Retro Revival

FOR THESE COLLECTORS OF ALL THINGS ANALOGUE, HERITAGE STILL HOLDS WEIGHT.

- Adeline Loh

JOINT LEGACY

WHO TAY KIM ANN AND LIM YOK LEY 

THE COLLECTION FOUNTAIN PENS

FIRST START 

The couple began collecting fountain pens in the 1990s as they enjoyed writing with them. Today, their collection comprises 16 high-end fountain pens, including limited editions valued at around $40,000 each. Professed aficionados of Montblanc fountain pens, they relish the brand’s diversity of designs and its storied tradition of pen-making.

THE SLOW LIFE 

“I like to write with fountain pens if I’m not in a rush,” says Tay, recalling his first pen, the Montblanc Writers Edition Voltaire, a classic fountain pen crafted in black resin. Unlike conventional pens, fountain pens allow customisation of the writing nibs to one’s liking.

HE SAID, SHE SAID 

Tay admits he’s partial to fountain pens marked by fine craftsmanship and elaborate details. The Montblanc Genghis Khan 88 Skeleton Fountain, a recent acquisition, features a body resembling the armour of a Mongol warrior and a pen clip curved like an ancient bow. He’s also fond of a fountain pen inspired by Leonardo Da Vinci, which sports a skeletonised design that allows him to fully admire the pen’s interior. Lim leans towards pens inspired by historical figures, citing personalities such as Chinese philosopher Confucius and inventor James Watt as some of her favourites.

ON THE WISH LIST 

A fountain pen inspired by Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore’s late founding prime minister. 

SECOND TIME’S THE CHARM

WHO LITTLE ONG, CREATIVE DIRECTOR OF DESIGN AGENCY FFURIOUS 

THE COLLECTION VINYL RECORDS