Castell 9000 - a genuinely classic pencil - was launched by Count Alexander von Faber-Castell in 1905. Its quality and finely graduated degrees of hardness have made it a firm favorite with artists and illustrators. The Perfect Pencil writes, sharpens, erases, protects and extends! It features particularly break-resistant lead due to SV bonding and has a water-based eco varnish finish. The protective cap in matching green, has a sturdy metal clip and an integrated sharpener. It acts as an extender as the pencil is sharpened and protects the tip when not in use. The graphite pencil in degree of lead hardness B, is ideal for writing and includes a high-quality, PVC-free, smudge-free eraser.