Dubai, U.A.E 16 October 2006: Cross marries elements of mechanical design with sensual, natural materials to create its latest pen, Autocross . Like vintage cars collected as "moving art," the Autocross pen is a spectacular example of beauty with purpose, coveted as much for its flair as for its functional excellence.

Inspired by luxury cars, Cross' designers interpreted details of the automotive artistry in crafting this new writing instrument.  Autocross boasts a distinctive shape, choice leather, and engraving based on engine design. The company's love of cars dates back to the nineteenth century when Alonzo Cross built the first car in Rhode Island, USA. Auto racing has been a passionate pastime for many Cross leaders, including three generations of the Boss family.

Much like cars, pens are an essential part of our daily existence, often under appreciated for their artistic expression. The Autocross pen merges masterful mechanical performance - Cross has been a pioneer in writing technologies for 160 years - with a soft edge. A voluptuous, torpedo-like body evocative of industrial style is sensuously covered in supple leather, reminiscent of the interiors of 1930's cars. A model of advanced engineering, this pen features a bi-directional twist to propel and repel the pen point in a continuous fluid motion, in a nod to the hydraulic lifts of automobiles. The knurled, deep-cut engraving on the chrome top is patterned after engine fittings.

Power meets polish in the sporty silhouette of the Autocross pen with its strong, wide body and balanced grip made especially comfortable by the wrap of leather.

The Autocross pen is available in five deeply saturated shades of subtly textured leather: chocolate, black, toffee, teal, and red, which can be paired with a trendy handbag for the ladies or with a contrasting suit for the gentlemen.

"This mix- and-match style makes Autocross pen more of a gorgeous fashion accessory than a plain writing instrument," commented Mr. Toni Mansali, Exclusive Representative. With smaller dimensions reminiscent of a coupe, this writing instrument is sized to fit perfectly in the palm or pocket to flaunt it in the best way.

The Autocross ballpoint is now available at all Jashanmal outlets in the UAE and leading stores throughout the Middle East and the World.

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About Cross:
Headquarters in Rhode Island, USA, Cross is the renowned American firm specializing in writing instruments, accessories, and timepieces.  Cross has created fine writing instruments for 160 years, and its products are coveted by discerning aficionados and fashion enthusiast throughout the world.

For more information, please contact:
THE IDEA AGENCY PR DEPARTMENT
Tel: 04-3434424
Fax: 04-3434305
Email: pr@theideaagency-me.com

Press Release 2006