Founded in 1906, Montblanc International has been regarded as the premier brand in writing instruments. Their first model premiered in 1909, but Montblanc truly came into their own with the release of the Meisterstuck pen. Still considered one of the most popular writing instruments in the world, a version of their Meisterstuck pens are now offered in their latest innovation: Personal Code Ink.

Affluent Page recently had the privilege of being able to sit down with Mr. Jan-Patrick Schmitz, CEO Montblanc North America to gain a deeper understanding of the Montblanc tradition.

How did you start your career at Montblanc?

Well that would have to go back 15 years ago, to 1994. I started in Hamburg, Germany; where actually Montblanc was started in 1906. We have not moved our headquarters since. Well, starting in the finance field, I moved from Hamburg to Japan, and eventually to America.

What are the noticeable differences from when you started at Montblanc and now?

The 104-year history, along with my 15 years has been a constant journey. We have made tremendous steps within our evolution to become a diversified luxury brand. Since the beginning we have created a house and now we are just adding pillows, with the addition of Montblanc’s fine leather, watch, and jewelry divisions.

However, even though we have consistently evolved, there are still steadfast traditions. The technology of cell phones will become obsolete within 12 months, whereas classic black writing has been enjoyed for generations. For instance, the Meisterstuck was created in 1924 and remains the most popular writing instrument in the world.

What do you believe has contributed to your success within Montblanc?

My success has been due to the longevity and clear perspective of our brand. There is a clear difference between a brand and a company. Brands create items that encompass meaning.

Our customers trust that we are a ship directed towards a destination. While there is always opportunistic dollars on the top lane, we have steered clear from those traps. In addition, we are highly motivated to providing an experience, which creates an emotional connection.

What was the inspiration behind Montblanc’s newest creation: Personal Code Ink?

We were inspired to make communication personal. Modern communication is a convenient way to get from point A to point B, but it is not personal. At least, not a form you would send with sincere recognition.

However, the most personal forms of communication are face-to-face dialogue and the written word. For the Personal Code Ink, we wanted to incorporate the time of personal communication, and take it to the ultimate level. The same way a tailored suit is made to fit the body, the Personal Code Ink fits the individual. We were not inspired by the ability to use DNA technology, but by the personalization of the product.

We have been told several times to wake up and use the modern technology, but we have found a way to use modern innovation within the context of our brand. I like to believe that today’s innovation is tomorrow’s tradition.

With Montblanc’s constant innovation in technology, how does a company stay ahead in life and luxury?

The important thing is to establish luxury with value. We aspire to craft a product expressed in the brand image, while taking into account the emotions of the customer. In order to generate a product such as this, it is imperative not to create for the short life. Not to speak against fashion, but what is “in” in the summer of 2010 will become obsolete by 2012.

The items on the desk in front of you are there out of functionality. You do not truly remember where you bought them or who gave them to you, however, a Montblanc item you remember forever.

Can you expand on the constant globalization of Montblanc?

Our goal is to consistently alert our customers. Currently, our customers would be considered in the affluent category – avid travelers, successful business men and women.

The Montblanc experience is now a brand operating in all major countries. We actually have 360 boutiques worldwide. Whereas, some companies worldwide may differ, each our boutique offers the same experience.

Are there any similarities between the writing industry and the watch industry?

Very much so. Huge similarities, actually. The Montblanc brand is a concentric circle. They are both analog technologies, traditional forms of instruments, hand crafted, and presented to an individual for a significant moment. The customer is also very much the same. Although people purchase iPhones, they still gravitate towards the technology of a watch.

That seems to be true. Why do you think that is?

I believe it is the Ying and Yang of technology. If an individual were to open an iPhone, he or she would not be able to grasp the technological performance. Where the iPhone is constructed out of 0’s and 1’s, the watch allows the individual to visually grasp the performance of the movement.

As the icon of the writing industry, is there anything that continues to challenge you?

Well building a brand is journey, and it important to realize that there is no true arrival. There are no future plans to enter in any other categories; however, we still stick to our traditional goals of staying conscious to our customer’s experience. The experience is built upon the relationship of customers and the conveyance of our message. This relationship is what has given Montblanc the ability to remain in familial value lines forever.

What do the future plans hold for Montblanc?

We just launched the Metamorphosis watch. The watch is unlike any other watch in history. The technology of two rotating faces, amongst other features has never been used in history.

Other than that, we intend to cautiously create, push the envelope, experience, and never stand still.

As the CEO of one of luxury’s most prominent companies, how do you remind yourself to live in the moment?

When I look into the eyes of my children every day. We have to remember to hold significant moments. These are just the big moments, but the small elements we encounter every day. The perfect balance is to honor the journey and success of Montblanc’s 104-year history, while appreciating my personal experiences.

Actually, one of my most prized possessions is a Montblanc Fountain Tip Pen my father gave me when I received my Master’s Degree. I hope to continue the circle, by passing it down to my son one day.

[Montblanc]