Sailor ProGear/1911L Susutake Maki-e

Sailor ProGear/1911L,  Once you place your order, we will process a brand-new boxed pen. The production time for this model is approximately two months. Available nib options include EF, F, MF, M, B, Z, and MS. Two types of flat caps are available. Please inform us of your desired nib and cap type after placing your order or leave a note with your preferences.

Makie is one of Japan’s most celebrated lacquer techniques, developed over centuries to decorate and elevate everyday objects into exquisite works of art. The term "Makie" means “sprinkled picture,” referring to the process of applying gold, silver, or other metal powders onto wet lacquer. After the lacquer dries, the piece is polished and layered again, creating a textured, luminous effect. This technique demands not only artistic precision but also patience, as each object may require dozens of rounds of lacquering, polishing, and embellishing to achieve its final form.

At our workshop, we honor this ancient tradition by handcrafting pen barrels using Susutake bamboo as the base material. Susutake—aged bamboo once used for roof beams—imbues each pen with its own unique story, thanks to the natural patina it acquires over decades of exposure to smoke and heat. This weathered bamboo provides a beautiful foundation, combining both rustic charm and durability, making it ideal for high-end writing instruments.

The process begins with coating the bamboo body in a layer of smooth black lacquer (kuro-urushi), which not only enhances the bamboo's natural texture but also provides a protective surface. We then apply green lacquer for the intricate Makie work, adding detailed patterns that shimmer subtly with every stroke of light. The green lacquer brings a vibrant, organic feel, as if life itself is etched onto the pen, celebrating nature through color and craftsmanship.

Makie’s beauty lies in its versatility: it combines artistry and functionality seamlessly. A pen decorated with Makie is more than just a writing instrument—it becomes a personal artifact with a deep connection to tradition. Whether used for daily writing or displayed as a collector’s piece, each pen reflects the care, precision, and passion poured into every detail.

By blending Susutake bamboo with Makie art, we aim to create a writing experience that is not only visually stunning but also emotionally resonant—allowing each stroke on paper to carry the legacy of Japanese craftsmanship.