Montblanc's Statue of Liberty...an interview

Limited to just 50 pieces ($33,000) symbolizing the number of states in the US, the Statue of Liberty Artisan Edition from Montblanc made its debut yesterday at Montblanc's Flagship boutique on Madison Avenue. And during the remainder of this week, the general public is invited to visit the boutique and share their insights about the Statue in a book on display. President and CEO of Montblanc North America Jan-Patrick Schmitz shared his thoughts in an interview.

Nancy Olson: In what way do you think that the Statue of Liberty writing instrument is particularly fitting at this moment in our country's evolution?

Jan-Patrick Schmitz: Obviously, this country is built on the immigrants who came to the US. The Statue of Liberty is a symbol of hope and of a brighter future, and I believe today it goes beyond that and has also become a global symbol of hope and freedom.

NO: What was the impetus for the collection?

JPS: As part of our Artisan Edition, it is about a great American historical moment. We are constantly looking at historic figures as well as historic symbols that represent values, and I think [the Statue of Liberty] is one of the most prominent and important symbols for our nation and around the globe.

NO: Was it designed and produced in Hamburg?

JPS: Yes.

NO: What are your expectations for the book that will be on display?

JPS: We are inviting people to our store to write down their experiences and thoughts about freedom. New York is built on diversity; all people come together with a common view of liberty, which is how we started. We at Montblanc always have a story to tell, and we love to interact and share with people.

NO: What pen will they be using?

JPS: Since there are only 50 Statue of Liberty pens, it will not be one of them! But we will be using another of our wonderful fountain pens and we will make it a joyful experience to write. 

Previous artisan editions from Montblanc include tributes to Max Reinhardt, Frida Kahlo and the Presidential Series. The Montblanc Statue of Liberty Artisan Edition is available at Montblanc boutiques nationwide.

Andrew Jackson commemorated by Montblanc

Montblanc pays tribute to the seventh president of the United States with the launch of the Andrew Jackson Artisan Edition writing instrument. In 2007, Montblanc launched the America’s Signatures for Freedom collection in dedication to the life and work of the Founding Fathers of the United States of America. Previous editions include tributes to George Washington, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, all in the form of beautifully crafted Montblanc writing instruments. These legendary American political leaders laid the groundwork for our nation’s freedom, independence and values. Limited to just 50 pieces, symbolizing the number of states in the Union, the Andrew Jackson Artisan Edition showcases Montblanc’s premier craftsmanship and design. The intricate 750 solid white gold overlay is inspired by the ceiling of Jackson’s reception hall in the White House, and a mother-of-pearl Montblanc emblem is featured on the cap crown with Jackson's signature and the dates of his legislative period. The clip is engraved with a portrait of Jackson, and it is bejeweled with a sapphire referring to his blue eyes. Black elements on the cone, cap and ring pay tribute to his celebrated military career. As in all writing instruments in the series, "America's Signatures for Freedom" is engraved on each handcrafted 18 karat gold nib and complemented with 13 stars to commemorate the States that adopted the Declaration of Independence. The Montblanc Andrew Jackson Artisan Edition, priced at $33,300, will be available at boutiques nationwide from February 20, 2012.