Pilot Elite S-KaraKara Colored Pocket Fountain Pen: History Introduction and Unboxing

1.2K

Dimensions 尺寸資料
Length capped 含蓋：11.5 cm
Length uncapped 不含蓋：10.1 cm
Length posted 套蓋：14.2 cm

Following the success of the Pilot Elite S pocket fountain pen in 1968, Pilot continued to release more models in the Elite S series. One notable variation was the Elite S-KaraKara (からから/color and color), which is the focus of this article.

　

　

Unveiling Pilot's Era of Youthfulness - The Pioneer of Colorful Interchangeable Pen Shafts

　

During the late 1960s, Pilot recognized the potential of the younger demographic and enlisted Japanese entertainer Kyu Sakamoto to shoot a TV commercial for the Elite S pocket fountain pen, which greatly contributed to its popularity among young people and students (for more information on how the Elite S saved Pilot from bankruptcy, please refer to:按此). Building on this success, Pilot introduced the colored version of the Elite S in November 1969, known as the Elite S-KaraKara.

The Elite S-KaraKara was initially sold as a set called "ハッパ からからエリート-S" (Happa KaraKara Elite-S) for 3000 yen. This set included an Elite S pocket fountain pen along with two sets of interchangeable pen caps and pen bodies.

　

The name "ハッパ からから" (Happa KaraKara) was chosen for two reasons. Firstly, "からから" (pronounced "Ka-La-Ka-La") is a transliteration of the English word "color," representing the colored pen shafts. Moreover, in Japanese, it is an onomatopoeic word for laughter. Secondly, during the 1969 TV commercial featuring Kyosen Ōhashi, one of the catchphrases, "ハッパ フミフミ" (Happa FumiFumi), became a sensation and was widely quoted by young people. Capitalizing on this trend, Pilot named the set "ハッパ からから" to increase sales and appeal to the target audience.

The 1969 TV Advertisement for Pilot Elite S.

　

One of the key attractions of the Elite S-KaraKara was the ability to freely change and match different colors of pen caps and pen bodies. This customization option allowed users to tailor the pen to their attire, mood, and preferences, providing them with greater freedom and expression. The Elite S-KaraKara was one of the first fountain pens on the market to promote interchangeable colors, offering consumers a new level of flexibility and personalization.

Even the classic black Elite S can be interchanged with the Elite S-KaraKara.

　

　

　

---

　

The Design of Elite S-KaraKara

　

In terms of design, the Elite S-KaraKara shared the same structure as the regular Elite S, with the primary distinction being the color scheme. The original black and gold combination was replaced with vibrant colors, including red, magenta, orange, yellow, sky blue, navy blue, and purple. This transformation gave Pilot a more youthful and approachable image, deviating from its previous conservative and traditional reputation.

Let me showcase my collection of Elite S-KaraKara pens. Take a look at the captivating trio on the left: three pen caps in shades of serene sky blue, each with its own subtle variation. The one on the far right boasts the deepest hue, followed by the middle one, and the one on the far left showcases the lightest tint. (Yes, you heard it right, there truly is a noticeable difference). Whether it was an intentional design choice by Pilot or a result of slight color variation during production remains a mystery.

　

While the regular Elite S-KaraKara models typically featured a white grip, it is worth noting that the versions exported overseas were equipped with a transparent grip and a gold-plated nib.

　

If the earlier speculation holds true, the red Elite S-KaraKara pen I acquired, featuring a transparent grip and an 18k script nib, is quite rare and showcases Pilot's exquisite craftsmanship. It complements any pen body color and provides a delightful writing experience.

　

　

　

　

　

---

　　

Unboxing of this extraordinary Elite S-KaraKara set

　

Moving on to the unboxing experience, there are several versions of the Elite S-KaraKara set, labeled with letters A to E, each offering different color combinations. For instance, Version A includes three sets of pen caps and pen bodies in various colors, while Version D features sky blue, navy blue, and purple, and Version E includes red, navy blue, and yellow.

Fortunately, I had the opportunity to acquire two sets, and I will now showcase the complete packaging.

　

The pen case exterior features a sticker indicating the price and version.

　

Inside the pen set, there is an introduction hidden beneath the box.

　

The introduction reads more like an enticing advertisement, explaining the design concept of the Elite S-KaraKara.

Translation of the introduction:

Create a pen that reflects your style!
Feel free to mix and match pen caps and pen bodies to enjoy unique color combinations. This pen's charm lies in its ability to adapt to your mood and attire, just like an accessory.
What color pen would you choose for a sporty outfit? How would you match it for a formal occasion?
Does it complement your tie? Or should you keep it in your pocket?
If you're a girl, why not try matching the pen with your bag or the color of your notes?
With your creativity, you can create an extraordinary pen that adds joy to your life and becomes a conversation piece among friends.

　

　

　

　

---

　

Conclusion

　

The Elite S-KaraKara brought a burst of vibrant colors and an intriguing interchangeable concept that truly breathed new life into the Elite S family. The sight of these short steel pens lined up in a captivating rainbow formation is a feast for the eyes. However, despite being the rightful successor to the Elite S short steel, the Elite S-KaraKara hasn't quite managed to achieve the same level of recognition, and its name often eludes the memory of many.

While stumbling upon individual Elite S-KaraKara pens in the second-hand market is a rare occurrence, stumbling upon a complete set known as "ハッパ からからエリート-S" is an absolute gem. When I first penned down my introduction to the original Elite S, a silent wish resonated within me to acquire a complete set, and to my astonishment, fate smiled upon me, and I found myself in possession of not just one, but two sets. Gratitude overwhelms me! I can't help but wonder if Pilot ever released a green pen shaft variant back in the day. If they did, the anticipation of obtaining it and assembling a genuine "rainbow" set fills me with excitement!

余維達 Wai Tat JERRY YU
2017/9/23 (Rewritten in 2019/02/15 ; 2023/06/01；2024.05.07)

---

---

References:

1. Andreas Lambrou and Masamichi Sunami (2012). “Fountain Pens of Japan”. Kaplan Pens and Books, NA.
2. PILOT UNIQUE ELITE COLORED FOUNTAIN PEN, CLEAR SECTION：https://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/pilot-unique-elite-colored-fountain-117447074
3. よぽけん日誌の画像|エキサイトブログ(Blog)，ハッパ からから エリートS (パイロット)：http://qprc.exblog.jp/7330077/