With the exception of a few clocks and other time-indicating objects, wristwatches are the only expression of watchmaking these days. But this has not always been the case. Naturally, there were pocket watches but also watches disguised in all types of objects: canes, miniature music instruments, pendants, keys, or even perfume-dispensing guns. Reviving this tradition, Switzerland’s well-known writing instruments company, Caran d’Ache, presents Timegraph, a fountain pen that tells time thanks to a miniature mechanical movement.

A fountain pen for watch collectors?

To create the Caran d’Ache Timegraph, the Swiss manufacturer of writing instruments manufacturer has solicited the expertise of Le Temps Manufactures (LTM) in Fleurier. Created in 2008, LTM develops and manufactures movements and watches for some of the greatest names in the industry. The Timegraph houses a personalized version of their calibre LTM 1000, a baguette-shaped mechanical calibre measuring just 21mm x 9mm x 3.5mm. Comprising 99 components, this small movement displays the hours and minutes. It runs at 28,800 vibrations per hour and boasts, regarding its size, a relatively robust 40-hour power reserve.

Thanks to this miniature movement, the Caran d’Ache Timegraph is well-proportioned and keeps an excellent balance for optimal writing comfort – it is 15mm in diameter, and 151mm long (with the cap). The body is PVD-finished while all metallic elements are palladium-coated. The hand-polished nib is fashioned out of 18k gold and is available in various sizes from EF to B. Three sapphire crystals allow you to discover the nib and both sides of the movement finished with Geneva stripes – just like a traditional movement from a wristwatch.

The Caran d’Ache Timegraph is offered with a variety of customization options – in particular, the pen decor and the movement finishing can be personalized…

Price and availability

This very special pen comes in a lacquered presentation box with an inkpot. Price for the Caran d’Ache Timegraph is set at CHF 40,000 – clearly, an exclusive object for watch and writing instrument lovers. For more information, please visit www.carandache.com.