Platinum Red Urushi "Izumo" Tame-nuri Fountain Pen

The Izumo, introduced in 2010, was a bold step away from the usual (and a bit dull) cigar shape body so common among Japanese pen makers. Platinum tried something different, creating a unique undulating silhouette, broader on the cap end, with a wave and then tapered end. A well considered design which paid off: masculine but not inelegant this pen feels large but it is mostly illusion. Here in the urushi red colour called Aka-tame - this specific technique layers a translucent urushi over a brown base, allowing the undercoatings to shine through the lacquer, and revealing themselves more over time and with use. A little glamour in what is otherwise the pinnacle of restrained luxury, the sobriety and elegance of simple urushi.