of 25,000 to 30,000 euros. ### What is known about the Montblanc 'Homage to Kyoto Artistry (Project Chiso)' Limited Edition 55? It is a very small edition with 55 pieces, which was designed in connection with the traditional Japanese atelier Chiso. Detailed picture material and English-language descriptions can be found among others on watchprosite.com; there the writing instrument can be better recognised than in the Japanese first announcements. On edition size and design concept, this source provides the most reliable overview. ### Is the Montblanc Lalique Limited Edition Set from 1991 suitable as an investment, and how are price differences between the US and German markets to be evaluated? Writing instruments are unsuitable as a pure investment, comparable to classic cars, watches or wines; a sure increase in value is not to be expected. The high price differences (e.g. 4,000 USD in the USA, around 2,500 euros in Germany) depend on market interest, completeness (box, papers) and individual buyer group. The visibly rough hand engraving on the set is an original feature and identically executed on several documented pieces. Anyone who buys should primarily act out of collector interest and not speculate on value increase. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Patron of Arts Lalique (1991): https://www.fountainpen.de/patron-lalique-en.htm ### What edition size did the Montblanc Artisan Solitaire Doué Gold ballpoint have, and where was it sold? The Artisan Solitaire Doué Gold belongs to the Montblanc Gift Collection 2004 and was at the time offered exclusively in Germany. Since it is a Special Edition, the quantity is small and lies, according to collector recollection, at under 300 examples. Official production numbers Montblanc has never published for this line. Further background can be found on fountainpen.de under the entry on the Artisan Solitaire Gold Doué. ### Can a Montblanc Marcel Proust ballpoint (Limited Edition 1999) without a printed limitation number be original? All Marcel Proust editions must show an individual 5-digit number (e.g. 12345/20000) at the top in the black precious resin. Only the Hemingway had no direct limitation number but one on the clip without reference to the running number. Even after repairs or exchange of parts, the numbering is reapplied. A real Proust without number would be a unique piece and accordingly worth collecting; however, the authenticity check is to be made carefully, ideally without permanently parting with the pen. Even prototypes are numbered, but with prototype numbers in order to ensure their destruction. ### What value-development potential do collector writing instruments offer, and which factors influence the market value? The main motive for collecting remains the fascination with the object; value preservation is mostly only a welcome side effect. A central list of realised sale prices does not exist, since alongside condition the renown of the seller also has influence. Value-influencing are in particular the serial numbers: in the Asian market, lucky numbers like 3 or 8 are particularly sought-after, as are pre-series prototypes with the number 000, which are difficult to obtain and accordingly achieve high sums. Supply and demand remain the essential value drivers. ### In what rhythm do Montblanc Limited Editions like Writers Edition and Patron of Arts appear, and how high are the editions? The Patron of Arts and Writers Editions appear yearly; all other Limited Editions follow no fixed rhythm. The Patron of Arts editions were each issued in 4810 examples; from The Prince Regent onwards, there is additionally an 888 gold edition. The editions of the Writers Editions vary and are documented at fountainpen.de/writer.htm. Alongside, Special Editions and Limited Productions exist that are produced over a pre-defined period and then discontinued, without exact quantity statement. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Patron of Arts Prince Regent Luitpold: https://www.fountainpen.de/patron-prince-regent-en.htm ### What should be considered when buying and caring for a Montblanc Alexander von Humboldt with EF nib, and how does one clean the writing instrument despite wooden elements? With the Humboldt, the purchase should preferably take place in a Montblanc boutique, since the wood inlays of cap and barrel do not always sit congruently; there were examples that for this reason were not released for final acceptance in Hamburg, so a personal inspection is recommended. For cleaning, the fountain pen need not be placed in water — it suffices to immerse only the nib together with the feed in water, so that the wooden section is spared. The purchase at list price and the writing with an EF nib does not, experience shows, lead to noticeable loss of value, since Limited Editions are also demanded by collectors in used condition. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Patron of Arts Alexander von Humboldt: https://www.fountainpen.de/patron-humboldt-en.htm ### Is a Montblanc Solitaire Ceramics Black Prisma with Mexico 2010 engraving and x/200 numbering an official Limited Edition, and is the engraved cap top exchangeable as a spare part? An official Limited Edition is not present, since the Ceramics Black Prisma is led as a regular, unlimited edition. With an additional Mexico 2010 engraving and a numbering x/200, it is most likely a Corporate Gift, presumably on the occasion of the 100-year jubilee of Mexican independence (1910 to 2010). The upper part under the star is basically exchangeable as a spare part, although an exchange is likely to be correspondingly costly. ### Is the Montblanc H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco Wedding Pen an independent edition or largely identical to the earlier Monaco Pen? Visually, the Wedding Pen is very similar to the earlier Monaco Pen and differs essentially through additional stone settings; the marketing, however, stages it as an entirely new creation. It is to be assumed that it is a non-publicly saleable individual piece or occasional object on the occasion of the wedding. The design continuity is evaluated in the forum rather critically. ### Is an offered fountain pen with overlay really a Montblanc, and how is such a purchase to be evaluated? The overlay shown is definitely not an original overlay; in the past, jewellers have often fitted arbitrary fountain pens with their own self-made overlays. An original Montblanc overlay clearly bears the logo and the brand name, which is missing here. Even if the body or the nib comes from Montblanc, the value is not comparable to that of an original overlay model. With such offers caution is advised, since not seldom only individual parts (e.g. the nib) actually come from Montblanc. ### What is the story of the Montblanc Texas Flag Pen, and is it to be classified as an official edition or a commissioned work? The Montblanc Flag Pens are not official editions or political statements but commissioned works for high-paying customers, as Montblanc also practises in other cases (e.g. special productions for Jean Todt or Michael Schumacher). The Texas Pen is reportedly set with brilliants imitating the Texan flag, with reference to the then US president George W. Bush. In design it corresponds to the often-used skeleton layout, which is no longer necessarily felt to be exclusive by buyers of the SkeletonStar 333 edition. ### Are there matching cufflinks for the Montblanc Patron of Art Edition Gaius Maecenas, and what do they cost? For the Patron of Art Edition Gaius Maecenas, matching cufflinks exist, comparable to those for the Collodi edition; a corresponding photo can be found in the forum of fountainpennetwork.com. The price is 380 euros; in the US forum a figure of 545 US dollars had additionally been mentioned, which however possibly referred to the Collodi variant. ### Which launch price and which market prices are realistic for the Montblanc Skeleton Star 333 (limited edition)? The original retail price in 2001 was 7,500 euros. Auction results today move significantly below; Bonhams, for example, set an example with an estimated price of 6,000 to 8,000 USD, with the hammer price possibly higher. Added to this are buyer commissions of 20 to 25 percent, shipping and import VAT, which makes purchases outside the EU more expensive. Within these orders of magnitude the pieces are significantly cheaper to be had than the frequently mentioned 10,000-USD-plus prices. ### How are the contradictory serial numbers on an Agatha Christie writing instrument (28383/30000), in the service card (4518/7000) and on the packaging to be interpreted? The papers are apparently not original to the piece, since the serial number on the fountain pen and in the service guide should agree. The numbering 4518/7000 points to a set component, so the papers and possibly the packaging were combined from different sources. A price of 650 euros for an Agatha Christie in nearly mint condition is nevertheless reasonable. What exact meaning the gold-coloured versus the one in Agatha design service card has remained open in the thread. ### In what size is the new Masters for Meisterstück Firenze Limited Edition offered? The edition is again in the size of the 146, that is, the medium-sized Meisterstück, not in the 149 format. ### What value does a Montblanc Andora set for the opening of the Montblanc boutique Hannover 2001 have? The Andora edition was made in 2001 on the occasion of the opening of the Montblanc boutique Hannover and was actually officially produced by Montblanc, but remained an individual case that Montblanc did not want to repeat. The value depends strongly on taste: while some collectors feel the Pop Art design to be worthless, others are willing to pay high prices. A serious value estimate is therefore difficult; an indication are the original list prices (e.g. 400 euros for rollerball and ballpoint). For mediation to interested buyers, contact with Tom Westerich, who was involved in the creation of the edition, is recommended. ### What is known about the upcoming Montblanc Donation Edition Arturo Toscanini, especially on the retail price? The Toscanini is available as a Donation Pen; the ballpoint costs, according to information from the Montblanc boutique Düsseldorf, 495 euros. About a likewise mentioned 'William Faulkner' no confirmed information is