The History of Montblanc
Jan 05 2011
A chronological view from 1906 to 2006 on the company's history of Montblanc.
The first Montblanc Factory
Adenauer and Kennedy 1963
First Montblanc Simplo Catalogue in 1909
Montblanc Airplane 1922
Alfred Nehemias
1906
A Hamburg stationery trader, a Hamburg banker and a Berlin engineer decide to produce fountain pens.
1908
Founding of the SIMPLO FILLERPEN COMPANY, based in Hamburg / Germany and owned by Claus-Johannes Voss, Christian Lausen and Wilhelm Dziambor.
1909
Introduction of the "ROUGE ET NOIR" fountain pen.
1910
Introduction of the ”MONTBLANC” fountain pen.
1913
The Montblanc star becomes a trademark. First manufacturing site established in the Hamburg Schanzen quarter.
1919-21
Opening of the first special Montblanc shop in Hamburg; others follow in Berlin, Leipzig, Breslau, Hanover and Bremen.
1924
Birth of the legendary MEISTERSTÜCK fountain pen.
1929
All Meisterstück fountain pens from now on bear the engraving "4.810" - the height of the Mont Blanc mountain in metres as measured at that time.
1935
Founding of a separate leather goods production works in Lämmerspiel near Offenbach, to make small luxury leather goods.
1983
Introduction of the Meisterstück Solitaire Collection, the precious metal version of the Meisterstück in solid gold, sterling-silver or gilded silver.
The 149 Solitaire fountain pen in solid gold enters the Guinness Book of Records as the most expensive fountain pen in the world.
1987
Numerous international sponsorship initiatives in the areas of literature, ballet and music mark the beginning of Montblanc's world-wide commitment to culture.
1989
Move to the new production and administration headquarters in Hamburg Eidelstedt. The Montblanc Museum is also established there.
1990
Opening of the first Montblanc boutique in Hong Kong
1992
Montblanc creates the "Montblanc Arts Patronage Award", to honour outstanding patrons of the arts. An international jury of artists select a winner from each of three continents - Europe, Asia and North America. The aim of the prize - to raise awareness of the urgent need for world-wide support of the arts, and to make an important contribution to the cultural enrichment of society. The 1992 prize-winners: Dominique de Menil, the Rockerfeller Foundation, Madame Georges Pompidou and James D. Wolfensohn.
Montblanc launches its first Limited Edition Patron of Art pen on the world-wide market: ”LORENZO DE MEDICI” - a replica of a Montblanc fountain pen from the twenties, pays homage to a great patron of past culture. Only 4,810 copies are made; every year a new limited collector’s piece will follow.
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Writers Edition, "HEMINGWAY".
Acquisition of Karl Seeger Lederwarenfabrik GmbH to become manufacturer of Montblanc´s Leather product collection.
Extension of the Meisterstück range, introducing the product line "NEW DIMENSIONS"including luxury leather goods, handmade paper and desk accessories.
1993
"Montblanc Arts Patronage Award" prize winners: Walter Carsen, Lila Wallace Reader's Digest Fund, Sir Run Run Shaw, Lincoln Kirstein and Simon Rattle.
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Edition Patron of Art "OCTAVIAN", the Montblanc Limited Writers Edition "AGATHA CHRISTIE" and its Asiatic counterpart "IMPERIAL DRAGON".
Extension of the Montblanc boutique network. After initial developments in Asia, the first shops in Europe are opened in Paris and London.
1994
"Montblanc Arts Patronage Award" prize winners: Keizo Saji (Asia), Alan Ayckbourn (Europe) and Susan Sontag (North America).
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Edition Patron of Art "LOUIS XIV" and the Montblanc Limited Writers Edition "OSCAR WILDE".
The "Solitaire Royal" - a fountain pen covered with 4,810 brilliant diamonds, enters the "Guinness Book of Records" as the most expensive fountain pen in the world.
1995
"Montblanc Arts Patronage Award" prize winners: Ikuo Hirayama (Asia), Gian Carlo Menotti (Europe), Jane Alexander (North America).
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Edition Patron of Art "THE PRINCE REGENT" and the Montblanc Limited Writers Edition "VOLTAIRE".
Introduction of the Meisterstück "RAMSES II", with gold-plated body and precious stone lapis lazuli cap to complete the SOLITAIRE line.
Introduction of the Meisterstück Leather Collection (an extension to the already existing range of small leather items) - well designed accessories for everyday business and travel.
Foundation of the "Philharmonia of the Nations" under the direction of Professor Justus Frantz. In June, Montblanc becomes main sponsor of the "Philharmonia of the Nations".
1996
Expansion of the "Montblanc Arts Patronage Award" programme to nine countries. The prizewinners: Joan Chalmers (Canada), Giulia Maria Mozzoni Crespi (Italy), Annie Fratellini (France), Francesca von Habsburg (Germany), Sir Ernest Hall (Great Britain), Sir Joseph Hotung (Hong Kong), So Kuramoto (Japan), Paloma O”Shea (Spain), Tony Randall (USA).
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Edition Patron of Art "SEMIRAMIS" and the Montblanc Limited Writers Edition "ALEXANDRE DUMAS".
Introduction of a third size of writing instruments: "HOMMAGE À WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART" - the pocket-sized mini Meisterstück.
