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PART 2 of a 3 PART SERIES: Calligraphy 130M concept superyacht; “The Pen is mightier than the sword”
Dubbed the L’Enfant Terrible of Yacht Design, Alexander McDiarmid and his studio’s reputation for exceptional creative thinking, through avant-garde, futuristic and visionary superyacht concepts and projects are firmly established. We are pleased to have Alexander join us for a three-part exclusive to Superyacht Content featuring a few of his favourite concepts and design inspirations.
Modern manufacturers such as Montblanc and Visconti now depict the fountain pen as a collectable item, or status symbol, rather than an everyday writing tool. The yacht has also evolved in just such a way, but can we start looking at classic and vintage fountain pens for yacht design inspiration?
The overall side profiles of these writing instruments are simple, elegant, flowing forms, similar to the profile of a Superyacht. Observing the construction of such writing instruments we noticed the striking similarities to the lines found on a superyacht. Evident from the outset was pure craftsmanship of the very highest quality and materials that are often beautifully decorated.
So where are the similarities?
Nib = Bow
Section & Barrel = Hull
The Outer Cap = Superstructure
Clutch, Friction & Trim O-Rings = Bulkheads and possible elevator shaft
The Clip = The Bridge
Internal Ink Reservoir = The Fuel, Water and Waste Tanks
The Blind Cap = The Stern
Kinda cool…no?
Of notable interest are the technical elements of fountain pens, and in particular, some high-end barrel designs that allow the user to see the inner workings and ink of the pen. These are often encased in elaborate and decorative materials.
These beautifully handcrafted instruments combine the highest standards of craftsmanship with machine shop abilities of times both past and present, to give the writer/owner a very personal product, much like owning a Superyacht!
Could yacht building learn anything from pen-making in terms of evolution or revolution? Only time will tell.
You can learn more about Alexander McDiarmid and his designs by going to his website.
