Eboya Nalu Umi Taiyo The Ocean Fountain Pen
Eboya is the last workshop in Japan dedicated to the production of ebonite. Each piece reflects a deep commitment to traditional craftsmanship and continuous innovation. Ebonite—one of the earliest polymers—is produced by vulcanizing pure rubber with sulfur (between 25% and 50%). Its name comes from ebony, which it gradually replaced in specific applications thanks to its durability and natural sheen. As with every Eboya pen, the engraving Eboya Made in Tokyo on the barrel stands as a mark of origin and excellence.
Concept and design · Nalu Umi vs Nalu Umi Taiyō
The Nalu model—meaning “wave” in Hawaiian—is defined by its organic, flowing silhouette, one of Eboya’s most recognizable designs. Within this family, Nalu Umi (海, sea) refers to the ocean-inspired variants, typically combining a deep ocean-blue body with neutral-toned finials such as beige, grey, or multicolour marbled ebonite.
The Nalu Umi Taiyō (海・太陽, sea and sun) variant represents a distinct interpretation within the series. While it retains the The Ocean blue body, it introduces yellow-green marbled ebonite on the finials, evoking sunlight reflecting on the sea’s surface. This is not merely a colour variation, but a different expression of the Nalu concept—brighter, warmer, and considerably rarer.
The flawless assembly of all its components, together with the expressive marbled ebonite, results in a fountain pen of remarkable beauty and quality. Each piece displays unique patterns created through Eboya’s complex hand-marbled ebonite process, ensuring that no two pens are exactly alike.
Sun–Ocean symbolism
The combination of Umi (ocean) and Taiyō (sun) symbolises balance between calm depth and dynamic energy. The deep blue barrel conveys serenity and immersion, while the yellow-green finials introduce warmth, light, and movement. This duality makes the Nalu Umi Taiyō a particularly expressive writing instrument, aimed at collectors and writers seeking something truly distinctive within Eboya’s catalogue.
Functionality and filling system
Fitted with a 14K gold nib, carefully adjusted by the craftsmen of Nikko Ebonite Manufacturing, this pen delivers smooth, controlled, and reliable writing. It uses an international standard cartridge/converter filling system. The cap is threaded, and posting is not recommended in order to preserve the natural balance of the design.
Compatible with cartridges and converters from brands such as Pelikan or Rotring. Not compatible with proprietary systems such as Montblanc, Waterman, or Caran d’Ache.
Package contents
• Eboya Nalu Umi Taiyō The Ocean fountain pen
• International standard converter (Pelikan converter included)
• One ink cartridge
• Complimentary ink bottle courtesy of Inktraveler
• Paulownia wood box (At Inktraveler, Eboya pens are supplied in paulownia wood boxes used by the brand for premium orders, instead of the standard cardboard packaging)
• Warranty
(Images are for reference only and may slightly differ from the final product.)
Technical specifications
- Body material: ebonite
- Colour: The Ocean with yellow-green marbled finials (Taiyō)
- Nib: 14K gold
- Filling system: international cartridge/converter
- Compatibility: international long and short cartridges; converter
- Length (capped): approx. 142 mm
- Barrel diameter: approx. 15 mm
- Weight: approx. 24 g
- Cap: threaded • Posting: not recommended
- Made in Tokyo, Japan
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Nalu Umi Taiyō differ from other Nalu Ocean models?
The difference lies in the finials. Classic Nalu Umi models pair the ocean-blue barrel with neutral tones such as beige or grey. The Taiyō version features yellow-green marbled finials, symbolising sunlight. It is a brighter and much rarer interpretation of the Nalu Ocean concept.
Is this a common colour combination in Eboya’s catalogue?
No. The Nalu Umi Taiyō is one of the hardest Nalu variants to find outside Japan and is produced in very limited quantities.
Do you work with real stock?
Yes. At Inktraveler we only offer items that are physically in stock. If an Eboya model does not appear on our website, you may contact us to enquire about availability or production lead times.
Can I order an Eboya model that is not currently in stock?
Yes, provided the model is still in production. Lead times are usually several months, depending on the series and the workshop schedule.
Care and maintenance
Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or humidity. Store in a dry, dark place. Occasional cleaning with a soft, dry cloth is sufficient to preserve the natural finish of the ebonite.
Brand history and philosophy
Eboya is the flagship brand of Nikko Ebonite Manufacturing, founded in 1952 and recognised as Japan’s last specialist manufacturer dedicated to ebonite. For decades, it supplied this material to companies such as Sailor and Pilot. In 2009, it launched its own line of fountain pens, combining technical mastery with refined Japanese aesthetic sensibility. Until 2016, production was led by master turner Noritoshi Kanesaki, a disciple of the legendary nibmeister Kubo Kohei. Today, Eboya continues to create durable, comfortable writing instruments with unmistakable craftsmanship.
“Like sunlight dancing on the sea, every stroke blends depth with energy.”
