Special or limited editions are pieces created with exclusivity. Their exclusivity can come for several reasons such as the materials used, their manufacturing process, how many will be manufactured and their originality.

The blog on limited editions explains the difference between limited editions and special editions, but what makes a piece special?
What makes a pen special?

Special Editions

Special editions are not characterized by having a limited number in quantities, instead they include features that differentiate them from other pieces.

These are pieces that you may not be able to have at any other given time and will only be available at a specific date or time.

Some of the characteristics that distinguish them are their manufacturing technique, the materials used or some distinctive element.

ZODIAC EDITIONS

Many brands create special editions for special events, for example the signs of the zodiac. Cross has launched in recent years a special edition for each sign of the Chinese horoscope. Montegrappa also explores astrology with its Zero Zodiac line where it launches a special edition zodiac sign each month.

Montegrappa Zero Zodiac Sagitario

CHARACTER EDITIONS

Another popular special edition release is one that honors historical figures. Esterbrook does it with its Estie Aqua, where it recognizes the most iconic writers who wrote stories about the mysteries of the oceans.

Montblanc crowns itself with its 'Great Characters' collection, where it pays tribute to different cultural figures who left an indelible mark on history through exquisite craftsmanship.

Montblanc Great Characters Elvis Presley Ballpoint pen

TRIBUTE TO THE EARTH

The planet where we live deserves all possible recognition and that is the opinion of the manufacturers of fountain pens that often launch special editions where they use ecological materials, both in the piece and in its packaging, or use colors that pay tribute to it. 

Lamy Studio Black Forest

LIMITED AND SPECIAL EDITIONS 1993 - 2020

Pelikan published the book "Limited and Special Editions 1993 - 2020", where it presents for the first time all the brand's editions (special and limited) from 1993 to 2020. It is a must-have book for all collectors and lovers of the brand's fine writing instruments, and those interested in digging deeper into what makes a pen special. 

Pelikan Collector’s Book Limited & Special Editions 1993-2020