Aurora Pen History: Elegance & Reliability

A Century of Fine Writing: Aurora Since 1919

Aurora began its story in 1919 in Turin, Italy. Isaia Levi, a textile entrepreneur, founded the company with a goal to bring high-quality fountain pens to the Italian market. The company launched as the Fabbrica Italiana di Penne a Serbatoio Aurora, or “Italian Factory of Tank Pens.”

From the beginning, Aurora set itself apart by combining elegant design with reliable function. Over time, it became one of Italy’s most recognized pen manufacturers.

Today, Aurora remains a symbol of craftsmanship, still producing writing instruments in its original Turin facility. The brand holds a strong position in both the Italian market and abroad, offering a wide range of fountain pens, ballpoint pens, rollerballs, and mechanical pencils.

The Early Years: Innovation from the Start

Aurora’s first pens used hard rubber and basic filling systems. In the 1920s, the company introduced the A.R.A. (Aurora a Riempimento Automatico), a lever filler that quickly gained popularity in and beyond Italy. These models were direct competitors to American brands like Waterman and Parker, known for shaping global pen trends.

In 1927, Aurora introduced the Duplex, a lever filler fountain pen offered in multiple sizes. It resembled the Parker Duofold but included decorative touches like metal clips with filigree designs, adding Italian flair to American inspiration.

Expanding Reach and Design

By the 1930s, Aurora had begun exporting its writing instruments across Europe and Latin America. It launched the Internazionale and Superba models, known for their vibrant celluloid colors and high-quality craftsmanship.

Aurora continued to refine pen technology. In 1933, the Novum introduced a new back-lever filler and a security clip to prevent drops. In 1934, the Asterope was released with a capless design—decades before Pilot’s Vanishing Point. Aurora’s engineers focused on improving the writing experience through ease of use and design integrity.

War, Recovery, and the Birth of the 88

World War II brought setbacks. Material shortages forced Aurora to use steel nibs and alternative alloys like Platiridio. Bombing destroyed its factory in 1945, halting production temporarily.

In 1947, the brand introduced its most iconic model—the Aurora 88. Designed by Marcello Nizzoli, this piston filler pen featured a hooded nib and streamlined silhouette to compete with the Parker 51. It sold over 5 million units and remains one of the best-known Italian fountain pens of all time. The Aurora 88 helped re-establish the company as a top name in writing instruments.

Mid-Century Models and Design Milestones

In the 1950s, Aurora launched the Duo Cart. Designed by Albe Steiner and featuring a double cartridge system, it was ideal for students and everyday users. A backup cartridge sat inside the barrel, making ink refills more convenient.

In 1963, the Aurora 98 introduced a piston filler with an emergency ink reserve called the Riserva Magica. Two years later, the colorful, student-friendly Auretta cartridge pen followed, building Aurora’s reach across multiple user groups.

The 1970s marked a major design leap. Architect Marco Zanuso created the Hastil in 1970 and the Thesi in 1974. The Hastil featured a steel cylindrical body and a central nib design. The Thesi had a flat profile and bold styling.

Both writing instruments were recognized internationally, with the Hastil becoming the first fountain pen exhibited at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York.

Limited Editions and Collectible Pens

Aurora is one of the few pen manufacturers that still produces its own nibs. This allows them to offer precise writing experiences across a range of models. Over the years, Aurora has created limited editions like the Diamanté, a diamond-encrusted pen priced over $1 million, and thematic collections inspired by history, literature, and astronomy.

Models like the Aurora Optima continue to show the company’s dedication to detail. Featuring piston fillers and custom nib options, the Optima blends classic form with modern performance. These pens remain favorites for collectors and everyday writers alike.

Aurora Today: Made in Italy with Global Appeal

The Verona family now leads Aurora, continuing its legacy across four generations. They’ve kept production in Turin and stayed true to the brand’s roots. Aurora pens reflect Italian culture, craftsmanship, and art in every detail.

Aurora exports writing instruments to over 50 countries. Flagship boutiques and retail partners carry their products across Europe, Asia, the Americas, and the Middle East. The company balances traditional methods with modern efficiency, offering a flexible range of products for diverse users.

Experience Aurora at Dromgoole’s

At Dromgoole’s Fine Writing Instruments in Houston, Texas, we are proud to offer a curated selection of Aurora pens. From the iconic Aurora 88 to the bold Aurora Optima, these writing instruments represent over a century of design, performance, and heritage.

Whether you’re new to fountain pens or expanding a collection, Aurora offers a writing experience worth trying. Explore our selection online or visit us in-store to discover why Aurora pens continue to stand out among the world’s top pen brands.