To complete the “ICONS” series that consists of Muhammad Ali and Bruce Lee pens, MONTEGRAPPA launches special edition pen as a tribute to FRANK SINATRA, a remarkable artist who has redefined the role of the singer and who was the first to make fans swoon, scream and faint. As an unprecedentedly successful singer and actor – recipient of 11 Grammy Awards including the Grammy Trustees Award, Grammy Legend Award and the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, as well as the winner of the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor (1953) – Sinatra has made significant accolades to put him on the list of the 20th Century’s most influential personalities.

Stephen Holden, writer of Grammy Award winning note “The Voice: The Columbia Years, a Frank Sinatra Anthology” rated Francis Albert Sinatra (December 12, 1915 – May 14, 1998) the first modern pop star who transformed popular singing by infusing lyrics with a personal, intimate point of view that conveyed a steady current of eroticism. “Almost singlehandedly, he helped lead a revival of vocalized swing music that took American pop to a new level of musical sophistication.”

Montegrappa “Icon” series: Frank Sinatra Fountain Pen

Montegrappa “Icon” series: Frank Sinatra Fountain Pen, sterling silver trim and 18k solid gold trim

The third series of Montegrappa Icons Pen features signature details of the bobby soxers’ idol, Frank Sinatra, those are:

• Blue accents on the fountain pen version as a reminiscence of Frank’s nickname and 1973 successful album “Ol’ Blue Eyes Is Back”; while orange on the roller ball pen reflects his quote: “Orange is the happiest color”.
• The pocket clip is carved in the shape of a classic microphone evoking the fact that Sinatra was one of the pioneers to sing with a microphone, following his idol Bing Crosby.
• Tip of each pen bears a musical staff and a G-clef.
• The barrel and cap are finished to resemble the fabric of a sharp pin-striped suit, while the end of the cap is engraved with a silhouette of Sinatra’s signature fedora hat. That type of hat, worn also by Michael Jackson, Jason Mraz and Bruno Mars, was made popular by Frank Sinatra and became his signature style. Today, the silhouette is the logo of Frank Sinatra Enterprise, a specialty record label which manages various aspects of Frank Sinatra’s artistic contribution to music, films, and stage such as music, videos, books, gifts, collectibles, ringtones, and unreleased footage.

Montegrappa “Icon” series: Frank Sinatra Rollerball Pen

Montegrappa “Icon” series: Frank Sinatra Rollerball Pen, sterling silver trim and 18k solid gold trim

Made of resin with silver trim, the MONTEGRAPPA ICONS FRANK SINATRA PENS are available in limited edition of 1,915 fountain pens and 1,915 roller balls. The number of pieces suggests the year of Frank Sinatra was born. While, in order to connote the month he was born, the pen manufacturer based in Bassano del Grappa, North East Italy since 1912 produces 12 fountain pens and 12 roller ball pen in resin with solid 18k gold trim.

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After Gustafsson & Sjögren, now we feature other William Henry competitor: OMAS – Officina Meccanica Armando Simoni. While the first incorporates pinot noir wine in its design, the latter brings champagne. This Italian manufacturer of writing instruments has just launched 1,811 numbered pieces of luxury pens (1,000 piston filling Fountain Pens and 811 Roller Balls) to celebrate the bicentenary of the Epernay-based producer of champagne: Perrier-Jouët.

Founded by husband-wife, Pierre Nicolas Perrier and Adele Jouet 200 years ago (1881), the Champagne House is famous for its prestige label named Cuvée Belle Epoque (known instead as Fleur de Champagne in the USA). It’s a blend of 50% Chardonnay, 45% Pinot Noir and 5% Pinot Meunier, comes with an exclusive green bottle adorned with enameled images of ANENOMES, the work of the glassmaker Emile Gallé in the Art Nouveau style, in 1902. That champagne is legendary and the bottle is legendary. So, it is unsurprising that Omas incorporates that signature ornament on the details of Perrier-Jouët 200 Ans pen.

Made of green Coton resin evoking the transparency of the prestige magnum bottles, the OMAS PERRIER-JOUËT 200 YEAR ANNIVERSARY PEN features the meticulous floral ornament engraved on the barrel as a background while the acronym “PJ” and the number “200” is the enamels lying on it. Along with OMAS logo, the Art Noveau anemones of the Belle Epoque Cuvée also adorn the 18k gold cap, the clip, and the ring of nib holder.