Introduction of the LeGrand Solitaire Collection - precious metal writing instruments in diamond-cut sterling silver, gilded silver and Doué.
Introduction of the Meisterstück Jewellery Line - stylish accessories for men, complementing the Meisterstück writing instrument range.
Introduction of the Special Edition "Meisterstück Leonard Bernstein" - the first donation pen in the world, in support of the Montblanc Philharmonia of the Nations.
1997
Foundation of the Montblanc Montre S.A. in Le Locle / Switzerland. Introduction of the masterly handcrafted Meisterstück Watch and Eyewear collections. Launch of Montblanc’s first Meisterstück Watch Collections at the SIHH (Salon de la Haute Horlogerie) in Geneva
Montblanc Arts Patronage Award prize-winners in ten countries: Dr. Erich Marx (Germany), Joey Tanenbaum (Canada), Agnes Gund (USA), Florence and Daniel Guerlain (France), Jordi Clos i Llombart (Spain), Tamasaburo Bando (Japan), Anna Sohmen (Hong Kong), Dr. Earl Lu (Singapore), Claudio de Polo Saibanti (Italy), Sir George Christie (England).
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Edition Patron of Art "PETER I the Great" and "CATHERINE II the Great".
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Writers Edition "FYODOR M. DOSTOEVSKY".
Introduction of the "Hommage à WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART" Solitaire Collection.
1998
The 1998 Montblanc Arts Patronage Award winners in ten countries: David Mirvish (Canada), Hélène David-Weill (France), Dr. Reinhold Würth (Germany), Dr. Jung Sen Lee (Hong Kong), Midori Goto (Japan), Nanni Moretti (Italy), Carmen Arias y Diaz de Rabago (Spain), Brother James McNally (Singapore), Janice Blackburn (United Kingdom), Richard Riardon (USA)
Extension of the Meisterstück Watch Collection – introduction of steel watches.
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Edition Patron of Art - "HOMMAGE à ALEXANDER THE GREAT"
Introduction of the Meisterstück "HOMMAGE à FRÉDÉRIC CHOPIN"
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Writers Edition "HOMMAGE À EDGAR ALLAN POE".
June 1998
Founding of the Montblanc Kulturstiftung (Montblanc Cultural Foundation) based in Germany.
Oct. 1998
Opening of the Montblanc Academy, exhibition of the art work ”Gran Paradiso II” by Stephan Huber at the Montblanc Gallery Hamburg.
1999
"Montblanc Meisterstück - 75 Years of Passion and Soul" – the legendary writing instrument celebrates its 75thanniversary.
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Edition Patron of Art - "HOMMAGE à FRIEDRICH II THE GREAT"
The 1999 Montblanc Arts Patronage Award winners in ten countries: Margaret Fountain (Canada), Dina Vierny (France), Irene Moessinger (Germany), Jean Wong (Hong Kong), Tatsuka Nakadai (Japan), Fernanda Giulini (Italy), José Ferrer Sala (Spain), Michael Hwang (Singapore), Torquil Norman (United Kingdom), David Robinson (USA)
July 1999
Opening of the Montblanc Staircase Gallery at the Montblanc Headquarter in Hamburg, Hellgrundweg, with the video, sound & light installation "Stairmaster" of the New York artist Tom Sachs.
Sept. 1999
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Writers Edition "HOMMAGE à MARCEL PROUST"
March 2000
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Edition Patron of Art "Karl der Grosse – Hommage à Charlemagne".
April 2000
The 2000 Montblanc Arts Patronage Award winners in eleven countries: Gerald McGavin (Canada), Veronique Prat (France), Lothar Schirmer (Germany), Jackie Chan (Hong Kong), Francesco Micheli (Italy), Sugako Hashida (Japan), Leow Siah Fak (Singapore), Javier Benjumea (Spain), Brian Eno (United Kingdom), Abby Rosin (USA).
Sept. 2000
Montblanc is main sponsor of the Menuhin Festival in Gstaad, Switzerland. Introduction of the "Montblanc Special Edition Yehudi Menuhin"- a new Donation-Pen in cooperation with the Philharmony of the Nations.
Oct. 2000
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Writers Edition "FRIEDRICH SCHILLER"
Introduction of the Montblanc Special Edition ”Year of the Golden Dragon”- an cooperation with the porcelain manufactory Meissen produced fountain pen. This pen is limited to 888 pieces.
Nov. 2000
Launch of the new Writing Collection Montblanc Bohème - the first new Writing Collection since the Meisterstück
Dec. 2000
Launch of the "Montblanc Limited Edition Precious Dragon". This collection includes writing instruments and jewellery accessories, which are manufactured in the Montblanc (studio/atelier).
Jan. 2001
Opening of the second exhibition in the Academy Gallery: Montblanc presents the American artist JORGE PARDO with the light installation "Untitled 2000" – a series of 28 lights, which are spread over the company building and the belonging Montblanc Academy Gallery.
Feb. 2001
Introduction of the "Montblanc Special Edition Johann Sebastian Bach" – a new donation-pen, which supports the Bach Patronage Berlin and for saving the original autographs of Johann Sebastian Bach.
April 2001
Introduction of the _Montblanc Limited Edition Patron of Art Marquise de Pompadour“ – once again a cooperation with the porcellain manufactory Meissen.
