Montegrappa's Most Legendary Pens (And Who Wrote With Them)
– by Opulence, The Collection by LKL
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Since 1912, Montegrappa has been creating writing instruments that blur the line between pen and art. With roots in Bassano del Grappa, Italy, the brand has found its place in the hands of poets, presidents, popes and provocateurs.
These pens aren't just tools — they're statements. And the people who chose them? Visionaries, legends, and collectors of meaning.
Let's explore six of Montegrappa's most iconic models, and the extraordinary people who used them.
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1. Montegrappa Extra 1930
Used by: Paulo Coelho
Why it's iconic:
Extra 1930 is Montegrappa's tribute to vintage elegance — with a celluloid body, sterling silver accents, and an 18K gold tip. It embodies classic Italian design and timeless balance.
Paulo Coelho, the author of The Alchemist , used this pen in his writing rituals, praising its tactile connection to thought and feeling. For him, the pen was a vessel for intention.
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2. Montegrappa Chaos (Limited Edition)
Created by: Sylvester Stallone
Why it's iconic:
Co-designed by Stallone himself, Chaos is a bold, sculptural pen wrapped in bronze or sterling silver, adorned with skulls, snakes and fire. It's dramatic, rebellious and theatrical — just like the man who helped create it.
Only 1,000 fountain pens and 912 rollerballs were produced. It immediately became a collector's item and sparked global discussion about the role of design in the fine art of writing.
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3. Montegrappa Hemingway
Inspired by: Ernest Hemingway
Why it's iconic:
A tribute to the literary giant, the Hemingway series includes editions such as The Adventurer and The Writer . Each pen reflects Hemingway's love of travel, masculinity, and precision.
These pens are all about powerful lines, earthy colors, and storytelling — created for people who live and write with intensity.
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4. Montegrappa Dragon
Used by: Vladimir Putin (reportedly)
Why it's iconic:
One of Montegrappa's most ornate models, the Dragon wraps its body in swirling, scaly silver or gold with ruby eyes and sculpted fire.
Reportedly gifted to (or used by) Vladimir Putin, the pen reflects power, tradition, and myth — and remains one of the brand's most technically complex creations.
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5. Montegrappa Fortuna Skull
Used by: Collectors & creatives worldwide
Why it's iconic:
Fortuna Skull combines modernity with memento mori . Adorned with laser-engraved skulls or actual sculpted skull elements, it celebrates both transience and individuality.
Popular with tattoo artists, musicians and non-conformists, this pen shows how Montegrappa combines luxury with subculture — without compromise.
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6. Montegrappa Gladiator
Why it's iconic:
Part of the brand's Icons collection, the Gladiator features a design inspired by armor, weapon motifs and a powerful stance, representing strength, conflict and tradition.
It is not tied to a single person — it is for everyone who sees writing as an act of will. A collector's item that turns history into ink.
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The Signature of the Icons
What unites these pens is not just craftsmanship — it's character.
Each one is created to arouse emotions, provoke thoughts and become part of a larger story.

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