Each Perrier-Jouët Bicentenaire Pen comes in an elegant box with ink.

To complete the collection, the manufacturer OMAS – handcrafted in Italy since 1925, also offers the exclusive limited edition in 20 numbered pieces – realized in 18k rose gold, embellished with gems and enamels, handcrafted on demand only.

Founded by Armando Simoni in 1925, OMAS produces writing instruments, fountain pens, ink and related luxury goods in their factory located in Bologna, Italy. The company, currently part of French company LVMH and Xinyu Hengdeli Group of Hong Kong, also designs the tools and equipment needed to manufacture its line of pens, including the famous “Doctor’s pen” (which has a tiny built-in clinical thermometer), the twelve faceted Arte Italiana range, the fountain pen with two alternative, selectable nibs, and a range of fountain pens with transparent barrels.

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Two American companies, WILLIAM HENRY, a fine tool maker and THE EYRIE VINEYARDS, a winemaker has joined forces to create a beautiful pen remembering the day when first American pinot noir surpassed French Burgundy. The 35-year-old grapevine wood from the original vineyard in Oregon’s Willamette Valley will live forever in this LIMITED EDITION RB8-EYRIE PEN telling story about tireless craftsmanship and American pride.

A black wine grape variety of the species Vitis Vinifera called Pinot Noir is widely considered to produce some of the finest wines in the world. Joel Fleischman of Vanity Fair describes Pinot noir as “the most romantic of wines, with so voluptuous a perfume, so sweet an edge, and so powerful a punch that, like falling in love, they make the blood run hot and the soul wax embarrassingly poetic.”

Though it grows around the world, mostly in the cooler regions, this variety is difficult to cultivate and transform into wine. However, David and Diana Lett successfully planted the dark purple pine cone-shaped bunches of fruit outside of the Pinot Noir’s home: Burgundy region, France. They found Willamette Valley (at the Red Hills of Dundee) is the perfect place for a vineyard site due to its temperatures, rainfall and day-length.

In 1966, the husband and wife established The Eyrie Vineyard – named after red-tailed hawks (EYE-ree) which make their nests in the fir trees at the top of the first vineyard plantings, and started producing wine in 1970. The history began in 1975 when the winery produced the first American Pinot Noir to compete successfully with the famous Pinot noirs of Burgundy. 1975 Eyrie Vineyards Reserve Pinot Noir won tenth place among Pinot noirs in blind tasting at the Wine Olympics in 1979, upsetting 300 wines from 33 countries; In fact, at the rematch organized by Burgundy winemaker Robert Drouhin at Maison Joseph Drouhin in Beaune, France, a year later, Eyrie’s 1975 South Block Reserve grapevine won a second place, only 2/10ths of a point below the winner, the 1959 Chambolle-Musigny from Joseph Drouhin. This achievement established the US among the most respected and admired winemakers in the world.

Until now, David Lett (known locally as “Papa Pinot“) maintained a light-handed style of Pinot noir that did not follow the trend toward greater flavor, tannin, and color extraction. He believes quality of Pinot noir is not indicated by its color. This put him at odds with some of the wine critics.

The WILLIAM HENRY SPECIAL EDITION RB-8 EYRIE PEN incorporates the original Eyrie vine wood – the historic 1975 vineyard was recently cut down to be replanted – for the barrel of this writing instrument. It is joined with ebonite, aerospace grade titanium, upscale acrylics, and accents of hand forge ‘mokume gane’ – an ancient metal working technique originated from Japan in which unique layering of mixed soft metals creates a beautiful pattern, and hand made Damascus steel – a.k.a pattern welded steel is a combination of two steels forge-welded to create a unique pattern by a folding technique. The roller-ball pen also features the revolutionary spring loaded Wavelock® closure and a red topaz clip evoking the subtle color of fine pinot noir. Produced in limited edition of 100 pieces only, the Eyrie Pen features its own unique number engraved on the end cap.

Matt Conable, founder / owner / designer of William Henry Studio said,

“I like the idea that William Henry’s creations strike a personal chord in many people. Every now and then, it is important to invest in objects that are personal, immediately useful, yet timeless in their appeal and relevance – these rare pieces can become part of a living legacy”

The historic pens come in a nice wood presentation box with certificate of authenticity and pen refills by Schmidt of Germany.

Based in McMinnville, Oregon – nearby the Eyrie’s winery, William Henry Studio was founded in 1997 by Matthew William Conable and Michael Henry Honack. The company has long been known for their remarkable knives, but the founder’s vision has brought it to broader market, producing tools that include pens, money clip, divot tools and display cases.

