Earlier this year Styljoux unveiled another twist on writing instruments with the new Le Calibre collection, whose sleek look belies what’s going on inside the barrel.
The pens incorporate a weight adjustment mechanism that engages by simply twisting the ring on top of the barrel. This causes an oscillating weight to glide up and down the barrel, effectively changing the center of gravity to the taste of the pen user.
Wow.
“Le Calibre aims to introduce the excitement and exuberance of the watch replica world into the pen world in order to create a modern and relevant writing instrument,” says Iunal Giumali, founder of the brand and of the popular website www.penficionado.com.
“For example, the closing mechanism for the cap is inspired by the pushers found on chronograph watch replica es replica. The dial on the top the pen [indicating the relative position of the oscillating weight inside the barrel] is a direct reference to watch replica dials. Furthermore, the use of gears and functional jewels are directly inspired by watch replica movements.”
The two pushers situated on the barrel control two hooks that lock securely onto a precision-cut groove located on the inside of the cap. When the pen is capped, the pushers are in a raised position relative to the barrel. When pushed to release the cap, the pushers will lock into a level position to avoid any effect on the writing experience. The pushers also release a sliding ring that covers the hooks.
Sapphire crystal: a “hot” material right now
Sapphire crystal is a hot material in timepieces these days as evidenced by new collections from Richard Mille and Hublot among others (see Give Me Five! Sapphire Crystal Cases At Baselworld 2016 From Hublot, 4N, Rebellion, MB&F, And Bell & Ross).
Le Calibre Sapphire is crafted from a solid block of it. Future collections will be crafted from such materials as transparent hard resin, titanium, carbon fiber, ceramic, steel, and more.
A self-professed lover of pens and micromechanics, Giumali founded his company less than two years ago as part of Swisspens Ltd., which he established in London.
The pens are primarily Swiss made, however for certain models, “Parts are made in France, Germany, or Italy. The idea is to take advantage of the best technologies and artisans available in the regions,” Giumali explains.
He describes his audience as, “Savvy when it comes to modern accouterments and not afraid to make a powerful statement. Some will be watch replica aficionados and watch replica collectors because of the obvious design and identity connection.”
The second collection available from Syljoux is the Flamingo. According to Giumali, it is the more traditional of the two.
“Flamingo will appeal more to people looking for more classical interpretations but still looking for a bit of spice. Hence the proximity alarm.” This ingenious little device, connected to your phone, lets you find your pen if you lose it (so no more excuses about buying cheap pens because you lose them!).
It comes with three different closing mechanisms – screw, push, and vacuum held – and the clip can be fixed or hinged. Giumali says this model appeals to “pen collectors, design lovers, or people from a professional background.”
Quick Facts Le Calibre
Editions: rollerball
Cap and barrel: sapphire crystal
Limitation: 5 pieces
Price: £50,000