"Wabi-Sabi" is the term used in Japanese for objects whose aesthetic value increases with use and wear. Taking this idea to its logical extreme, this pen honors the aging process even more by featuring "cracks" artfully engraved onto the surface of the cap, barrel, and gripping section. This process is particularly painstaking and time-consuming - production of these pens usually requires six months or more.

Notice the lighter color already showing through on the edges of the cracks, as well as on the section threading and at the point where the cap meets the barrel. Take a closer look at the peaked end of this Naka-ai (right), with a striking "crack" running through it much like a dark and mysterious river.

The Naka-ai Cigar Negoro Toki-tamenuri is provided with your choice of solid gold 14k single-tone nib in Extra Fine, Fine, Medium, Broad, or Extra Broad, withFine Soft, Medium Soft, and Super Extra Fine nibs also available. The double slit Music nib is available at an added premium, as are plated nibs in Pink Gold, Rhodium, Ruthenium, or Two-Tone - consult our Nakaya Nibs page for details. 14k nibs are well-suited to customizations including Stub, Cursive Italic, and Left Oblique, as well as the modification for added flex.

Nakaya pens ship in a solid softwood shipping box decorated with Japanese Kanji script and lined with decorative rice paper. A fabric pen kimono and starter box of Platinum brand cartridges are also included, making this pen a lovely presentation item. Sensible and elegant packaging has long been a hallmark of the Nakaya brand.