Caran d'Ache and MB&F embark on a creative odyssey: the Astrograph writing instrument. Projecting his dreams of conquering space onto a writing instrument was the original idea of MB&F founder Maximilian Büsser. The creative and technical forces within Caran d'Ache enthusiastically embraced this new adventure, both thrilling and complex.

The result is the Astrograph writing instrument: an artistic union that took root among the common values held dear by both partners: creativity, respect for tradition, impeccable quality and Swiss Made. The slim, curved body of Astrograph is immediately reminiscent of the outline of a space rocket and contains a total of 99 components, comprising a multitude of innovative features: a "detent" system of vertical stabilisation, launch-pad box, magnetic figurine... It takes more than 500 manual operations to produce each instrument, quite simply the most complex writing instrument ever made in the Caran d’Ache workshops.

THE MACHINE

FOUNTAIN PEN

This writing instrument is fitted with an ink pump, but may also be used with cartridges.
The pen nib is made from rhodium-plated 18-carat gold, available in size M.
Other nib sizes available upon request.

ROLLER PEN

• This writing instrument is fitted with a Caran d’Ache roller pen cartridge.

PEN BODY

• The rocket-shaped pen body is rhodium-plated and either highly polished or sandblasted matt, or plated in ruthenium anthracite. The chequered pattern is made from anthracite lacquer.

BASE

• The base of the "engine" is plated with ruthenium. The stabiliser legs, the joints and miniature ladder are polished, sandblasted, satin-finished and rhodium-plated. The sides and edges are highly polished.

  INGENIOUS MECHANISM

  The structure is articulated by an ingenious mechanism inspired by penknives: a miniature lever – the entry door to the rocket, concealed in the ring of the pen – activates the simultaneous lowering of three stabiliser legs. Once these have been deployed, it is possible to stand Astrograph up vertically, ready for take-off.

  ASTRONAUT

  The magnetic miniature astronaut figurine is silver and rhodium-plated and can be attached at will to the body of the writing instrument, ready to “climb on board”.

  “LAUNCH PAD” BOX

  Design inspired by a spacecraft launch pad. Circular shaped, the box is fitted with three articulated legs which allow the writing instrument to be kept inside or displayed outside, placed in the middle in a vertical position.

  The Astrograph limited edition is available in three finishes. In homage to the 99 new components specially developed for the Astrograph limited edition, 99 fountain pens and roller pens are numbered: "1 in 99 pieces".