Honest character and good looks were the hallmarks of many of the early Elmo pens used in offices and classrooms across Italy in the 1920s. Here, an archive design by factory co-founder Heinrich “Elmo” Helm presents a silhouette that minimizes the use of metal components without sacrificing ornamentation. The graceful brass clip evokes the timelessness of the great design.

Elmo is a touchstone in Montegrappa’s formative years and a name synonymous with the democratization of writing in Italy. As technical director of the country’s first fountain pen factory, Heinrich Helm was tasked with making its products available for mass consumption. A century later, Helm’s minimalist tapered tips are still an elegant alternative to expensive metals, leaving room for the bare essentials – good writing.

An honest character and impeccable appearance were the hallmarks of many of the early Elmo designs that populated the Italian offices and classrooms of the 1920s. Archival designs from co-founder Heinrich “Elmo” Helm provide a blueprint for a silhouette that minimizes the use of metal parts without sacrificing decorative flair. The delicate knurled brass clamp is a reminder that great design is timeless.

The body of the Montegrappa Elmo 02 fountain pen is made of precious black resin, the finishing elements are steel. The stainless steel nib is decorated with an engraving in the form of the brand’s signature pattern. The removable cap on the thread has the inscription “Montegrappa”. The pen is filled with Montegrappa ink cartridges or ink from the bottle using a converter (included). Supplied in a branded gift box.