Henckels J.A. ZWILLING, Solingen

Henckels J.A. ZWILLING, Solingen

J.A. Henckels Zwillingswerk is one of the most prestigious edged weapons manufacturers from Solingen, the world-famous Blade City in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. The company’s history began on June 13, 1731, when the cutler Peter Henckels registered the Zwilling logo – two stylized figures – with the Solingen Cutlers’ Guild, making it one of the oldest trademarks in the world. Johann Abraham Henckels (1771–1850) gave the company its name, and from 1818, it expanded with branches in Berlin, New York (1883), Vienna (1884), Copenhagen, and Rotterdam (1897). During the Nazi era, J.A. Henckels specialized in high-quality edged weapons, while today it is primarily known for kitchen knives, scissors, and kitchen accessories.

During the Nazi era, J.A. Henckels held the RZM code M7/10 and SS contract codes RZM 15/38 SS and RZM 15/39 SS, authorizing it to produce uniform items for the NSDAP and SS. The manufacturer crafted a variety of edged weapons, including SA daggers, NSKK daggers, SS daggers, HJ knives, Army daggers, Luftwaffe daggers, Navy daggers, and DLV glider pilot knives. The SA daggers were distributed in the Reichsgaus Sw (Swabia) and Wf (Westphalia). The estimated production quantity of SA daggers was around 10,000 pieces, earning them a rarity rating of 3 on a scale of 1 to 5. These daggers feature the engraving “Alles für Deutschland” on the blade, with nickel-plated handles and detailed emblems, reflecting exceptional craftsmanship. The scabbards often retain their original anodized finish, enhancing their historical and collectible value.

The logo of J.A. Henckels, the iconic Zwilling (two stylized figures, with a red background since 1969), was etched onto the blades or handles and symbolized the unmatched quality and precision of the products. During the Nazi era, the logo was often without the red background but remained instantly recognizable. J.A. Henckels Zwillingswerk remains a symbol of Solingen’s craftsmanship excellence in edged weapon manufacturing.

If you own or know of edged weapons from J.A. Henckels Zwillingswerk that are available for sale, we are actively seeking and purchasing such historical pieces. Please contact us for a non-binding offer!