April 2001
Montblanc Arts Patronage Award“ winners in ten countries: Prof. Hark Bohm (Germany), Jacques Garcia (France), Vivien Duffield (Great Britain), Pak Suet Sin (Hong Kong), Guiseppe Panza di Biumo (Italy), Hirao Masaaki (Japan), Phyllis Lambert (Canada), Ng Eng Teng (Singapore), Carmen Thyssen-Bornemisza (Spain), John Sykes (USA).
April 2001
Montblanc presents at the _Salon de la Haute Horlogerie“ – SIHH in Geneva the world`s most expensive advent calendar, worth 1 Million Swiss Francs – presenting the most luxurious Montblanc products.
June 2001
Launch of the Ladies Business Bags Collection – hand crafted elegant bags which are the ideal, universal accessory for day and evening due to their compatible design.
Oct. 2001
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Writers Edition "Charles Dickens"
Dez. 2001
Introduction of the Montblanc Special Edition "Sakura 333" - once again cooperation with the porcelain manufactory Meissen.
Jan. 2002
Launch of the Limited Edition "Qing Dynasty 2002".
April 2002
Montblanc presents at the "Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie – SIHH" in Geneva the "Profile Collection" - Montblanc’s first collection of rectangular wristwatches.
April 2002
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Edition Patron of Art 2002 "Hommage à Andrew Carnegie".
June 2002
"Montblanc Arts Patronage Award"-winners in ten countries: Irene Schulte-Hillen(Germany), Corinne Ricard (France), Griff Rhys Jones (Great Britain), Michelle Yeoh (Hongkong), Franca Coin (Italy), Yutaka Sado (Japan), Bluma Appel (Canada), Tan Siah Kwee (Singapore), El Duque de Soria (Spain), Rosie O`Donnel (USA).
Aug. 2002
Introduction of the Limited Writers Edition "Scott Fitzgerald".
Aug. 2002
Montblanc is Sponsor of the new "Young Directors Project" at the Salzburg Festival. In August 2002, for the first time, the Salzburg Festival will present a competition for young European theatre directors and their companies, highlighted by the Montblanc Young Directors Award.
Oct. 2002
Opening of Montblanc´s Flagship Boutique on Champs-Elysées Paris introducing the new boutique furniture concept/interview by famous french architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte.
Feb. 2003
Launch of the new Montblanc Eyewear Collection "Urban Casual" and ´Trendy New Signature´.
Montblanc introduces the new leather Collections 4810 Westside for younger, design-oriented business people and 4810 Eastside for lovers of outstanding leather accessories.
April 2003
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Edition Patron of Art 2003 "Hommage á Nicolaus Copernicus".
April 2003
Montblanc presents the new watch model TimeWalker at the "Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie" – SIHH in Geneva.
May 2003
Montblanc presents StarWalker, the new generation of writing instruments for Montblanc enthusiasts who are cosmopolitan, dynamic, self-confident, and who have a love for purist, aesthetic design based on the very highest quality craftsmanship.
June 2003
The Montblanc de la Culture Arts Patronage Award is presented in ten different countries. The winners are: Günther Jauch (Germany), Gilles Fuchs (France), Lord Rothschild (Great Britain), Andy Lau (Hong Kong), Patrizia Sandretto Re Rebaudengo (Italy), Sadao Watanabe (Japan), Xiao Xiangyun (China), Tuan Syed Mohamad Albukhary (Malaysia), Jesus de Polanco (Spain), Russell Simmons (USA).
Aug. 2003
Introduction of the Limited Writers Edition "Jules Verne".
For the second time Montblanc presents the "Montblanc Young Directors Project" as part of the Salzburg Festival. The prize money of EUR 10,000 and the precious "Max Reinhardt Pen" are awarded to the winner Alvis Hermanis.
Oct. 2003
Launch of the watch collection TimeWalker. The avant-garde design features mechanical movement with automatic winding and uncompromising quality in keeping the high standards of traditional craftsmanship at Montblanc Montre SA in Le Locle, Switzerland.
In October Montblanc opens its new Flagship Boutique at 598 Madison Avenue in New York. At the same time Montblanc presents an art exhibit of oversized shopping bag sculptures at Rockefeller Center.
April 2004
Launch of the Limited Edition Patron of Art "Hommage à John Pierpont Morgan".
May 2004
Montblanc literature competition on the theme "So viel Zeit muss sein" ("Take time for yourself"). The winner is Moritz von Uslar with his short story "Ein freier Abend" ("An evening off"), who receives the prize money of 4,810 Euros (corresponding to the height of Mont Blanc).
June 2004
Women's World Awards – Montblanc is the founding partner under the patronage of Mikhail Gorbachev. The awards in different categories were given, among others, to international personalities like Whitney Houston, Vivienne Westwood, Waris Diries and Bianca Jagger.
Aug. 2004
Young Directors Project – Montblanc as sole sponsor of the experimental and young theatre competition in the context of the Salzburg Festival. The prize winners this year are Christiane Pohle (Germany), Luis Ureta (Chile) and Alex Rigola (Spain). In addition to the agreed sponsoring amount, a part of the earnings from the sale of the Limited Edition “Hommage à Max Reinhardt” go to the Young Directors Project.
