Founded | 1772
Wilkinson Sword was founded by Henry Nock in 1772 in London. As its name suggests, Henry initially created the company to manufacture swords, as well as guns. Over time the company began to diversify its product lines, going on to manufacturer a wide range of items such as bayonets, typewriters, garden shears, scissors and even motorcycles!
‘Pall Mall’ safety razor | 1898
After 100 years of sword and gun making, Wilkinson Sword diversify into the first of many razor innovations, producing the ‘Pall Mall’ safety razor.
Innovation | 1903
In 1903 Wilkinson Sword built some of the earliest motorcycles in the UK and in 1911 they developed the Wilkinson TMC for military reconnaissance. Unfortunately it failed to impress and by the end of spring 1916 production came to an end and the company were called on to produce thousands of bayonets for the war effort.
Pushing Boundaries | 1962
Wilkinson Sword continued to push boundaries and 1962 saw the company introducing the first stainless steel razor blade. This revolutionised the market as it meant users only required one blade per week rather than one a day, and very soon Wilkinson Sword became a leader in the sector and continues to be so.
1971
The ‘Bonded System T70’ is the first safety blade whereby the blade is fixed in plastic housing.
1992
Wilkinson Sword launches ‘Protector’ internationally renowned for its ergonomic design.
1994
Wilkinson Sword introduces ‘Lady Protector’, the first safety razor to protect women from nicks and cuts.
1996
Wilkinson Sword launches twin blade ‘FX’ razor designed for extraordinary comfort.
2003
Wilkinson Sword introduces the new razor platform ‘Quattro’ the first 4 blade men’s system razor.
2006
A big year for Wilkinson Sword as it launches ‘Quattro for women’, the first female 4 blade high performance razor and extended the men’s portfolio by adding titanium coated blades with the introduction of ‘Quattro Titanium’.
2008
Building on the successful ‘Quattro’ franchise, Wilkinson Sword introduces Quattro disposables for both men and women, as well as another world first with the 3-in-1 razor ‘Quattro Titanium Precision’.
2009
Wilkinson Sword launches ‘Quattro for Women Bikini’, the first and only 2-in-1 women’s razor with bikini trimmer.
2010
Wilkinson Sword launches the revolutionary Hydro shave care range that reduces irritation and hydrates the skin throughout each shave.
2012
Wilkinson Sword extends the Hydro mega brand with the launches of Hydro Silk and Hydro Power Select.
2015
Wilkinson Sword launches the Hydro 5 Groomer, the first 4-in-1 razor to appear on the UK market.
2016
Wilkinson Sword continues to build the Hydro product line by introducing the Hydro 5 Sensitive and the Hydro Silk Bikini.
2017
Women’s systems and blades get a new outfit, revealing a fashionable black look.
2018
Wilkinson Sword launches the Hydro 5 Sense Energize and Comfort razors with an innovative built-in shock absorber.
looking ahead
Despite being a far cry from its roots – although Wilkinson Sword did continue to make swords for a time, even crafting the ceremonial sword for Queen Elizabeth II’s golden jubilee in 2002 – the ethics of the company and its approach to producing only the highest quality products, using the best raw material possible, has not altered. Going forward, the company’s mission is to provide products of premium quality and performance that help make life easier and more enjoyable.
