Caran D'Ache "Karandash" is the Russian word for pencil and was also the pseudonym for the great French caricaturist, Emmanuel Poiré. Appropriately, Caran d'Ache chose this name for their range of world class writing instruments. A hallmark of quality since 1915, Caran d'Ache offers Swiss-made products known for their quality materials, craftsmanship and technical excellence with a lifetime guarantee.