Armando Simoni was often heard to repeat “A pen must make writing pleasurable”. If writing is the key to a man’s soul then OMAS designs speak about their creator. Simoni was an admirer of Greek culture and exalted his passion for classical studies in the creation of objects with a balanced design. Is not the famous twelve-sided Arte Italiana model reminiscent of a Doric column? This model is still produced today and has become a classic in the luxury pen market. As well as aesthetic considerations, Armando Simoni had been interested in mechanics since he was a child.

By the age of 34 he had accumulated sufficient knowledge of the sector to found OMAS (Officina Meccanica Armando Simoni). During the 1930s he designed the twelve-sided model and the other great success story of the pre-war years, the Doctor’s Pen fitted with a tiny clinical thermometer in the body of the pen. Simoni’s love of technical challenges resulted in the endless creation of surprising models; from the fountain pen with two nibs to the series with the transparent ink holder to emphasize lucent beauty. These exclusive items demonstrate the creative force of their designer. He was nominated Cavaliere della Corona d’Italia – Knight of the Italian Crown- and thereafter acquired the moniker “il Cavaliere”.

The new noble status of Simoni was extended to the firm as the small Bologna-based workshop was transformed into a world famous company. Following the death of Armando Simoni in 1958, his daughter Raffaella, his son-in-law Angelo Malaguti and later his grandson Gianluca Malaguti Simoni preserved the spirit and philosophy of the business.