Bell Gebrüder, Solingen

Gebrüder Bell: A traditional manufacturer from Solingen-Gräfrath

The Gebrüder Bell steelware factory was founded in 1876 in Solingen-Gräfrath by the brothers Ernst, Arthur and Paul Bell. The company initially produced cutlery, knives and household steel goods, typical for the Solingen region, before expanding into the manufacture of edged weapons during the 1930s, particularly SA service daggers.

In 1935, the firm received the official RZM license with the code M7/94, identifying Gebr. Bell as an authorized maker of political daggers. Production is estimated at around 7,000 SA daggers, resulting in a rarity rating of 3.5/5 — moderately rare and desirable among collectors. Typical features include early nickel-silver fittings, deep etched mottoes, and the robust Solingen craftsmanship. Deliveries to SA districts such as He and BO are documented.

The manufacturer’s logo of Gebr. Bell consists of a circular emblem with the inscriptions “GEBR. BELL” above and “SOLINGEN GR.” below. At the center is the distinctive GB monogram, flanked by two stars. This dark etched mark was typically applied to the reverse of the blades and is one of the characteristic trademarks found among Solingen’s historical edged-weapon makers.

Gebrüder Bell – Manufacturer Profile & Historical Significance

The Gebrüder Bell cutlery factory was founded in 1876 in Solingen-Gräfrath by the brothers Ernst, Arthur, and Paul Bell, making it one of the older and well-established Solingen companies of the pre-war period. The firm initially produced knives, cutlery, and household tools before becoming an important manufacturer of edged weapons during the 1930s—particularly for the SA, NSKK, and Hitler Youth organizations.

RZM Approval & Production During the NS Period

In 1935, Gebrüder Bell received official RZM approval under the code M7/94, authorizing the company to manufacture political edged weapons. Total production is estimated at around 7,000 SA daggers—a moderate yet historically significant number that results in a rarity rating of 3.5/5.

Gebr. Bell supplied daggers to several SA districts, including He (Hessen) and BO (Bayerische Ostmark). These variants can be identified by their characteristic group stamps on the crossguard and are among the most sought-after collector types.

Manufacturer Logo & Blade Etchings

The manufacturer’s mark of Gebrüder Bell consists of a circular blade etching with the inscription “GEBR. BELL” above and “SOLINGEN GR.” below. At the center is the distinctive GB monogram, flanked by two stars.

RZM Variants & NSKK Production

In addition to SA daggers, Gebrüder Bell also produced NSKK service daggers, including early non-RZM types and later fully standardized RZM variants. The RZM marking M7/94 appears in a clear, deep etching on the reverse side of the blade.

Reverse-Side Manufacturer Markings

Position Among Solingen Manufacturers

Gebrüder Bell ranks among the traditional Solingen makers with a broad product portfolio and decades of manufacturing experience. Due to its early family-run structure, later RZM authorization, and moderate production numbers, the firm occupies a well-documented and important position among SA and NSKK dagger producers.

Collector Value & Relevance Today

The collector value of a Gebr. Bell dagger depends primarily on:

• overall condition of the blade
• clarity of the maker mark (GB logo / RZM M7/94)
• presence of original group stamps (He, BO)
• originality of the nickel-silver fittings
• untouched “Alles für Deutschland” motto etching
• original scabbard, ideally early type

With a rarity rating of 3.5/5, Gebr. Bell daggers are sought-after collectibles and play a significant role in documenting Solingen’s edged-weapon industry.

Acquisition of Historical Bell Edged Weapons

DG.DE is interested in acquiring original edged weapons by Gebrüder Bell, Solingen-Gräfrath—including SA, NSKK, and rare early variants. A non-binding initial evaluation can be provided at any time.