4th of July, 2013
Drafted by Thomas Jefferson between June 11 and June 28, 1776, the Declaration of Independence is at once the nation’s most cherished symbol of liberty and Jefferson’s most enduring monument. Here, in exalted and unforgettable phrases, Jefferson...
Montblanc a Fountain of Global Growth
June 14, 2013 (Bloomberg) — Jan-Patrick Schmitz, president & CEO at Montblanc North America, talks with Betty Liu about global luxury buying trends and the company’s growing growth rates in China and throughout Asia. He speaks on Bloomberg...
The Power of Words: Nelson Mandela
The Power of Words: Nelson Mandela Foundation & Tribeca Film Institute from James Cecil. The Nelson Mandela Foundation & Tribeca Film Institute launched “The Power of Words” initiative in April 2013. Projected in artful synchronization...
Believe in Zero
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) works in more than 190 countries and territories to save and improve children’s lives, providing health care and immunizations, clean water and sanitation, nutrition, education, emergency relief and more. The U.S. Fund for...
The Power of a Pen With Some Personality
In an age dominated by tech gadgets such as cellphones, a pen can still make a potent statement. Jan-Patrick Schmitz, president and chief executive officer of Montblanc North America, believes when you pull one out to sign a document or write something down in a...
It’s a sign: We are confused
As I was driving down a road in New York State, I passed this sign. Fascinated by its size and complexity, I had to pull over to capture its image. Looking through my viewfinder, I found beauty in the symmetry and color coordination of this monument. The...
Daylight Savings Time
This week on the East Coast we’ve had to realize fully our subordination to the awesome power of nature. I hope you have come through the storm and I send my thoughts to my friends and their families who have been affected by Hurricane Sandy. Much of the region...
Montblanc CEO Shares Pricing And Brand Marketing Insights
Montblanc CEO Shares Pricing And Brand Marketing Insights Written by Lorna Pappas Friday, 19 October 2012 09:52 As showrooming and online price comparisons induce brands and retailers to lower prices, many products and services essentially have become commodities....
At The Mark Twain House, A Pen Befitting The Man
By Dan Haar On October 11, 2012 | The Haar Report | Hartford Courant What would Mark Twain say about a commemorative fountain pen made in his honor, that cost $2,520? That’s easy — he’d mock the company that made it, and promptly buy a handful for...
The Close – Interview with Jan-Patrick Schmitz
Montblanc North America’s CEO Jan-Patrick Schmitz joins Michael Hainworth to take a look at how the company is fairing in an uncertain luxury goods market. About: The Close Michael Hainsworth guides you through the vital last half-hour of trading, where anything...
Forbes: A Conversation with Jan-Patrick Schmitz
Former Montblanc CEO Jan-Patrick Schmitz on ways the purveyor of luxury writing instruments has expanded its product line while staying true to core brand essence. . Montblanc has been a consistently present beacon in the luxury brand market for nearly a century....
Bloomberg TV: MoneyMoves with Deirdre Bolton
See the Pablo Picasso Pen That Retails for $33,000 Sept. 21 (Bloomberg) — Montblanc North America CEO Jan-Patrick Schmitz talks about the demand for luxury products. He speaks with Deirdre Bolton on Bloomberg Television’s “Money Moves.”...
Montblanc banks on selling splendor
By RICHARD MULLINS | The Tampa Tribune Published: September 16, 2012 Updated: September 16, 2012 – 5:48 PM TAMPA — Walk into the newly expanded Montblanc store in Tampa, past the glimmering display cases, past the...
The Art of Watchmaking
Watchmaking is an art. There have been many attempts to define the elusive concept of Fine Watchmaking. The “Fine Watchmaking“ denomination embraces a centuries-old, living history, a rich and specific culture, a professional ethic, the enduring expertise of the...
Arts Education: From the Boardwalk to Broad Stage
A Lifeline for Arts Education Yes, there is the Santa Monica Pier. It is certainly a lively place and some even call it fun. Others flee from the frenzy boardwalk to wander along the beach with its famous lifeguard posts. That is what I did a few weeks...
Canon 1Dx – finally here
WAITING FOR GODOT Today, the friendly man from UPS (not a marketing slogan – he is actually a really nice chap) rang our door bell and handed over the much awaited package from B&H. Finally! Several years ago I bought the Canon 1D Mark...
Best Friends Forever
A sunny afternoon somewhere at the Chesapeake Bay. The smell of freshly brewed coffee is filling the air and I retreat with a cup and book to my favorite Adirondack chair overlooking the water. Irrespectively how silently I try to leave the house, it only takes...
Spread your Wings
Spread your Wings Life teaches us that being prepared is a prerequisite for utilizing the unexpected opportunity. The same wisdom holds true in the world of photography. Spending a few warm summer days at the Chesapeake Bay, I always keep several camera body / lens...