Aizu Urushi – Koma-nuri – fountain pen

WANCHER – Japanese writing culture with depth

Wancher is a Japanese manufacturer of exclusive writing instruments that combines traditional craftsmanship with modern design. In collaboration with experienced Urushi, Maki-e, and Raden artists, they create high-quality fountain pens, each model impressing not only with its functionality but also with its cultural depth and visual expressiveness. Ideal for collectors, writing enthusiasts, and all who understand writing as a conscious ritual.

Aizu Urushi – Koma-nuri

The Aizu Urushi series is based on one of Japan's oldest and most renowned lacquer traditions. In the Aizu region, Urushi has been used for millennia – a natural lacquer extracted from the sap of the lacquer tree, which, after many layers, hardens to create an exceptionally durable, deep-gloss finish.

In the Koma-nuri (独楽塗り) technique, several layers of urushi paint—such as black, red, and yellow—are applied concentrically. The name "Koma" (独楽) means spinning top and refers to the characteristic ring pattern, reminiscent of a spinning toy. This technique demands the utmost concentration: if a ring is not perfectly aligned, the artisan may have to start over.

From the initial blank to the primer, numerous layers of urushi lacquer, and final polish, the production of such a fountain pen can take several months, as each layer of lacquer must be applied individually and cured under controlled conditions. The result is a unique piece with its own design and history – in Japan, Koma-nuri is also considered a lucky charm for business success and a fulfilling life.

A glimpse into the Urushi workshop

In this video, I accompany an Urushi master in Japan as she works. This very traditional lacquer art is also featured in this fountain pen.

Highlights

– Handcrafted fountain pen from Wancher's Aizu-Urushi series
– Traditional technique: Koma-nuri (独楽塗り) with concentric Urushi rings in several colors
– Natural Urushi lacquer: deep gloss, high resistance, classic Japanese aesthetics
– Each surface is unique – no two fountain pens are exactly alike.
– #6 JoWo stainless steel nib in writing width M (Medium) – precise, durable and suitable for everyday use
– Compact, airtight cap that reduces ink drying out
– Ideal for collectors, Japan enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates writing instruments as art objects

Technical data

– Model: Aizu Urushi – Koma-nuri
– Base material: POM (body)
– Finishing: Aizu Urushi, Koma-nuri (multicolored Urushi lacquer technique)
– Nib: #6 JoWo Stainless Steel, writing width M (Medium)
– Ink feed: Plastic / Ebonite (depending on version)
– Filling system: Cartridge or converter (European standard)
– Cap system: Compact, airtight cap to prevent drying out
– Production: Elaborate handwork in Japan, production time several months

Notes

Each fountain pen is hand-painted in numerous individual steps. Patterns, color gradients, and details may therefore differ from the product photos – this is precisely what makes each pen a unique work of art.
– Some of the product photos show a different nib (e.g., with a gold nib or different engraving). The version offered here features a high-quality JoWo stainless steel nib, size #6, medium (M) width. This nib provides a pleasantly smooth writing experience and is particularly durable.

Scope of delivery

– 1 × Aizu Urushi – Koma-nuri fountain pen (JoWo stainless steel nib, M)
– 1 × converter (European standard)
– 1 × cartridge
– 1 × Traditional Japanese wooden box
– 1 × Pen Kimono (fabric case)
– 1 × Instructions / Care Instructions

Shipment

– In stock, available for immediate delivery. Free shipping within Germany for orders over €50 or in-store pickup.