Top Three: The Best Fine Stationery Notebooks
Those who enjoy writing by hand with a beautiful
fountain pen know the pleasure of using the best quality paper. Stationery
enhances the experience of using a fine writing instrument, and when it comes
to writing in a notebook or keeping a journal there should be no compromise.
The best notebooks are not only a practical way of organizing notes, they are
artisan crafted companion pieces, accessories for life which are handled daily
and which compliment the way we love to live. With this in mind, we sought out the
best fine stationery notebooks from around the world, we used them, abused
them, and can now report on them to you.
The
first of the notebooks we included in this review is from Montblanc’s leather
collection. Made in Italy with a calfskin leather cover, embossed with a Saffiano
imprint, these notebooks have the look and feel of old world notebooks, but
with the convenience of a lightweight cover and binding that make them ideal
for carry and travel. Filled with 85 g, 100% cellulose, uncoated, premium paper
also made in Italy, each page bears Montblanc watermarks which remind the writer
of the notebook’s pedigree. Combining the best qualities of our other finalists,
we love the real leather cover and fine cotton cellulose paper.
For lovers of royal things, Smythson may
take first place. Currently possessing three Royal Warrants to supply Her
Majesty, The Duke of Edinburgh and The Prince of Wales with stationery, leather
goods and office equipment, respectively. Established by Frank Smythson in 1887,
Smythson received its first Royal Warrant from Queen Victoria, and has been a
staple of royalty around the world. A long-time favorite of such prominent figures
as Catherine Hepburn and Princess Grace of Monaco, Smythson journals, diaries,
and address books have been companions to the good and the great.
Boasting
a handmade red lambskin cover, our notebook appears to belong in a bibliophile’s
collection in a regal period library. Smythson is famous for its watermarked, featherweight
paper, which, no matter your preference, is always blue. Designed for ease of
travel, Smythson’s thin paper was created to be lighter and to allow more pages
in a notebook.
Although
technically called a writing pad, we wanted to include the Hermès Grain d’H line of fine stationery products as a part
of Hermès’ often overlooked stationery collection. Less glamorous than their leather-bound
counterparts, these writing pads feature finely crafted cotton vellum
paper for those with discrete but discriminating taste. Also available with a
silk cover, these products can be a practical tool or a fashion accessory, and add
a luxurious touch to daily life from the famous French atelier.
No matter
your tastes or needs, there is a beautiful notebook to satisfy your desire for
a dependable and luxurious companion as you document your journey in this
world.
Montblanc
1055 Alberni Street
Phone: (604) 235-1770
1055 Alberni Street
Phone: (604) 235-1770
Smythson
www.smythson.com
Hermès
717 Burrard Street
Phone: (604)
681-9965