Opinel Savoie France

Invented by Joseph Opinel in 1890 in the Savoie region of France, the Opinel pocket knife has become one of the world's most iconic everyday objects. Joseph was just 18 when he designed his first folding knife in his family's blacksmith shop, creating a beautifully simple, affordable tool for local farmers, shepherds and peasant winemakers. By 1897 he had developed a series of twelve sizes numbered 1 to 12 (still the foundation of the range today), and by 1909 he had registered the now-famous "crowned hand" logo as the brand's trademark. In 1915 the workshop moved to Chambéry, where the company has been headquartered ever since, and more than 130 years on Opinel is still producing long-lasting, robust, efficient knives, pocket knives, garden tools, high-end table knives and professional-quality kitchen sets. Knife collectors love the limited edition luxury models, while a dedicated kids' range lets little ones learn to prepare food safely. Simple, functional and smart, the Opinel flip-knife is quite rightly known as the French knife. Shop Opinel online with free urban NZ shipping over $150, or visit us at either of our Wellington stores.