PILOT Nightline Raden by Etsu – 1990s

The PILOT Nightline Raden, dating from around the 1990s, is an exceptional example of PILOT’s high end Japanese lacquer craftsmanship. This particular piece was created by a member of the Kokkokai group of maki-e artisans and bears the individual signature Etsu 悦.

The Nightline design is distinguished by its abstract and remarkably modern composition. Numerous slender pieces of natural raden mother of pearl are arranged across the deep black lacquered surface, accompanied by delicate gold powder decoration. Together, they evoke the shimmering lights of a city at night, giving the design its evocative Nightline name. 

As the viewing angle and light change, the raden reveals brilliant shades of blue, green, purple, and silver. Unlike more traditional maki-e compositions depicting flowers, birds, or landscapes, Nightline relies primarily on the interaction between black urushi, luminous shell, and scattered gold to create its dramatic atmosphere.

Each early Nightline was individually decorated by skilled artisans, resulting in subtle variations in the placement, color, and appearance of the raden. The signature Etsu 悦 further identifies this example as an individually crafted piece rather than a purely decorative production model.

Long discontinued and increasingly difficult to find, the PILOT Nightline Raden remains one of the most distinctive vintage Japanese lacquer fountain pens, combining traditional raden craftsmanship with an unusually modern aesthetic.

Condition: New old stock, unused. Pen only; no box or accessories are included. Due to prolonged storage, the surface shows a few light hairline marks.