Sailor Pen History: A Century of Craftsmanship

1911–1926: Inspired Beginnings in Hiroshima

Kyugoro Sakata and the British Sailor

Sailor pen history begins in 1911. Kyugoro Sakata, a Japanese engineer living in Hiroshima, received a fountain pen from a visiting British sailor. Impressed by its design and performance, Sakata set out to create a Japanese version that could meet the same standards. That moment marked the beginning of Japan's first fountain pen company.

Sakata Manufactory and the Sailor Pen Company Name

Sakata founded the Sakata Manufactory to produce gold nibs. By 1917, the company had moved to Hamadacho and changed its name to Sailor Pen Sakata-Manufactory Co., Ltd. The brand name "Sailor" honored the sailor who introduced the pen and symbolized international influence.

Imperial Recognition

In 1926, Imperial Prince Hirohito visited the Sailor factory. This visit gave the company national recognition and credibility. By then, Sailor had 300 employees and had started mass-producing writing instruments.

1927–1949: Early Innovation and Firsts

Gold Nibs and Early Growth

Sailor continued to focus on high-quality gold nibs and reliable fountain pens. Their products gained popularity in Japan, known for smooth writing and durability.

Japan's First Ballpoint Pen

In 1948, Sailor introduced Japan's first domestically produced ballpoint pen. It was a breakthrough that marked the company’s shift from traditional writing tools to new technologies.

Plastic Injection Molding

In 1949, Sailor invented the plastic injection molding machine. This allowed mass production of plastic fountain pens, replacing older materials like ebonite and celluloid. This innovation lowered costs and increased production speed.

1950s–1970s: Expanding the Product Line

The Ink Cartridge Revolution

In 1954, Sailor invented Japan's first fountain pen ink cartridge. It launched commercially in 1958. This simplified pen use and refilling, making fountain pens more accessible to everyday writers. Sailor even coined the term "cartridge."

Pocket Fountain Pens and New Designs

In 1963, Sailor released a compact pen with a clip for shirt pockets. It became a trend, blending function with fashion. In 1969, Sailor developed the world’s first fountain pens with 21k gold nibs. These pens offered a soft, flexible writing feel and sold over a million units.

The First Fude Pen

In 1972, Sailor introduced the fude pen, inspired by traditional Japanese calligraphy brushes. It allowed expressive writing in daily use and was another industry first.

1970s–1980s: Meeting Market Changes

Responding to Declining Sales

Fountain pen popularity declined in the late 1970s. Sailor adapted by launching the Candy series in 1976. These bright, affordable pens appealed to younger buyers and sold over four million units in four years.

The Chalana Series

At the same time, Sailor introduced the Chalana, the slimmest fountain pen in the world. Its sleek form made it popular with customers looking for minimalist design.

Launch of the 1911 Series

In 1981, Sailor debuted the 1911 fountain pen, also known as the Profit in Japan. The name honored the year the company was founded. The pen featured excellent balance, a gold nib, and a classic cigar shape. It remains a flagship product.

1990s–2010s: Global Reach and Nib Excellence

Specialty Nibs and Handcrafting

Sailor pens became known for nib variety. Unique options like Zoom, Music, and Naginata-Togi nibs gave users expressive line variation. Some nibs were made by hand, crafted by master nib technicians.

Expanding Internationally

Sailor grew its presence in Europe and North America. Pen shops like Dromgoole’s in Houston became trusted sources for Sailor pens, offering access to both standard and specialty models.

Arita-Yaki Collaboration

In 2008, Sailor partnered with Koransha to produce Arita porcelain fountain pens. These pens were presented as official gifts during the G8 Summit in Japan. The collaboration reflected a fusion of Western technology and Eastern craftsmanship.

2020s–Present: Honoring Tradition and Looking Forward

In 2021, Sailor moved its headquarters back to Kure, Hiroshima. This symbolic move connected the company more closely with its roots.

Today, Sailor continues to produce pens with precision, offering models like the 1911 Standard, 1911 Large, and the Professional Gear line. The company maintains its reputation for high-quality nibs and writing performance.

Conclusion

Sailor pen history reflects a long tradition of precision, innovation, and care. From the first gold nibs to today’s specialty models, Sailor has shaped how people write. At Dromgoole’s, we’re proud to offer these pens to new generations of writers and collectors.