available, only a conjecture about gold trim and a presumably brown body. ### How does the filling system of the Montblanc Franz Kafka work, and is the silver inner tube an exchangeable converter? The Kafka has a fixed piston filling mechanism; because of the angular barrel design, no classic externally operable rotary piston could be fitted, which is why the mechanism sits as a 'silver tube' inside. It is not a converter, that is, it cannot be removed or replaced with ink cartridges — the Kafka is therefore a pure ink filler. For filling, the mechanism is, according to the instructions, turned counter-clockwise, the nib completely dipped in ink and the mechanism turned in again; subsequent release of a few drops is not sensible given the Kafka's rather small ink volume; two drops suffice. In case of doubt, the official filling instructions in the warranty booklet should be followed. ### How is the Montblanc Rita Hayworth Limited Edition 46 evaluated regarding design and price justification? The edition is controversially discussed in the forum: some voices feel especially the cap form and the orange-red stone on the clip to be aesthetically unsuccessful and compare the effect to similarly controversial LEs like the Pelikan 1108 Hanging Gardens of Babylon. Others find the basic form appealing, see echoes of Montegrappa Ferrari editions and value especially the cap design. The high price is borne above all by the numerous diamonds as an enhancement element; overall the edition rather serves a luxury-affine target group for whom 'bling-bling' is more important than restrained design. ### What is known about the Montblanc Leonardo Sketch Pen in sterling silver, which occasionally appears as a rare variant in US auctions? The Leonardo Sketch Pen in sterling silver is a very rare variant so far hardly documented in the forum; even experienced collectors had previously not laid eyes on such a piece. It is presumably a special production, in one concretely reported case from the loft sale of a designer (R. Wilson), which was auctioned via a US auction house. The hammer price of around 400 US dollars lay significantly below what comparable pieces usually achieve, which additionally underscores the rarity of this offer. Reliable information on edition size or on the official distribution channel does not exist in the forum. ### How strongly do customer wishes — e.g. for a Jane Austen or Goethe edition — flow into Montblanc's decisions on the Writers Edition? Individual customer emails are likely to have hardly direct influence on the selection of a Writers Edition but also do no harm and are partly internally forwarded. Alongside market interest, above all legal questions play an important role, because descendants or rights holders must agree to the use of an author's name; in the past, editions have already failed because of this. The range tries with lines like the Diva series to specifically address female target groups but is criticised because of small nib proportions and unfavourably placed threads (especially on the Greta Garbo). A real 'ladies' Writers Edition' like an Austen or Poe in standard proportions is therefore expressly wished by collectors. ### Is the Montblanc Annual Edition 2006 with the motifs 'Daphne', 'Pantalone' and 'Yellow Tiger' actually limited to 300 pieces? Officially the Annual Edition is not numerically limited and does not bear individual edition numbers but only the handwritten year markings like 2006/I, 2006/II and 2006/III. The production and delivery time extends in each case from September of the previous year to August or September of the edition year. In past Annual Editions, generally significantly more than 300 examples were made; concrete quantities Montblanc does not communicate. On some photos of the 2006 edition, however, a cap embossing 'Lim. 300' can be recognised, which could suggest a really tighter limitation on this issue; a confirmation from the manufacturer is not available. ### What did a Montblanc Limited Anniversary Edition 75 rollerball (Classique 163) with white gold, mother-of-pearl star, rose-gold trim and diamonds originally cost in trade? The rollerball of the Anniversary Edition 75 was available as a Classique 163 variant; the list price was 21,500 DM or, converted, around 8,330 euros. Thus the rollerball price corresponded in amount to the ballpoint of the same edition, as is traditional at Montblanc. On most circulating piece lists, the rollerball is not separately mentioned, which is why confusions with the models 75113 (ballpoint) or 75114 (Mozart FP) often occur. At a real hall auction an example most recently started at 800 euros; the hammer price, however, lay significantly higher. ### What is the likely cause for an ink leak at the groove behind the silver ring of the grip section on the new Montblanc JFK pen, and how does service deal with it? Probably there is a small crack in the grip section at the ring through which ink leaks; the feed itself practically does not come into question as a cause, since it must always carry ink. The problem is to be sent in via the specialist shop as a warranty case to Montblanc in Hamburg. Experience shows that the repair there takes about four weeks and is handled under 'ebonite flat rate, without charge within the framework of the warranty'; after return the pen is tight. A content diagnosis Montblanc generally does not communicate; only the note that drop damages are not covered by the warranty is recorded. ### Which Montblanc skeleton models have most recently been presented, and is a new skeleton to be expected in 2008? Among the most recent skeleton editions count the 'Charlie Chaplin' — at the time of discussion already largely sold out — as well as the Limited Edition 81 'Prince Rainier III'. The 'Otto von Bismarck' (Limited 71) does not belong to the skeletons. For the US American market, for Valentine's Day, the skeleton 'Romantic Hearts' appeared, however only in 14 examples and at a price of around 72,000 euros. Concrete announcements for 2008 were not yet available at the time of the thread; further skeleton editions, however, were expected. ### How is the version of the Montblanc Marlene Dietrich edition to be evaluated and is it optionally available with a converter? The Marlene Dietrich is regarded among collectors as a successful homage; it lies well in the hand and captures the appearance of the namesake coherently. Binding information on converter suitability could not be given by anyone in the thread, so an enquiry at an authorised specialist retailer is recommended. Basically, many smaller Meisterstücks are only delivered with cartridges, which is why this clarification is sensible before a purchase. ### With the Montblanc Writers Edition Dumas: was the signature of the father or that of the son wrongly applied? Correct would have been the signature of Alexandre Dumas the Father, who with works like The Three Musketeers and The Count of Monte Cristo provided the basis for the edition. Actually, however, the signature of the less well-known son was engraved, which is regarded as an error. The differing statement in the current Montblanc brochure is wrong and to be attributed to deficient proofreading; further errors in MB publications are known. ### Which new limited Montblanc edition from the Artisan or Skeleton range has currently appeared? From the skeleton line the Fortune 88 is available, from the Artisan range the Cristobal as well as the new Le Duomo, also called Duomo di Milano. The Duomo was positioned with a list price around 18,500 euros and thus counts among the top of the range. The design is evaluated by collectors as appealing but not necessarily on-theme. ### What is known about the Montblanc edition 'Vincent van Gogh' on a StarWalker basis and how rare is it? It is not an official Limited Edition but a special version of the StarWalker, presumably from the Business Presents department in cooperation with the Van Gogh Museum in the Netherlands. On the fountain pen and ballpoint, 'Vincent' is engraved; the packaging shows a portrait and a Dutch reference text. The initially rumoured edition of only 10 pieces is regarded as unlikely, since the packaging effort for such a small quantity is economically not justifiable; actually the edition should be somewhat larger. ### When does the Pen Port Hamburg take place and how was the event? The Pen Port Hamburg took place on 3 October 2009 at the Museum of Work at the Barmbek station and is well reachable by car as well as public transport. Prior, there was additionally the Nuremberg fair on 23 May. The Hamburg event was accompanied by talks, a CAS annual general meeting with a joint evening in the Trude restaurant and interesting conversations, e.g. with the Spanish collector Molas. ### In which set configurations was the Montblanc Writers Edition Agatha Christie officially distributed? Officially there was only a 3-piece set consisting of fountain pen, ballpoint and pencil; a 2-piece set was never planned by Montblanc. However, the 3-piece set was delivered in two separate packagings, one with fountain pen and pencil, the other with the ballpoint, which on the market leads to apparent partial sets. Of the fountain pen, in total 30,000 examples were made, with the first 7,000 being reserved for a special version with gemstone setting. ### What was the original retail price of the Montblanc Artisan Mozart 250 Limited Edition? The list retail price of the Artisan edition for the 250th birthday of Mozart was 17,900 euros. On this basis, current offers on the secondary market can be classified and a negotiation basis derived. ### Which writing instruments does the Montblanc 'Soulmakers for 100 Years' Edition 1906 comprise and which materials are used? The 1906 edition comprises fountain pen, rollerball and ballpoint. From the Meisterstück line, the cap is executed in granite; from the Bohème line in marbled look; all three writing systems are available in the same get-up. After the 100-year anniversary, further 1906 editions across different lines follow. ### How rare is the Montblanc Limited Edition 'White House' and what price dimensions are realistic? The Montblanc 'White House' counts among the extremely rare Limited Editions and turned up at the time only the second time at all on eBay. The pen was set by the seller at a value of well over 20,000 US dollars. Due