Pelikan Toledo: A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship and Tradition

Among connoisseurs of fine writing instruments, Pelikan holds a reputation for excellence, blending precision German engineering with elegant design. But within their collection, one series stands apart as both an artistic and mechanical achievement: the Pelikan Toledo.

Crafted in Germany but drawing inspiration from Spanish metalwork traditions, the Toledo is not just a pen—it’s a piece of living history.

A Tribute to Spanish Artistry

The name Toledo refers to the Spanish city known for its intricate damascene metalwork: the art of inlaying gold and silver into steel. In the early 20th century, Pelikan’s founder, Günther Wagner, was so captivated by this technique that he introduced a pen design inspired by it. That design would become the Pelikan Toledo, introduced in 1931 and still produced—incredibly—in much the same way today.

The Craft Behind Each Pen

Each Pelikan Toledo fountain pen begins its life as a solid 925 sterling silver sleeve, which is then coated in 24-carat gold. Onto this surface, skilled artisans hand-engrave a repeating pattern—typically a noble pelican motif, drawing from the company’s logo—using traditional tools and techniques. The process is slow and exacting, with every engraved sleeve taking hours to complete.

No two Toledos are precisely alike. Every pen carries the subtle signature of the artisan who engraved it. This rare commitment to craftsmanship is why Pelikan only produces a limited number of these pens each year.

Design and Writing Experience

The most iconic version in the lineup is the Pelikan Toledo M900, a piston-filling fountain pen with the familiar silhouette of the Souverän series but adorned with that unmistakable gold sleeve. It comes fitted with a hand-assembled 18k gold nib (rhodium-plated for a bicolour finish), offering a smooth, slightly springy writing experience that long-time Pelikan fans have come to cherish.

The piston-filling system allows generous ink capacity—perfect for those who write extensively or prefer bottled ink. Like all Pelikan piston fillers, the mechanism operates with a silky precision that speaks to the brand’s engineering prowess.

Why Collectors Love the Toledo

• Hand-engraved artistry: Few pens today are genuinely hand-crafted in this way, making each Toledo as much an heirloom as a writing instrument.
• Limited availability: Production is capped each year, adding rarity and collectability to the appeal.
• Pelikan heritage: The Toledo embodies the brand’s dual focus on functionality and aesthetics—engineering and art in perfect balance.
• Prestige without pretension: While opulent in detail, the Toledo remains surprisingly understated. It’s a pen for those who know—and who write with intention.

Variations in the Series

While the M900 remains the most recognisable model, Pelikan occasionally introduces variants, including the slightly smaller M700 Toledo, and limited editions with unique engravings or materials.

Each variation shares the same DNA: the engraved metalwork, the high-performance nib, and Pelikan’s unwavering commitment to traditional techniques.

Caring for Your Toledo

At Laywine’s, we always recommend treating the Pelikan Toledo as both a tool and a treasure. Avoid abrasive cleaners on the metal sleeve, and be sure to flush the nib and feed regularly if you’re using highly saturated inks. For those who prefer professional care, Pelikan offers dedicated support through their service centre for cleaning, nib tuning, or refurbishment.

The Toledo at Laywine’s

We are proud to offer the Pelikan Toledo series at Laywine’s, where it holds a place of honour among our most distinguished writing instruments. For those seeking a pen that reflects both craftsmanship and character, the Toledo delivers on every level.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply ready to invest in a pen that will outlast a lifetime of ideas, the Pelikan Toledo is a fitting companion.

Explore the Pelikan Toledo Series → Pelikan Toledo M700 or Pelikan Toledo M900