Since 1897, the Swiss Army Knife™ has been an iconic symbol of versatility and robustness. Victorinox's Swiss-made knives blend expert craftsmanship with intelligent functionality, providing smart solutions in every situation. Whether you're up against the extraordinary or navigating the everyday, the Swiss Army Knife™ ensures you're always prepared. Those who need to be ready for anything take one of these with them everywhere. Whether you're exploring the city, the sea, the mountains or even space, the Swiss Army Knife is the companion you can count on.

The story of the Swiss Army Knife™

The story of the Swiss Army Knife™ from Victorinox begins at the end of the 19th century, when Swiss soldiers needed a multi-functional tool. In 1884, Karl Elsener founded a knife factory in the town of Ibach in Switzerland. Inspired by his vision to create a practical and versatile pocket knife for the Swiss Army, Elsener began work on the design of what would become the iconic Swiss Army Knife™.

Elsener encountered challenges, especially from German manufacturers, but in 1891 his company, Victorinox, began supplying the first knives to the Swiss Army. The knife had a blade, a screwdriver, a can opener and an awl – a simple but highly functional design that quickly became popular among the soldiers.

The name Victorinox is a combination of two words: "Victoria," in honor of Elsner's mother, and "inox," which is short for the French word for stainless steel, "acier inoxydable." This combination of honor and innovation became the core of the company's identity.

During the 20th century, Victorinox continuously developed their products and added new features and tools to the knives. The Swiss Army Knife™ became a symbol of Swiss quality and precision, and its popularity grew globally. The knife was quickly recognized for its reliability and versatility and became a favorite tool among explorers, craftsmen and outdoor enthusiasts.

A milestone in Victorinox's history came in 1986 when NASA began to include the Swiss Army Knife™ in their astronauts' equipment. This recognition cemented the knife's status as an indispensable tool, even in the most extreme conditions.

Today, Victorinox produces a wide range of knives and multitools, but the original Swiss Army Knife™ remains an icon of both innovation and tradition. With its timeless design and unrivaled functionality, the knife continues to be a symbol of Swiss quality and craftsmanship, loved by millions worldwide. The story of the Swiss Army Knife™ is a tale of ingenuity, dedication and the ability to adapt and evolve in a constantly changing world.