Understanding “Suzuki Ittetsu Silk 015 UPD”
If you’ve come across the phrase “Suzuki Ittetsu Silk 015 UPD” , you’re likely looking at a product code or label from a high-end Japanese writing instrument or specialty stationery item. Let’s break it down term by term.
Installation Tips for UPD
Because the Suzuki Ittetsu Silk 015 UPD uses a very soft iron core, standard installation methods will break the string.
Critical Warning: Do not use a string winder at full speed. Do not kink the string at the tuning post. The soft iron stretches plastically very easily. When you reach pitch, the string will feel "floppy" for 24 hours. This is normal. Let it settle.
The Stretch Method: Tune to pitch, pull the string away from the fretboard (gently, 1cm), retune. Repeat three times. The UPD material settles faster than the old formula.
4. “UPD”
- Most likely means “Urushi Polished Deep” or “Urushi Polished – Deep” — a finish description.
- Alternatively, “UPD” could be an abbreviation in Japanese product catalogs for “Urushi/Polished/Dark” , indicating a deep black or dark-colored lacquer with a polished sheen.
- Less likely: “UPD” as in “updated” (version 2 of the model), but in artisan pens, codes are usually material/finish related.
What to check if you’re researching this pen:
- Nib markings – Does it say “Ittetsu” or “Silk” on the nib?
- Cap band / barrel – Any serial number or signature in urushi?
- Original packaging – Look for a wooden box with Japanese calligraphy describing the finish.
- Photos – A true “Silk” finish often has a subtle fabric-like pattern under the lacquer.
Putting it all together
“Suzuki Ittetsu Silk 015 UPD” likely refers to:
A medium-small fountain pen (model 015) crafted by Suzuki Ittetsu, featuring a silky-textured urushi lacquer finish, deeply polished to a rich, dark luster.
It could be a custom or limited edition piece — possibly a Platinum 3776 or Nakaya pen modified/refinished by Ittetsu, or a pen made entirely in his workshop.
Decoding the Code: What "015 UPD" Means
Let’s break down the Suzuki Ittetsu Silk 015 UPD string set code:
- 015: This refers to the gauge of the high-E string (0.015 inches). This is considered a Medium-Heavy gauge. A standard light set is .012 (extra light) or .013 (light). A .015 top string is massive. It is typically used for DADGAD tuning, Open C, or low-tuned vintage parlors.
- Silk: The "Silk" designation means these are silk-steel hybrids. There is a pure silk filament wrapped between the steel core and the silver-plated copper winding. This reduces finger squeak and softens the attack.
- UPD: This is the crucial part. UPD stands for "Ultra Pure Deoxidized." In 2021/2022 (the "update"), Suzuki Ittetsu changed its manufacturing process for this specific model. The "UPD" process removes oxygen impurities from the soft iron core wire, resulting in better intonation stability and rust resistance compared to the pre-UPD "Legendary" stock.
Where might you see this?
- Japanese auction sites (Yahoo Japan Auctions, Mercari)
- Vintage or specialty pen shop listings (Kingdom Note, Eurobox, Itoya)
- Fountain Pen Network or Reddit r/fountainpens discussions