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| Buy Knives, Pens, or Tools by William Henry Studio| | Buy Eyrie Vineyard Pinot Noir Wine|

While the first man stepped on the moon was acknowledged by Omega, the first man journeyed on outer space is recognized by MONTEGRAPPA. The Italian writing instruments manufacturer has created a limited edition pen commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Soviet Air Forces pilot and cosmonaut YURI GAGARIN’s flight into space. It seems that the brand will get more popular in Russia as before this, a historical moment had involved Montegrappa: Boris Yeltsin gave his Dragon pen to Vladimir Putin on 2nd January 2000 symbolizing a power shifting; not to mention, the current Russia’s president, Dmitry Medvedev signs all official documents with the Montegrappa Extra 1930.

Born in 9th March 1934 in Klushino, Russia, Yuri Alekseyevich Gagarin is considered one of the greatest heroes of the 20th Century. After the search and selection process, Yuri Gagarin was chosen with 19 other pilots for the Soviet space program. He was further selected for an elite training group known as the Sochi Six from which the first cosmonauts of the Vostok programme would be chosen. Gagarin was the first human being to journey into outer space, when his Vostok Vostok 3KA-3 (Vostok 1) spacecraft completed an orbit of the earth 50 years ago, on 12th April 12, 1961, with time in space of 1 hour 48 minutes.

Following this historic flight, GAGARIN became an international celebrity, touring widely abroad, and was awarded many medals and honors, including Hero of the Soviet Union, the nation’s highest honour. Gagarin later became deputy training director of the Cosmonaut Training Centre outside Moscow, which was later named after him. Gagarin died on 27th March 1968 when a MiG-15UTI training jet he was piloting crashed near the town of Kirzach. His body was cremated and the ashes were buried in the walls of the Kremlin on Red Square.

To commemorate the 50 years since Yuri Gagari’s momentous space flight in 1961, MONTEGRAPPA will issue the LIMITED EDITION YURI GAGARIN PENS comprising:

• 1961 silver fountain pens
• 1961 silver roller balls
• 50 solid 18K gold fountain pens
• 50 solid 18K gold roller balls

Originally conceived as part of the new Cosmopolitan collection, the Montegrappa Special Edition 50th Anniversary Yuri Gagarin Space Flight Pen features the image of Yuri Gagarin in bas-relief, engraved by the artisans on the barrel. It is flanked by interplanetary patterns, while the cap displays the State Emblem of the Soviet Union. The pocket clip, set with a rotating ball at its tip to allow smooth insertion to and removal from a pocket, is bordered with reproduction of Moscow’s monument to Yuri Gagarin – erected in 1980, made of titanium, located in Gagarin’s square. The fountain pen features a built-in piston-fed filling mechanism which provides ink to the two-tone 18K gold nib with ebonite feeder.

The Montegrappa Yuri Gagarin Pen joins the group of other tributes including a series of commemorative ruble coins for the 20th and 30th anniversary by the Soviet Union and for the 40th by the Russia, the re-naming of the town of Gzhatsk in 1968 as Gagarin, the naming of the Kontinental Hockey League’s Championship Trophy as Gagarin Cup, naming the Armenian Airline Armavia’s first Sukhoi Superjet 100 as Gagarin.

About Montegrappa

The first Italian pen manufacturer – founded as “Manifattura pennini d’oro e penne stilografiche” (”Maker of gold nibs and fountain pens”) in 1912, MONTEGRAPPA has established a reputation as the most noble of pen manufacturer with its writing instruments used by famous authors as well as have played part in history. Famed Italian leaders including Victor Emmanuel III and Benito Mussolini used Montegrappa pens. In these modern days, Montegrappa is still the top choices of famous people including Sylvester Stallone and Jean Alesi. Before this Gagarin edition, the pen company has also produced other special edition to commemorate events. Locales and individuals; to name a few, the list includes the America’s Cup, the scintillating town of St. Moritz, La Fenice Opera House in Venice, Formula One legend Ayrton Senna, as well as cultural giants Muhammad Ali and Bruce Lee.