to the rarity, the market is shaped above all by collector interest; a later auction 'no Reserve' was communicated as a rare opportunity. Shipping to Europe does not take place by default but is possible on request. ### Is the Montblanc 'Anniversary Edition 100 Years' (2006) or the associated 'Rouge et Noir' replica still available and in what price range? The 'Anniversary Edition 100 Years', executed as a cartridge filler, cost in the boutique at the sales start at the end of 2006 around 620 euros; in early 2008, prices were partly raised. The separate 'Rouge et Noir' replica with real safety filling mechanism was limited to 100 pieces and already within a week or partly before sales start sold out; the list price was, depending on source, 3,800 to 4,200 euros. On the secondary market, for the replica later 6,500 euros and more were called up; eBay offers move partly in the five-figure dollar range. A regular new purchase of the Safety replica at list price is practically no longer possible. ### How does the new sales system of Montblanc for Artisan editions work and what consequences does it have for collectors? In the new system, Artisan pieces are no longer permanently displayed as eyecatchers in the boutiques but lie in the headquarters; a sample only briefly, about three days, passes through the boutique before the sales start. Registered collectors with fixed number then have up to six months to accept or refuse the piece; the package remains sealed. Unknown interested parties can view the pen after interest via an internet address three to five times in pictures and then order it via the boutique. Criticised is that a longer payment-in-instalments period falls away, an accidental discovery of Artisan pieces in the shop is hardly possible any more and an assessment in person practically falls away; the success additionally depends strongly on the passionate engagement of the boutique staff. ### Which Montblanc Limited Editions come up for auction at the Bonhams auction on 17 February 2009 in Los Angeles? The auction comprises predominantly originally packaged Limited Editions with a total value of over 1,000,000 USD, including highlights like 'Magical Black Widow' (1/88), 'White House' (32/43), '4th of July' (32/56), 'Stars & Stripes', 'I Love New York', 'Mexican Flag', 'Salvador Dali' (88/100), 'Catherine II the Great' and 'Peter I the Great' (each 293/888), 'Meissen Dragon' (830/888), 'Year of the Golden Dragon' Sapphire (7/8), 'Copernicus', 'Prince Regent', the Atelier 'Beethoven' (1/9) as well as Agatha Christie, Hemingway and Alexandre Dumas pieces. The catalogue can be retrieved via www.bonhams.com or the Sales Calendar entry 'Pen Collection' on 17 February. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Patron of Arts Prince Regent Luitpold: https://www.fountainpen.de/patron-prince-regent-en.htm ### What value does a Montblanc Meisterstück ballpoint Limited Edition Agatha Christie from 1993 have today, and how should it be stored? The Christie ballpoint is regarded as a popular and sought-after collector model whose value today lies above the then retail price, provided the condition is near-new or objectively hardly used; a concrete price determination takes place by comparison with completed eBay auctions, since fixed prices do not exist. A missing certificate tends to reduce the value but does not preclude price-finding. For storage, writing instruments should not be placed loose with other pens in a collective box, since body and trim can quickly be scratched; more suitable is a multi-piece case with internal separation. A sale is not recommended, since the model counts as a classic. ### Do Limited Editions like the Montblanc Agatha Christie also reliably start after longer idle times, and is this due to a special construction? Users report a strikingly reliable start-up behaviour of the Agatha Christie even after four to five weeks without use in a presentation stand with the nib pointing slightly upward, while other Meisterstücks like 114, 144 or 146 after long idle time often first have to draw ink. Feed and mechanism, however, do not differ technically significantly between Limited Editions and regular writing instruments, so the observation is rather to be valued as an individual property of the concrete piece. A systematic preference of limited editions in this respect cannot be derived from the available experience reports. ### Does a Montblanc fountain pen with a dedication by Catherine Deneuve exist, or is it a counterfeit? The writing instrument comes from a UNICEF special campaign in which numerous prominent personalities each briefly used a pen and had it engraved correspondingly. Such pieces are real Montblanc pens but no official Limited Editions; rather individually engraved promotional or campaign pens. Comparable constellations turned up earlier e.g. with the so-called Special Edition Willy Brandt. Since Montblanc always also uses its pens as high-quality promotional gifts, the existence of such dedication copies is plausible. ### What is known about the Montblanc Limited Rotary Edition for the 100th birthday of the Rotary Club? The pen was produced on the occasion of the 100th birthday of the Rotary Club in an edition of 100 pieces and is already sold out in some Asian countries, since demand exceeds the available quantity. With a retail price of around 13,600 euros, the quick scarcity is little surprising. ### Does the Montblanc Limited Anniversary 75 Skeleton watch actually exist, and how is an offer from Taiwan to be classified? The watch is a regular model by Montblanc and belongs to the Special Edition Meisterstück Anniversary 75 Skeleton, retrievable via the official website. Whether the concrete offer is an original piece cannot be judged from the basic data alone. Taste judgements on the beauty of the watch fall differently. ### What is known about the Montblanc Limited Edition Andrew Jackson for the US market? Since February, there is a new presidents' edition for the American market with Andrew Jackson as homage figure; the pen is offered for around 33,000 US dollars. Montblanc's choice of model is critically discussed in collector circles, since the historical person Andrew Jackson is controversial especially among American natives. Such discussions accompany Montblanc special editions more often. ### What is known about the Montblanc Art of Porcelain Limited Edition 10 Ballpoint Pen? It is a very rare edition that is little known even to experienced collectors and has also turned up at Bonhams only occasionally. Comparable rarities like the matching Sketch Pen in silver have in the past been auctioned from designer estates at comparatively low prices. Substantial detailed information on the edition hardly exists. ### Is pensinasia.com a reputable source for Asia-specific Montblanc editions like the Kafka, and which customs and VAT aspects are to be observed? The provider is regarded as reputable; however, shipping costs are high, and the total amount is to be cleared through customs, which means surcharges of about 25 to 30 percent including processing fee. If it can be proven that the pen was produced in the EU, only the import VAT of 19 percent applies; a mere Made in Germany imprint, however, does not suffice as proof. The Kafka is also available in European specialist trade, e.g. at Karstadt for around 650 euros, which often makes the foreign order economically unattractive. Overall, sourcing within the EU is recommended. ### How rare is the Montblanc Writers Edition J.S. Bach and in what price range is it traded? The edition of the J.S. Bach was around 12,000 pieces and is thus below most other Writers Editions, without being really rare. The original list price was about 400 euros in 2001. On the second-hand market, depending on condition and sales platform, prices between approx. 300 and 600 euros are usual; with some patience one finds it on eBay also in the lower range. As with all limited editions, it is traded more rarely with time, simply because fewer pieces change owners. ### Do variants of the Montblanc Lorenzo de' Medici exist in which only the body consists of silver? Of the Lorenzo de' Medici from the Patron of Arts Edition, only a regular variant with octagonal hand-engraved sterling-silver overlay exists; alongside, only a solid-gold version is known. A version with exclusively silver body does not exist. Possibly meant is the Marcel Proust from the Writers Edition: it too has an octagonal sterling-silver overlay but a cap of resin and was made in significantly higher edition than the Medici. ### Where can one acquire the George Washington from the Montblanc series of American presidents? Such rare Limited Editions turn up regularly in relevant auctions. Alongside eBay, especially the auction houses Bonhams, Bloomsbury Auctions and Christies are suitable, since there high-quality writing instruments are regularly auctioned. Alternatively, a direct enquiry to specialised collector dealers like Paco Cruz (cruzaltpens.com), who has a large range of rare Limited Editions, can be successful. ### How is the Marcel Proust pencil correctly filled with leads? The Proust pencil has the standard mechanism of a Montblanc pencil: the rear cap can be pulled off; behind it the leads are inserted. That when unscrewing the front part the lead visibly protrudes is normal with mechanical pencils and no defect. In an emergency, filling from the front is also possible, by operating the mechanism and pushing the lead in. If the cap sits firmly, it should be carefully pulled off again. ### Which writing instruments from the Montblanc editions Writers Edition, Patron of Arts, Artisan and Skeleton are regarded as particularly successful? Taste questions lead to different favourites, but some models are particularly frequently named. With the Writers Edition, Jules Verne, Schiller, Kafka and Faulkner stand high in favour, although the Verne is regarded as visually balanced but top-heavy in handling. With the Patron of Arts, the Copernicus, the Friedrich II and the Pope Julius II are highlighted; the 888 versions are throughout evaluated as more attractive. From the Artisan editions, the Salvador Dali is particularly valued, which stands close to the skeleton style, followed by the Hundertwasser. Among the Skeletons, the Black Widow is seen narrowly before the Charlie Chaplin, whose