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.