Wusthof

Solingen, the City of Blades. 7 generations of Wusthof. The Classic 8-inch is #1 in Consumer Reports and Cook's Illustrated. 40+ steps per knife, 480 employees (400 in Solingen), 100+ robots. 100% Germany. The trident is one of the most recognized logos in world cutlery.

Europe is still under Napoleon when Johann Abraham Wusthof founds his "scissor factory" in 1814 in Solingen. To call it a factory is generous: a single man in a basement, day after day, making scissors. But optimism pays off.

His three sons learn the trade. Eduard takes over the factory and expands the range to 1200 models of knives – pocket, bread, vegetable, butcher – all handmade. His brother Robert sets out to conquer America in 1881. Twelve days of crossing, two suitcases of scissors. Upon arrival, the promised agent is missing. Robert doesn't even have enough to get his goods out of customs.

For months, he survives as a waiter, dishwasher, glove launderer. Until he meets a merchant enthusiastic about the Solingen blades who orders double what he brought. American trade is launched. In Germany, a steam engine is purchased, production expands, the trident logo is patented.

In the 20th century, the family focuses on the essential: high-quality forged knives. The Classic series is born, becomes a permanent bestseller, eventually ranked number one by Consumer Reports and Cook's Illustrated. Today, Harald and Viola Wusthof, seventh generation, cousins. 480 employees, 400 in Solingen. 100% made in Germany. Exported to 80 countries.