The Swiss Army Knife – an icon of Swiss design

The Swiss Army Knife is regularly put forward as a leading example of Swiss design. Of course, we are more than proud to be recognized in this way. But we really wanted to talk to experts throughout Switzerland and find out what we have done to deserve this honor. What is it that makes the Swiss Army Knife so “designy”? Why does it represent the core values of Swiss design?

Let’s listen to what some of the most important contemporary Swiss designers have to say.

„The understated design of the Swiss Army Knife is consistent with the production approach and the product strategy where the goal is maximum functionality within a minimal space. Symbolic of Swiss design as a whole, the pocket knife was developed with a relevance for local needs, before growing into a global icon.“ – atelier oï, La Neuveville

“A distinctive shape, high-quality material and precision workmanship are what usually define a well-designed product. Thus, in an ideal world, products with an unexpectedly relaxed feel often become firm favorites and constant companions. For example, products like the Swiss Army Knife.“

“Why is the pocket knife so “designy”? Because it doesn’t try to be! It’s where tradition, function and style meet, and it’s already cool enough so it doesn’t need to try to be cool. The Swiss Army Knife has never strayed far from its roots, it does its job and looks good doing it.“ – Claudia Caviezel, St. Gallen

"Cutting, sawing, screwing, or opening, – all done with an implement that only weighs a few grams and has been in use for more than a century already. It’s a technical and aesthetic masterpiece, a source of inspiration that reaches far beyond our borders.“ – Nicolas Le Moigne, Lausanne