Ideally suited for artistic and high contrast work Environmentally safe water-based coating Extra break-resistant due to SV bonding Availiable in Degrees of Hardness A genuinely classic pencil, Castell 9000 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. Ideal for artistic work, demanding studies and sketches. Extra break-resistant, easy to sharpen and erase. Environmentally-friendly water-based varnish. Available in grades from soft 8B to a hard 6H.