Almost as much as we like watches we like writing instruments. While here at WCL we are big fans of Swiss pen maker Caran d’Ache, every once in a while there will be some pens from Montblanc that we love. While Montblanc is more mainstream when it comes to pens in the U.S., their collaboration In partnership with Marc Newson results in a very understated pen that we absolutely like. Very much like wearing the ultra understated stainless steel Patek Philippe Annual Calendar Chronograph ref. 5960/1A on the wrist.

The (Montblanc M) RED pen was designed by Australian industrial designer Marc Newson. This writing instrument was designed to support (RED)’s fight to end AIDS. (RED) is a non-profit that has its name because red is the color of an emergency. It has generated over $650 million dollars to fight AIDS. Therefore, every (Montblanc M) RED writing instrument will contribute €5 Euros to the Global Fund to support HIV/AIDS programs, which helps prevent HIV+ mothers from passing the virus to their babies.

Made of red —more like a burnt red or crimson orange— precious resin, designer Marc Newson with his eye for modernism and clean lines, made sure that the writing instrument would have a look that would flow gently with its rounded edges and clever operation fitted with a magnetic cap closure with alignment of cap to the barrel via its magnets. One can leave the cap off or simply place it at the end of the pen where it will be held in place magnetically.

The clip with a very simple cutout design is platinum-coated and bears the individual serial number for the pen. The Montblanc emblem with the ‘snow cap’ is inlaid in white resin at the top of the cap and also at the end of the pen providing perfect contrast just like those red hands on the dial of the Patek 5960/1A.

The Montblanc M) RED Pen by Marc Newson is a relatively small and light pen that measures 5.5” in length and 14 mm in diameter with a total weight of less than 30 grams. This pen is available in either ballpoint or fountain. Not a bad combo to match the red hands on the Patek Philippe 5960/1A with opaline dial.

Sticker Price $460 USD —Patek not included. For more info on Montblanc click here.