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MONTEGRAPPA, the Sylvester “Rocky” Stallone’s choice, has just launched its special edition writing instruments to commemorate the 35th anniversary of “THRILLA IN MANILA” – one of the world’s greatest boxing fights of the 20th century: Muhammad Ali versus Joe Frazier. The Italian luxury pen manufacturer based in Bassano del Grappa, North East Italy presents not only one but two “ICONS” model for both greatest fighters of all time. MUHAMMAD ALI series will be a fountain pen while JOE FRAZIER will be represented by a roller ball one. However, the clients might order both as fountain pens, roller balls, or reversed. The companion pen have been authorized by Muhammad Ali Enterprises LLC (“MAE”) and Joe Frazier.

Montegrappa Solid 18k Gold Muhammad Ali Fountain Pen

Montegrappa Solid 18k Gold Muhammad Ali Roller Ball Pen

Montegrappa Solid 18k Gold Joe Frazier Fountain Pen

Montegrappa Solid 18k Gold Joe Frazier Roller Ball Pen

The historic bout between “The Greatest” Ali and “The Smokin’ Joe” Frazier was held at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines on October 1, 1975 – or September 30th for viewers in the US, due to time zone differences. Produced by Don King and broadcasted to many countries worldwide with HBO’s antenna, the so called “Fight of the Century” was the third boxing match as well as the climax to the bitter rivalry between Ali and Frazier over who was the undisputed WBA/WBC Heavyweight Boxing Championship of the World. It was after Ali was stripped of the title over his refusal to join the armed forces when drafted during the Vietnam War.

Controversy and drama came about during the whole period from before their first to their last face-off in Manila, heated by Ali’s taunts and brilliant manipulation of the media. When on the ring, Ali employed all of his wiles, but Frazier proved to be among the worthiest of his opponents; making the global audience enjoyed a battle between two of the sport’s giants.

The fight lasted 14 grueling rounds in temperatures approaching 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Ali won many of the early rounds, but Frazier staged a comeback in the middle rounds, while Ali lay on the ropes. By the late rounds, however, Ali had reasserted control and the fight were stopped when Frazier was unable to answer the bell for the 15th and final round (his eyes were swollen closed). Frazier’s trainer Eddie Futch signaled to referee Carlos Padilla to end the bout. Frazier protested stopping the fight, shouting “I want him boss,” and trying to get Futch to change his mind. Futch simply replied, “It’s all over. No one will forget what you did here today”. While the debate about ending the fight was progressing in Frazier’s corner, Ali was begging his cornerman Angelo Dundee to cut his gloves off; and the victory went to Muhammad Ali.

World will not forget the THRILLA IN MANILA (In 1999, ESPN’s SportsCentury ranked the fight as the 5th greatest sporting event of all the 20th century); and both fighters will always be remembered as the greatest fighters of all time. Aftermath, Muhammad Ali claimed that the fight was the closest to dying he had ever been. He also stated,

“Joe Frazier, I’ll tell the world right now, brings out the best in me. I’m gonna tell ya, that’s one helluva man, and God bless him.”

Ali also announced,

“He (Joe Frazier) is the greatest fighter of all times, next to me.”

The International Boxing Research Organization (IBRO) rates Joseph William “Joe” Frazier (born January 12, 1944), among the ten greatest heavyweights of all time. He is an inductee of both the International Boxing Hall of Fame and the World Boxing Hall of Fame. As for Muhammad Ali (born Cassius Marcellus Clay, Jr.; January 17, 1942), he is generally considered to be one of the greatest heavyweights of all time by boxing commentators and historians. Ring Magazine, a prominent boxing magazine, named him number 1 in a 1998 ranking of greatest heavyweights from all eras. Ali was named the second greatest fighter in boxing history by ESPN.com behind only welterweight and middleweight great Sugar Ray Robinson. In December 2007, ESPN listed Ali second in its choice of the greatest heavyweights of all time, behind Joe Louis. In February 2011, Muhammad Ali has been selected by GQ Magazine as one of the 25 Coolest Athletes of All Time. 

Ali vs Frazier Montegrappa Pen: ICON “Thrilla In Manila”

MONTEGRAPPA MUHAMMAD ALI PEN and MONTEGRAPPA JOE FRAZIER PEN are beautifully engraved by hand, etched with burin by Montegrappa’s renowned artisans. The pens feature a cartouche with the silhouettes of each boxer, enhanced by hand-etched reproductions of their signatures, and motifs of laurel leaves.

