Sailor 90th Anniversary Mannenhitsu Doraku Briar Fountain Pen

Created to commemorate Sailor’s 90th anniversary (1911–2001), the Mannenhitsu Doraku Light Briar Fountain Pen is a rare expression of material artistry and specialist nib craftsmanship—designed for those who appreciate nuance as much as performance.

The barrel and cap are turned from select Mediterranean briar root, a material prized for its density, heat resistance, and intricate grain—more commonly reserved for fine pipe making than writing instruments. Each piece is individually shaped and hand-finished, then treated with a natural wax polish rather than heavy lacquer, allowing the surface to retain a warm, tactile feel that will subtly develop patina with use.

The pen is based on Sailor’s classic 1911 silhouette, but distinguished by anniversary detailing, including a finely engraved cap band referencing the 90th year milestone. Subtle gold-plated trim complements the organic tones of the briar without overpowering it.

At its core is the highly sought-after 21K gold Naginata Togi nib, a specialty grind developed by Sailor’s master craftsmen. Unlike conventional nibs, the Naginata profile allows for controlled line variation depending on writing angle and pressure, enabling a fluid transition from fine to broad strokes—ideal for expressive writing, signatures, and cursive scripts. The nib is typically marked with Sailor’s anchor logo and gold content, underscoring its heritage.

Produced in a limited run of approximately 900 pieces worldwide, each pen was issued as part of a commemorative series and originally accompanied by dedicated packaging and documentation, further enhancing its desirability among collectors.

Functionally, the pen utilizes Sailor’s proprietary cartridge/converter system, ensuring reliable ink flow and ease of maintenance while preserving the integrity of the writing experience.