Merkur History
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The MERKUR brand, established in Solingen for over 125 years, is renowned for creating sophisticated and high-quality double-edge razors made in Germany.
The craftsmen take great care to ensure each razor is a masterpiece of metal, utilizing attention to detail and unparalleled craftsmanship. Their goal is to continuously improve and exceed the standards set by the Solingen Ordinance, drawing on the extensive knowledge and traditions passed down through generations of cutlery experts.
A look into the archive
The beginning
The beginning
Factory headquarters around 1912, Beethovenstraße, Solingen
The company was founded in 1896 by Emil Hermes. However, as there were already other steel companies in Solingen with the name Hermes, he registered MERKUR, the Roman designation for Hermes, the messenger of the gods, as a trademark.Early models
Early models
Safety Razors
The first wet razors already had a safety comb, in which an interchangeable blade (wedge) shortened to 4cm, similar in shape to a classic razor, was clamped. However, this often had to be resharpened.Early models
Early models
Safety Razors
At the beginning of the 20th century, the production of double-edged razor blades began, as they are known today. This reduced the risk of injury, and when they became blunt, they could be replaced inexpensively.From production
From production
The sons Erich (the elder) and Hans join the company at the end of the 1920s.
A social gathering in the packing room around 1935 with Erich Hermes (with glasses on the left) and Hans Hermes (with glasses on the right).From production
From production
The black booklet
In the packing room there was a sample book for blade packaging, in which individual and outer packaging, cellophane and sample blade envelopes were included for each customer.
Moving times
Moving times
Official seal of quality
Official seal of quality
Over the years, Merkur filed patents for several models.
Stamped on the razors there was “Made in Solingen” and “Germany”Advertising and design
Advertising and design
As a classic product, the razor also reflects past tastes in design, packaging, and advertising.
Economic miracle
Economic miracle
Dietrich Hermes, the son of Hans Hermes, leads the company together with his uncle Erich Hermes through the economic miracle period after the latter’s early death in 1957. After his uncle’s death in the 1970s, Dietrich Hermes sold MERKUR Stahlwaren
Into the 90s
Into the 90s
In January 1996, the Kirschbaum family acquires a majority shareholding and founds MERKUR Stahlwaren GmbH & Co. KG, which has now been in existence for more than 25 years. The worldwide distribution network and the booming market for men's cosmetics and wet shaving help the razor and the MERKUR brand gain new popularity in the following years.
Into the 90s
Into the 90s
Typical 90s:
With futuristic shapes and a cool marble look, MERKUR moves with the times.New paths into the future
New paths into the future
Managing Director Ulrich Wiethoff has shaped the development of MERKUR products for a good 18 years. He acquires the company in 2021 as sole shareholder and successor of the Kirschbaum family.
The move to the new location at Nordstr. 10 in 42719 Solingen follows in September 2022.
