Reader, beware: The product I'm about to discuss is, financially speaking, definitely not within the realm of possibility for most people. However, while I am a fairly thrifty shopper myself, the point of this site is sometimes to point out fine paraphernalia that is more awesome and/or interesting than it is affordable. (Case in point.)

Today, I'm talking about the limited-edition Caran d'Ache "Matterhorn Brut Rosé" Pencil Sharpening Machine. Putting aside that it has a mouthful of a name, it's an exquisitely fashionable, finely crafted, iridescent-colored pencil sharpener aimed at collectors and devotees of beautiful objects. The original grey version of this Swiss-made, solid metal sharpener was first created in 1933, and its design has thus far stood the test of time.

It can be used with round, hexagonal, or triangular pencils of all kinds and wax pastels, ranging from 4mm to 10mm in diameter. This works thanks to the butterfly clamps that you pinch together to accept a pencil and release to hold it firmly in position while you sharpen. You can also adjust the desired sharpness of the lead with a twist of the knob that sticks out of the hand crank, á la a salt/pepper mill.

See the original sharpener in action at 5:55 of this video:

There are only 4,478 of these Brut Rosé sharpeners being made, a number that references the height in meters of The Matterhorn. Whether you're treating yourself to a lovely object or think it would make a great gift for the stationery nerd in your life, you can pick one up for £175.00 (~$245 USD) at Cult Pens.