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Eye Brand

Published: May 2nd, 2025

Logo of Genuine Eye Brand on a yellow background.

Eye Brand knives trace their origin to the Carl Schlieper company, founded in 1754 in Cronenberg near Remscheid, Germany. The company initially focused on the trade of tools and hardware, and by the 19th century, it had become a recognized exporter throughout Europe, Asia, and South America. In 1880, Carl Schlieper relocated to Königstrasse 179 in Remscheid to expand its operations. By 1897, the company had established a dedicated cutlery manufacturing subsidiary in Solingen, Germany, under the name Carl Schlieper Stahlwarenfabrik GmbH.

Solingen had long been a center of knife and blade production, and the decision to base manufacturing there reflected a shift from purely trading goods to producing them. The Schlieper company began to design and manufacture folding knives, razors, fixed blades, and kitchen cutlery. For much of the early 20th century, Schlieper used various brand names for its exports depending on the target market, such as “Fan” for razors, and others like “Jim Bowie” and “El Gallo” for different regions.

After World War II, the company adopted the “Eye Brand” name and logo—the image of an open eye, as its primary trademark. From this period onward, the eye stamp appeared consistently on blades, and the knives were generally marked “Carl Schlieper Solingen Germany” on the tang. The use of carbon steel remained a standard in Eye Brand knife production. These steels were often preferred for their sharpenability and edge retention, although they were more prone to corrosion than stainless options. Despite changing market trends, Schlieper continued to focus on traditional materials, including carbon steel blades and handle scales made from bone, stag, or wood.

Carl Schlieper Ironworks factory in Dutch East Indies

- The Carl Schlieper company was founded in 1754 in Cronenberg, Germany

- In 1897, Carl Shlieper Stahlwarenfabrik GmbH was established in Solingen, Germany

Logo of Genuine Eye Brand with an eye and sunburst design.

- After WWII, Carl Schlieper adopted the "Eye Brand" name and logo.

By the 1950s and into the 1960s, Eye Brand knives began to appear more frequently in the United States. They were imported in quantity by several distributors and sold through hardware stores, catalog outlets, and knife dealers. The brand’s offerings at the time closely followed common American patterns such as Trappers, Stockmans, and Copperheads, which helped the knives gain traction among U.S. buyers familiar with those formats. The knives were considered serviceable tools and were popular among people in agricultural and ranching occupations, especially in the Southern U.S.

The company’s production methods remained mostly traditional, with knives assembled by hand and blades ground individually on large wheels. This approach was increasingly uncommon by the late 20th century as more manufacturers turned to automation. Carl Schlieper was one of several Solingen-based firms that maintained small-scale production focused on craft rather than volume.

In 1989, Carl Schlieper merged with another hardware firm, Remscheider Eisenwarenfabrik. Four years later, in 1993, the company declared bankruptcy and was officially liquidated. At that point, the original Carl Schlieper business ceased operations. However, the production of Eye Brand knives did not end with the bankruptcy. Manufacturing continued in Solingen under Friedrich Olbertz, a knife maker who had previously worked with Schlieper as a subcontractor. Olbertz retained many of the original patterns, machinery, and even personnel involved in Eye Brand’s production.

A crown emblem with wings on either side.

- In 1989, Carl Schlieper merged with Remscheider Eisenwarenfabrik

- In 1993, the company declared bankruptcy and was officially liquidated

- Eye Brand knives continued to be manufactured by in Solingen under Friedrich Olbertz GmbH (pictured above)

Today, Eye Brand knives represent a continuation of historical manufacturing rather than a modernized rebranding. Though no longer part of the original Carl Schlieper company, the knives produced under the Eye Brand name remain tied to Solingen and are still made using many of the same traditional techniques and materials. Their availability through specialized retailers like SMKW allows them to maintain a presence in the market without relying on mass production or widespread distribution.

What to Buy

The Eye Brand Clodbuster is a traditional folding pocket knife designed for everyday carry. It features a hammer forged 3.8" plain edge carbon steel straight back blade with a match strike pull for easy opening. The handle is crafted from smooth wood and fitted with brass pins, a brass pivot, and brass liners, offering classic styling with durable construction. Measuring 4.7" closed and weighing 3.8 ounces, it provides a solid feel without being bulky. Made in Solingen, Germany, the Clodbuster is a simple, no-lock slip joint knife that’s well-suited for light-duty tasks at home, on the farm, or outdoors.

The Eye Brand Copperhead is a traditional German-made slip joint pocket knife crafted in Solingen. It features two satin-finished hammer forged steel blades, a clip point for detailed work and a drop point for general utility, both with match strike pulls. The 3.75" closed length makes it compact for pocket carry, while the 3.3 oz weight offers a balanced feel. The yellow celluloid handle adds visibility and vintage appeal, accented by nickel silver bolsters and a German Eye shield inlay. Built with durable materials and time-tested design, it’s a reliable tool for everyday use and a nod to classic knife-making tradition.

Written By

Drew Clifton

Drew Clifton

Drew is the lead writer for SMKW's Knives 101, crafting informative and engaging content for the world’s largest knife store. With expertise in knife history, design, and functionality, Drew delivers articles and product descriptions that educate and inspire knife enthusiasts at all levels.

Expert Reviewed

T.C. Barnette

T.C. Barnette

T.C. Barnette is a dynamic media personality and the esteemed spokesperson for SMKW (Smoky Mountain Knife Works), where his passion for knives intersects with his captivating on-screen presence. With a magnetic charisma and deep expertise in cutlery, T.C. has become a beloved figure in the knife community.

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