Caran d'Ache Astrograph Limited Edition 2016

by Jim Mamoulides, January 27, 2017

Caran d'Ache Astrograph Limited Edition 2016

Edited from the Caran d'Ache press release:

Conquering new territory

Caran d'Ache Astrograph Limited Edition 2016

The Maison Caran d'Ache and the horological laboratory MB&F, have combined their expertise for a unique creative odyssey: the Astrograph writing instrument.

Caran d'Ache Astrograph Limited Edition 2016

Bound by a shared creative passion for mechanical excellence, the Maison Caran d’Ache and MB&F have combined their expertise in developing the exceptional Astrograph writing instrument. This new creation pays tribute to the exploratory genius and childhood dreams that spark technical feats.

Caran d'Ache Astrograph Limited Edition 2016

Propelling one’s own dreams into space by means of a rocket-pen: such was the original idea by Maximilian Büsser – a new adventure that has been enthusiastically welcomed by the creative and technical teams at Maison Caran d’Ache. With the Astrograph, Caran d’Ache and MB&F have developed an instrument featuring complex architecture while ensuring perfect writing comfort. Like a modern-day odyssey, the creation of this exceptional model symbolizes the conquest of space through making dreams come true.

Caran d'Ache Astrograph Limited Edition 2016

Technical description

Creating the Astrograph was an authentic technical challenge to which the Maison Caran d’Ache teams rose with aplomb. Fine-tuning the concept called for four years of gestation and fruitful exchanges, while an entire year was devoted to developing the final model. More than 500 manual operations were involved in its production in the workshops of the Geneva-based manufacturer.

Caran d'Ache Astrograph Limited Edition 2016

Astrograph features a slim body evoking the outlines of a space vessel. The perfectly integrated design of this creation comprises 99 innovative elements.

Caran d'Ache Astrograph Limited Edition 2016

Specifications

Astrograph is limited to 99 pieces per finish, paying symbolic tribute to the 99 components specifically designed for this creation. The generic numbering is engraved on one of the three stabilizer feet: Limited Edition 1 in 99 pieces.

Positioned on the far end of the rocket engine, the reactor is symbolized by a signature red Caran d’Ache hexagon. The hexagon is made with lacquer.

Astrograph is delivered with a magnetic rhodium and silver-clad astronaut that can be attached at will to the body of the rocket.

Estimated retail price: $19,900

 

 

The 3 finishes

Caran d'Ache Astrograph Limited Edition 2016

Astrograph High Gloss Rhodium

Caran d'Ache Astrograph Limited Edition 2016

• Coated in rhodium, high gloss finish
  
• Anthracite lacquered checkered motif
  
• Edition size: 99 fountain pens
  
• Ink system: piston pump or cartridges
  
• Writing block: rhodium-coated, high gloss finish
  
• Body of the fountain pen: ruthenium-coated, high gloss finish
  
• Rhodium-coated 18 karat gold medium nib standard, (other nib widths available on request)
  
• Numbering engraved on one foot of the rocket

Astrograph Sandblasted Matte Rhodium

Caran d'Ache Astrograph Limited Edition 2016

• Coated in rhodium, sandblasted matte finish
  
• Anthracite lacquered checkered motif
  
• Edition size: 99 fountain pens & 99 roller pens
  
• Fountain pen ink system: piston pump or cartridges
  
• Writing block: rhodium-coated, high gloss finish
  
• Body of the fountain & roller pen: ruthenium-coated, sandblasted matte finish
  
• Rhodium-coated 18 karat gold medium nib standard, (other nib widths available on request)
  
• Numbering engraved on one foot of the rocket

Astrograph Anthracite Ruthenium

Caran d'Ache Astrograph Limited Edition 2016

• Coated in ruthenium, high gloss finish
  
• Anthracite lacquered checkered motif
  
• Edition size: 99 fountain pens
  
• Ink system: piston pump or cartridges
  
• Writing block: rhodium-coated, high gloss finish
  
• Body of the fountain pen: ruthenium-coated, high gloss finish
  
• Rhodium-coated 18 karat gold medium nib standard, (other nib widths available on request)
  
• Numbering engraved on one foot of the rocket

The Astrograph case

Featuring a launch pad-style design, the Astrograph case accommodates both the rocket-pen and its accompanying astronaut, ready to head for the stars. This case can also be used as a display base for window-front shops or display stands.

Caran d'Ache Astrograph Limited Edition 2016

Dimensions and specifications:

• Aluminium case, designed with a launch pad drawing
  
• Plexiglas lid, magnetic closing system, 3 attachment holes are on top of the lid to place the rocket in the center of the pad.
  
• Height with closed-lid: 100mm
  
• Height with open-lid: 300mm
  
• Height with close-lid + standing rocket: 265mm
  
• Top diameter: 200mm
  
• Total diameter (on floor): 440mm
  
• Includes Astrograph leather pouch

Caran d'Ache Astrograph Limited Edition 2016

Contact

• Website: Caran d'Ache