They say the pen's mightier than the sword, but a new Graf von Faber-Castell writing implement combines the best of both worlds. The Samurai Pen of the Year features captivating elements reminiscent of the appearance of the famed Japanese warriors. The barrel of the pen is made of dark-stained magnolia wood that imitates the samurai's longsword, embellished with an engraving in 24K gold varnish inscribed with Japanese characters that read: "Today I win against myself of yesterday" – a quotation attributed to the great samurai warrior Miyamoto Musashi. 

The end cap is engraved with the tsuba (hand guard) created by Musashi, which represents loyal soldiers who offer protection. Both the cap and the hand-forged grip are coated with ruthenium and delicately decorated with artistic inlays inspired by Japanese sword sheaths. 

Complementing the Samurai is the Samurai Black Edition, the black lacquered metal barrel of which is coated with 24K gold and embossed with tapered lines to imitate the armour of Japanese warriors. "Cultivate both – your spirit and wisdom", another quote by Musashi, is engraved on the Black edition, which comes with a titanium cap and grip coating, and an 18K gold nib coated with ruthenium. 

"Since its first edition in 2003, the Pen of the Year has become synonymous with luxurious writing culture and the finest craftsmanship," says Count Charles von Faber-Castell. "Graf von Faber-Castell releases the Pen of the Year in dedication to the people who shaped the history of humanity, and each and every pen is made with extreme precision. The Samurai and Samurai Black Edition perfectly encapsulate the spirit of the samurai."