WE LIKE OUR TECHNOLOGY both old and new and we really like Faber-Castell's 19th century note case pencil since our great-grandparents used that pencil after landing on Ellis Island. The Perfect Pencil still sells in fine stationery stores. It provides sure lines when used with steady hands. The platinum-plated brass extender protects the point of your pencil and contains a spring-loaded clip and replaceable, non-smudging white eraser under the cap. An added bonus: the built-in sharpener from the extender. You can order one at World Lux. Remember, some luxuries are essential.