History of Victorinox

Renowned for their Swiss Army Knives, Victorinox has a storied history that spans over a century. The brand's commitment to quality, functionality, and innovation has solidified its place as a global icon in the knife industry.

The story of Victorinox begins in 1884 when Karl Elsener I opened a cutlery workshop in Ibach, Switzerland. Elsener's vision was to create a versatile and reliable knife that could serve multiple purposes, embodying the essence of Swiss craftsmanship. In 1891 Elsener would establish the Association of Swiss Master Cutlers, a collection of many small workshops, allowing him to deliver his first major supply of knives to the Swiss Army. In 1892, Karl’s workshop would produce the original Swiss Officer’s and Sports Knife; this groundbreaking knife was officially patented in 1897, giving rise to the legendary “Swiss Army Knife.”

In 1909, in memory of his late mother, Karl Elsener I selected her first name, Victoria, as the brand's name and officially registered the emblem featuring the cross and shield as a trademark. In 1921, after the revolutionary introduction of stainless steel, the company led the way in stainless steel cutlery. Carl Elsener II established the "Victorinox" trademark, incorporating "inox," an international term denoting stainless steel. This marked the beginning of the iconic Victorinox name we recognize today.

- Victorinox began in 1884, when Karl Elsener I (pictured above) opened a cutlery workshop in Ibach, Switzerland

- Elsener's vision was to create a versatile knife that could serve multiple purposes

- In 1891, Elsener established the Association of Swiss Master Cutlers

- In 1892, Karl's workshop produced the original Swiss Officers and Sports Knife giving rise to the Swiss Army Knife in 1897

- In 1909, Elsener I would name the company in memory of his late mother "Victoria"

- With the introduction of stainless steel, Elsener II would establish the Victorinox trademark in 1921

In 1931, Elsener II introduced automation into their process, commissioning Brown Boveri to build the world's first all-electric hardening plant in Ibach, Switzerland. Allowing Victorinox to guarantee all knives are consistent, and meet quality standards.

In the aftermath of World War II, Victorinox experienced a surge in popularity, largely due to the Swiss Army Knife's reputation as an invaluable tool for soldiers during the conflict. Its compact design and multifunctional features proved the knife vital during various situations, earning it the name, Swiss Army Knife. As American soldiers discovered these knives while stationed in Europe, they were impressed by their size, durability, and versatility. Many U.S. soldiers purchased a Victorinox as a result, bringing them home as a memento from their time in Europe.

- In 1931, Elsener II introduced automation, commisioning Brown Boveri to build the first all-electric hardening plant

- Victorinox's popularity surged after WW2, from its reputation as an invaluable tool for soldiers

The global appeal of Victorinox knives continues to grow, and the brand's recognition extends beyond the realm of cutlery. The iconic red Victorinox logo has become synonymous with quality, reliability, and versatility, entering into a partnership with Forschner in 1989 to produce iconic timepieces and sunglasses, and further expanding the brand's offerings in 1999, by partnering with TRG to make luggage and backpacks.

In 2017, a remarkable milestone was reached when Victorinox proudly manufactured its 500-millionth Swiss Army Knife, A testament to over 100 years of Swiss innovation and craftsmanship. Victorinox, known for its iconic red plastic handles and high-carbon stainless steel blades, has also been known to use a diverse array of materials such as wood, carbon fiber, steel, and aluminum in their handles to produce not only functional but visually stunning knives. In select instances, such as their annual Damast collection, Victorinox elevates their craftsmanship even further by utilizing Damascus steel to produce beautiful one-of-a-kind knives.

As the brand continues to grow and evolve, its legacy remains etched in the hearts and hands of individuals who rely on Victorinox for unparalleled craftsmanship and precision in every tool they produce.

- Victorinox entered into a partnership with Forschner in 1989 to produce iconic timepieces and sunglasses

- Victorinox partnered with TRG in 1999 to begin producing luggage and backpacks

- In 2017, Victorinox proudly manufactured its 500-millionth Swiss Army Knife