You can spot the Kuru Toga logo inside the grip section or under a window in the barrel. It's printed on the rotation mechanism—which comes in different colors depending on the lead size—so you can watch the logo turn and rest assured that your Kuru Toga is working properly.

The Advance version of the Kuru Toga features the Slide Pipe mechanism, and wraps the whole thing up in a smart metal shell. It's the same pencil we know and love, but it's dressed up a bit. Holes in the grip section add a little texture for a better grip, but also give you a slight peek at the mechanism inside. The metal barrel and clip make for a pencil that should stand up to longer term use (not that we saw many problems with the standard models!) I definitely like the Kuru Toga Advance, I just don't have 4 or 5 stars worth of like for it. There are just a few too many things that I would like to see improved upon. With that said, there are still some real positives with the Advance. The biggest positive is the retractable, sliding sleeve, and the mechanism's speed & functionality. These things are fantastic, and some of the best I have ever seen (especially in a sub 10 dollar pencil!). Show your love for Studio Ghibli's magical films with this pencil! It features a design from the film Spirited Away and Uni's innovative Kuru Toga lead rotation mechanism.

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The Kuru Toga eliminates this problem with the use of an ingenious lead rotation mechanism that continually rotates the pencil lead as you write. A spring-loaded clutch twists the lead incrementally every time you lift the pencil from the paper. This allows a uniform wearing of the lead to create a conical tip shape that provides a fine, consistent line. The design of the Kuru Toga across the different models is relatively similar. The bodies are generally slim and lightweight. The grip sections are made of plastic, metal, or rubber. Some Kuru Toga pencils feature Uni’s Alpha Gel grip, which is made of soft silicone and offers a balanced feel of comfortable cushioning and ergonomic support.

It has the new W-speed engine. (I assume the "W" stands for "Western Scripts.") This rotates the lead roughly TWICE as fast as the standard Kuru Toga engine so that it stays sharper when writing in English. I can confirm this works, and works well. The color is vivid. Mine is a deep vibrant red and the metal and plastic parts all match without color variation. It is a beautiful, professional looking writing instrument. My standard Kuru Toga has the window that shows the engine. When I pull this out in front of any fellow pen/pencil afficionado, they ALWAYS immediately ask about it! Of course, my "Advance Upgrade" pencil looks a WHOLE lot more professional... but I'd certainly buy a version that had the clear window around the engine. Better yet? Sell a version that has swappable lower barrels -- you could then "dress it up" for professional meetings, or "geek it up" when you want the coolness factor. (Are you listening, Uni?) The Kuru Toga Advance Upgrade is both shorter and lighter than my GraphGear 1000. This may be a "PRO" to you if you prefer a less-weighty pencil, but I would spend an extra few dollars in a heartbeat if they made a heavier, all-metal version.The standout mechanical pencil from the Pilot Dr. Grip line is the Ace Shaker. Its ergonomic design has earned an “Ease-of-Use" Commendation from the Arthritis Foundation. The Ace Shaker’s double layer grip is flared to prevent you from cramping your fingers up too close to the tip. The grip itself consists of a firm rubber outer layer and softer inner layer. This results in a moderately soft grip that is comfortable to hold and ensures you have a stable grasp on the pencil. In combination with the barrel’s optimized weight balance, this pencil is perfect for longer writing sessions. Kiki's Delivery Service - Everyday Items, My Neighbor Totoro - Stationery, Spirited Away - No-Face and All the Deities