University News Last updated 20 January 2012
One of the world’s most expensive pens worth £27,500 has been designed by an award winning graduate from Birmingham City University.
26 year-old Jack Row – originally from Nottingham, but now lives and works in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter has launched his début collection of luxurious precious metal fountain pens at Harrods, the world’s most prestigious department store.
Amongst Jack’s designs is his exclusively hand crafted, white gold and diamond detailed fountain pen, currently on sale for £27,500 at Harrods in London. His ‘Architect’ Collection of fountain pens and cufflinks are all individually hand crafted in solid silver and gold and set with accents of precious sapphires and diamonds
His design inspiration is drawn from iconic British architecture, most notably one of London’s most famous landmarks, the ‘Gherkin’. The iconic profile and geometric spirals are reflected in the pens elaborate silver and gold filigree.
Jack came up with the design prototypes whilst he was a student on the Jewellery and Silversmithing - Design for Industry - BA (Hons) course at the University’s School of Jewellery. His innovative designs also saw him winning a gold medal prize from the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths.
He said: “I wanted to create a collection of functional items that could be valued as much as objects d’art as fine jewellery or writing instruments. I hope they will appeal to discerning, design conscious individuals and collectors who wish to invest in exclusive British design and craftsmanship.”
Harrods interest in supporting the 26 year-old designer was initiated when he presented them with his initial prototype.
“Jack’s fabulous collection is luxurious, eccentric and quintessentially British, aligning perfectly with the unforgettable Harrods experience.” commented Darren Walker, Gifts and Stationery Buyer at Harrods.
The materials utilized in the hand crafting of Jack’s pieces also undoubtedly makes them a sound financial investment. During times of recession, investment in traditional commodities such as gold and diamonds sharply increases.
The Jack Row ‘Architect’ Collection includes three variations of limited edition fountain pens: solid sterling silver with black diamonds, solid 18ct yellow gold with sapphires, and the ultimate in luxury, solid 18ct white gold set with nearly a whole carat of diamonds. Each pen also features a solid 18ct gold nib. These exclusive writing instruments are also complimented by a choice of precious cufflinks.
Each piece is individually made to order by Jack Row in his studio based in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter. The young designer uses a combination of traditional goldsmithing skills and cutting edge technology to create his intricate works of art. Every design also carries a British hallmark, struck by the Birmingham Assay office, guaranteeing the purity of the precious metals.
The Jack Row ‘Architect’ Collection is available exclusively at Harrods within the UK and can be viewed in the Harrods Writing Room located on the lower ground floor of their Knightsbridge store. See www.jackrow.com to find out more about the designer and Architect Collection.