A Gallop Through Time: ROMEO’s 2026 “Uma” Fountain Pen Captures the Spirit of Yabusame
In a world increasingly driven by digital speed, ROMEO invites you to pause, reflect, and rediscover the beauty in everyday moments with its latest masterpiece: the ROMEO No.3 Fountain Pen Taka-maki-e “Uma” (Horse). This exquisite writing instrument, slated for release on December 26, 2025, is a celebration of the 2026 Zodiac Year of the Horse, intricately brought to life through Japan’s revered traditional craft of maki-e.
The Art of Yabusame: A Dynamic Canvas on a Pen
The limited-edition fountain pen draws inspiration from Yabusame, an ancient Japanese horseback archery technique. Originating in the Heian period, Yabusame was practiced by samurai for training and as a sacred ritual, involving archers on galloping horses shooting arrows at targets. The pen’s deep green Italian resin barrel serves as a vibrant backdrop, upon which a dynamic scene unfolds: a rider in hunting attire, mounted on a white horse, poised to release a kaburaya (turnip-headed arrow) amidst a flurry of cherry blossoms. This vivid imagery is rendered using Taka-maki-e, a sophisticated maki-e technique that creates a three-dimensional effect, giving the artwork a profound sense of depth and movement.
Each pen is a unique work of art, meticulously crafted by traditional artisans in Ishikawa Prefecture’s Yamanaka Onsen region, one of Japan’s three major lacquerware centers. The marble patterns of the Italian resin ensure no two pens are exactly alike, adding to their individual charm.
“Moment of Dis-covery”: A Philosophy Etched in Gold
The ROMEO brand, with its roots tracing back to 1914, embarked on a new journey in autumn 2024 with the concept of “Moment of Dis-covery.” This philosophy encourages setting aside a moment for handwritten expression in our digital-first lives, fostering a rediscovery of the beautiful things and connections around us. The 18K medium nib of the new fountain pen, engineered for smooth and comfortable writing, features a delicate quarter rest musical symbol – a thoughtful design choice symbolizing the pause ROMEO encourages.
Further enhancing its sophisticated design, the pen’s cap top, inspired by a wristwatch crown, carries a message: “May you spend precious moments with this writing instrument.” A finely sculpted stainless steel logo badge adds a touch of understated luxury.
A Nod to Japanese Heritage and Sustainability
The ROMEO No.3 Fountain Pen Taka-maki-e “Uma” comes encased in an environmentally conscious package that pays homage to Japanese culture. The pen is nestled within a traditional Kiri-bako (paulownia wood box), known for its moisture-resistant properties, and protected by a cloth cushion and Sanada-himo (braided cord) in komurasaki (deep purple), one of ROMEO’s brand colors rooted in traditional Japanese hues. The packaging minimizes plastic, and the Sanada-himo is tied in a style reminiscent of traditional Japanese kimono sashes, showcasing a deep appreciation for heritage.
This limited collection, with only 30 numbered pieces, is more than just a writing tool; it’s an invitation to experience “moments of discovery” – whether it’s drawing ink, jotting down ideas, or composing a letter. Each Kiri-bako bears the seal of the traditional artisan, making it an ideal gift for those who cherish artistry and the act of handwriting.
Product Information:
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ROMEO No.3 Fountain Pen Taka-maki-e “Uma”: 297,000 JPY (tax included)
- Limited to 30 pieces, individually numbered / Converter/Cartridge fill system
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Release Date & Retailers:
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December 26, 2025 (Friday): Ginza Itoya G.Itoya 3F / K.Itoya 1F, Yokohama Motomachi, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, Yokohama, Tamagawa, Aobadai, Kyoto, Umeda Hankyu, Grand Front Osaka, Tokyo Midtown, Haneda Terminal 3, Narita Airport Terminal 2, ONE FUKUOKA BLDG., Fukuoka Airport stores, and Itoya Online Store.
- Some stores may require取り寄せ (ordering).
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February 2026: New Chitose Airport, Itoya@Kumamoto Desaki Kikuyo, Itoya@Sapporo Daimaru Fujii Central.
- Itoya@Kumamoto Desaki Kikuyo is scheduled to open on January 30, 2026 (Tuesday).
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The Celestial Allure of the ROMEO No.3 Ballpoint Pen “Nebula”
Alongside the “Uma” fountain pen, ROMEO also offers the limited-edition No.3 Ballpoint Pen “Nebula.” Inspired by distant, tranquil cosmic nebulae, each pen features a unique marble pattern within its translucent resin barrel, capturing the vibrant, ethereal beauty of a starlit sky. Just as stars are born from nebulae, this pen encourages the birth of new words and ideas from its tip. Available now at Itoya stores, the “Nebula” ballpoint pen, priced at 28,600 JPY (tax included), makes a splendid gift or a treasured addition to any collection, adding a touch of cosmic elegance to the holiday season.
Product Information:
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[Limited] ROMEO No.3 Ballpoint Pen Fine Point “Nebula”: 28,600 JPY (tax included)
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Available Now: Ginza Itoya G.Itoya 3F / K.Itoya 1F, Yokohama Motomachi, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, Yokohama, Tamagawa, Aobadai, Kyoto, Umeda Hankyu, Grand Front Osaka, Tokyo Midtown, Haneda Terminal 3, Narita Airport Terminal 2, New Chitose Airport, ONE FUKUOKA BLDG., Fukuoka Airport, Kumamoto, Itoya@Sapporo Daimaru Fujii Central stores.
- Not available at the online store.
- Itoya Kumamoto store will temporarily close from December 30, 2025 (Friday) for relocation and renovation, with reopening scheduled for January 30, 2026 (Tuesday) in Kikuyo-cho, Kumamoto Prefecture.
These exquisite writing instruments from ROMEO are more than mere tools; they are companions for those who seek to infuse their daily lives with beauty, reflection, and the profound joy of discovery. As the digital wave continues to accelerate, the deliberate act of handwriting offers a precious respite, a personal conversation with oneself that sparks new insights and inspirations. ROMEO’s latest offerings, particularly the “Uma” fountain pen, represent a bridge between ancient Japanese artistry and contemporary life, inviting users worldwide to embrace the enriching power of a moment’s pause. “It’s truly wonderful to see traditional Japanese crafts like maki-e being celebrated in such a timeless and functional way,” commented a stationery enthusiast. “These pens aren’t just for writing; they’re heirlooms, pieces of art that tell a story.”
Discover more about ROMEO’s philosophy and collections:
What an exciting future for those who appreciate the delicate dance between heritage and innovation! As ROMEO continues to champion the art of handwriting, these pieces are poised to become cherished icons, sparking a global appreciation for Japanese craftsmanship and the profound beauty found in the simple act of putting pen to paper.
