Dupont Arturo Fuente

S.T. Dupont has been a famous name in fine writing instruments for some time now, their Chinese Lacquer pens have become highly sought after by both collectors and writers worldwide. Likewise, the cigars of Arturo Fuente are seen as being among the best made in the world, sought after by the aficionado of a"good smoke". Put the two together and you get the new Dupont Arturo Fuente Opus X.

The Arturo Fuente cigar brand began in 1912 in Tampa, Florida and continued there until 1924 when the factory was burned down. Production resumed in 1930, with cigars being made from imported Cuban tobacco up until the 1960s, when it became illegal to import any Cuban goods or products into the US. After the trade embargo with Cuba was put in place, Fuente began the use of Dominican tobacco, a practice they continue to this day. Their current production facilities in the Dominican Republic are considered to be world-class.

Their flagship line of cigars is the Fuente Fuente Opus X, widely considered to be among the best cigars currently produced, and one of the most sought after cigars in the world.

The S.T. Dupont Opus X is a limited edition of 250 pieces, available in both large fountain pen as well as rollerball. The pens are created using the classic Orpheo design, making for a sleek, clean looking pen, with impressive heft coming from the lacquer coated metal cap and barrel.

The bright white lacquer cap is adorned with the Fuente logo, while the barrel matches the bright red colors of the Fuente wrappers. Trim is finished in highly polished gold plate, with the clip, cap trim, and section providing a rich counterpoint to the gleaming lacquer finish.

If you haven't figured out by now, I personally love Dupont's lacquer pens. The level of workmanship that goes into the lacquer finish is clearly evident on all of their pens, and the result really does have to be seen in person to be really appreciated to the fullest. Even their "plain" solid color lacquer pens are first rate, the more intricate translucent pieces are amazing. The Opus X does not deviate from this tradition of high quality lacquer work by Dupont.

In addition to the fountain pen and rollerball pens, the Opus X limited edition also encompasses other accessories. There is a pocket lighter in the Ligne II size, a table lighter, as well as a cigar cutter (of course!) all with the glossy red and white lacquer and Fuente logo.

The Opus X is one of those limited editions that, while it might certainly be considered as a collectible with only 250 pieces being made, is also very definitely one that almost cries out to be used. The truly excellent Dupont nib is a joy to write with, and the lacquer finish is durable enough for daily carry. It's not a lightweight pen, but balanced enough to be comfortable in the hand. When you take everything into consideration, it's a pen that is hard not to ink up and carry around!

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