The starting material is a solid gold strip, which is first rolled. In the process the material is rolled thinner towards the tip than at the rear end, so that the nib acquires the desired flexibility. In the second operation the chasing is embossed and the breather hole punched at the same time. The blank then receives its final domed shape in what is known as a die.
After electroplating, the iridium tip is applied, which protects the point against wearing down. The nib slit is then cut with hair-thin cutting discs as far as the breather hole. Finally, an employee checks every single nib by hand, realigns it where necessary and thus ensures that it glides smoothly over the paper. This last step cannot be automated; it rests on years of experience and a delicate touch. Quality is moreover checked again at every work station.