It’s one of the most satisfying sounds in an office, and one of the most overlooked inventions on your desk. The click-top pen has been a writing staple for generations, and now one of its most recognizable designs is celebrating a major milestone.
In 1956, French entrepreneur Marcel Bich introduced the BIC M10, a retractable ballpoint pen designed to make everyday writing practical, reliable and affordable. Now, 70 years later, the pen is celebrating a milestone anniversary with a colorful new look.
The M10 followed the success of the BIC Cristal, which helped establish BIC’s reputation for making quality writing instruments accessible at an affordable price. While the Cristal became known for its transparent barrel and straightforward design, the M10 offered something different — a retractable tip activated by a signature side-mounted button. The M10 launched in France in 1956 before expanding into the Benelux countries, Scandinavia, South Africa, and New Zealand between 1956 and 1960.
Despite its simple appearance, the M10 relies on carefully engineered components, including a tungsten carbide ball, a precision tip, and a retractable mechanism.
BIC says the pen can deliver up to 2 kilometers, or about 1.2 miles, of writing, and its design has remained virtually unchanged for nearly seven decades, with its integrated clip, one-piece barrel, and familiar click mechanism helping make it an everyday staple.
To celebrate the anniversary, BIC introduced the M10 Pastel collection in 2026, featuring five soft shades: purple, green, yellow, blue and coral. The new edition preserves the familiar design while incorporating 49% recycled plastic, according to the company.
“Minimalist before its time, timeless and unmistakably retro, it reflects today’s renewed appreciation for well-designed, durable and authentic everyday objects. Over the years, it has evolved beyond its practical purpose to become a true cultural icon, inspiring artists, illustrators and designers alike,” the brand wrote in an announcement marking the historic milestone.
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