Montblanc Turns (RED): Introducing (MONTBLANC M)RED
A new writing instrument designed by Marc Newson supports (RED)’s fight to end AIDS
With the launch of the new (MONTBLANC M)RED writing instrument, Montblanc joins the fight against AIDS, raising funds to support programs that help millions of people impacted by HIV/AIDS. Designed by Marc Newson, the writing instrument in precious red resin pairs the visionary designer’s trademark biomorphic style, defined by fluid and pure organic forms with Montblanc’s iconic design cues. Available as a Fountain Pen, Roller Ball or Ballpoint, (MONTBLANC M)RED is accompanied by red accessories that include a leather sketch book, a bracelet and a pair of cufflinks. A portion of proceeds from the purchase of (MONTBLANC M)RED products goes directly to the Global Fund, an organization created to accelerate the end of AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria epidemics.
“For over 110 years, Montblanc has built a heritage of creating fine writing instruments that have a special meaning to its owners. Through our partnership with (RED) we continue this long tradition, creating a special lifetime companion that makes a real impact by supporting the goal towards an HIV-free society. Montblanc is proud to be a part of supporting this great cause and hope our customers will embark on this journey with us,” says Nicolas Baretzki, Montblanc CEO.
Montblanc demonstrates its passion for innovation through its collaboration with Marc Newson, continuously pushing boundaries with unexpected cutting-edge design and high-performing products. Newson makes a bold aesthetic statement in red while balancing form with functionality expressed in the ingenious use of a magnet that allows the magnetic closing of the cap and barrel with perfect alignment of the clip to the innovative “plateau” at the barrel end. An additional snap mechanism smoothens the closure and ensures the cap remains firmly in place. The fluidity of the overall design is achieved by avoiding breaks in the pure lines of the shape. Thus, the Montblanc emblem made of white precious resin is ultrasonically welded onto the distinctive “plateau” to form a perfectly flat surface, while the platinum-plated clip is mounted invisibly into the cap to not interrupt the design flow. For an optimal writing experience, the platinum-coated metal forepart balances the weight of the writing instrument. The 14K gold nib of the writing instrument is rhodium-coated with a ruthenium-coated inlay. The distinctive codes of a Montblanc writing instrument retained by Newson in his design include the use of precious resin and the iconic white emblem.
To complement the enhanced writing experience, Montblanc is introducing a Sketch Book in red Italian calfskin with red cut edges. A Bracelet in woven red leather features a stainless steel closing decorated with a polished and brushed matte motif of Montblanc’s iconic three rings. A pair of round stainless steel Cufflinks with a red lacquered inlay complete the (PRODUCT)RED assortment.
“It’s poetic that Montblanc, so synonymous with craftsmanship and quality, has collaborated with one of the world’s foremost design pioneers, Marc Newson, to help write the next chapter in the AIDS fight through the launch of the striking (MONTBLANC M)RED range. Each and every purchase will generate money for the Global Fund to save lives and ensure future generations are HIV-free,” says Deborah Dugan, CEO of (RED).
By teaming up with (RED), Montblanc contributes to the global impact the organization has made since it was founded by Bono and Bobby Shriver in 2006. To date, (RED) has generated more than $500 million. 100% of the funds raised goes directly to the Global Fund to support HIV/AIDS programmes including treatment, prevention and care services with a specific focus on eliminating transmission of the virus from mothers to their babies.
For every (MONTBLANC M)RED writing instrument and accessory purchased, 5 Euros will go to the Global Fund to support HIV/AIDS programmes, that’s enough for instance to provide over 25 days of life-saving HIV medication.
About Montblanc
Guided by the pioneering spirit since 1906, Montblanc revolutionized the culture of writing with breakthrough innovations. Today, the Maison continues to push boundaries and evolve the expression of fine craftsmanship across each of its product categories: the pinnacle of luxury writing instruments, timepieces, leather goods, accessories, fragrances and eyewear. With every innovation, Montblanc offers new functionalities and groundbreaking designs imbued with the Maison’s heritage of sophistication and crafted to the highest standards through the skills of its artisans in each of its manufactures whether Hamburg, Germany for its writing instruments, the Swiss Jura in Le Locle and Villeret for its timepieces or Florence, Italy for its leather goods. Reflecting its ongoing mission to create fine lifetime companions born from the most pioneering ideas, the iconic Montblanc Emblem has become the ultimate seal of performance, innovation, quality and expression of style. With its origins deeply rooted in the culture of handwriting, Montblanc continues to assert its cultural commitment around the world with the creation of wide-ranging initiatives to promote arts and culture in many forms, while honouring the modern day patrons who support the advancement of the arts.
