Wenger Maker of the Genuine Swiss Army Knife
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History

historyInnovation is and always will be the cornerstone of Swiss culture. A constant source of strength against the forces of time. Wenger's history, as well, is one forged through innovation and marked by a passion for excellence. Thus, it is with great pride that Wenger continues to serve as guardian of this unparalleled legacy.

Since 1908, the year Wenger was chosen as a supplier of the Standard Issue knife to the Swiss Army, Wenger engineers have served as the vanguard of knife technology, pioneering the evolution of knives as precision multi-tools. Exclusive patented features — such as our springless, self-sharpening scissors and the Packlock self-locking mechanism on our screwdrivers — reflect Wenger's talent for innovation. Additionally, Wenger is the only Swiss cutler to be granted the rights to use the prestigious crossbow which is proudly engraved on all knife blades. This symbol is a label of quality; it represents a standard of excellence established by an elite association of Swiss Manufacturers and it only appears on a select group of Swiss products.

And while Wenger has been vigilant and ever-ready to meet new challenges with new solutions, we also have remained steadfast in our dedication to quality and the integrity of Wenger product. This is best exemplified by our watches as well as travel, outdoor and business gear, all of which have been designed and crafted with the same inspiration and dedication that was devoted to the Swiss Army knife. It is truly a rare combination, integrity and innovation, that enhances the design of every product worthy of Wenger's distinctive Swiss cross.

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The Wenger Timeline
Instructions: Roll your mouse over a year to learn more about the history of Wenger.
Click on a year to zoom in or see related products.
1893
1895
1898
1900
1901
1907
1922
1929
1947
1980
1986
1988
1992
2000
2003
2005
1893

Paul Boéchat founds the Paul Boéchat & Cie. knife factory in Courtetelle.
1895

A group of Delsberg-based entrepreneurs takes over the company, renaming it the Fabrique Suisse de coutellerie S.A.
1898

Theo Wenger is named director.
1900

The Basler Besteckfabrik is purchased and the two companies are combined under the name Schweizer Besteckfabrik. Operations are moved to Delsberg.
1901

The Swiss Army is outfitted with Wenger pocketknives.
1907

Theo Wenger buys the company and renames it Wenger & Co. S.A.
1922

The Company’s name is changed to Wenger S.A. Kaspar Oertli purchases a large equity holding.
1929

Kaspar Oertli gains a controlling interest following the death of Theo Wenger.
1947

Max Oertli takes over management of the company. Work processes are mechanized, and the company joins the collective labor agreement of the Verband Schweizer Maschinenindustrie.
1980

The descendants of Max Oertli run the company.
1986

A fire destroys a large portion of the manufacturing plant. The business is rebuilt and expanded. Facilities are modernized and the product line is reworked.
1988

The Wenger watch collection is launched.

Click to see our collection of Wenger Watches
1992

NASA takes the Swiss army knife into space for the first time.
2000

Special edition of the pocketknife in the Porsche design.

Click to see our collection of Porsche design knives
2003

Worldwide launch of the Swiss Business Tool™.

Click to see our collection of Swiss Business Tool™ models
2005

Wenger changes the shape of the Swiss Army knife.

Click to see our collection of Evolution Series Swiss Army Knives