Palomino Blackwing

A pencil of mythical, or should that be mystical, proportions. Discontinued in 1998 because the machine that made the ferrule for eraser was broken; then, phoenix-like, the pencil was revived in 2010.

Legendary. "Half the pressure, twice the speed" (thanks to wax added to the graphite). The erasers are replaceable and come, oh joy, in colours - including black.

As it says here: "Claimed by many to be the best writing utensil in the world, Blackwing pencils are famous for the quality of graphite, instantly recognisable shape, replaceable eraser, and the men and women whose works they have inspired throughout the years." (So ... name two? Ah, they do ... here.)

I love that they have special pencil sharpeners - and that there's a special edition gift set in a wooden box. Though as wooden boxes go, it does seem a bit pricey.