“YOUR COMPANION FOR LIFE”
S/S 2010
OUTDOOR RETAILER MARKET, SLC-UTAH
Words, Judith Eocchard
Images, Courtesy of Victorinix Swiss Army and J. Ecochard
The huge global brand Victorinox Swiss Army is cruising around for their 125th year birthday… in a big way. Appropriately, the collections of accessories, gadgets, and garb had a major presence at Outdoor Retailer…in the want it 19 foot silver Airstream trailer kitted out with the VSW’s finest gizmos and gadgets.
There were a couple of items we recognized as we had reviewed them during the January 2009 OR show…like the new (2008) official Swiss Army Knife with a dual density grip, one hand opening, Phillips screwdriver, etc.
The SwissFlash USB VICTORINOX continues to sell well as does the commercial grade cutlery set made of high carbon- that comes in a handsome wood block. A stunning bamboo block 17 piece set with the traditional hot-drop forged blades (NOT stamped) was also on display ($1250).
Timepieces by Victorinox Swiss Army range from hard core techy to more dressier options. The best selling Chrono Classics, like all VSW watches, are made in Switzerland with precision Swiss analog quartz movement. There’s a lady’s version too.
PLUS: A limited edition stainless steel, 125th Anniversary Infantry Vintage watches…with red or brown leather straps.
The Victorinox Swiss Army apparel is a modern, clean silhouetted line of durable separates that reference the company’s heritage of “health, safety, and security.”
We liked the MO to use sustainable fabrics like the striped polo made with moisture wicking Cocona®.
There’s a handy packable jacket ($195) made of rip stop nylon and a travel performance wear three layered jacket that’s seam sealed, breathable and kitted out with laser cut eyelets.
Other outwear pieces include a golf worthy wind breaker…that works with the CoolMax® polos and pants/shorts for moisture wicking, comfy wear…that’s easy to clean. Love the tee pocket detail.
A dapper travel blazer, a cotton/nylon water repellant rain jacket,
mercerized cotton polos,
and fashion sweaters/short sleeve madras plaid shirts round out the collection…aimed toward guys with an eye for sophisticated casual style.
SOON: The new men’s fragrance is terrific…and is what’s known as “masstige”- a prestige brand that’s will be selectively distributed-initially- to build the brand. It joins VSW’s other four fragrances currently available (Classic, Altitude. Swiss Army For Her, and Mountain Water).
INFO: SWISS ARMY
