In 1981, John and his brother founded the Laban pen factory in their hometown of Houtong – a village in north-eastern Taiwan. From the outset, the founders set out to use noble materials in the creation of their pens, notably silver, gold and rhodium. However, they did not market them under the Laban brand, but sold them to other manufacturers.
In 1993, after creating a series of filigree pens (such as the Skeleton), Laban pens (fountain and ballpoint) became world-famous. John decided to pursue his dream by creating the Laban brand and selling his pens directly and through retailers. As success grew, Laban entered into a partnership with the Vatican Museum in 1997, creating models to be given as gifts. The most beautiful drawings from religious culture were showcased.
In 2004, the brand received its first award: best writing instrument from Lewis & Clark, the UK’s Royal Academy of Arts, for its limited edition Dragon pen.
Other models with different styles followed. These include the Galileo series, pens made of metal featuring engraved geometric patterns embellished with diamonds. This series was selected for the cover of the June issue of the famous international magazine Pen World. Or the 325 series: lighter, two-tone resin models in a predominantly pearly white. Not forgetting the Mento pen, made from German rubber and then covered by a master artist with ten layers of urushi lacquer.
After more than forty years in business, Laban has mastered the techniques of pen making, whatever the materials used (resin, metal, mother-of-pearl, etc.). The brand is constantly demonstrating its originality and always offers a highly varied range.
“We believe in filling our souls by writing. As we enter our fifth decade, Laban has no doubt that it’s all about the initial intention.”
