The Maison Caran d’Ache

With a priceless heritage of expertise, the Maison Caran d’Ache has been designing and producing exceptional products in its Geneva workshops for more than 100 years, faithful to the reputation of the ‘Swiss Made’ label.

Caran d’Ache’s writing implements, as well as its art and drawing materials, are recognised around the world for their outstanding quality. Combining technical knowhow, innovation and aesthetic appeal, these very personal objects experiment with original materials and superb design to add refinement to every new page of writing.

Each creation is a synthesis of the spirit, rigour, determination and expertise of specialists in more than 90 skills working exclusively in Geneva, in the great tradition of Swiss manufacturing and in line with the sense of social and environmental responsibility, which the brand holds dear.

Caran d’Ache draws on all its expertise to design products that foster creativity in every one of its customers. It designs and manufactures art supplies and writing implements for all types of user, from budding creatives to the most renowned professionals. 

Caran d’Ache’s origins

Founded as the “Fabrique Genevoise de Crayons” in Geneva in 1915, the Maison Caran d’Ache adopted its current name in 1924 when Arnold Schweitzer took the reins. The new name of “Caran d’Ache” went hand in hand with its increasing international success, and is at once a reference to “karandash”, the Russian word for “pencil”, and, with the spelling “Caran d’Ache”, the pseudonym used by Emmanuel Poiré, one of the most renowned cartoonists of the Belle Époque.  

The Maison is a true family business. Today it is headed by Carole Hubscher, representing the fourth generation of a family that has been involved in decision-making at the highest level since 1930.

The company has been located in the canton of Geneva since its beginnings, and is the only one in the world to manufacture a comprehensive range of artistic and writing implements in a single location. Its coloured pencils, wax pastels, outstanding pens and exclusive inks all act as an extension of the hand in its desire to create, mimicking its movements as it experiments with new techniques and explores new shades of meaning.

The Maison Caran d’Ache hones a business culture that revolves around excellence, sustainable development and social responsibility. It exports to more than 90 countries, where it is a proud international ambassador for Switzerland and the Swiss Made label, which are closely intertwined with the values of quality and innovation that are so dear to the company.