CARAN D’ACHE: Swiss Iconography in a Pencil-Stroke

Since its inception of 1915 the maison of CARAN D’ACHE was a testimony to the great with a strong commitment to preserving and developing its 100 years of expertise as an ambassador of Swiss quality. 

Swiss architect Mario Botta, German designer Karl Lagerfeld and French artist Pablo Picasso are just a few among many artist and professionals considering themselves aficionados of the family-owned house. 

As the only remaining Swiss manufacturer of writing instruments, CARAN D’ACHE is currently led by Carole Hubscher, representing the fourth generation actively involved in the family business since the 1930s.

While deeply rooted in tradition, the Maison CARAN D’ACHE embraces innovation. The Swiss manufacturer made history when it released the first watercolor pencils.

CARAN D’ACHE continually strives to push the boundaries by developing cutting-edge technologies to enhance the quality of its products. The international acclaim of CARAN D’ACHE is a testament to its ongoing commitment to its swissness: Quality, tradition and excellence.  

Since 1915, CARAN D’ACHE has been a preserver of the art of handwriting – A symbol that has connected people since the dawn of civilization.

Founded as the ‘Fabrique Genevoise de Crayons’ in 1915, CARAN D’ACHE adopted its current name in 1924 under Arnold Schweitzer as a tribute to French cartoonist Emmanuel Poiré, who singed his Art ‘Caran d’Ache’. The name is a French adaptation of the Russian word for pencil ‘karandash’.

Synonymous with elegance, sturdiness and quality, the Ecridor – An emblematic model of the Maison – was first introduced as a mechanical pencil in 1938 and in 1953 as a ballpoint pen. Its art-deco inspired hexagonal body, recognizable at first glance, has shaped it to be a true modern icon. Already in the 1930s, CARAN D’ACHE had its first engraved gold or silver Ecridor pencils.

In 1970, the Madison collection was presented, which, for the first time, included a fountain pen.

In 1994, the production of CARAN D’ACHE’s ‘Private Collection’ began. The first collection, called ‘Geneva’ consisted of two variations of pens covered in 23 carat pink gold.

Glancing at the future, CARAN D’ACHE is building a new Manufacture in Bernex, with plans to relocate its headquarters. Remaining Swiss, and Especially Geneva based, in its production, essence and its history.