Opinel – The Icon of the French Folding Knife

The Art of Beauty and Functionality

At Maison Godillot, we select timeless objects that combine quality, craftsmanship, and design. The Opinel knife, a true icon of French heritage, perfectly embodies this philosophy. Discover its history and what makes it an indispensable everyday companion.

A History Born in Savoie

Coming from a family of blacksmiths, Joseph Opinel made his first knives in 1890 in Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne. Against the trend of his time, he designed a simple, robust, and practical knife, intended for artisans and workers. Unlike the couteau suisse, which appeared a year later, the Opinel stands out for its ease of use and streamlined functionality. Adopted by all social classes, it quickly became an indispensable everyday tool.

The Birth of the Crowned Hand

Since 1565, a royal ordinance has required cutlers to affix an emblem on their products to guarantee their authenticity. In 1909, Joseph Opinel chose the Main Couronnée, inspired by the coat of arms of Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne and as a tribute to his Savoyard roots. Even today, this symbol is engraved on every Opinel knife, a mark of authenticity and quality.

A Knife Adopted by the Greatest

Despite modest beginnings, the Opinel has established itself thanks to iconic personalities. Pablo Picasso used it for sculpting, explorer Roger Frison-Roche always carried it with him in the mountains, and navigator Éric Tabarly never parted with it. In literature, Jacques Lanzmann, Michel Déon, and Jean Dutourd immortalized it in their stories. A legendary knife that has stood the test of time.

A Timeless Design Recognized Worldwide

An Opinel is sold every ten seconds worldwide, and more than 3 million knives are made each year in France. Its design, which has remained almost unchanged for over a century, is considered one of the most accomplished in history. In 1985, the Victoria and Albert Museum ranked it among the 100 best-designed objects in the world, alongside the Rolex watch and the Porsche 911.

The Opinel, the Everyday Ally

Halfway between tradition and modernity, the Opinel is much more than a simple knife: it is a faithful companion, designed to last. Its streamlined and functional design makes it an essential tool, whether for DIY, cooking, outdoor activities, or collecting.

Discover our Opinel Collection at Maison Godillot

Timeless, reliable, and elegant, the Opinel knife crosses generations without aging. Find our selection of models now on Maison Godillot and choose yours to combine precision, tradition, and French know-how.