There’s something comforting about longevity.
It may be that distressed, antique desk handed down through the family or a weathered, vintage sign from a business that closed decades ago.
It might even be a person. Think of that elderly relative or neighbor who has the gift of storytelling. They bring to life the kind of historical narratives that we can only read about in books or see in old movies.
This type of experience is earned over time and usually results in a certain level of expertise. When we need goods and services we seek out businesses who offer it, because as consumers we understand its value.
Wüsthof is an excellent example. This family owned company got their start in 1814 in Solingen, Germany. Known as the “City of Blades” it’s been the home to master blacksmiths for over 2,000 years. The various waterways of the Wupper River provided power for the blade-making process throughout the 18th and 19th centuries.
Seven generations of the Wüsthof family have led this prolific company with cousins Harald and Viola at the helm today. They oversee about 300 employees who ensure that the customer receives an exceptional product.
Their precision edge technology (PEtec) is a proprietary operation that includes computer-controlled robotics. This ultra-modern technology results in a knife that offers a definitive advantage for both professional and home chefs alike. The method also guarantees a significantly higher quality than standard manual sharpening processes.
A simple piece of superior steel goes through 40 steps to becoming a perfectly forged Wüsthof knife.
They offer a wide range of products that cater to the needs of both professional chefs and home cooking enthusiasts. Their professional knife set is aptly called Pro and along with the Gourmet set, are laser-cut stamped knives. The other lines, which are forged, consist of Epicure, Ikon, Classic Ikon, Classic, and Grand Prix 2. More information is available about the specifics of these product lines.
The company is not only committed to high standards in their products but also to environmental and sustainability efforts. The production facility in Solingen is among the most modern in the world and is continually optimized for:
- Energy efficiency
- Use of raw materials
- Limitation of wastewater contamination
- Reduction of carbon dioxide and other gases
Despite vast changes in the technology and production of the blades, some things have remained the same. The company logo is a trident whose three prongs represent passion, diligence, and perfection. These three core values are the foundation for a 200-year-old tradition that has successfully sustained and propelled Wüsthof into the twenty-first century.
Now there’s some longevity.
Get an inside look at the Wüsthof manufacturing facility and process at The Birth of a Knife.
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