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More than 140 years ago, when Karl Elsener founded his knife-cutler workshop, he laid the foundation for the unprecedented success story of Victorinox.

Courage, pioneering spirit, and perseverance — these are often the key ingredients for successful business stories. The young Karl Elsener I undoubtedly possessed all three when, after his apprenticeship years in France and southern Germany, he returned to his homeland and established a knife-cutler workshop in the Schwyz valley in 1884. It was a difficult time for the region’s impoverished people. Job opportunities were scarce, forcing many to seek their fortunes elsewhere. Elsener, a tinkerer and visionary, was determined to counteract this exodus by creating jobs. His workshop in Ibach marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey, proving that the values of the past can still drive success today.

From Army Knife to Cult Object

With a keen interest in securing the contract for producing soldiers’ knives, Karl Elsener I founded the Association of Swiss Master Cutlers in 1891. That same year, he introduced the «Model 1890», taking the first step toward the modern pocketknife. Soon after, he launched the Officer’s and Sports Knife — a smaller, lighter, more elegant, and multifunctional alternative to the soldier’s knife. Nobody could have foreseen that this Original Swiss Officer’s and Sports Knife, legally protected in 1897, would become the world-renowned Original Swiss Army Knife™. Despite never being issued to soldiers, the name «Officer’s Knife» has endured. In those challenging early years, Karl Elsener I could always count on the support of his mother, Victoria. To honour her memory after her passing in 1909, he introduced the brand name «Victoria» and legally protected the emblem featuring the cross and shield. A pivotal moment came with the invention of stainless steel (INOX). The combination of «Victoria» and «Inox» led to the birth of the present-day company and brand name, Victorinox, in 1921.

A Lifelong Companion

Whether craftsmen, astronauts, campers, adventurers, or survival enthusiasts, they all know the same truth — carrying a multifunctional Victorinox pocketknife means being prepared for any every day or emergency. The Swiss Army Knife™ is the ultimate all-rounder, the perfect tool for both travel and home use. Opening a can, cutting a rope, slicing salami during a picnic, or uncorking a bottle of wine? No problem. Thanks to its versatility, the Swiss Victorinox pocketknife has long since become a cultural icon.

Today, this fourth-generation family-run company, active in 120 countries, produces far more than just pocketknives. Embracing diversification, Victorinox has continuously expanded its product portfolio over the decades to include travel gear, household and professional knives, and watches.

Victorinox Watch Competence Center: Innovation and Swiss Precision

Another crucial component of Victorinox’s success story is its in-house Watch Competence Center. Located in the Jura town of Delémont, the center — expanded in 2016 — embodies everything Victorinox stands for: quality, reliability, and an unwavering commitment to the highest standards. In the heart of Switzerland’s watchmaking industry, timepieces are crafted to withstand the demands of modern life while maintaining the authentic design and functionality that have earned Victorinox international acclaim.

Production of in-house components began with the launch of the first I.N.O.X. watch, followed by enhancements in manufacturing stainless steel and metal components. A later phase included the complex production of titanium components. Depending on the watch line, complete cases or components such as bezels, middle sections, movement holders (made of metal), containers, and case backs are not only assembled in-house but also produced there.

As the core of Victorinox’s watch division, the Watch Competence Center is not just a production facility — it is also a hub for design, research, and development. A team of highly skilled engineers and watchmakers continuously explores new ideas and drives innovation. Nothing is left to chance. Extensive testing goes far beyond industry standards to ensure that Victorinox watches are not just aesthetically pleasing but also functional and durable.

Sustainability and a Vision for the Future

Short-lived products and quick successes have never been part of Victorinox’s philosophy. The family business thinks in generations and is committed to sustainability. «To honour our heritage as the Makers of the Original Swiss Army Knife™, our goal is to achieve long-term success on the global market with high-quality products and services. Equally important, however, is the protection and preservation of our planet for future generations. That is why it is our responsibility to ensure that our processes, as well as those of our suppliers, support economic, ecological, and social sustainability goals,» affirms Carl Elsener IV, Chief Executive Officer of Victorinox.

Using recycled materials for high-quality products and packaging, optimizing logistics, implementing energy-saving technologies in operations, and pursuing social goals all reflect a clear vision rooted in authenticity, quality, and reliability. These principles align perfectly with the philosophy and values of the founder and pioneer — and have remained unchanged for over 140 years.

For more information, visit victorinox​.com

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