The 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 favourite with artists and illustrators. Its lead is fully bonded with the wood surround and is therefore particularly break-resistant. The CASTELL 9000 is available in 16 different degrees of hardness, making it the ideal pencil for all technical and artistic applications.Features & Benefits 6 pencils Castell 9000 in hardness grades HB, B, 2B, 4B 6B and 8B Ideally suited for artistic and high contrast work Environmentally safe water-based coating Extra break-resistant due to SV bonding