Writing Symbol

Montblanc celebrates the 100th anniversary of its iconic Meisterstück this year and Men's Folio speaks to Marco Tomasetta - Montblanc's creative director - about his creative influences and vision for the future of Montblanc, as well as the special collaboration campaign directed by Wes Anderson.

- Izwan Abdullah and Ben Kwok

In a world where trends are as transient as the wind, few things have been able to withstand the shifting sands of time as resolutely as Montblanc’s iconic and timeless writing instrument — the Meisterstück. Almost an institution in the world of writing as it is, the mainstay and platform upon which the Montblanc brand has evolved and grown celebrates its 100th anniversary this year. As part of the celebrations, Montblanc has partnered with renowned director Wes Anderson for a special campaign celebrating the writing instrument’s history and evolution across a century.

Men’s Folio managed to spend some time with Montblanc creative director Marco Tomasetta, who boasts a wealth of experience across luxury maisons — including Prada, Fendi, Louis Vuitton, and most recently, Givenchy. He shares more about the collaboration with Anderson, where he derives his creative influence, and what his creative vision for the Montblanc brand holds for the future of the German maison.

FIRSTLY, CONGRATULATIONS ON THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE MEISTERSTÜCK. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A PART OF SUCH A LEGACY?

It’s a responsibility for me and the desire to propel for another 100 years and to continue with the technology of writing.

WHAT SIGNIFICANCE DOES 100 YEARS HOLD FOR YOU?

They are 100 years of arts and culture, 100 years in which this object has been in the hands of people who were able to change their own time.

HOW DO YOU SUCCEED IN UNCOVERING RELEVANCE WITHIN A BRAND WITH SUCH A RICH HERITAGE?