availability however is uncertain. ### How large is the Montblanc Scott Fitzgerald compared to 146 and 149, and is it suitable for large hands? The Fitzgerald has roughly the diameter of a 146 but is overall shorter and smaller than the LeGrand. For writers with large hands it is therefore less well suited; a 146 or larger lies more comfortably in the hand. ### Which seal is fitted in the Montblanc Rouge et Noir Safety, a cork seal or a modern solution? Since the Rouge et Noir is conceived as an exact replica of the historical Safety models, it is likely equipped with a cork seal. Cork seals are with proper treatment very long-lasting, especially when the fountain pen is not in use. ### Must the writing instruments of a Marcel Proust Limited Edition set bear identical edition numbers, and are early Limited Editions possibly without numbering? On an original set, all three writing instruments bear the same edition number; only then is, from a collector perspective, a complete set with corresponding value present. If the numbers are different, the set was subsequently put together, which reduces the collector value to the respective individual value. Particularly unusual is when the pencil delivered only in the set deviates. Early Limited Editions without numbering are possible; this should, however, in the individual case be confirmed by Montblanc. ### Does a subsequent diamond decoration on a Montblanc Kafka from the Writers Edition reduce the collector value? Subsequent modifications like applied diamonds on collector writing instruments are a matter of taste: supporters see it as a creative enhancement; critics complain about the loss of original symmetry and evaluate the conspicuous jewellery as a pure status signal. From a collector's view, it is no longer the original state, which generally reduces the value for classical collectors. ### Does a Montblanc Leonard Bernstein exist as a cartridge filler with decorated body and silver clip? Such a variant of the Leonard Bernstein Montblanc has never produced; the writing instrument shown is unambiguously a counterfeit, presumably of Chinese origin. Recognisable is this, among other things, by nib, feed, clip, grip section and 'converter', which do not correspond to the original features of Montblanc. The real Leonard Bernstein is designed as a piston filler with a gold clip. ### Who will the Patron of the Arts Edition 2006 be dedicated to? The Patron of the Arts Edition 2006 is dedicated to Sir Henry Tate. ### How is the Montblanc Hommage à Max Reinhardt Edition 2011 designed, and how is it judged? The Edition 2011 is designed with tiger eye as the decorative stone, whose characteristic structure, however, hardly comes into its own on press photos. While the workmanship is evaluated as successful, the design is regarded, compared to the Reinhardt editions of earlier years, as less convincing. Tastes here diverge, and the edition is anyway aimed at a special target group. ### How rare is the Montblanc Artisan Collection White Pearl or Magic Beauty II Mozart set, and what was the original retail price? The White Pearl or Magic Beauty II sets are regarded as exceptionally rare and were in 2003 led only in a few boutiques; the edition of the Mozart sets is said to be in the two-digit range, that of the 144/164 somewhat higher. A purchase price of 750 euros for a Mozart set is classified as very cheap. The original retail price was, according to boutique information, around 860 euros for the 144/164 variant. The claim that the set is already 15 years old is wrong; correct is the first issue May 2003. Because of low demand and unfavourable dollar exchange rate, it is currently rather advised to hold than to sell. ### Will the Montblanc Cardinal Richelieu (Limited Artisan Edition, retail price 13,500 euros) gain in value in future? The Richelieu belongs to the Limited Artisan Edition, which is not actively marketed by Montblanc. Owing to the high issue prices and the narrow collector circle, the value can after the first sale initially fall, especially with quick resale e.g. via eBay. Well-marketed, e.g. via auction houses, higher prices are possible. Ranges like Writers Edition or Patron of the Arts benefit more strongly from collectors who aim for complete series; with Skeleton and Artisan editions this is hardly possible due to high prices and small quantities. A reliable value forecast is not possible; a pleasing design and low limitation can have a positive effect. ### Is there a list or source from which one can read the availability and current market prices of Montblanc Limited Editions? A central, complete list does not exist. Larger stocks are kept by specialist retailers like Scription, whose offers and prices, however, are non-binding and quickly changing. For realistic value determination, it is recommended to search on eBay for completed auctions worldwide in order to see actually achieved sales prices. The auction prices stated by Montblanc on its own website often deviate significantly from eBay prices. Generally: some editions like the Hemingway retain their value close to the RRP; others like the J.P. Morgan are to be had under RRP. ### What background information is there on the Montblanc Pope Black & White fountain pen? The Pope Black & White had a launch price of 37,000 euros and counts accordingly as a high-priced, very exclusive piece. With a purchase in the USA at low dollar exchange rate, a price advantage could theoretically arise; however, on import into Germany, customs fees apply that can quickly eat up the advantage. Substantial further background information was not mentioned in the thread. ### Where are high-quality ballpoints, e.g. Limited Editions by Montblanc, best sold? Suitable sales routes are the for-sale section of relevant collector forums, platforms like penexchange.de and eBay. Particularly recommendable are collectors' meet-ups and fountain-pen fairs, e.g. in Hamburg; dates can be found for example on cas1996.de. There, market prices and personal contacts can be especially well realised. ### Which variants does the Montblanc Princesse Grace de Monaco Edition comprise? The edition exists in two particularly limited variants: a version with only three examples and a variant with 29 pieces. Montblanc presents the edition on a specially set-up microsite and in an elaborate magazine that is available in the boutiques. The magazine contains large-format photos on Grace Kelly's career as well as on the further Limited Edition pieces. In the thread, no technical details beyond the existence of these variants and accompanying materials were named. ### Which hard-to-obtain Limited Editions were most recently in stock in the Munich and Düsseldorf boutiques? In the Munich boutique, among others, the Greta Garbo Limited 100 as well as the Golden Dragon 2000 were available, plus numerous Patrons of the Arts and Writers Editions. In the new Düsseldorf boutique, e.g., I Love NY, Gutenberg, Musashi, Russian Flag, Montblanc 100 rose gold, Bohème 100s and 75s, 144s and 117s, Juilliard Centennial Celebration as well as various 888s and 4810 editions, supplemented by the Golden Dragon were found. The Düsseldorf boutique is additionally regarded as particularly impressively designed, with a several-metre-long, illuminated art object of the Montblanc summit. ### What does the Montblanc Writers Edition William Faulkner look like, and is the early release date correct? The Faulkner is a piston filler whose body and cap consist predominantly of transversely ribbed silver, presumably platinum-plated, similar to the cap of the StarWalker Doué. The barrel end with the piston mechanism as well as the upper cap end are made of brownish-shimmering precious resin. The nib is rhodium-plated and shows a gold-coloured engraving with clouds and a plane flying below them. The description was confirmed in the forum as fitting, although the early delivery date was surprising. ### Where can one buy Montblanc Limited Editions as a gift, and what is the difference between a Limited Edition and a Special Edition? Current Limited Editions are available at every Montblanc dealer as well as directly in the Montblanc shop; older Limited Editions are found above all on eBay or at specialised collector sites like penboard.de or Fritz Schimpf. On the mentioned site liebl.exklusives-schreiben.de, on the other hand, no Limited Editions but normal editions and Special Editions were carried. The decisive difference: with Limited Editions the quantity is limited from the start, while Special Editions are only produced in a certain period but in unlimited quantity. To the Special Editions belong, e.g., the UNICEF editions, Brahms or Lennon. Which piece fits well into a collection can only be judged when the collector's holdings are known. ### Are there concrete hints of a Montblanc Limited Edition on Goethe? Concrete and confirmed hints of a Goethe edition did not exist at the time of the discussion; even enquiries at Montblanc boutiques remained without result. Such an edition is among collectors regarded as an obvious idea, e.g. within the framework of the Writers Edition, but has so far not been announced. Anyone wishing to follow current rumours on coming Limited Editions finds these, by experience, early in the forum of fountainpennetwork.com. ### How high is the approximate value of a Montblanc Year of the Golden Dragon to be estimated? Two different Year of the Golden Dragon exist: an edition of 2000 pieces as well as an edition of 888 pieces (among others in Meissen porcelain); additionally there are Special Limited Editions. The launch price of the 2000 edition was between about 2400 and 2800 euros. The variant with Meissen porcelain had a list price of around 3850 euros. As a utility pen, the model is only restrictedly suitable because of the very massive clip; as a collector's piece, however, attractive. ### How does one clean and care for the silver surfaces of Montblanc Limited Editions, e.g. on the Charles Dickens, Kafka or Fitzgerald, without causing damage? Tarnishing silver surfaces is a normal chemical reaction and for many collectors visually unproblematic. For cleaning, a common silver-cleaning cloth is suitable, ideally with anti-tarnish protection for longer effect; Montblanc also offers its own silver-care set. To be considered is that every polish removes material, no matter