Montegrappa Sterling Silver Muhammad Ali Fountain Pen

Montegrappa Sterling Silver Muhammad Ali Roller Ball Pen

Montegrappa Sterling Silver Joe Frazier Fountain Pen

Montegrappa Sterling Silver Joe Frazier Fountain Pen

The manufacturer, Elmo & Montegrappa S.p.A. produced only 35 pieces of gold version limited edition pen set and 350 of silver edition. The “Thrilla In Manila” sets come in luxurious box featuring a 3-dimensional boxing glove forming the lid. Inside is a pad on which the Ali and the Frazier pens will rest. In between the pens, a badge will evoke the design of those used to decorate the heavyweight belts. A certificate of authenticity will accompany each pen set and will carry the original signature of Carlos Padilla Jr., the referee of “A Thrilla in Manila”, and of Gianfranco Aquila, Chairman of Montegrappa. The certificate will also be enhanced by a very special feature: Carlos “Sonny” Padilla’s “up close and personal” account of the event, reproduced in the owner’s manual. Moreover, the gold sets will include a framed picture showing Ali, Frazier and Padilla, autographed by the three of them, along with a special plexiglass display into which the pens can be placed.

Montegrappa ICON series “Thrilla In Manila” Pen Set Lavish Box

About Montegrappa Pen

For almost ten decades (founded in 1912), MONTEGRAPPA – originally known as ELMO, has been manufacturing high quality writing implements in the same historic building on the bank of the River Benta in one of the most charming parts of Bassano del Grappa - near Vicenza, in the North-East of Italy. The first Italian pen manufacturer – founded as “Manifattura pennini d’oro e penne stilografiche” (”Maker of gold nibs and fountain pens”) has established a reputation as the most noble of pen manufacturer with its writing implements used by famous authors as well as have played part in history, for signing documents during key moments in the 20th Century. Famed Italian leaders including Victor Emmanuel III and Benito Mussolini used Montegrappa pens. Amongst the Russian leaders of the last part of the century, Boris Yeltsin gave his Dragon Pen to Vladimir Putin on 2nd January 2000, and with this pen he symbolically handed over his power to him. Russia’s President Dmitry Medvedev signs all official documents with the Montegrappa Extra 1930.

As the premier manufacturer of luxury pens, Montegrappa has produced a continuing flow of limited editions commemorating events, locales and individuals. To name the few, the subjects embodied in pens include the America’s Cup, the scintillating town of St. Moritz, La Fenice Opera House in Venice, Formula One legend Ayrton Senna, as well as cultural giants Muhammad Ali and Bruce Lee.

About Muhammad Ali Enterprises LLC

Muhammad Ali Enterprises LLC (“MAE”) is a California limited liability company. MAE is aggressively involved in a worldwide licensing program, merchandising, television, film, video and Internet projects.

| Buy Thrilla in Manila Books and DVD|
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Sylvester Stallone and Montegrappa Dragon Pen

The Italian-American actor, filmmaker, screenwriter, and film director has also been in love with the oldest Italian brand for fine writing instruments, MONTEGRAPPA since 15 years ago. He was an aficionado and avid collector of Montegrappa pens. He started it up from the very rare version of the Montegrappa Gold Dragon Fountain Pen. The ‘Rocky’ star felt it appropriate to use a solid gold version “artist’s proof” of the pen when it came to signing an important document such as a major contract / monumental deal.

Sylvester Stallone has joined the distinguished gathering of heads-of-state, popes, royalty, musicians, actors, artists, sportsmen, top models, writers and celebrities who have been proud owners of Montegrappa pen. To name a few, his fellow Montegrappa users include Nicolas Sarkozy, Silvio Berlusconi, Vladimir Putin, His Holiness John Paul II, His Majesty King Juan Carlos of Spain, His Majesty King Hussein of Jordan, Her Majesty Queen Sirikit of Thailand, His Majesty Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei, Michael Jackson, Al Pacino, Antonio Banderas, Bill Cosby, Michael Schumacher, Jean Todt, Stirling Moss, Zinedine Zidane, Michel Platini, Naomi Campbell, Ernest Hemingway, Paulo Coelho and countless others. 

And now, the ‘Sylvester – Montegrappa connection’ continues; indeed it goes up to the next level as Stallone signed a partnership with the company to become its brand ambassador, creative advisor as well as an investor. As the brand ambassador, Stallone will participate in Montegrappa’s advertisement and promotions. As the creative advisor, he will provide creative input to the company’s new 2011 line of luxury pens. Likewise, Stallone is now the shareholder and board member of Montegrappa, along with great F1 racing driver, JEAN ALESI.

