In most cases, an unexpected brand collaboration becomes greater than the sum of its parts or damages both brands. And while the reputation of Naruto, a two-decade-old anime and manga series, is pretty set in stone, this outing was a real risk for German luxury goods producer Montblanc and its Meisterstück line.
After all, it’s not likely that any multi-billion-dollar deals will be inked using a fountain pen featuring an anime character. Instead, Montblanc packed the Montblanc X Naruto Meisterstück LeGrand Fountain Pen full of details laser-targeted at Naruto mega fans – right down to its 14-karat gold nib, which features a yellow-gold Konoha symbol representing Naruto’s home in the Hidden Leaf Village.
Montblanc’s commitment to the collab is evident throughout the piece. While the majority of the Montblanc Meisterstück line features rose gold, silver, and black colorways, the Naruto special edition features a striking orange outline of the titular character in the midst of performing the Kage Bunshin no Jutsu – his signature shadow clone technique. Akatsuki clouds glimmer along the barrel, inspiring rebellious thoughts with each use.
Aspiring members of Team 7 can snag one of the pens for $1,035. Fans should also check out the special anime short released by the Naruto creative team to celebrate the collab, which features one of the characters using – what else? – a fountain pen to capture his reflections.
In other EDC-related news, check out the Barebones Edison Light Stick.