In 1923, M.A. Ferst invented the world's first mechanical pencil, thus beginning the legacy that made the Scripto� mechanical pencil an American industrial icon. Although much has changed over the past 79 years, Scripto still maintains Mr. Ferst's vision of innovation with purpose, a principle that is reflected in fine products at exceptional values.
CHRONOLOGICAL HISTORY
1923: M.A. Ferst invents the first mechanical pencil. The M.A. Ferst Company, a major supplier of graphite pencil leads, introduced a new mechanical marvel with a simple mechanism to propel and repel lead. 1924: Company name changed to Scripto� (Latin for "I Write") Manufacturing Company.
1955: Scripto� enters the refillable cigarette lighter business with the introduction of the "Vu-Lighter�", a transparent butane lighter.
1957: Acquires Anja Engineering Corporation, an international leader as a supplier of writing instruments, writing instrument components and writing instrument production and test equipment.
1974: Tokai-Seiki, a Japanese manufacturer of high quality disposable cigarette lighters partners with the Scripto� Manufacturing Corporation. Cigarette lighters, produced and marketed by Tokai, carry the Scripto� name for the first time.
1980: Scripto� introduces the world's first disposable erasable pen.
1984: Tokai-Seiki, now known as Tokai Corporation, becomes the official Scripto� owner.
1988: Company name becomes Scripto-Tokai Corporation with corporate headquarters in California and manufacturing operations Tijuana, Mexico.
2000: The Scripto� name is recognized by consumers across the United States. Scripto� Utility Lighters are the #1 selling utility lighters in the market*. Scripto� electronic cigarette lighters are the leading electric lighters in the market*. All Scripto� cigarette Lighters combined are the second best selling lighters in the market. Scripto� Writing Instruments continue to represent an important part of our growing business.