Laguiole Custom Knife (Custom Order Direct from Maker) Mother of Pearl Folding Knife

Authentic “Laguiole” knives are exclusively manufactured in the Commune of Laguiole, a small village located in the south of France (population about 1,200). These knives represent a centuries old tradition of knife making, with the first Laguiole folding knife created as the “Straight Laguiole” in 1829. The design of the Laguiole knife which is known today developed between 1850 and 1860. As with Bordeaux wines, Laguiole knives range in quality. A handful of manufacturers represent the premier cru classes, the Chateau Lafite Rothschild or Chateaux Margaux, of knife making. Coutellerie de Layole Honoré Durand is one such manufacturer. The forging of the blade, the production of the various parts of a knife, the polishing and file work are all in-house. In the case of a “collector” or “custom” knife, a single artisan is responsible for the production of each knife. The delivery of a newly ordered custom knife can take two to three months. There are several unique features which should be noted In connection with​ the custom Laguiole folder currently for sale on our site. In addition to the excellent fit and finish that is to be expected, this knife was designed as a gentleman’s folder, with a handmade 8cm (3.15 inch) blade of 14C28N stainless steel and mother of pearl scales; Laguiole knives commonly have a 10cm or 12cm blade and mother of pearl is not a material normally found. The hand forged “bee,” a distinguishing feature of all Laguiole knives that is found at their springhead, is in the style of Laguiole knives of the 18th century, rather than the more literal representation of a bee normally found. (Local legend is that the bee represents Napoleon’s imperial seal, as offered to Laguiole as a token of his gratitude for the villagers’ bravery in battle.) The “rope” spring and double plates have been chiseled and filed by hand.