Traditional craftsmanship with a modern twist

The Classic Ko jewellery brand is the creative extension of Oshita Kosen Kobo, a Japanese family-run Maki-e atelier with a history dating back to 1894 in Kaga City, Ishikawa Prefecture. The workshop specialises in Kaga Maki-e, a bold, high-relief style of traditional Japanese lacquerwork that requires a great deal of skill and precision to master.

With Classic Ko, the idea was to breathe new life into these traditional techniques and bring them closer to the contemporary world. The same philosophy carries over to Sailor's collection, where the decorative qualities of Maki-e transform each design into a writing instrument that encourages self-expression and brings a piece of Japanese culture to your fingertips.

A Symbol of Victory & Eternity

The latest addition to the collection, Laurel, takes inspiration from the laurel leaf, which has long been associated with victory, glory and honour. Before applying the lacquer by hand, the artist has arranged the leaves in an intricate arabesque-like pattern representing eternity, with intertwining motifs that give the design a sense of continuity.

The decorative patterns are finished in gold, silver and black lacquer against a translucent ivory-coloured resin body. The contrast between the delicate motifs and the understated background allows the traditional Maki-e technique to stand out gracefully.

Sailor at Heart

Once the Maki-e decoration was complete, the artist stepped back and let Sailor take care of what it does best: the writing experience.

Like the other models in the collection, Laurel is based on Sailor's iconic Professional Gear silhouette, recognisable by its flat cap and barrel ends and gently tapered body. It measures 129 mm in length and 18 mm in maximum width, including the clip, and features gold-ion-plated metal components. The top of the cap is adorned with Classic Ko's distinctive "Ko" emblem.

When it comes to writing, Laurel is fitted with a Sailor stainless steel nib, available exclusively in medium-fine. The other four models we carry feature Sailor's flagship 21k gold nibs, also available in medium-fine. All models accept both cartridges and converters.

To complete the experience, Laurel comes in a paulownia wood presentation box, adding a final touch of Japanese tradition.

The collection also includes other designs inspired by nature and traditional symbolism. Ala SV features a wing-inspired motif decorated with silver Maki-e and mother-of-pearl, while Dot's explores the symbolism of water droplets through black and gold Urushi motifs. Mist captures the atmosphere of a misty morning with delicate eggshell decoration, and DECO Lotus Line RADEN celebrates the beauty of lotus petals through shimmering mother-of-pearl and gold.