Oct. 2004
Launch of the Montblanc Limited Writers Edition "Franz Kafka".
Oct. 2004
Launch of the Limited Edition "Annual Edition 2005".
Nov. 2004
Launch of the project "Sign Up for the Right to Write" against illiteracy in co-operation with UNICEF.
March 2005
Launch of the new leather collection for a female target group, "LadyStar" and "Bohème Skyblue" in fresh colours. The calf leather bangles of the "Bohème Skyblue" leather collection are available only in the spring/summer season 2005.
April 2005
The worldwide campaign "Sign Up for the Right to Write" generated earnings of $US 846,675 for UNICEF.
April 2005
At the SIHH (Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie) in Geneva, Montblanc presents its new watch models. The hero is the Star XXXL Chrono GMT Automatic, made of 18-carat red gold. Other highlights are the Lady Chrono Diamonds, the Sport Lady Jewels and the TimeWalker GMT Automatic.
April 2005
Launch of the new Limited Edition Patron of Art "Pope Julius II" in honour of the patron of Michelangelo and the builder of St Peter’s Cathedral in Rome.
April 2005
The Montblanc de la Culture Arts Patronage Award is presented to honour private patrons in ten countries. The German prize winner, Diane Duchess of Württemberg, Princess of France is honoured on 27 April for the work of her two foundations. The English prize winners, Lord and Lady Sainsbury, are awarded their prizes in London.
April 2005
The Montblanc de la Culture Arts Patronage Award is presented to Antoine de Galbert in Paris and to Dr Rita Simo in New York on 19 April.
April 2005
Launch of the new Meisterstück Leather Collection with suitable travel cases for business people.
May 2005
The Montblanc de la Culture Arts Patronage Award is presented to Kei Ogura in Tokyo on 11 May and to German Ruiperez in Madrid on 19 May.
June 2005
Vernissage with artist Daniel Richter in the Montblanc Academy Gallery. After being exhibited for two years in the Montblanc Gallery, his image oil on canvas “Fatifa” goes on permanent loan to the "Galerie der Gegenwart" (Gallery of Modern Art) in Hamburg. Montblanc also presents the staircase installation of the Swiss artist Lori Hersberger in the Staircase Gallery.
Sept. 2005
Feminine, variable, elegant – Montblanc presents the three innovative collections of "Montblanc Jewellery". A genuine affirmation of both contemporary style and timeless refinement. Playful and intriguing collection of 925 sterling silver, in exciting contrast to colourful semiprecious stones and diamonds which can be combined to create a highly personal style.
Jan. 2006
Montblanc's 100th anniversary: Soulmakers for 100 years. When the Hamburg stationer Claus-Johannes Voß, the engineer August Eberstein and the salesman Alfred Nehemias met to exchange their ideas in the year 1906, nobody imagined that it would mark the birth of one of the great international luxury brands: Montblanc.
The world-famous Montblanc star, a symbol of the highest levels of craftsmanship and quality. After a development time of eight years, Montblanc has created an sophisticated, patented diamond cut that now shows the brand logo in the radiant, three-dimensional form of a Montblanc diamond in each 100 Years Collection. A world premiere, for Montblanc is the first brand with its own diamond cut as a representation of its icon.
The 100 Years Solitaire Editions are launched, including the Solitaire Mountain Massif Skeleton 2006, limited to only three pieces, the Meisterstück Solitaire 1906 made of sterling silver and real Mont Blanc granite and the Meisterstück Solitaire 100 made of solid 750 yellow, rose or white gold.
Feb. 2006
In the exclusively limited editions of only 100 or three pieces, Montblanc presents the fountain-pens "StarWalker Limited Edition 100" and "StarWalker Platin Edition" to celebrate the 100 years of the brand's existence. Also a limited anniversary edition of the StarWalker fountain pen and ballpoint pen is launched including an 18-carat anniversary nib and the 100 years' engraving on the clip ring, crowned by a floating diamond in a transparent cap head, cut in 43 facets to form a Montblanc star.
March 2006
Montblanc celebrates 100 years of endurance and launches a real jewel among the editions: the Limited Edition "Bohème 100". A fountain-pen of solid 18-carat gold - available in either white gold, yellow gold or rose gold with star-shaped guilloche work covered with a wafer-thin lacquer harmonising with the gold tone and corresponding semi-precious stone in the clip. Limited to 100 pieces.
The Limited Edition "Bohème 1906" is also launched: a black and white marbled body of precious resin with platinised cap, platinised fittings and a jet-black onyx on the clip. The world-famous Montblanc star is honoured twice - as a logo in guilloche work on the platinised cap and as a diamond in the cap head.
Launch of the new Limited Edition Patron of Art "Sir Henry Tate" in honour of one of the most successful entrepreneurs of the Victorian Age and greatest art-lovers and patrons of his time.
April 2006
To mark the brand´s centenary in 2006, Montblanc presents a world premiere at the SIHH (Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie) in Geneva: the Star Chrono GMT Perpetual Calendar chronograph in platinum, white, yellow or rose gold. Equally exclusive are the Profile Lady Elegance Diamonds Limited 3 in 18 carat white gold with casing and wristband set with a firework display of diamonds and the innovative Sport Tantalum Automatic Limited Edition 100 with its newly developed helium escape valve. Also for men the Urban Walker 950 Platinum cufflinks, each in a worldwide limited edition of just three.
