History has it: Victorinox - Function rules design
7 min read
Form follows function, but what if the beauty lies in the functions? We live in an era where beauty is considered shallow whilst the functions have become the driving force. Why though? I guess that’s what Victorinox Swiss Army means when they say, “function rules design”.
Originating from a beautiful village called Ibach-Schwyz, inside a cutler's workshop in 1884, this sole proprietorship formulated by Karl Elsener, “Messerfabrik Carl Elsener'' transformed into a family-owned company “Victorinox AG.” in 1979. Karl Elsener registered the emblem with the cross and shield as a trademark and chose his mothers first name Victoria. Over time, around 1921 with the invention of stainless steel (Inox), the combination of the two words “Inox” and “Victoria” resulted in what we know today as – Victorinox.
While the the Original Swiss Army Knife had become quite a trend and even a trademark souvenir for many, be it the US soldiers stationed in Europe after World War Two or the 50 Officer Knives Master Craftsman that were ordered by NASA, Victorinox had become a name that reckons with strength and reliability. Labeled as the largest cutlery manufacturer in Europe with an illustrious history, today almost 130 years later Victorinox has expanded from Swiss army knives to kitchen knives, travel gear and ofcourse watches.
Now when it comes to watches, one doesn’t really resonate with Victorinox. But you should and let me tell you why. Around 1989, with the support of their American distribution partners, Victorinox entered the watch segment with their first batch of watches manufactured in Biel in Switzerland. Just as expected, almost a decade later the brand expanded their timepiece business and established Victorinox Watch SA in the heart of the watchmaking region in Switzerland - the Jura.
Needless to say, every Victorinox watch represents the original DNA of the original Swiss Army Knife - functionality, credibility and quality paired with iconic designs. Much like one of their key lines - the I.N.O.X. A sharp design with cutting-edge functionality. In 2014, to celebrate the 130th anniversary of the brand, Victorinox wanted to create a watch which reflects the unique values of the famous Swiss Army Knife: authentic, robust and reliable in all conditions. After 4 years of thinking, 3 years of extensive development, 6 months of harsh testing and 421 samples, voila - The I.N.O.X.
Every I.N.O.X has to survive 130 tests to ensure lasting quality and reliability. Why 130? Well it was a tribute to the 130th anniversary of Victorinox. Some of the jaw dropping tests included:
- Dropping the watch from a three story building. By the time it reaches the ground, it has a speed of 50 km/hour. Meaning the case better be sturdy to survive such a hit.
- It was sent down an Olympic course on a bobsleigh. And despite all the vibrations, the bobsleigh’s driver was still able to tell the time. Thanks to the dial’s clear design.
- It even survived a 64 ton tank driven over it.
- The I.N.O.X. can resist a temperature range from down to -57 °C up to +71 °C.
- Oh and incase you forget your watch in the pocket of your jeans, it can’t survive upto two hours in the washing machine too.
- The I.N.O.X can withstand a centrifugal force of up to 12G. For example, the I.N.O.X. metal bracelet can survive 500,000 vibration cycles when a regular model can barely resist 50,000.
Given the fact that the I.N.O.X. survived this and many more tests, it is not just a technical monster. Although the aesthetics were considered only once the durability and functionality of the watch was on-point and validated, the I.N.O.X is also elegant enough to be worn back at the office.
Another testament to the brand's uncompromising level of quality and durability is the innovation of the Paracord strap, one that still remains exclusive to Victorinox. A strap can be converted into a lifeline and we’re not just saying this to sound dramatic! More than a strap, it is a multi-functional survival tool for those who love to live their lives in adventure mode: a bow drill for making fire, a fishing net and even a shoe lace.
Besides the Parachord strap, the brand also introduced a sustainable strap for the I.N.O.X. mechanical range, a strap made from FSC-certified linden wood. Besides the fact that each strap is a different colour and assumes a unique patina with wear, the life cycle of this strap is similar to a leather strap, and in a best-case scenario it may last even longer
Forward-thinking, functional and beautiful in form, this Swiss made timepiece also comes with a protective bumper for that added cushioning. The I.N.O.X. is one of those watches that could be worn on a trek over the weekend and even for a casual Sunday brunch. They say your watch should express your personality and tell your story, well this one here speaks volumes of who you are and who you could be!
Crafted from tough materials like carbon composite, titanium and stainless steel (316L), these watches are just right for an ocean swim, a mountain hike or even a day at the office. With the holiday season right around the corner, the I.N.O.X could be your perfect companion on any of your upcoming adventure travels. With the variety of options they have to offer in their collection it could also be a good addition to your holiday gift list. You can now order the I.N.O.X and a range of Victorinox watches from the comfort of your own home on www.swisswatchcompany.in.
About Swiss Watch Company:
Straight from the distributor to the end customer, with authentic watches & International warranties, Swiss Watch Company, assures you a credible and hassle-free shopping experience. With a pan-India delivery, they ensure a quick dispatch of your order (within 3-4 working days) depending ofcourse on availability. Besides being a website exclusively for Swiss Watch Brands in India, Swiss Watch Company also houses lesser known Swiss brands that are available on pre-order and imported from the manufacturers directly. This can also be paired with customisation or name engraving etc. The company also offers an excellent after sales service facility in Bangalore with complimentary pick up and drop facility across India.
