BIC Celebrates 75 Years of the Iconic Crystal Pen

Since its launch in 1950 by Marcel Bich, the BIC Crystal has transformed from a smart innovation into a cultural staple, with over 120 billion pens sold globally, an average of 14 million each day. More than just a writing tool, the Crystal has become part of everyday life, from classrooms and lecture halls to studio desks and boardrooms.

Its distinctive hexagonal barrel, transparent body that reveals ink levels, and ventilated cap in the colour of the ink reflect a design that’s as functional as it is iconic—earning the pen a place in the permanent collections of the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Centre Pompidou in Paris.

As BIC celebrates this milestone, it’s not only honouring a legacy, it’s also reaffirming its mission to bring simplicity and joy to everyday life through accessible, dependable products. For millions around the world, the Crystal has meant the first time writing their name, sketching a dream, or mapping out a future.

“The Crystal pen has always stood for something greater: accessibility, quality, and the freedom to express,” says Lillian Henderson, BIC’s Marketing Director – Southern and East Africa. “As we celebrate this remarkable 75-year journey, we remain committed to supporting education and creativity at every level.”

Throughout its history, BIC has played a vital role in helping democratise writing and boost literacy across the globe. In South Africa and beyond, BIC continues to support learners and educators through meaningful initiatives that put writing tools in the hands of those who need them most. And with its proven writing capacity of up to 3 kilometres per pen, the Crystal delivers the kind of durability and value that has earned it generations of trust.

Every BIC pen undergoes more than 70 quality checks, an ongoing commitment to excellence. In keeping with its forward-thinking values, BIC will begin producing the Crystal with nearly 50% recycled plastic by 2026, reinforcing the brand’s dedication to sustainability.

This isn’t just a celebration of a pen. It’s a celebration of every idea, signature, doodle, note, and masterpiece it helped bring to life.

Because sometimes, getting the basics beautifully right is what makes all the difference.

About BIC 

A global leader in stationery, lighters, and shavers, BIC brings simplicity and joy to everyday life. For 80 years, BIC’s commitment to delivering high-quality, affordable, and trusted products has established BIC as a symbol of reliability and innovation. With a presence in over 160 countries, and over 13,000 team members worldwide, BIC’s portfolio includes iconic brands and products such as BIC® 4-Color™, BodyMark®, Cello®, Crystal®, Inkbox®, BIC Kids®, Lucky™, Rocketbook®, Tattly®, Tipp-Ex®, Wite-Out®, Djeep®, EZ Load™, EZ Reach®, BIC® Flex™, Soleil®, Tangle Teezer® and more. Listed on Euronext Paris and included in the SBF120 and CAC Mid 60 indexes, BIC is also recognised for its steadfast commitments to sustainability and education. For more information, visit www.corporate.bic.com. To view BIC's full range of products, visithttps://mea.bic.com/en-za . Follow BIC on LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok.