YStudio ballpoint pen Classic Revolve slim
The Classic Revolve Slim by Ystudio is a slender ballpoint pen crafted from brass, copper and phosphor bronze – three metals that give the pen its distinctive weight and warm, golden finish. The body is hexagonal and slim, with a twist mechanism: rotating the rear third of the shaft extends and retracts the refill. Without surface treatment, the brass oxidises gradually with use and develops a unique patina – each pen becomes one-of-a-kind over time.
Features
- Brass, copper, phosphor bronze: The combination of these three metals creates a pleasant, noticeable weight in hand. Phosphor bronze gives the mechanism spring and durability; brass and copper define the character of the surface.
- Living surface: The brass is uncoated and unlacquered – it responds to skin, moisture and light. Over time, warm brown and gold tones develop, varying from one user to the next. Those who prefer the original lustre can polish with copper oil.
- Twist mechanism: The Revolve mechanism is deliberately simple and robust – no push buttons, no external moving parts that could break. Twisting the forward barrel section extends and retracts the refill.
- Slim hexagonal profile: At 7 × 7 mm cross-section, the Slim sits noticeably narrower in the hand than classic round pens of comparable length. The hexagonal profile prevents rolling and recalls the classic pencil form.
- Schmidt C600 (Cross-style), black: The supplied refill uses the Cross-compatible format and runs with oil-based ballpoint paste. Replacements are available worldwide, as the Cross-style format is internationally widespread.
- Made in Taiwan: The pen is produced in local foundries, where brass casting is processed at around 1,000 degrees Celsius – a manufacturing process that demands craftsmanship and precision.
Use & Tips
- Daily companion and travel pen: At 123 mm in length with a slim cross-section, the Slim fits into any shirt pocket and any notebook case. The weight of the metal makes it present without being awkwardly heavy.
- Interaction with paper: Oil-based ballpoint paste flows most evenly on smooth, lightly coated paper. On textured or highly absorbent surfaces, the flow can be somewhat sluggish – here a switch to a smooth-writing refill in Cross format is recommended.
- Changing the refill: All standard refills in Cross-style format fit as replacements – including quick-drying variants or refills with different ink systems, as long as the format is correct. Those who prefer a softer writing feel should choose a smooth-writing refill in this format.
- Shape or preserve the patina: To accelerate oxidation, place the pen briefly in a slightly damp environment. To preserve the lustre, wipe regularly with a dry cloth or occasionally polish with copper or brass polish.
- Engraving: Ystudio offers an engraving service for this pen – the hexagonal profile provides flat, easily accessible surfaces for engraving.
For Metal Enthusiasts
The use of phosphor bronze alongside brass and copper is unusual for ballpoints in this price range: phosphor bronze – a copper-tin alloy with phosphorus additive – is more corrosion-resistant than pure copper and springs back better, which is why it provides precise, long-lasting engagement in the twist mechanism. The unfinished brass exterior is a deliberate design choice: Ystudio forgoes lacquers or galvanising so the metal can react freely and develop an authentic patina of use. This process is reversible – the surface can be returned to high polish with brass polish at any time.
Technical Specifications
| Model: | Classic Revolve Slim |
| Material: | Brass, copper, phosphor bronze |
| Dimensions: | 7 × 7 × 123 mm |
| Cross-section: | Hexagonal |
| Mechanism: | Twist-action |
| Surface: | Untreated, oxidises with use (living patina) |
| Replacement refill: | Schmidt C600, Cross-style, black (oil-based, not archival) |
| Origin: | Made in Taiwan |
| Included: | 1 ballpoint pen, 1 refill (installed) |