Founded in 1923, Scripto is distinguished by a rich history rooted in early 20th century America ingenuity. In 1923, M.A. Ferst invented the world's first mechanical pencil, thus beginning the legacy that made the Scripto mechanical pencil an American industrial icon. Although much has changed over the past 77 years, Scripto still maintains Mr. Ferst's vision of innovation with purpose, a principle that is reflected in fine products at exceptional values. CHRONOLOGICAL HISTORY 1923: M.A. Ferst invents the first mechanical pencil. The M.A. Ferst Company, a major supplier of graphite pencil leads, introduced a new mechanical marvel with a simple mechanism to propel and repel lead. 1924: Company name changed to Scripto (Latin for "I Write") Manufacturing Company. 1955: Scripto enters the refillable cigarette lighter business with the introduction of the "Vu-Lighter", a transparent butane lighter. 1957: Acquires Anja Engineering Corporation, an international leader as a supplier of writing instruments, writing instrument components and writing instrument production and test equipment. 1974: Tokai-Seiki, a Japanese manufacturer of high quality disposable cigarette lighters partners with the Scripto Manufacturing Corporation. Cigarette lighters, produced and marketed by Tokai, carry the Scripto name for the first time. 1980: Scripto introduces the world's first disposable erasable pen. 1984: Tokai-Seiki, now known as Tokai Corporation, becomes the official Scripto owner. 1988: Company name becomes Scripto-Tokai Corporation with corporate headquarters in California and manufacturing operations Tijuana, Mexico. 2000: The Scripto name is recognized by consumers across the United States. Scripto utility lighters are the #1 selling utility lighters in the market*. Scripto electronic cigarette lighters are the leading electric lighters in the market*. All Scripto cigarette lighters combined are the second best selling lighters in the market. Scripto writing instruments continue to represent an important part of our growing business. 2055 S. Haven Ave. Ontario, CA 91761-0736 Phone: 800.241.8552 | Fax: 909.773.1136