MARK OF A CHAMP: Caran d’Ache (derived from karandash, meaning ‘pencil’ in Russian) has been producing graphite pencils and fountain pens – like this Varius Ivanhoe – for almost a century. The nib of the Ivanhoe will come to you constructed in 18ct gold and in one of six different widths.
LINE OF THE TIMES: The Ivanhoe has a distinct woven stainless steel coat of mail that will, if anything, cause you to reflect on what little you used to know about the world of pen grips. Finished in silver plate and rhodium, it also comes with a lifetime international guarantee. Talk about the chain of command.
£506; harrods.com