which manufacturer; with vermeil writing instruments, too frequent polishing can wear off the gilding, e.g. on the Oscar Wilde. The natural oxide layer additionally acts as a protective layer that on removal restarts the corrosion process. A sealing with lacquer would be theoretically conceivable but would bring other disadvantages with it. ### Which Montblanc model is an angular, partly matted and shiny gold ballpoint with the engraving Mont Blanc Germany? Without a photo, a reliable determination is not possible; based on the description, the model fits most likely the Montblanc Leonardo Da Vinci. It is not a Limited Edition but an entirely normal ballpoint from the 1990s. Caution is in order if on the pen really Mont Blanc Germany is written separately, since the manufacturer spells itself Montblanc; such a spelling speaks clearly for a counterfeit. For final clarification, it is recommended to post photos in the forum. ### Where was a three-piece Montblanc Franz Kafka Limited Edition set available at a special price in 2007? The complete three-piece Kafka set was offered in August 2007 for 1350 euros minus 3 percent discount. Source was Papeterie Prygoda, Augustastraße 10, 45525 Hattingen, telephone 02324/22796. ### What is known about the first issue of the limited Montblanc "Presidential Pen" range on George Washington? The edition "George Washington" is the first issue of the Presidential Pen range and limited to 50 examples. Distribution is exclusively via Montblanc boutiques in the USA. Collectors evaluate the look predominantly positively but criticise the presumably very high price and partly the textual staging. Further information and pictures can be found via kulturgutschrift.de. Awaited with anticipation is the subsequent Marlene Dietrich issue, which is regarded as more accessible price-wise. ### How is the Montblanc Magical Black Widow 88 to be acquired and what price is called up for it? The Magical Black Widow 88 is hardly to be found in Germany, since only about two to three examples were sold to Germany; the majority went to the USA. An international search, e.g. via English-language collector forums, is therefore more promising. Privately called-up sale prices move in the range of around 30,000 euros. The piece No. 1/88 was additionally offered at a Bonhams auction in Los Angeles in February 2009. ### What is to be made of the Montblanc John Lennon Edition (limited and unlimited versions), and does John Lennon thematically fit a Montblanc luxury pen? The John Lennon Edition appears in several variants, including an unlimited issue as well as a version limited to 1940 pieces. From 2010 the pieces are available; whether they will also be offered in Germany was open at the time of the discussion. The light, silver colouring is felt by some collectors as rather feminine. In content, the thematic connection between John Lennon and Montblanc is seen critically, similarly to previously with the Mahatma Gandhi Edition, because the reference between personality and luxury fountain pen feels far-fetched. The name reference recognisably serves as justification for higher prices of limited editions. ### Which range does a completely black Montblanc fountain pen with "Bosch" imprint on the cap come from, and how old could it be? An exact model determination is not possible without pictures. Montblanc made in the 1980s and 1990s writing instruments for Bosch and other companies with individual advertising imprint as special versions. The fountain pen is therefore likely to come from this period and is a regular series version personalised by advertising imprint. ### What is known about the Montblanc edition "Hommage à Max Reinhardt 2005" for the Salzburg Festival? The edition "Hommage à Max Reinhardt 2005" supported the Young Directors Project of the Salzburg Festival. It was exclusively available during the festival (25 July to 31 August 2005) in the Montblanc boutique Salzburg (Alter Markt 1). The worldwide edition was 30 examples, 10 pieces per colour variant. ### Which retail price is realistic for a Montblanc Meisterstück 742 in Rolled Gold? A serious price statement is hardly possible without a photo and condition description, since the preservation condition is decisive. As a rough indication, an example in good condition most recently achieved around 200 euros on eBay. Further information on value determination can be found in older forum posts on comparable models. ### What did the Montblanc set "300 Years St. Petersburg" with the Patron of Art Editions Peter & Catherine the Great cost, and how are the sets numbered? In May 2003, Montblanc compiled 300 St. Petersburg sets from remaining stock of the Peter & Catherine 4810 edition as well as 100 sets from the 888 stock. The 4810 sets cost 2,970.00 euros, the solid-gold 888 sets 8,670.00 euros; the individual editions lay at 1,483.00 euros (4810) or 4,334.00 euros (888). The edition numbers are not running consecutively from 1 to 100/50 but resulted coincidentally from the remaining stock; however, the pen pairs within a set are always equally numbered. The sets were delivered in special outer packaging with description and leaflet, the 100 solid-gold sets in a special wooden box; distribution took place exclusively via Montblanc boutiques worldwide. Critically seen is when boutiques later significantly higher prices (e.g. 9,100 euros for a Catherine 888) adapt to individual auction results and thereby suggest an artificial increase in value. ### How and where does one best sell a Montblanc set like the Imperial Dragon 1993? For the sale of high-quality writing instruments, three routes come into question: an advertisement in the collectors' forum (free of charge but limited reach, especially not international), an eBay auction (large reach but high fees) and sale via professional dealers. The latter is, especially for more expensive pieces like the Imperial Dragon, recommendable, since specialised dealers have well-funded collector contacts and can take pieces on commission; usual is a commission. As proven contacts, Tom Westerich and Lutz Fiebig are named, both reachable via penboard.de. ### Which hints and what price range are to be considered in the private sale of a rare Montblanc Masterpiece 146G in grey striped? For a serious sale enquiry in the forum, clear information is indispensable: salutation with first names, meaningful pictures (ideally with a note bearing the seller's name in the picture) and a concrete price expectation. In the specific case, a guideline price of about 1,100 euros was named by another collector. In the forum it is additionally pointed out that private auction-style offers à la eBay are seen critically, since the forum is not primarily intended to achieve maximum prices. ### What can be the cause that on a Montblanc Writers Edition William Faulkner between the metal ring and the precious resin ink leaks out and causes inky fingers? During normal writing no inky fingers should arise; if between the front metal ring and grip section ink emerges, a defect is to be assumed that cannot be unambiguously diagnosed without inspection. It is recommended to present the writing instrument to a Montblanc boutique or to Montblanc service. The repair by Montblanc service worked reliably in the specific case; an initially issued invoice was generously handled in the boutique. If after filling ink first emerges, this can at least temporarily be controlled by carefully wiping the area (e.g. with a tissue); if fine scratches later arise on the grip section, these can be caused by putting on or screwing on the cap. ### Does the accompanying brochure of the Montblanc Agatha Christie have the same format as that of the Hemingway, or do the originals differ? The Hemingway brochure is actually larger than the accompanying brochures of other Writers Edition writing instruments; the larger format thus corresponds to the original and is no indication of a deviating or non-genuine document. ### Is it correct that on the Montblanc Writers Edition Fitzgerald the actually white body shimmers amber on some examples? The body of the Fitzgerald edition (ArtDeco) was originally made in white; brownish or amber-coloured shimmers arise when the plastic was over a longer time exposed to UV radiation, e.g. in illuminated shop windows. On some examples, however, the discolouration affects the entire body evenly and not only the one-sidedly exposed side, which can indicate further material influences or even storage in light. It is no separate production variant but an age-related discolouration. Originally, the Fitzgerald exists in clear white and in differently strongly browned intermediate stages. ### Are photos of a Montblanc Andrew Carnegie 4810 desired for a picture collection in the forum/on fountainpen.de? Missing photos of writing instruments are always welcome for the website, especially of editions for which no pictures yet exist. Owing to high professional workload of the webmaster, posting can however take a longer time. Contributions by collectors are gladly accepted and will gradually be integrated into the overview. