| Victorinox Swiss Army | Tools | History |
History
1884
Karl Elsener opens a cutlery workshop in Ibach-Schwyz, Switzerland with the support of his mother Victoria.
1891
Karl Elsener and his coworkers deliver knives for soldiers in the Swiss Army for the first time.
1897
The name Swiss "Officer's" and "Sport Knife" is legally protected on June 12. The model later became the Original Swiss Army Knife.
1909
Following the death of his mother, Karl Elsener introduces the brand name Victoria in her honor. The iconic Cross and Shield emblem is registered as a trademark.
1921
Karl Elsener coins the company's name, Victorinox, by combining his mother's name with "inox", an abbreviation of the French word for rust-resistant steel, "inoxydable".
1945
The "Original Swiss Army Knife" begins its successful progression around the world and enjoys exceptional popularity.
1979
The previous solely owned "Messerfabrik Karl Elsener" company is transformed into the family-owned company, Victorinox AG" on January 2nd.
1989
Victorinox enters the timepiece business in the United States under the brand name Swiss Army.
1999
Victorinox partners with the American TRG Group in St. Louis and enters into the international travel gear market.
2001
Victorinox launches a fashion line in the US with a collection that delivers technical and tailored styling capturing the brand's essence of practical luxury.
2007
Victorinox sets up Victorinox Swiss Army Fragrance AG, and in 2009 Victorinox Swiss Unlimited was launched.
2011
While we treasure our heritage, the future is equally inspiring. Innovation is at the heart of each Victorinox product we introduce, with exciting technical advancement throughout all our product categories.