A Hamburg stationery trader, a Hamburg banker and a Berlin engineer decide to produce fountain pens.
1908
Founding of the SIMPLO FILLERPEN COMPANY, based in Hamburg / Germany and owned by Claus-Johannes Voss, Christian Lausen and Wilhelm Dziambor.
1909
Introduction of the "ROUGE ET NOIR" fountain pen.
1910
Introduction of the ”MONTBLANC” fountain pen.
1913
The Montblanc star becomes a trademark. First manufacturing site established in the Hamburg Schanzen quarter.
1919-21
Opening of the first special Montblanc shop in Hamburg; others follow in Berlin, Leipzig, Breslau, Hanover and Bremen.
1924
Birth of the legendary MEISTERSTÜCK fountain pen.
1929
All Meisterstück fountain pens from now on bear the engraving "4.810" - the height of the Mont Blanc mountain in metres as measured at that time.
1935
Founding of a separate leather goods production works in Lämmerspiel near Offenbach, to make small luxury leather goods.
1983
Introduction of the Meisterstück Solitaire Collection, the precious metal version of the Meisterstück in solid gold, sterling-silver or gilded silver.
The 149 Solitaire fountain pen in solid gold enters the Guinness Book of Records as the most expensive fountain pen in the world.
1987
Numerous international sponsorship initiatives in the areas of literature, ballet and music mark the beginning of Montblanc's world-wide commitment to culture.
1989
Move to the new production and administration headquarters in Hamburg Eidelstedt. The Montblanc Museum is also established there.
1990
Opening of the first Montblanc boutique in Hong Kong
1992
Montblanc creates the "Montblanc Arts Patronage Award", to honour outstanding patrons of the arts. An international jury of artists select a winner from each of three continents - Europe, Asia and North America. The aim of the prize - to raise awareness of the urgent need for world-wide support of the arts, and to make an important contribution to the cultural enrichment of society. The 1992 prize-winners: Dominique de Menil, the Rockerfeller Foundation, Madame Georges Pompidou and James D. Wolfensohn.
Montblanc launches its first Limited Edition Patron of Art pen on the world-wide market: ”LORENZO DE MEDICI” - a replica of a Montblanc fountain pen from the twenties, pays homage to a great patron of past culture. Only 4,810 copies are made; every year a new limited collector’s piece will follow.
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Writers Edition, "HEMINGWAY".
Acquisition of Karl Seeger Lederwarenfabrik GmbH to become manufacturer of Montblanc´s Leather product collection.
Extension of the Meisterstück range, introducing the product line "NEW DIMENSIONS"including luxury leather goods, handmade paper and desk accessories.
1993
"Montblanc Arts Patronage Award" prize winners: Walter Carsen, Lila Wallace Reader's Digest Fund, Sir Run Run Shaw, Lincoln Kirstein and Simon Rattle.
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Edition Patron of Art "OCTAVIAN", the Montblanc Limited Writers Edition "AGATHA CHRISTIE" and its Asiatic counterpart "IMPERIAL DRAGON".
Extension of the Montblanc boutique network. After initial developments in Asia, the first shops in Europe are opened in Paris and London.
1994
"Montblanc Arts Patronage Award" prize winners: Keizo Saji (Asia), Alan Ayckbourn (Europe) and Susan Sontag (North America).
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Edition Patron of Art "LOUIS XIV" and the Montblanc Limited Writers Edition "OSCAR WILDE".
The "Solitaire Royal" - a fountain pen covered with 4,810 brilliant diamonds, enters the "Guinness Book of Records" as the most expensive fountain pen in the world.
1995
"Montblanc Arts Patronage Award" prize winners: Ikuo Hirayama (Asia), Gian Carlo Menotti (Europe), Jane Alexander (North America).
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Edition Patron of Art "THE PRINCE REGENT" and the Montblanc Limited Writers Edition "VOLTAIRE".
Introduction of the Meisterstück "RAMSES II", with gold-plated body and precious stone lapis lazuli cap to complete the SOLITAIRE line.
Introduction of the Meisterstück Leather Collection (an extension to the already existing range of small leather items) - well designed accessories for everyday business and travel.
Foundation of the "Philharmonia of the Nations" under the direction of Professor Justus Frantz. In June, Montblanc becomes main sponsor of the "Philharmonia of the Nations".
1996
Expansion of the "Montblanc Arts Patronage Award" programme to nine countries. The prizewinners: Joan Chalmers (Canada), Giulia Maria Mozzoni Crespi (Italy), Annie Fratellini (France), Francesca von Habsburg (Germany), Sir Ernest Hall (Great Britain), Sir Joseph Hotung (Hong Kong), So Kuramoto (Japan), Paloma O”Shea (Spain), Tony Randall (USA).
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Edition Patron of Art "SEMIRAMIS" and the Montblanc Limited Writers Edition "ALEXANDRE DUMAS".
Introduction of a third size of writing instruments: "HOMMAGE À WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART" - the pocket-sized mini Meisterstück.
Introduction of the LeGrand Solitaire Collection - precious metal writing instruments in diamond-cut sterling silver, gilded silver and Doué.
