Eboya Kobue Tanshin True Heart Fountain Pen
Eboya is Japan’s last remaining ebonite manufacturer. Each pen showcases a deep commitment to traditional craftsmanship and material refinement. Ebonite —one of the earliest polymers— is made by vulcanizing pure rubber with sulfur (25% to 50%), creating a material valued for its natural shine and resilience. The name comes from “ebony,” which it was originally meant to replace. Every pen bears the engraving Eboya Made in Tokyo, a mark of authenticity and excellence.
Design and inspiration
The Kobue model, meaning “little flute,” is one of Eboya’s most recent designs. Its silhouette is shaped by two elegant curves, forming an ergonomic and balanced profile. The pen is clipless, which enhances its minimalist and fluid character. The Tanshin color symbolizes a true and sincere heart. This bright red edition radiates energy, authenticity, and character. Each block of ebonite offers its own natural variation, ensuring that no two pens are exactly alike.
Functionality and filling system
Fitted with a carefully tuned 14K gold nib by the artisans at Nikko Ebonite Manufacturing, the Kobue offers a smooth, controlled and enjoyable writing experience. It uses a standard international cartridge or converter, compatible with brands such as Pelikan and Rotring (not compatible with Montblanc, Waterman, or Caran d’Ache). Each pen is hand-polished and assembled in Tokyo with extreme care. The result is a refined instrument, where precision meets beauty.
Package contents
• Eboya Kobue Tanshin True Heart fountain pen
• Standard international converter
• Ink cartridge (1 unit)
• Complimentary ink bottle courtesy of Inktraveler
• Paulownia wood box (At Inktraveler, Eboya pens are delivered in paulownia wood boxes instead of the standard cardboard packaging, used by the brand only for premium orders.)
• Warranty
(Photos are for reference and may slightly differ from the actual product.)
Technical specifications
- Body material: ebonite
- Color: bright red (Tanshin True Heart)
- Closed length: 125 mm
- Open length: 129 mm
- Body diameter: 13 mm
- Nib: 14K gold
- Filling system: international cartridge/converter
- Made in Tokyo, Japan
Care and maintenance
Keep away from direct sunlight and humidity. Occasional cleaning with a soft dry cloth is enough to preserve its natural finish.
Brand philosophy and history
Eboya is the signature brand of Nikko Ebonite Manufacturing, founded in 1952 and recognized as the last Japanese company specializing in ebonite. For decades, Nikko has supplied this material to renowned pen makers such as Sailor and Pilot. In 2009, it launched its own brand of fountain pens, combining technical mastery with a refined Japanese aesthetic. Until 2016, production was led by master turner Noritoshi Kanesaki, a direct disciple of legendary nibmeister Kubo Kohei. Today, Eboya continues to create elegant, durable pens with unmistakable craftsmanship.
"A writing instrument that expresses sincerity, precision, and timeless spirit."