Sylvester Stallone (left) and Montegrappa’s CEO,Mr. Giuseppe Aquila (right)

Mr. Giuseppe Aquila, CEO of Montegrappa explained on the company’s announcement regarding the recent partnership:

“I have had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Stallone on many occasions, including the 2009 Venice Film Festival, where Mr. Stallone was recognized for his filmmaking with the Glory to the Filmmaker Award. Sylvester is much more than a friend; he is an icon and an artist and now, an integral part of Montegrappa’s distinguished history.”

Sylvester Stallone on “Rocky” and “Rambo” movies

Sylvester Stallone on “The Expendables” movie

Both SYLVESTER STALLONE and MONTEGRAPPA have written amazing reputation for decades.

• Entering its fifth decade, Mr. Stallone has created million of devoted fans worldwide as he starred in numerous box office hits including Oscar-winning “Rocky” series. He also created other successful films including “Rambo” series, “Cop Land” and the recent international block-buster movie “The Expendables” (which features Jason Statham). Those movies have strengthened his reputation as an actor and his box office earnings.
• For almost ten decades (founded in 1912), MONTEGRAPPA – originally known as ELMO, has been manufacturing high quality writing implements in the same historic building on the bank of the River Benta in one of the most charming parts of Bassano del Grappa - near Vicenza, in the North-East of Italy. The first Italian pen manufacturer – founded as “Manifattura pennini d’oro e penne stilografiche” (”Maker of gold nibs and fountain pens”) has established a reputation as the most noble of pen manufacturer with its writing implements used by famous authors as well as have played part in history, for signing documents during key moments in the 20th Century. Famed Italian leaders including Victor Emmanuel III and Benito Mussolini used Montegrappa pens. Amongst the Russian leaders of the last part of the century, Boris Yeltsin gave his DRAGON PEN to Vladimir Putin on 2nd January 2000, and with this pen he symbolically handed over his power to him. Russia’s President Dmitry Medvedev signs all official documents with the Montegrappa Extra 1930.
  As the premier manufacturer of luxury pens, MONTEGRAPPA has produced a continuing flow of limited editions commemorating events, locales and individuals. To name the few, the subjects embodied in pens include the America’s Cup, the scintillating town of St. Moritz, La Fenice Opera House in Venice, Formula One legend Ayrton Senna, as well as cultural giants Muhammad Ali and Bruce Lee.

Montegrappa Dragon Pen

Montegrappa Luxury Pens

| Official Montegrappa | | Buy Montegrappa| | Buy Sylvester Stallone Items|

Michael Jackson said, “I’m a lover not a fighter” (The Girl is Mine, 1982); and I say, “I’m an architect not a smoker.”

As a part-time architect, of course I love great buildings as well as its aesthetic details and elements. When the manufacturer of stylish lighters and collectible pens is inspired by one of Paris’ most famous architectural landmarks:  The PLACE VENDÔME, then it gets one place on my blog.

This new S.T. DUPONT LIGHTER features an architectural model of the royal Parisian square of that name commissioned by King Louis XIV in the 17th century. Located to the north of the Tuileries Gardens and east of the Église de la Madeleine, Place Vendôme is the starting point of the Rue de la Paix. Its regular architecture by Jules Hardouin-Mansart and pedimented screens canted across the corners give the rectangular PLACE VENDÔME the aspect of an octagon. It is also defined by its majestic proportions and strong sense of symmetry. Place Vendôme in the 1st arrondissement of Paris is acclaimed as one of the most emblematic squares of French 17th century architecture.

Place Vendome Column at Place Vendome Square of Paris

Place Vendome Column, erected by Napoleon Bonaparte

Architectural details of Place Vendome Square - Paris

Produced in limited edition of 35 pieces, the S.T. DUPONT PLACE VENDÔME LIGNE 2 PRESTIGE ROSE GOLD LIGHTER is decorated with 192 white diamonds, pink solid gold added parts, sumptuous cornices, precious hematite and the subtle color of gold lacquer. Napoleon Bonaparte’s famous quotation is engraved on the lighter’s roller and on the body of the pen: “Impossible n’est pas français” (Nothing is impossible for the French).

The Pen? What pen?

