Koh-I-Noor Rapidomatic is a classic design, popular for many years among commercial artists and architects, packed with pro features and built to last. Sadly, for a while, it seemed that this excellent pencil was a casualty of the decline of analog drafting. Many of the tools used by 20th century designers are no longer manufactured, and many of the historic companies dedicated to those supplies have vanished entirely. Rapidomatic pencils were just one of many products discontinued in the last several decades.

But now, mechanical pencils are gaining new popularity in the United States, and midcentury design is very much on-trend, so Koh-I-Noor USA has decided to bring back the Rapidomatic as part of their standard lineup. We're so glad they did. It's a balanced, tip-weighted drafting pencil with metal hardware, a sturdy lead sleeve, a hardness indicator, a metal clip, and an eraser under the cap.

Rest assured, the new Rapidomatics have old-school build quality. These feel much nicer in the hand than their sub-$15 price. The knurled grip has a nice weight and texture, and all the moving parts travel smoothly.

Available in four lead sizes, with a different barrel color for each:
Rapidomatic 0.3 mm / Red
Rapidomatic 0.5 mm / Off-White
Rapidomatic 0.7 mm / Grey
Rapidomatic 0.9 mm / Navy

Sold individually. Made in Japan.