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Patron of Arts Andrew Carnegie: https://www.fountainpen.de/patron-carnegie-4810-en.htm ### What value does an original three-piece set of the Montblanc Writers Edition Edgar Allan Poe have? Complete three-piece sets of the Edgar Allan Poe Edition have occasionally been auctioned for around 1600 euros, which is rather at the upper end of the market price. Value-determining are in particular the completeness of the papers, the condition of the writing instruments and the presence of consistently identical serial numbers (limited to 3000). General hints on value determination of writing instruments can be found in corresponding forum threads. A realistic market price lies rather below the achieved peak values. ### Does a rollerball variant of the Montblanc Imperial Dragon exist? A rollerball from the Imperial Dragon range has never existed. From the Imperial Dragon only fountain pens in two variants, a ballpoint and a pencil appeared. Every piece offered as Imperial Dragon rollerball is thus necessarily a counterfeit and typically corresponds to an imitation produced in China for a few euros. ### Where and in what form is the Montblanc Egyptomania Edition available? The Egyptomania Edition is available both on the French and on the German Montblanc website; only ink and pen pouch of the range are partly not depicted there. The edition is visually judged very positively; some, however, feel the fountain pen, due to its comparatively narrow diameter, as too thin. Anyone preferring thicker fountain pens may not find the ideal size here. ### What distinguishes the Montblanc Artisan Edition Caspar David Friedrich, and how is it assessed? The Caspar David Friedrich Artisan Edition is designed in champagne-gold version with brown applications modelled on the mountain ridges from the painting Wanderer above the Sea of Fog. The nib is highlighted as particularly finely worked and as the visual highlight of the pen, while the overall feel is felt to be not particularly attractive and weaker than the Gaudí edition. The retail price is around 18,500 euros. Spanish-language background information and pictures can be found, among others, at cruzaltpens.com. ### Is the Meisterstück 149 of the Unicef Edition by Jahn or Putman still available in trade, and at what price? A dealer in Traunstein most recently offered the Unicef edition for around 688 euros. Concrete further sources are not named. Since it is a Limited Edition, availability and price depend on the respective provider. An enquiry to the specialist retailer or to Montblanc itself is recommended for current information. ### How high was the original shop price of the Montblanc J.S. Bach fountain pen? According to the Compendium of limited editions issued by Montblanc, the shop price of the J.S. Bach fountain pen was 400 euros. Further price-relevant information was not mentioned in the thread. It is a Limited Edition from the Patron of Arts or Donation range, which is documented in specialised collector sources. Current market prices can deviate from this. ### Do all pencils of the Montblanc Writers Edition have the same lead thickness and is the lead interchangeable? Most pencils from the Writers Edition are equipped with a lead thickness of 0.7 mm. There are, however, exceptions, e.g. the Oscar Wilde mechanical pencil with a lead of 0.9 mm. A tolerance for deviating lead thicknesses is not provided on these writing instruments; a switch to thinner or thicker leads is therefore not possible. Before buying replacement leads, the respective model should be checked. ### What value does a Montblanc Charles Dickens 3-set have whose pen bears a different serial number than the other parts? Complete Charles Dickens sets with identical serial numbers are currently traded on eBay for about 1000 euros, occasionally also for 1200 to 1300 euros. Boutiques can generally not call up or offer this market price. Sets with deviating serial numbers tend to be given a value discount; an exact quantification of the loss is, however, difficult possible. Before purchase, comparison with current auction offers is worthwhile as orientation aid. ### Does the plastic bag in the original packaging of a Limited Edition influence the collector value? The plastic bag in the original packaging has no significant influence on the value of a writing instrument and can be disposed of without hesitation. Anyone valuing the appearance can have the packaging re-sealed by Montblanc free of charge within half a year after acquisition. On eBay, sealed original packagings tend to achieve somewhat higher prices. Even at renowned auction houses like Bonhams in Los Angeles, only previously checked writing instruments are auctioned. ### Of which sub-series does the Montblanc Precious Dragon 8 series consist? The Precious Dragon 8 series comprises four sub-series that appeared under the designations Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald and Diamond. The individual pieces count among collectors as interesting variations of the Dragon series. Concrete price information or further technical details are not named in the thread. For illustration, the thread refers to pages of Airline International with illustrations of all four sub-series. ### Where can the Meisterstück Unicef Edition ballpoint still be acquired? If the writing instruments are no longer available in regular trade, a direct enquiry to Montblanc whether remaining stock still exists is first worthwhile. Should this not be the case, essentially the second-hand market, especially eBay, remains as source. There older editions turn up regularly; however, authenticity and condition should be heeded. ### Can nibs also be exchanged on Montblanc Limited Editions and in which period is that possible? As long as corresponding nibs are in stock, an exchange is basically possible, outside the 14-day period however mostly for a fee. A subsequent manufacture of individual nibs is, on the other hand, not practicable, because the tools needed for production are destroyed after expiry of an edition; only plans and drawings remain. Since nibs are made with specially fabricated stamping tools, an individual hand manufacture cannot be economically represented. For a concrete piece of information on a particular edition, a direct enquiry to Montblanc is recommended. ### How are the three writing instruments of the Max Reinhardt Edition (Salzburg Art Director's Pens) visually to be classified? The various Salzburg Art Director's Pens, also designated as Max Reinhardt editions, are generally regarded as requiring some getting used to in design. The three pens discussed here are felt in this respect to be hardly surpassable. The taste judgement remains naturally individual. Content-historical details on the edition are not added in the thread. ### What is known about the Montblanc Skeleton Edition "Gaudi", and where are pictures of it available? The edition named is a skeleton fountain pen whose design is oriented on the architecture of Antoni Gaudí. A content connection of Montblanc to Gaudí cannot be clearly derived from the posts. Pictures and further impressions of the piece can be found on the collector site cruzaltpens.com in the post on the model. As with many special editions, the design is a matter of taste; in collector circles, the Gaudi is overall positively received. ### Which costs are to be expected for the repair of a bent nib of a Montblanc Voltaire? If the nib only has to be straightened, costs up to about 100 euros are to be reckoned with. A complete nib exchange moves, by experience, between 200 and 300 euros, which on the Voltaire economically still remains sensible. A binding estimate is only made by Montblanc service in Hamburg, which is why the writing instrument must be sent in directly or via a specialist retailer. After receipt of the quote, it can be decided whether the repair is carried out or the piece is returned unrepaired. ### Should the nib of a Montblanc 149 from the Unicef Edition be three-part, and which nib width regularly belongs to the set? With an offer with a two-tone instead of three-part nib, it is to be assumed that an older 149 from the 1980s or early 1990s was inserted into the Unicef packaging. Limited Editions can however at Montblanc also be individually ordered in a deviating nib width, e.g. if the standard width M is felt to be too broad. An F nib in the Unicef set is therefore indeed untypical but can be legitimate. The sets regularly come with an M nib. ### How high were edition and price of the Montblanc Limited Edition "Ancient Games" for the 2004 Olympic Games? The Limited Edition "Ancient Games" belonged to the Atelier Privés range and was sold in July 2004 exclusively via the Greek Montblanc boutiques. It was limited to 28 pieces. The body consists of solid yellow gold with a white marbled cap. The introduction price was 14,800 euros. ### How are the first pictures of the Montblanc Writers Edition 2014 on William Faulkner to be judged? The Writers Edition 2014 appears overall appealing, with especially the darker, contrasted nib pleasing, as is also a known stylistic device with other manufacturers. Critically seen is the newly designed grip section, since it lacks the ergonomic, curved form that, e.g., on the Meisterstück 146 is felt to be particularly pleasant. Thus the fountain pen leaves a mixed first impression. ### How does the Montblanc Skeleton "Romantic Heart" look, in what edition did it appear and how high is the price? The Montblanc Skeleton "Romantic Heart" was made in an edition of 14 pieces on the basis of the LeGrand and specially issued for the US market for Valentine's Day. The price is around 72,000 euros. Pictures and further information can be found in relevant international collector forums like the Fountain Pen Network. ### What is known about the break-in at the Montblanc boutique Hamburg and the associated stolen goods? In November 2008, the Montblanc boutique in Hamburg was largely cleared out in a single night after a fashion show; the booty was a total value of around one million euros. With the arrest of the receivers of stolen goods in Hamburg, goods worth 400,000 euros could be secured; the rest remained missing. The perpetrators apparently tried to dispose of the stolen goods within Germany, including models like Bismarck, Francois, Mozart and Dietrich. Anyone offered one of these pieces should notify the police or Montblanc. ### What role did the jewellery designer André Ribeiro play for Montblanc, and which editions did he design? Montblanc limited editions captivate many collectors because they unmistakably reflect the character of their namesake and the corresponding cultural epoch while also having to address the contemporary zeitgeist. It is precisely these writing instruments that touch collectors emotionally and bind them to the Montblanc brand. In addition to design and craftsmanship perfection, such editions place particular demands on their designers. This article is dedicated to André Ribeiro — and through him to the other creators as well. Already his first project at Montblanc (from 1990), the Meisterstück Royal, is extraordinary: one of the most valuable fountain pens in the world, set with around 4,200 diamonds. In parallel, Ribeiro worked on the development and technical execution of the Meisterstück Platinum. Both projects required exceptional technical know-how, since their goal was, among other things, to position Montblanc as the most exclusive and most craftsmanship-perfect writing instrument manufacturer. The Platinum and Royal editions (market launch 1993) prove