Mitsubishi Pencil & Unicosmo
Niroku Masaki established the Masaki Pencil Manufacturing Company in Naito
Shinjuku, laying the foundation for what would later become Mitsubishi Pencil in 1952.
Having been inspired by wooden pencils he discovered at the 1878 Paris World Fair,
he devoted himself to years of research and development, eventually achieving Japan’s first industrial pencil production.
In 1901, his “Bureau Pencil” was adopted by the Ministry of Communications,
a recognition that marked the beginning of Japan’s modern pencil industry.
Masaki Pencil Manufacturing and Yamato Pencil merge,
forming Masaki Yamato Pencil Co., Ltd.
The company began its international expansion by forming export partnerships and introducing Japanese-made writing instruments to new markets around the world.
Mitsubishi Pencil created the legendary high-quality “uni” pencil
through years of innovation to achieve exceptional smoothness.
This iconic product remains beloved to this day.
Following its launch of the first ball point in 1959, Uni Mitsubishi Pencil marketed the very first “uni-ball”, which was then the world’s first rollerball pen with a metal tip.
The POSCA marker was introduced as a revolutionary, water-based, all-surface creative tool. It quickly became a favorite
among artists and hobbyists.
The unique POSCA ink technology later inspired the development
of our cosmetic nail products.
Unicosmo Co., Ltd. was founded as a wholly owned
subsidiary of Mitsubishi Pencil. The idea was to apply writing instrument technologies to cosmetics.
A U.S. inquiry about adapting brush pens for nail
products led to the creation of the pen-type cosmetic
applicator, a true innovation that blended art and
beauty.
We introduced our first manicure pen featuring a push
mechanism for effortless precision.
With a specially designed brush that retained liquid
beautifully, it offered a smooth, quick-drying finish and
inspired collaborations with leading beauty brands.
The launch of the uni-ball Eye transformed the rollerball
category.
With its vivid pigment ink and smooth, consistent flow, it became
the world’s best-selling rollerball pen — and remains a symbol of
innovation today.
We introduced a rotating-type eyeliner that delivers
flawless coverage and smooth, smudge-resistant lines.
Around the same time, we developed elegant spot-
makeup containers ideal for concealers and lip liners.
Leveraging our felt-tip pen technology, we created an easy-to-use hair dye applicator pen, laying the foundation for today’s popular grey hair retouch markers.
brushWe began in-house production of brushes, ensuring superior quality and control in cosmetic applicators.
The Kuru Toga introduced a self-rotating lead mechanism that keeps the tip perfectly sharp for consistent lines — the same precision technology now used in our push-type eyeliners for controlled, stable dispensing.
Drawing inspiration from POSCA, we created the Nail
Art Pen for professional-grade nail design.
Gel-based mechanical pencils also emerged, offering
vivid color and smooth performance.
Utilizing the mechanism of our reservoir-type marker
and the direct ink-type rollerball pens, we developed
an eyeliner designed for immediate, effortless use
upon opening.
Our direct ink-type eyeliner adopts leak-proof
mechanism developed for our uni-ball eye collector
design.
The launch of EYE Ocean Care marked a new era of sustainability — from 75% recycled plastics of which 10% ocean waste.
We also introduced rechargeable cartridge-type eyeliners, combining eco-conscious design with a luxurious matte black finish derived from sustainable, charcoal-based ingredients.
...and innovation continues
Years in Business
130+
Global Employees
2,800+
Writing Instrument Global
Manufacturing Facilities
7
Countries Selling
our Writing Instruments
100+
Global Technology
Patents
1,050+
Products in Catalog
3,000+