Sailor Cylint Niigata Shikki Ballpoint Pen in Ruri (Lapis Lazuli Blue) with Gold IP Trim

Niigata Shikki is lacquerware crafted in Niigataʼ s prefectural capital, Niigata City. During the Edo Period (1603 - 1867), Niigata was a port of call for merchant ships, bringing in various cultures from across Japan via land and sea. The area possessed strategic distribution routes to Tokyo, Osaka and even Hokkaido, playing a significant historical role in trade. Lacquerware crafting became rooted in Niigata during the early Edo Period, and by the late Edo Period, the area had come to be recognized as one of Japanʼ s leading producers of lacquerware. Niigata Shikki is characterized by the wealth of variation in colors and patterns, and is considered a “treasure trove of Kawari-nuri (unique lacquering styles)”. Niigataʼ s history as a trade center where people and products gathered from across the country, gave birth to a rich lacquer art culture.

This exquisite collection is the second recent release in Sailor’s innovative CYLINT series.

What makes these pens so special is the Ishime-nuri technique, a traditional Japanese lacquer art style from Niigata, known for its gritty, stone-like texture that results in a durable and scratch-resistant surface. Niigata Shikki lacquerware is characterized by a wealth of variation in colors and patterns, and is considered a "treasure trove of Kawari-nuri (unique lacquering styles)".

The creation of the Ishime-nuri barrel texture is a meticulous, multi-step process. First, the metal surface is roughened, and a specially formulated Urushi base coat is applied to ensure adhesion. Charcoal and dried Urushi powder are then unevenly sprinkled onto the surface to create the initial bumpy texture. After about a week of drying, the surface is wet polished, followed by a middle coat of Urushi to stabilize the powder and enhance durability. A second layer of powder is sprinkled to add further depth, and after another week of drying, the surface is repolished. A top coat of Urushi is applied until almost dry, at which point pigment (for Ruri) or tin powder (for Oborogin) is sprinkled on to give the pen its color. Excess powder is then removed through wet polishing. The color is stabilized with two additional Urushi coats applied at three-day intervals. Finally, the surface is polished using a paste of abrasive grain and oil, and a finishing polish is finger-rubbed to complete the lacquering process.

For those who prefer effortless, everyday writing, the CYLINT ballpoint pen is an equally stunning option. Featuring the same patented stainless steel coloring technology and dynamic color shifts, it’s a perfect complement to the fountain pen. With a precise 0.7mm tip, these ballpoint pens provide smooth, reliable performance, ideal for daily tasks or as a stylish gift.

Sailor Cylint Niigata Shikki Ballpoint Pen in Ruri (Lapis Lazuli Blue) Specifications

• Type: Twist
• Barrel: Stainless Steel with Ishime-nuri lacquering
• Trim: Gold IP plated
• Ball Diameter: 0.7mm
• Filling System: Refill (Black, oil-based)
• Size: 15.5×138.2mm / 0.6in x 6.44in (including clip)
• Weight: 47.5g (1.7oz)
• Includes 1 Cleaning Cloth, Instruction/Product manuals
• Gift Boxed