Introduction of the Meisterstück Jewellery Line - stylish accessories for men, complementing the Meisterstück writing instrument range.
Introduction of the Special Edition "Meisterstück Leonard Bernstein" - the first donation pen in the world, in support of the Montblanc Philharmonia of the Nations.
1997
Foundation of the Montblanc Montre S.A. in Le Locle / Switzerland. Introduction of the masterly handcrafted Meisterstück Watch and Eyewear collections. Launch of Montblanc’s first Meisterstück Watch Collections at the SIHH (Salon de la Haute Horlogerie) in Geneva
Montblanc Arts Patronage Award prize-winners in ten countries: Dr. Erich Marx (Germany), Joey Tanenbaum (Canada), Agnes Gund (USA), Florence and Daniel Guerlain (France), Jordi Clos i Llombart (Spain), Tamasaburo Bando (Japan), Anna Sohmen (Hong Kong), Dr. Earl Lu (Singapore), Claudio de Polo Saibanti (Italy), Sir George Christie (England).
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Edition Patron of Art "PETER I the Great" and "CATHERINE II the Great".
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Writers Edition "FYODOR M. DOSTOEVSKY".
Introduction of the "Hommage à WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART" Solitaire Collection.
1998
The 1998 Montblanc Arts Patronage Award winners in ten countries: David Mirvish (Canada), Hélène David-Weill (France), Dr. Reinhold Würth (Germany), Dr. Jung Sen Lee (Hong Kong), Midori Goto (Japan), Nanni Moretti (Italy), Carmen Arias y Diaz de Rabago (Spain), Brother James McNally (Singapore), Janice Blackburn (United Kingdom), Richard Riardon (USA)
Extension of the Meisterstück Watch Collection – introduction of steel watches.
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Edition Patron of Art - "HOMMAGE à ALEXANDER THE GREAT"
Introduction of the Meisterstück "HOMMAGE à FRÉDÉRIC CHOPIN"
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Writers Edition "HOMMAGE À EDGAR ALLAN POE".
June 1998
Founding of the Montblanc Kulturstiftung (Montblanc Cultural Foundation) based in Germany.
Oct. 1998
Opening of the Montblanc Academy, exhibition of the art work ”Gran Paradiso II” by Stephan Huber at the Montblanc Gallery Hamburg.
1999
"Montblanc Meisterstück - 75 Years of Passion and Soul" – the legendary writing instrument celebrates its 75thanniversary.
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Edition Patron of Art - "HOMMAGE à FRIEDRICH II THE GREAT"
The 1999 Montblanc Arts Patronage Award winners in ten countries: Margaret Fountain (Canada), Dina Vierny (France), Irene Moessinger (Germany), Jean Wong (Hong Kong), Tatsuka Nakadai (Japan), Fernanda Giulini (Italy), José Ferrer Sala (Spain), Michael Hwang (Singapore), Torquil Norman (United Kingdom), David Robinson (USA)
July 1999
Opening of the Montblanc Staircase Gallery at the Montblanc Headquarter in Hamburg, Hellgrundweg, with the video, sound & light installation "Stairmaster" of the New York artist Tom Sachs.
Sept. 1999
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Writers Edition "HOMMAGE à MARCEL PROUST"
March 2000
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Edition Patron of Art "Karl der Grosse – Hommage à Charlemagne".
April 2000
The 2000 Montblanc Arts Patronage Award winners in eleven countries: Gerald McGavin (Canada), Veronique Prat (France), Lothar Schirmer (Germany), Jackie Chan (Hong Kong), Francesco Micheli (Italy), Sugako Hashida (Japan), Leow Siah Fak (Singapore), Javier Benjumea (Spain), Brian Eno (United Kingdom), Abby Rosin (USA).
Sept. 2000
Montblanc is main sponsor of the Menuhin Festival in Gstaad, Switzerland. Introduction of the "Montblanc Special Edition Yehudi Menuhin"- a new Donation-Pen in cooperation with the Philharmony of the Nations.
Oct. 2000
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Writers Edition "FRIEDRICH SCHILLER"
Introduction of the Montblanc Special Edition ”Year of the Golden Dragon”- an cooperation with the porcelain manufactory Meissen produced fountain pen. This pen is limited to 888 pieces.
Nov. 2000
Launch of the new Writing Collection Montblanc Bohème - the first new Writing Collection since the Meisterstück
Dec. 2000
Launch of the "Montblanc Limited Edition Precious Dragon". This collection includes writing instruments and jewellery accessories, which are manufactured in the Montblanc (studio/atelier).
Jan. 2001
Opening of the second exhibition in the Academy Gallery: Montblanc presents the American artist JORGE PARDO with the light installation "Untitled 2000" – a series of 28 lights, which are spread over the company building and the belonging Montblanc Academy Gallery.
Feb. 2001
Introduction of the "Montblanc Special Edition Johann Sebastian Bach" – a new donation-pen, which supports the Bach Patronage Berlin and for saving the original autographs of Johann Sebastian Bach.
April 2001
Introduction of the _Montblanc Limited Edition Patron of Art Marquise de Pompadour“ – once again a cooperation with the porcellain manufactory Meissen.