this impressively. Ribeiro is also responsible for several Patron of Arts editions. His first in this series is a good example: with two designs he was able to convince the management at an early stage, so that in 1997 both variants — Catherine the Great and Peter the Great — were brought to market. That was a novelty; before and after that there was only one writing instrument per year. Next followed the Marquise de Pompadour edition (project started in 1998, market launch in 2001) — also impressive through its particular combination of gold and porcelain. A material mix that was later taken up in further limited editions (Year of the Golden Dragon 888, Sakura 333, Ludwig van Beethoven, Leonard Bernstein) and in the Annual Editions. In 2005, with Pope Julius II, another Patron of Arts edition from Ribeiro's hand appeared. According to his own statement he is currently not working on any further editions for Montblanc but is concentrating on his own projects. As a jewellery designer he continues to create very special pieces. He has remained true to his style: an independent material mix and strong contrasts. Today Ribeiro is regarded as THE expert when it comes to working rubber into jewellery — no one else currently succeeds in combining rubber, gold and diamonds with comparable craftsmanship perfection. For his creations he has already received numerous prizes, including the 'Red Dot' of the Design Centre Essen, an award for exceptionally high design quality. His pieces of jewellery can be admired in various museums such as the Cooper-Hewitt Museum (New York), the Musée des Arts Décoratifs (Paris) and the Schmuckmuseum Pforzheim. Further information about Mr Ribeiro's jewellery is available at any well-stocked jeweller as well as online at http://www.andre-ribeiro.de/. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Meisterstück Royal (set with ~4,200 diamonds): https://www.fountainpen.de/solitaire-royal-en.htm • Patron of Arts 'Catherine the Great': https://www.fountainpen.de/patron-catherine-888-en.htm • Patron of Arts 'Peter the Great': https://www.fountainpen.de/patron-peter-888-en.htm • Patron of Arts 'Marquise de Pompadour': https://www.fountainpen.de/patron-pompadour-en.htm • Patron of Arts 'Pope Julius II': https://www.fountainpen.de/patron-pope-julius2-en.htm • Asia edition 'Year of the Golden Dragon 888': https://www.fountainpen.de/asia-golden-dragon-888-en.htm • Asia edition 'Sakura 333': https://www.fountainpen.de/asia-sakura-333-en.htm • Overview of all Patron of Arts editions: https://www.fountainpen.de/patron-en.htm ### What is the story behind the Montblanc Jean Todt 146 — one of the first fully customised Montblanc editions? Around the year 2000 (possibly even slightly earlier), a very special Montblanc 146 appeared in an auction on eBay.com — quite unlike anything seen before: completely gold-plated, with a dark-red cap and an engraving on the barrel that was supposed to represent tyre tracks. It was not particularly pretty — but very, very special. A modest bid was placed, but the pen was not won: the final price was about five times as high as the own bid, around 2,600 USD as best recalled. A few months after the auction, a newspaper article revealed that Jean Todt (at the time responsible for the Ferrari Formula 1 team) is an ambitious collector of Montblanc and Montegrappa writing instruments. He had even managed to persuade Montblanc to build him his own fountain pen — with a red cap and a gold-plated body. Todt apparently lost it later or it was stolen from him. That made it clear: the piece from the auction was almost certainly exactly this Todt pen. The remarkable point: up to then it was not generally known that Montblanc also accommodates fully individual customer wishes. The Jean Todt 146 therefore counts among the very first fully customised Montblanc writing instruments and marks a milestone in the brand's history — the beginning of what was later professionalised as the bespoke service via the Artisan Studio. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Montblanc Meisterstück 146 (Le Grand): https://www.fountainpen.de/c-montblanc-meisterstueck-146-en.htm • Skeleton Edition Ferrari Jean Todt: https://www.fountainpen.de/skeleton-ferrari-jean-todt-en.htm • Overview Skeleton Editions: https://www.fountainpen.de/skeleton-en.htm • Overview Artisan Editions (Bespoke): https://www.fountainpen.de/artisan-en.htm ### What are fully customised writing instruments, and which manufacturers offer such bespoke editions? Beyond the sale of regular limited and special editions, several established high-end writing instrument manufacturers also produce fully customised one-off pieces to the customer's specification — known in English as bespoke pieces. On commission, materials, engravings, precious metals and gemstone settings are produced according to personal preference and — in many cases — the family or company symbolism of the commissioning customer. Pioneers in this discipline are Montblanc with the Artisan Studio in Hamburg and Montegrappa, both well known for their made-to-measure pieces. Caran d'Ache, Visconti, Krone, Stipula as well as specialised manufacturers such as Yard-O-Led, Conway Stewart, Bexley and individual boutique pen makers also offer bespoke services. Frequently used design elements include solid gold barrels with hand-engraved motifs, enamel work, gemstone settings and the use of historical or symbolically charged materials (e.g. meteorite iron, mammoth ivory or precious woods). Early publicly known examples are the Montblanc Jean Todt 146 mentioned earlier as well as various one-off pieces from the Montblanc Artisan Studio. An overview of spectacular ultra-high-end editions and individual commissions from the international luxury writing-instrument scene is offered, among others, by an article in Robb Report: https://robbreport.com/shelter/art-collectibles/21-ultimate-gifts-writ-large-234857/ — there pieces are shown whose prices quickly reach five- to six-figure amounts and which, in choice of materials, engraving and gemstone setting, leave the boundaries of classic writing instruments far behind. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Montblanc Artisan Editions (Bespoke): https://www.fountainpen.de/artisan-en.htm • Limited Artisan Editions: https://www.fountainpen.de/limited-artisan-en.htm • Patron of Arts (edition series): https://www.fountainpen.de/patron-en.htm • Skeleton editions: https://www.fountainpen.de/skeleton-en.htm ### What is special about the Montblanc Copernicus edition (4810 and 888), and which production error occurred? In 2003 the Montblanc Copernicus was released as a Patron of Arts edition in two variants (4810 and 888). Even the first photos convinced many collectors: the barrel (though the thick silver rings were not to everyone's taste), the mother-of-pearl star – still something special at the time – and above all the nib with its engraved yellow sun made the piece a highlight. More than one collector even sold off other writing instruments to be able to afford the Copernicus 4810 and pre-ordered it immediately. On opening the packaging, however, many were in for a surprise: in all photos online, on the Montblanc homepage, in the brochures and even in the service booklet, the sun on the nib engraving was rendered in yellow (gold-plated); what was actually delivered, however, was a nib whose sun was platinum-plated and only the outer rim gold-plated – exactly the other way round. A silver sun looked not only counter-intuitive but also visually much less appealing. An enquiry with the Montblanc hotline yielded the response that on all nibs of this edition the sun was platinum-plated and the rim gold-plated. Asked why brochures, service guide and homepage showed exactly the opposite, the answer was that this design change had been made at short notice once the brochures had already been printed; a reason for the reversal of the gold-plating, however, was not given. Only later did the trade reveal what had really happened: a Montblanc employee allegedly had not read the design specifications correctly, so that all nibs were plated incorrectly. This was reportedly only noticed once the entire production was already faulty – too late for a correction. Astonishingly, the deviation apparently went unnoticed by anyone during production. Two to three years after release, a Copernicus prototype with the originally intended (correct) nib – sun in yellow, rim in platinum – was auctioned on eBay France. The price achieved was significantly above the regular edition level. Montblanc, incidentally, took several years to bring the photos on its own website in line with the nib variant actually delivered. Further information and pictures of both variants can be found on the overview pages of fountainpen.de: • https://www.fountainpen.de/patron-copernicus.htm (Copernicus 4810) • https://www.fountainpen.de/patron-copernicus888.htm (Copernicus 888) Further related pages: • Patron of Arts 'Marquise de Pompadour' (Ribeiro's previous edition): https://www.fountainpen.de/patron-pompadour-en.htm • Overview of all Patron of Arts editions: https://www.fountainpen.de/patron-en.htm ### Which two surface variants exist on the Montblanc Hemingway, and how was this first Writers Edition received by the market? In 1992 the Hemingway was released as the first edition of the Writers Edition series. Today it counts among the most sought-after pieces of the series and would be a most welcome addition to many a collector's collection. What is often forgotten: in the first years after release the Hemingway was not really in demand – or to put it differently, it lay in many shop windows like lead. The colour combination with its striking orange in particular did not initially appeal to many buyers. As late as 1997, five years after market launch, the Hemingway was still available in many boutiques and at specialist dealers without any waiting time. On opening two then still factory-sealed Hemingway ballpoint pens, a peculiarity emerged that is not yet widely known: the first ballpoint pen corresponded to the familiar variant with a slightly rough surface – the barrel skin looks as if it had been sandblasted (exactly how this rougher finish is achieved is not known). With the second ballpoint pen, however, the surprise was complete: this Hemingway was entirely smooth – neither clip nor barrel showed the typical rough surface. An enquiry through the dealer, who in turn contacted Montblanc, revealed: at least for the ballpoint pens, two surface variants do indeed exist – a rough one and a smooth one. Why these two finishes exist has not been conclusively clarified to this day; possible explanations include an early pre-series run, a special production batch or a later adjustment to the manufacturing process. For the Hemingway fountain pens, on the other hand, only the variant with the rough surface is so far known. For collectors it is therefore worthwhile, when acquiring a Hemingway ballpoint pen, to take a close look at clip and barrel – the smooth variant is likely to be considerably rarer. