Take note

Each year, collectors and connoisseurs anxiously await the Limited Writers Edition pen (right) with which Montblanc honours the world's most influential authors. This autumn Montblanc is paying tribute to Prague writer Franz Kafka, known for his daily struggle to balance his professional life and personal literary ambitions. The limited edition is available as a fountain pen ($5,200) or a ballpoint ($2,780) as well as in a three-piece set ($10,710) with a mechanical pencil, of which there are only 4,500 pieces. Remembering the protagonist of The Metamorphosis, the nib features a finely engraved beetle. The Limited Writers Edition 2004 'Franz Kafka' is available at Montblanc boutiques (tel: 2523 6637) and selected speciality shops.