Blackwing 602 – the classic tool of some of history’s greatest creative artists

blackwing 602 pens

What is the most iconic pen among creative artists? We’ve already touted the fountain pen as one of the most iconic models of pens among writers and other creative artists.

However, if you ask the real enthusiasts, there is an alternative answer to the question. The Blackwing 602 is a pen that has become known as the pen of choice among some of the world’s most famous writers and creative artists throughout history. This is an iconic pencil, with a timeless design and luxurious finish and a must-have in the pencil box.

So what’s so special about this pencil? We’ll find out in this article.

The story of the Blackwing 602

blackwing 602 famous writers

The Blackwing 602 was first manufactured by The Eberhard Faber Pencil Company in 1934. With a slogan that read “Half the Pressure, Twice the Speed”, the company tried to market itself primarily to stenographers.

The Blackwing 602 pencil has the unique softness of the 3B/4B lead, but at the same time the durability of the HB, which is in the middle of the hardness scale of a pencil.

blackwing 602 famous writers

But Blackwing would quickly evolve from an office tool to creative artists. Among the famous writers who came to use the Blackwing 602 early on were Chuck Jones, John Steinbeck and Don Bluth.

The pen was also popular in other fields, with musician Quincy Jones and poet Archibald MacLeish among those who used the pen – to name but a few.

Creators with numerous Emmys, Grammys and Oscars have created their creations with this American classic.

Blackwing 602 discontinued

In 1988, Eberhard Faber was acquired by Faber-Castell and the pen was renamed the Faber-Castell Blackwing 602. But already in 1994 Faber-Castell was acquired by Newell Rubbermaid and the pen was renamed Eberhard Faber Blackwing 602.

During this period, the machine that produced the feeler metal part for the eraser in the back of the pen broke down. This was during a period when over 1000 Blackwing 602 pencils were produced per year.

Because the volume was so low, the decision was made to cease production and sell the remainder of the stock. Production of the Eberhard Faber Blackwing officially ceased in 1998.

Blackwing 602 today

blackwing 602 famous authors

In 2008, California Cedar Products Company would purchase the Blackwing Pencil brand and re-launched the Blackwing 602 in June 2011.

It would prove to be a successful move. Today, the pen is more popular than ever with creative artists around the world. It’s the rectangular eraser tip that has given Blackwing pens their distinctive shape. Something that over the years has also become synonymous with high quality.

What makes the Blackwing 602 so special?

What is it then that makes the pen so popular and one of the most iconic pens on the market today? The heritage of course, but also the Blackwing 602 has seen some development over the years.

Here are some reasons for its popularity today.

  • Quality. The Blackwing 602 is made from the best possible material. Cedar from California and Oregon, with a luxurious finish and in a classic hexagonal shape that is easy to grip.
  • Unique material on the shaft. The icing on the cake is the Japanese premium graphite that now makes up the pen’s shaft. Due to the unique blend of wax, clay and graphite, it makes the Japanese graphite darker and softer than ordinary graphite.
  • Different hardnesses. Nowadays, the pens are also available in four different hardnesses. Mainly so that you can use them whether you want to write or draw.
  • Limited editions. Once a quarter, Blackwing also releases limited editions of pens with a unique look. Each series pays tribute to people, places and events whose creativity has had a significant impact throughout history. Among the people who have each had an edition dedicated to them is the aforementioned John Steinbeck.
  • Stylish and practical pens. The Blackwing pens are stylish and very useful. Among the range you will not only find pens, but also stylish accessories that take the user experience to a whole new level.

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