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Montblanc Writers Edition 'Hemingway' (1992): https://www.fountainpen.de/writer-hemingway-en.htm • Overview of all Writers Editions: https://www.fountainpen.de/writer-en.htm ### What is the story behind the Montblanc Skeleton "I love NY" edition, and why of all places was it not available in New York? After the Skeleton Star edition 333 (see https://www.fountainpen.de/skeleton-star.htm) sold out within a very short time, Montblanc brought a whole series of further Skeleton variants to the market. An overview can be found at https://www.fountainpen.de/skeleton.htm in the Limited Flag Pens section. Among the country-specific Skeleton editions there was also the "I love NY" variant, produced in just 50 pieces. This edition counts among the most sought-after and rarest Skeleton pieces of all. However, a curious trademark mishap occurred: Montblanc had apparently failed to properly secure the rights to the well-known "I love NY" logo (designed by Milton Glaser, protected by the New York State Department of Economic Development). The consequence: while the edition could be sold regularly in Asia or, for example, in the Paris boutique, it was of all places not available in New York – precisely at the very location to which the edition was dedicated. A remarkable example of how important the correct clarification of licensing and trademark rights is, especially for strongly regionally focused limited editions. Direct model page: https://www.fountainpen.de/skeleton-i-love-ny-en.htm ### What distinguishes the Montblanc Imperial Dragon from the Agatha Christie, and which official pins existed for it? When Montblanc launched the Writers Edition Agatha Christie in 1993, a country-specific variant was sold in parallel in Japan under the name Imperial Dragon. The background: snakes – like the characteristic clip on the Agatha Christie – do not have a particularly good image in Japanese culture, whereas dragons are traditionally regarded as bringers of good luck and as symbols of power, prosperity and protection. A country-specific adaptation therefore made perfect cultural sense. What many collectors are not yet aware of: (1) The Imperial Dragon is slightly larger than the Agatha Christie because the ring in the cap is wider on the Imperial Dragon. At first glance both models appear almost identical; a direct size comparison, however, reveals the difference in the cap area. (2) For the Imperial Dragon, Montblanc also officially offered matching pins in two variants: one in silver and one gold-plated. The exact production limit is not known. Even at the time of release, these pins were quite expensive and extremely rare – and in the years that followed, they hardly ever surfaced again, even on eBay they were offered only very occasionally. For collectors, these official Imperial Dragon pins therefore represent a particular rarity today, complementing the main piece. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Montblanc Imperial Dragon (1993 Japan edition, 4810 pieces): https://www.fountainpen.de/asia-imperial-dragon-1993-en.htm • Montblanc Imperial Dragon 888 (limited variant): https://www.fountainpen.de/asia-imperial-dragon-1993-888-en.htm • Writers Edition 'Agatha Christie' (1993, snake clip): https://www.fountainpen.de/writer-christie-en.htm • Overview of all Writers Editions: https://www.fountainpen.de/writer-en.htm ### What was the original price of the Montblanc Black Diamond and what resale value do these diamond writing instruments achieve today? The Montblanc Black Diamond is among the most spectacular writing instruments in the brand's history: the fountain pen is set with 4,810 diamonds – the number references the height of Mont Blanc in metres and is also the code of the Montblanc gold nibs. It thus joins the small group of ultra-high-end editions with which Montblanc underlines its position as the most exclusive writing instrument manufacturer. The retail price of the Diamond writing instruments was around 100,000 to 125,000 euros per piece. Anyone who buys such a piece does so primarily out of collector or status interest – as an investment the edition cannot be recommended, since the gap between list price and actual resale value is considerable. Concrete examples show this clearly: one Black Diamond changed hands second-hand for around 16,000 euros; another piece achieved approximately 20,000 euros. At Christie's, "A Royal Black Diamond Fountain Pen" came under the hammer with a result in the same range – that is, at less than one-fifth of the original retail price. Comparable auction results can be researched via Christie's lot database (e.g. christies.com/lotfinder, search term "Royal Black Diamond Fountain Pen"). For collectors this means: such diamond editions are undeniably luxurious and impressive from a craftsmanship point of view, but they are not suitable as a store of value. Anyone looking for value stability is generally significantly better served by classic limited editions or selected vintage pieces. Related pages on fountainpen.de: • Montblanc Meisterstück Royal (diamond edition, comparable piece with ~4,200 diamonds): https://www.fountainpen.de/solitaire-royal-en.htm • Overview of all Skeleton editions: https://www.fountainpen.de/skeleton-en.htm • Overview of Annual Editions: https://www.fountainpen.de/annual-editions-en.htm ### What is the story behind the Montblanc Gift Collection 2004, and what connection does it have to the Jungle Eyes edition? What does a manufacturer do when its sales forecasts have been overly optimistic and products need to be moved? Today, writing instrument manufacturers use classic distribution channels such as Vente Privée (e.g. Pelikan, Faber-Castell, Montegrappa, Tibaldi) or Amazon VIP (Montblanc) to clear residual stock. The situation, however, is different when it is not complete writing instruments but only individual components – caps, barrels and the like – that remain from editions that have already been discontinued. Such parts are too valuable simply to be thrown away. It was exactly this consideration that the decision-makers at Montblanc are likely to have made in 2004. At that time, the Jungle Eyes edition (Artisan series) was taken off the market, but individual components were still available. From these arose the Montblanc Gift Collection 2004: writing instruments in which components of the discontinued Jungle Eyes were reused, though in some models with quite independent design features – and for which, in every case, additional components were specifically produced. The Gift Collection 2004 is exceptionally rare today. Rumours suggest the production run at the time was in the very low three-digit range, which makes the pieces particularly interesting for Montblanc collectors. A dealer remarked at the time, half-jokingly, that in ten years hardly anyone would remember this edition and many would even consider it fakes because of the unusual design – a prediction regularly confirmed when the Gift Collection surfaces on the auction market. Sample photos of the Gift Collection 2004 based on the Jungle Eyes edition can be found on the overview pages of fountainpen.de: • https://www.fountainpen.de/artisan-jungle-eyes-mop.htm • https://www.fountainpen.de/artisan-jungle-solitaire-mop.htm • https://www.fountainpen.de/artisan-solitaire-platinum-doue.htm Overview of all Artisan and Jungle Eyes variants: https://www.fountainpen.de/artisan-en.htm ## Special Editions ### What is known about the Montblanc Meisterstück White Pearl Edition, especially regarding edition size and distribution? The Montblanc Meisterstück White Pearl Edition pens were never officially distributed through boutiques or specialist shops. In total only about 100 pieces are believed to have been produced, sold exclusively through a Montblanc-internal private sale to selected dealers. For this reason the pens appear on the market only very rarely. There is some confusion regarding the name: the packaging of one model 144 carries the name "Magic Beauty II", while a Montblanc expert confirms "White Pearl" as the correct designation. These naming inconsistencies trace back to the fact that the edition was never officially offered through the trade. Some pens were sold individually, with complete sets very rare. Even though the exact number remains unknown and estimates put it at around 100 pieces, the White Pearl / Magic Beauty II ranks among Montblanc's rarest editions. ### How do Montblanc Special Edition, Limited Edition and Artisan Edition differ? The terms Special Edition, Limited Edition and Artisan Edition are used differently at Montblanc. Special Editions are produced only with a temporal restriction; the quantity, however, can be freely chosen by Montblanc within the production period — many or few writing instruments may be made. Examples are the Special Anniversary Edition produced only in 1999 and the Menuhin Edition, whose production period was not infinite, but whose exact quantity is unknown. Limited Editions are restricted both in production period and quantity. An example is the Patron of the Arts Edition J.P. Morgan 2004: the writing instruments were produced only in 2004; afterwards the moulds were destroyed; the edition was 4,810 pieces in the regular variant and 888 pieces in the solid-gold version. Artisan Editions are extremely rare and generally very expensive writing instruments produced only in quantities of 1, 4, 10 or under 333. An exception are editions like Jungle Eyes as somewhat more regular variants. A typical example of an Artisan Edition is the Carnegie Ruby Edition based on a Carnegie of 2002 and set with rubies.