BNP Blog
![](https://brandnamepencils.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/japanese-2250x1000-1-1024x455.jpg)
A Beginner’s Guide to Japanese Pencils
![](https://brandnamepencils.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/pencil-check-2250x1000-1-1024x455.jpg)
Menu
Brand: Tombow Pencil Co.
Made in: Japan
Front and reverse of the Mono HB. This is the older version with the JIS mark on the reverse. Now can be found with the barcode on reverse. Also the original box has Mono 50 on the lid. Originally named Mono 50 and then the 50 was dropped. I have Mono pencils with the 50 designation so these must be in transition as the package still says Mono 50.
This Japanese company was founded in 1913 and is still manufacturing fine writing instruments nearly 110 years later.
According to their website, “Tombow (tonbo) means “dragonfly” in Japanese and was often referred to as akizu/akitsu in ancient times. Since Japan was called Akitsu shima (dragonfly island in English) in the past, the name of the company also represents our desire to represent Japan's stationery industry.”