The O Fantasma Cloisonné Enamel Pins were produced in São Paulo, Brazil in 2003. The first 2 pins in the set were produced by Modelli Brindes in 2003, with a following 32 pins produced by Vizol Brindes in 2012, a total of 34 pins making up a full set. The pins were designed by Sergio Takara and aren’t licensed by King Features Syndicate.
The creation of enamel pins involves a sophisticated multi-step process. Initially, a precision CNC-engraved steel mold is crafted to capture the intricate design details. Using specialized dies, metal sheets are stamped and trimmed to form the pin’s base shape. Electroplating enhances the pin’s durability by applying a thin metal coating, which can be gold, silver, or another premium finish. Colored enamel is then carefully applied to the recessed areas and fired at high temperatures, creating a smooth, vibrant surface. A buffing process refines the pin’s appearance, smoothing edges and adding polish. The final step involves attaching the pin backing, transforming the piece into a wearable accessory that is both functional and visually appealing. Each stage requires exceptional skill and precision, ensuring a high-quality finished product.
The collection’s inception occurred in 2003 through a strategic collaboration with Sergio Takara and Modelli Brindes, a specialized small-scale manufacturing company located in São Paulo, Brazil. During this inaugural production phase, the collection featured two distinctive pins: the Good Mark and Skull designs. The production was intentionally limited, with only 50 complete pin sets manufactured, establishing an immediate sense of exclusivity and rarity.
Nine years following the original production of the two pins, the collection experienced a significant transformation. Vizol Brindes, a new manufacturing partner, undertook an ambitious expansion of the original concept. This expansion incorporated 32 additional pin designs, elevating the total collection to an impressive 34 unique pins. The expanded collection was produced in an equally limited quantity of 60 complete sets, maintaining the series’ exclusive nature.
The O Fantasma Cloisonné Enamel Pins measure approximately 1.25” x 1.0” and feature an array of characters and symbols as found in Phantom comic strip stories, with some featured on multiple pins. The characters featured include Lee Falk, the Phantom, Diana Palmer, Guran, Hero, Devil, Dave and Lily Palmer, Mandrake the Magician, Lothar, Narda, Kit Heloise and Rex, President Luaga, Colonel Worobu, Colonel Weeks, Kabai Singh, Baron Grover, The Crooner, Mr Hog, Mr Alvar, King of Scorpia, Warden Saldan, General Babau, The Timpeni, The Good Mark, The Skull Mark and The Phantoms Belt Buckle.
The full 34 O Fantasma Cloisonné Enamel Pin set can be seen below.
The pins are produced in vibrant colors with a gloss enamel finish. A profile image of the various characters is found on a stripped triangular shaped backing design. The back of each pin contains a smooth textured gold colored design with nickel plating. A single post backing is attached at the back of the pin, designed to be worn on clothing.
A detailed example of one of the O Fantasma Cloisonné Enamel Pins is presented below. The Phantom is depicted in his iconic red costume, as represented in comic books published in Brazil.
The collection’s use of the epola technique, a contemporary evolution of traditional cloisonné, allows for a vibrant and durable finish that brings these characters to life with remarkable fidelity. The set’s curation is particularly noteworthy, spanning multiple eras of the Phantom’s visual evolution. It includes representations of the Ghost Who Walks himself from 1936, 1943, and 1961, alongside his beloved Diana Palmer from the same years. This chronological approach offers a fascinating glimpse into the stylistic changes of comic art over decades. Supporting characters and villains are given equal attention, from the loyal Hero, Devil and Guran to the nefarious Kabai Singh and General Bababu.
Thank you Christopher Smith for assisting with images and information.
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