April 2001
Montblanc Arts Patronage Award“ winners in ten countries: Prof. Hark Bohm (Germany), Jacques Garcia (France), Vivien Duffield (Great Britain), Pak Suet Sin (Hong Kong), Guiseppe Panza di Biumo (Italy), Hirao Masaaki (Japan), Phyllis Lambert (Canada), Ng Eng Teng (Singapore), Carmen Thyssen-Bornemisza (Spain), John Sykes (USA).
April 2001
Montblanc presents at the _Salon de la Haute Horlogerie“ – SIHH in Geneva the world`s most expensive advent calendar, worth 1 Million Swiss Francs – presenting the most luxurious Montblanc products.
June 2001
Launch of the Ladies Business Bags Collection – hand crafted elegant bags which are the ideal, universal accessory for day and evening due to their compatible design.
Oct. 2001
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Writers Edition "Charles Dickens"
Dez. 2001
Introduction of the Montblanc Special Edition "Sakura 333" - once again cooperation with the porcelain manufactory Meissen.
Jan. 2002
Launch of the Limited Edition "Qing Dynasty 2002".
April 2002
Montblanc presents at the "Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie – SIHH" in Geneva the "Profile Collection" - Montblanc’s first collection of rectangular wristwatches.
April 2002
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Edition Patron of Art 2002 "Hommage à Andrew Carnegie".
June 2002
"Montblanc Arts Patronage Award"-winners in ten countries: Irene Schulte-Hillen(Germany), Corinne Ricard (France), Griff Rhys Jones (Great Britain), Michelle Yeoh (Hongkong), Franca Coin (Italy), Yutaka Sado (Japan), Bluma Appel (Canada), Tan Siah Kwee (Singapore), El Duque de Soria (Spain), Rosie O`Donnel (USA).
Aug. 2002
Introduction of the Limited Writers Edition "Scott Fitzgerald".
Aug. 2002
Montblanc is Sponsor of the new "Young Directors Project" at the Salzburg Festival. In August 2002, for the first time, the Salzburg Festival will present a competition for young European theatre directors and their companies, highlighted by the Montblanc Young Directors Award.
Oct. 2002
Opening of Montblanc´s Flagship Boutique on Champs-Elysées Paris introducing the new boutique furniture concept/interview by famous french architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte.
Feb. 2003
Launch of the new Montblanc Eyewear Collection "Urban Casual" and ´Trendy New Signature´.
Montblanc introduces the new leather Collections 4810 Westside for younger, design-oriented business people and 4810 Eastside for lovers of outstanding leather accessories.
April 2003
Introduction of the Montblanc Limited Edition Patron of Art 2003 "Hommage á Nicolaus Copernicus".
April 2003
Montblanc presents the new watch model TimeWalker at the "Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie" – SIHH in Geneva.
May 2003
Montblanc presents StarWalker, the new generation of writing instruments for Montblanc enthusiasts who are cosmopolitan, dynamic, self-confident, and who have a love for purist, aesthetic design based on the very highest quality craftsmanship.
June 2003
The Montblanc de la Culture Arts Patronage Award is presented in ten different countries. The winners are: Günther Jauch (Germany), Gilles Fuchs (France), Lord Rothschild (Great Britain), Andy Lau (Hong Kong), Patrizia Sandretto Re Rebaudengo (Italy), Sadao Watanabe (Japan), Xiao Xiangyun (China), Tuan Syed Mohamad Albukhary (Malaysia), Jesus de Polanco (Spain), Russell Simmons (USA).
Aug. 2003
Introduction of the Limited Writers Edition "Jules Verne".
For the second time Montblanc presents the "Montblanc Young Directors Project" as part of the Salzburg Festival. The prize money of EUR 10,000 and the precious "Max Reinhardt Pen" are awarded to the winner Alvis Hermanis.
Oct. 2003
Launch of the watch collection TimeWalker. The avant-garde design features mechanical movement with automatic winding and uncompromising quality in keeping the high standards of traditional craftsmanship at Montblanc Montre SA in Le Locle, Switzerland.
In October Montblanc opens its new Flagship Boutique at 598 Madison Avenue in New York. At the same time Montblanc presents an art exhibit of oversized shopping bag sculptures at Rockefeller Center.
April 2004
Launch of the Limited Edition Patron of Art "Hommage à John Pierpont Morgan".
May 2004
Montblanc literature competition on the theme "So viel Zeit muss sein" ("Take time for yourself"). The winner is Moritz von Uslar with his short story "Ein freier Abend" ("An evening off"), who receives the prize money of 4,810 Euros (corresponding to the height of Mont Blanc).
June 2004
Women's World Awards – Montblanc is the founding partner under the patronage of Mikhail Gorbachev. The awards in different categories were given, among others, to international personalities like Whitney Houston, Vivienne Westwood, Waris Diries and Bianca Jagger.
Aug. 2004
Young Directors Project – Montblanc as sole sponsor of the experimental and young theatre competition in the context of the Salzburg Festival. The prize winners this year are Christiane Pohle (Germany), Luis Ureta (Chile) and Alex Rigola (Spain). In addition to the agreed sponsoring amount, a part of the earnings from the sale of the Limited Edition “Hommage à Max Reinhardt” go to the Young Directors Project.
Oct. 2004
Launch of the Montblanc Limited Writers Edition "Franz Kafka".
