History of Delta

A quarter-century ago, in 1982, three like-minded Italian visionaries, Nino Marino, Ciro Matrone, and Mario Muscente, established a new design shop and factory for crafting exceptional writing instruments of refined elegance. With the purpose of recalling the glamour of the 1920s and 1930s, the early years of Delta were devoted to producing pieces made of precious metals, celluloid, and ebonite.

While virtually all other manufacturers were committed to, and using, either converters, twist-filling (inner piston) mechanisms, or cartridges, Delta took the bold step of reintroducing the lever-and-rubber-sac system for drawing ink into their fountain pen designs. Due to commonly-held, preconceived notions about the efficacy of the lever-and-sac apparatus, Delta reserved this "old-fashioned" method for special limited editions only—for example, the "Giacomo Puccini" limited edition series.

From the beginning, the firm's research and development department dedicated itself to the study, production, and use of rare materials, an early result of which was the "Extrema Collection", the world’s first writing instruments made of carbon fibre and titanium.

The Delta "Venezia" Collection

In July, 1994, as a sponsor of the G7 Summit held in Naples, Italy, Delta offered the seven world leaders the "Delta G7 Limited Edition", a three-piece set with a limited production of 1994 pieces. In September 1998, the mayor of Venice received and declared the "Delta Venezia" limited edition, the official pen of the city of Venice.

One of Delta's most important collections to date, the "Jvbilaevm 2000" was created to celebrate the year 2000, a year of the Christian Jubilee which coincided with the beginning of the 3rd Millennium.

Delta experienced — and is experiencing — remarkable successes with other important limited edition series as well. Among them are the "Segovia", the "Pompeii", the "Colosseum", and others, celebrating great cities and landmarks of Italy, as well as historical locations and treasures that form the heritage of many nations and traditions. Tributes do not, however, limit themselves to direct commemorations of people and things Italian; the "Nazareth 2000", the "Isaac Newton", the "Napoleon Bonaparte", and the "Native American" series, all speak of an esteem for other cultures and places with whom our common achievements are shared.

Though still relatively young, compared to some of her competitors, Delta established, and has maintained, an array of collections that commands respect and appreciation from all, with the "Dolcevita" forming the core. Indeed, the "Papillon" is an extension of the "Dolcevita", as is the "Soirée", and, of course, the "Mini" and "Stout" branches of the family. A recent addition is the "Vintage", low in cost, yet luxurious in design and colour.

Continuing its richly and varied line is an ever-expanding series of limited and special editions, all of which further cement Delta's commitment to culture, history, and grace.