In 1925, we transformed the world of stamp pads with a pad that did not need to be re-inked after each use. Our original company emblem, reflecting a spirit of determination and a desire to succeed, featured a flag, or hata, emblazoned with a mythical sea creature known in Japan as the shachi, a half-carp, half-dragon. Since our founding, we’ve redefined boundaries with countless innovative products.
One such innovation occurred in 1964 when we introduced the forerunner of the world-famous Artline 70 permanent marker. This was the beginning of what would become one of the most expansive lines of over 1,000 markers, sold in over 90 countries and territories. The Artline brand includes products to serve a variety of industries, including office supplies, arts and crafts, and industrial/DIY.
Another innovation that Shachihata is credited with occurred in 1965 when Shachihata introduced the Xstamper®. It didn’t just enter the stamping scene; it revolutionized it. Before Xstamper, traditional rubber stamps required separate ink pads, which often led to messy and inconsistent impressions. The Xstamper changed the game by introducing the concept of pre-inked stamps, a technology that altered the way stamps were made from that moment on.
In 1989, Shachihata pioneered and developed laser stamp manufacturing, using this modern technology in-house to produce the Xstamper. Prior to this time, most rubber stamps were produced using a heat press mold system. The mold system was time-consuming, while laser engraving allowed for faster production and the highest quality impressions possible.
During the early 2000s, Shachihata introduced purpose-built laser machines for the production of the Xstamper. These machines were developed to ensure that the highest levels of quality and efficiency were maintained at each step in the stamp manufacturing process, from rubber production to the finished product. This was yet another development that would change the world of stamp production forever.
It has been a century of change, with new ideas and technology adding color to people’s lives and paving the way for a transformation in the art and techniques of seals, writing, and drawing. Without the unwavering resolve of our predecessors to take on new challenges and the support of our partners and customers, we could not have come this far.
Today, at this milestone in time, let us build on and not rest on the legacy of the past century! Let us unfurl a new, bigger Shachihata flag—one that will take the world by storm with vibrant colors.
We have before us an amazing opportunity—the next 100 years to shape the future of Shachihata.
Shachihata Xstamper 