Victorinox Swiss Army watches

 Victorinox is a Swiss company best known for its Swiss Army knives, but it also has a respected history in watchmaking.

Origins of Victorinox (Pre-Watch Era)

  • Founded: 1884 by Karl Elsener in Ibach, Switzerland.

  • Core Business: Originally a cutlery workshop, Victorinox became renowned for producing the original Swiss Army Knife in 1891.

  • Name Origin: The name Victorinox is a blend of Victoria (Elsener’s mother’s name) and "Inox", short for stainless steel (acier inoxydable in French).

Entry into Watchmaking

  • First Watches Launched: 1989 (in the United States).

    • Victorinox initially marketed its watches under the "Swiss Army" brand.

    • These early models focused on being rugged, functional, and military-inspired.

    • By the mid-1990s, Victorinox watches became available globally.






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