A
German maker of fine
writing instruments, though not well known
outside of Germany to the general population. The company was founded
in the
1930s by Josef Lamy, who, at the time, was the German
representative for
Parker. The company is still in the hands of
the
family to this day.
While many pen companies gravitate towards one general shape (with
at least an evolution visible), most of Lamy's pens are quite
unique, with only a Bauhaus inspiration keeping them together. Most
of the pens look quite simple, and quite functional.
However, I think that betrays a greater technological edge that
exists in these pens. One pen, the 2000, looks quite simple, but
manages to blend a type of fiberglass with steel in a seemless
merger--a first. Another pen, the Safari, is extremely tough, passing
one company's "Volvo test," by which the pen is run down by the
president's brick.
Because the designs are so diverse, it makes for an interesting line
to collect. Because they are so utilitarian, they fit in among
the most technical of crowds. Because they are not as well known, they
prove to be unique in a room of Mont Blancs.