Oct. 2004
Launch of the Limited Edition "Annual Edition 2005".
Nov. 2004
Launch of the project "Sign Up for the Right to Write" against illiteracy in co-operation with UNICEF.
March 2005
Launch of the new leather collection for a female target group, "LadyStar" and "Bohème Skyblue" in fresh colours. The calf leather bangles of the "Bohème Skyblue" leather collection are available only in the spring/summer season 2005.
April 2005
The worldwide campaign "Sign Up for the Right to Write" generated earnings of $US 846,675 for UNICEF.
April 2005
At the SIHH (Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie) in Geneva, Montblanc presents its new watch models. The hero is the Star XXXL Chrono GMT Automatic, made of 18-carat red gold. Other highlights are the Lady Chrono Diamonds, the Sport Lady Jewels and the TimeWalker GMT Automatic.
April 2005
Launch of the new Limited Edition Patron of Art "Pope Julius II" in honour of the patron of Michelangelo and the builder of St Peter’s Cathedral in Rome.
April 2005
The Montblanc de la Culture Arts Patronage Award is presented to honour private patrons in ten countries. The German prize winner, Diane Duchess of Württemberg, Princess of France is honoured on 27 April for the work of her two foundations. The English prize winners, Lord and Lady Sainsbury, are awarded their prizes in London.
April 2005
The Montblanc de la Culture Arts Patronage Award is presented to Antoine de Galbert in Paris and to Dr Rita Simo in New York on 19 April.
April 2005
Launch of the new Meisterstück Leather Collection with suitable travel cases for business people.
May 2005
The Montblanc de la Culture Arts Patronage Award is presented to Kei Ogura in Tokyo on 11 May and to German Ruiperez in Madrid on 19 May.
June 2005
Vernissage with artist Daniel Richter in the Montblanc Academy Gallery. After being exhibited for two years in the Montblanc Gallery, his image oil on canvas “Fatifa” goes on permanent loan to the "Galerie der Gegenwart" (Gallery of Modern Art) in Hamburg. Montblanc also presents the staircase installation of the Swiss artist Lori Hersberger in the Staircase Gallery.
Sept. 2005
Feminine, variable, elegant – Montblanc presents the three innovative collections of "Montblanc Jewellery". A genuine affirmation of both contemporary style and timeless refinement. Playful and intriguing collection of 925 sterling silver, in exciting contrast to colourful semiprecious stones and diamonds which can be combined to create a highly personal style.
Jan. 2006
Montblanc's 100th anniversary: Soulmakers for 100 years. When the Hamburg stationer Claus-Johannes Voß, the engineer August Eberstein and the salesman Alfred Nehemias met to exchange their ideas in the year 1906, nobody imagined that it would mark the birth of one of the great international luxury brands: Montblanc.
The world-famous Montblanc star, a symbol of the highest levels of craftsmanship and quality. After a development time of eight years, Montblanc has created an sophisticated, patented diamond cut that now shows the brand logo in the radiant, three-dimensional form of a Montblanc diamond in each 100 Years Collection. A world premiere, for Montblanc is the first brand with its own diamond cut as a representation of its icon.
The 100 Years Solitaire Editions are launched, including the Solitaire Mountain Massif Skeleton 2006, limited to only three pieces, the Meisterstück Solitaire 1906 made of sterling silver and real Mont Blanc granite and the Meisterstück Solitaire 100 made of solid 750 yellow, rose or white gold.
Feb. 2006
In the exclusively limited editions of only 100 or three pieces, Montblanc presents the fountain-pens "StarWalker Limited Edition 100" and "StarWalker Platin Edition" to celebrate the 100 years of the brand's existence. Also a limited anniversary edition of the StarWalker fountain pen and ballpoint pen is launched including an 18-carat anniversary nib and the 100 years' engraving on the clip ring, crowned by a floating diamond in a transparent cap head, cut in 43 facets to form a Montblanc star.
March 2006
Montblanc celebrates 100 years of endurance and launches a real jewel among the editions: the Limited Edition "Bohème 100". A fountain-pen of solid 18-carat gold - available in either white gold, yellow gold or rose gold with star-shaped guilloche work covered with a wafer-thin lacquer harmonising with the gold tone and corresponding semi-precious stone in the clip. Limited to 100 pieces.
The Limited Edition "Bohème 1906" is also launched: a black and white marbled body of precious resin with platinised cap, platinised fittings and a jet-black onyx on the clip. The world-famous Montblanc star is honoured twice - as a logo in guilloche work on the platinised cap and as a diamond in the cap head.
Launch of the new Limited Edition Patron of Art "Sir Henry Tate" in honour of one of the most successful entrepreneurs of the Victorian Age and greatest art-lovers and patrons of his time.
April 2006
To mark the brand´s centenary in 2006, Montblanc presents a world premiere at the SIHH (Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie) in Geneva: the Star Chrono GMT Perpetual Calendar chronograph in platinum, white, yellow or rose gold. Equally exclusive are the Profile Lady Elegance Diamonds Limited 3 in 18 carat white gold with casing and wristband set with a firework display of diamonds and the innovative Sport Tantalum Automatic Limited Edition 100 with its newly developed helium escape valve. Also for men the Urban Walker 950 Platinum cufflinks, each in a worldwide limited edition of just three.
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