Written by Menswear Style in Essentials on the 5th November 2018

We all know the line made famous in Scorsese’s Wolf of Wall Street, but do you know your pens? In an era of laptops and smartphones, you might think it would be somewhat outdated, old-fashioned even, to pull out an exquisite writing instrument, but how very wrong you’d be. Luxury is all about the detail; subtle elements that elevate your style by exposing the delicate craftsmanship and superior quality of your outfit. No look, however, is complete without the most luxurious accessory of all – the pen – a subtle sign of power and lavishness.

Everybody from James Bond to Gordon Gekko carried a pen; used to mark ones’ authority and even as a product of mass destruction (007 in Goldeneye). Treaties and contracts are sealed with one and it’s said you can tell a lot about a man by looking at the nib type he chooses – true aficionados will tell you an iridium nib should be your only choice! We spoke with leading online retailer, Pen Heaven, to ascertain what the top three most extravagant pens are, and what we should know about them. Each a work of art in its own right, designed by pen innovators and experts to the highest possible standard, read on to know the write stuff.

Graf Von Faber Castell Classic Fountain Pen Grenadilla Wood

One of the most premium writing brands you can find, Graf von Faber Castell was established in 1839 and shot to fame as the first manufacturer of wood encased pencils. A fine specimen for a true gent, the Classic Fountain Pen is a beautiful power symbol, making you feel as if you can conquer the world. Stylish in an understated way, it adds a touch of opulence to your wardrobe with its ribbed Grenadilla wood barrel, bi-coloured 18k gold nib, iridium tip and screw close cap.

Parker Duofold Prestige Blue Chevron Fountain Pen

Possibly the most famous pen brand in the world, Parker is certainly the most used. Founded in 1888, it wasn’t until 1921 that the now iconic Duofold design was introduced and has since held its spot with collectors as an icon of fine writing. The prestige model here offers a modern twist on the classic look, thanks to its dark blue lacquer finish with chevron pattern. Symbolic to many, the Duofold is both sophisticated and stylish finished, in this case, with a gold-plated trim and solid 18k gold nib with rhodium plate.

Yard-O-Led Viceroy Grand Barley Sterling Silver Fountain Pen

Made in England, the Yard-O-Led Viceroy was handcrafted using 19th century techniques and features a delicate Victorian design. Still very much in demand today by those in high power positions, this design offers the perfect balance between opulence and understated style. Complete with its grandiose barrel, curved clip with metal screws and engraved barley pattern, as well as an 18-carat gold nib, this is the daddy of the pen world.

We feature the Graf Von Faber Castell, Parker Duofold Prestige and Yard-O-Led Viceroy in this article on 3 Exquisite Writing Instruments for the Intelligent Man.