Alex has written for Vanity Fair, Barrons, Bloomberg and Condé…
The challenge was to translate the virtues of automaker Bentley into a pocket-sized cylinder. For that challenge, Bentley turned to Tibaldi, who have been making fine writing instruments for almost a century. The result is the ‘Tibaldi for Bentley Collection.’
Tibaldi’s and Bentley’s designers focus on shape, material and details. The build of the device must mesh strength, exquisite detail and complexity. The shape of the device must be a mix of elegance, stateliness and sportiness that is embodied in every Bentley – especially the GTs.
Tibaldi selected a base material of brass with rhodium plating – sturdy yet handsome, like the vehicles the pens complement. A key design feature is the partially lacquered barrel with two side “cheeks” presenting a sophisticated layered texture; this example of craftsmanship recalls the attention to details typical of cars such as Bentleys, where fine execution is treated like the manufacture of jewellery. This sits at the heart of the brand design values, borne of an era defined by bespoke coach-building and hand-crafted execution.
As is the tradition with all Tibaldi for Bentley pens, the GT Collection will include a fountain pen, rollerball pen and ballpoint pen, offered in four hues. The quartet includes Beluga Black, Silverlake Blue, St James Red and Silver Tempest – among the most popular colors selected by owners of the actual cars. The fountain pens are cartridge-converter fed and are fitted with solid 18K gold nibs.
Here’s a look at the collection.
Alex has written for Vanity Fair, Barrons, Bloomberg and Condé Nast Traveler.