S.T. Dupont Place Vendome Pen - Prestige Edition Limited Edition

Well,…this LIGNE 2 LIGHTER is part of the unique Limited Edition S.T. DUPONT PLACE VENDÔME COLLECTIONS, packaged in an exclusive box; the others are an ashtray and two OLYMPIO EXTRA LARGE PENS: a fountain pen and a roller ball. Both pens reflect THE PLACE VENDÔME COLUMN – A historical column erected by Napoleon to commemorate his victory at Austerlitz at the beginning of the 19th century, made using bronze plates from cannons left behind by the Austrians after the battle. The Olympio Extra Large Pen is setting with 160 diamonds.

S.T. Dupont Place Vendome Collections - Exclusive Set Box

The S.T. Dupont PLACE VENDÔME Prestige Edition Collection is offered US $47,000.
But if the price is too costly for you, then consider the limited edition of grey lacquer with metal added parts and palladium finish. This series of lighter and pens are numbered out of 1810, a remembrance to the date when Napoleon erected the Vendôme Column. Ashtrays are numbered out of 810.

S.T. Dupont Place Vendome Lighter and Pen Limited Edition - Grey Edition

S.T. Dupont Place Vendome Pen Limited Edition - Grey Edition

S.T. Dupont Place Vendome Lighter Limited Edition - Grey Edition

About S.T. Dupont

Named after his founder – Simon Tissot Dupont, the company S.T. DUPONT PARIS has been producing the luxury lighters, stylish pens, handbags and recently stylish tech gadgets since 1872. Their fashionable lighter is characterized by a piece of brass (an alloy made of copper and zinc) which goes through a series of process to become the admirable final products. The process are extrusion, brazing, machining the body, assembling the top and embellishing the lighter.

The ‘cling’ of each lighter is checked before packaging, and if the desired sound is not produced, the lighter will be worked on in order to improve the tone, even if this requires hours of extra work. The concern for perfection and the production process guarantee the superior quality of an S.T.Dupont product.

| Official | | images courtesy of www.st-dupont.com |

Surveillance Pen: Pen with Hidden Tiny Camera

We have introduced you a camera-hidden watch and USB-hidden watch, and today we present you a PEN with a built-in MINI INTERVIEW RECORDER. It is an ideal device for a variety of use such as spy camera and hidden camera or any surveillance activity; small enough to conceal almost anywhere. Place it up high or conceal it down low; wherever you place your tiny camera, you’ll know that you won’t miss anything.

The Pen features the fewest mini DVR in the world which conceals in the pen. It is also the first MINI PEN DVR with the function of both kinescope and record. Its high fidelity microphone can record the sound around 15 meters; while the high clear kinescope (5.2 million pixels for the camera) can help the police, court and detectives to get evidences. Color video with voice lets you clearly see who’s there and hear what they say.

Spy-Camera Pen with USB

With built-in rechargeable battery, you won’t get troublesome by the long cord to hide. Its lithium-ion battery can be used for about 90 – 100 minutes to provide record time up to 3 hours. You can apply the continuous real time recording until memory is full or manually off. If the battery is low or out, simply recharge it using USB adaptor charging cable.

The video file, AVI video format 352 x 288, will be stored in internal (flash) memory of 1 GB or 4 GB. Video file size is approximately 500 KB per minute and can be played back on PC as it is suitable for any computer and electron device with USB port; USB 2.0 standard port, need no drive or circumscribed electric power source neither.

Weighing 30 grams and sizing 150 mm x 15 mm x 15 mm, the MINI PEN INTERVIEW RECORDER doesn’t sacrifice the fancy aspect of smooth pen writing function. The exchangeable standard lead is all durable and environmental.

Another great feature is the pen’s ability to store the recording video file if the battery is suddenly out during using. Before it turns off, the system will save the video file.

The Features and Buttons on Surveillance Spy Cam Pen

details of Spy Camera Recording Pen

Pen with Secret Small Recording Camera

How to Use the CAMERA PEN:

Starting the Spy-cam Pen

Step 1:
Press the switch; it begins to kinescope as son as being turned on. The blue light will turn on during kinescoping.

Step 2:
Pres the switch again, it will begin to save data and then turn off. At this time, the light turns to yellow, reflecting that the pen DVR is at sleeping status (that means do not kinescope or shut down neither).

Step 3:
If need to kinescope again, press the switch once more, then can come back to kinescope. During this time, the light will turn to blue again.

Step 4:
Hold down the switch for 5s, then the power switch is off. After shutting down the pen DVR, there is no guide light.

Step 5:
When finish charging the battery, the light stops glittering and the yellow light keeps on which means that battery is fully charged.

Step 6:
It will turn off itself when the battery has been used up. And will save the kinescoped files before automatically shutting down.

