The Faber-Castell 9000 Perfect Pencil was launched in 1905. Its quality and finely graduated degrees of hardness have made it a firm favorite with artists and illustrators. Its lead is fully bonded with the wood surround and is therefore particularly break resistant. Special features include a protective cap to protect against tip breakage and as an extender, an integrated sharpener, and a high-quality smudge-free eraser.