Lacquer, Rhinoceros Skin, Raden – rediscover those classic pens in a whole new premium way.

Please be aware: Many lacquer pens necessitate customization, with a production time of about two months. Wooden pens are usually ready for immediate shipment.

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Allergic risks existonly during raw lacquer harvesting and initial processing(when collecting urushiol from lacquer trees). Thefully cured final productundergoes rigorous refinement, eliminating all reactive compounds. Rest assured, our finished pens meet international safety standards and posezero allergy risk during regular use.

No functional differences exist. Our urushi-lacquered pens retainall original internal components– only the barrel surface is refinished. The urushi coating naturally enhances durability compared to standard industrial plastic barrels. Historical examples from Japan and China show well-preserved lacquerware maintaining their integrity for centuries.

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Lacquerware is made by coating the surface of a material with the sap of the Japanlacquertree(Toxicodendron vernicifluum). When the lacquer (urushi) hardens, it polymerizes and forms a protective surface that repels water and resists corrosion. And today, we creatively apply it to fountain pens, pen holders, pen sleeves, jewelry, wood carvings, and folding fans.

The versatility of lacquerware lies in its unique qualities, distinguishing it from other ancient artifacts. It embodies three essential traits: inclusiveness, practicality, and ornamentation. Once lacquer is applied to various objects (such as different base materials), they all become lacquerware. These items gain moisture resistance, insect resistance, and anti-corrosion properties. Additionally, pigments can be mixed into the lacquer, and through the artisan’s carving and painting, each piece transforms into a work of art.

Originating around 1000 BCETo be precise, raden does not refer to a single type of shell but rather the craft of inlaying various types of biogenic gemstones into wooden lacquerware. Today, it is no longer limited to a few traditional freshwater shells. From New Zealand’s Haliotis and Japan’s Pinctada imbricata to Australia’s Pteria penguin and Polynesia’s Pinctada margaritifera, we are innovators of the raden technique. While preserving the excellence of traditional craftsmanship, we actively embrace and utilize the finest materials from around the world to provide our customers with perfect works of art.

At Graf Bobby’s Workshop, we merge artistry with cutting-edge technology through our Laser Raden Inlay System. As relentless innovators in bespoke penmaking, we’re redefining what’s possible by integrating advanced laser precision with time-honored material mastery.

Need any repair or maintenance work?

We’ve got a ton of technical solutions to choose from, plus totally custom repair and maintenance plans. We’re here for pen fans everywhere, even if you’ve never bought anything from GRAF BOBBY.

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We can customize any style of fountain pen you desire, whether it's a Pilot 742 or a Montblanc 149. Whether you need raden, urushi lacquer, mother-of-pearl, Rhinoceros skin, or even gemstone inlays, we can make it happen! We guarantee that all the pens we modify are brand new and sourced through official channels, and we'll make even the most delicate adjustments according to your needs. Whether you want to create a one-of-a-kind Sailor 21k with maki-e art or an M800 with mother-of-pearl inlays, we can do it all.

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