How to Connect the SPY CAM PEN to PC

1. Connect the machine to the computer with USB cable. The machine is in the state of charging while the yellow light is twinkling. (You can also directly charge the camera using an adaptor accorded with the specifications of USB). Charging two hours is necessary.
2. Function as removable disk when connect the camera to PC, playback the video files stored flash via the computer. (Free download the BAOFENGYINYIN software).
3. Advice use the charger.

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This ‘best gift’ pen comes in Havana celluloid – a cellulose-based organic material produced from a complex maturing process that need to be worked by hand for shock-resistant, light, pleasant and extremely durable use.

With cap decorated with the GIRARD-PERREGAUX Tourbillon cage and the clip inspired by the Three Gold Bridges, the GIRARD-PERREGAUX FOUNTAIN PEN SILVER features 18K gold and integrated piston reservoir.

Girard-Perregaux Havana Celluloid Silver Fountain Pen

Available in EF, F, M and B nibsizes, this luxurious pen is produced in limited series of 1,791 pieces.

This watch is covered by the ‘Perfect Timing 2-Year Warranty’ when purchaed from Perfect Timing

Ordering for Christmas? Since it comes in limited numbers,. I bet you know what to do…

Girard-Perregaux Havana Celluid Pen Silver Fountain

When it chose to enter the world of writing instruments, GIRARD-PERREGAUX drew on its proven craftsmanship and noble and precious materials, while paying meticulous attention to the finishing and originality of the design.

GIRARD-PERREGAUX’s writing instruments come in gold or silver and celluloid whose exclusive light-brown finish has an original texture, unique reflections and a warm feel.

GIRARD PERREGAUX writing instruments also include:

GIRARD PERREGAUX Silver Fountain Pen – Black Celluloid
Limited series of 150 pieces.

GIRARD PERREGAUX Yellow Gold Fountain Pen
Limited series of 50 pieces

GIRARD PERREGAUX Fountain Pen Pink Gold
Limited series of 50 pieces

Black celluloid – Pen Pink Gold
Limited series of 20 pieces

GIRARD PERREGAUX Fountain Pen White Gold
Limited series of 100 pieces

GIRARD PERREGAUX Rollerball Silver
Limited series of 400 pieces

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Porsche Design presents all their latest collection in white including leather goods (bags, trolley/luggage, briefcase, credit card case, and coin purse), sunglasses, luxury shake pen, jewelry, lighter and cell phone. Wow, I think that’s incredible. White reflects all the color as what Isaac Newton said (simply recall the kaleidoscope of colors). And I interpret that the Porsche Design stuffs brings you all the colors of luxury and happiness.

The official explanation came from Roland Heiler, Managing Director of Porsche Design Studio said,

“The typical color of Porsche Design is black. The color white, on the other hand, stands for purity and also has the property that it highlights the shape of the product. These characteristics also make white an excellent medium for our minimalist design language.”

The new white collection conveys a technical look combination of white with metals like aluminum, titanium and stainless steel.

P’8458 Porsche Design Sunglasses – White Theme

P’3140 Porsche Design Shake pen – White Theme

P’2160 Porsche Design LapDoc Case – White Theme

P’2150 Porsche Design Briefcase – White Theme

P’2140 Porsche Design Leather Trolley Case White Theme

P’3320 Porsche Design Credit Card Case White Theme

P’3340 Porsche Design Coin Purse – White Theme

P’3140 Porsche Design Cufflinks – White Theme

P’3450 Porsche Design Bracelet – White Theme

P’3633 Porsche Design Lighter – White Theme

P’3635 Porsche Design Lighter – White Theme

P’1140 Porsche Design Jacket – White Theme

Porsche Design Cell phone – White Theme

The white aluminum clad Porsche Design’s mobile phone is the winner of 2008 IF Award (International Forum Award) for product design.

Wikipedia explains about Isaac Newton’s theory of color:

From 1670 to 1672, Newton lectured on optics. During this period he investigated the refraction of light, demonstrating that a prism could decompose white light into a spectrum of colors, and that a lens and a second prism could recompose the multicolored spectrum into white light.

He also showed that the colored light does not change its properties by separating out a colored beam and shining it on various objects. Newton noted that regardless of whether it was reflected or scattered or transmitted, it stayed the same color. Thus, he observed that color is the result of objects interacting with already-colored light rather than objects generating the color themselves. This is known as Newton’s theory of color.

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