At the heart of Solingen, the historic cradle of German cutlery, the Robert Herder company has carried on a unique craft for five generations, rooted in tradition while projecting itself into the future. With its two flagship brands — Windmühlenmesser and Eichenlaub — and the Solingen label, this family-run business combines artisanal heritage, creative innovation, and a true culture of craftsmanship. A rare model, with Beligné & Fils overseeing distribution in France through specialized stores dedicated to tableware and kitchen utensils.
A blade of tradition: from Robert Herder to the new generation
In 1872, Robert Herder founded a long line of metal artisans, rooted in Solingen. Praised for its unique expertise, the German company also stands out for its pragmatic approach, centered on quality and transmission. It has conquered both the local market and Europe by cultivating the value of exceptional sharpness, faithful to the gestures of the past. Its “Windmühlenmesser” knives are forged in the German artisanal tradition, embodying a profound attachment to authenticity while rising to the challenge of modern standards. Today, the manufacture is led by the fifth generation, under the leadership of Günther and Susanne Herder, who continue to uphold the DNA of the family business while insisting on 100% local production.
Windmühlenmesser: uncompromising sharpness
The Windmühlenmesser collection (“windmill knives”) is the historic signature of Herder cutlery. It expresses both the original spirit of craftsmanship and the bold choice to return to traditional methods: fine blade grinding, artisanal polishing, and the use of the traditional solar disc to sharpen knives (to cut, hone, and polish). This uncompromising approach gives the products unparalleled precision and durability, cementing Solingen’s reputation as the world capital of cutlery.
Eichenlaub: goldsmith craftsmanship for high-end collections
Eichenlaub, a historic Solingen company specializing in die forging, was acquired by the Herder family in 1998. It embodies an entirely different dimension within Herder Cutlery: the development of forged objects for institutions, chefs, and lovers of exceptional pieces. Positioned in the ultra-premium segment, the brand distinguishes itself with a more contemporary style, designed to meet the growing demand for modern products. Every stage of production is carried out within the Herder workshops, allowing Eichenlaub to offer items of exceptional precision. This unique expertise also makes it possible to produce rare, almost vanished objects: fruit forks, gourmet spoons, large soup ladles, cake knives, and other reissued historic designs. Forged in-house, these pieces reflect refined craftsmanship where every object becomes a singular creation for connoisseurs of fine items.
Solingen: a heritage line for everyday service
Solingen is an emblematic city whose cutlery tradition dates back to the 12th century and continues to embody a collection faithful to great German cutlery traditions: sober lines, proven materials, and uncompromising efficiency. This range is aimed at those seeking simple yet robust products, carrying the true DNA of the knife capital.
Selective and international distribution
The Robert Herder manufacture enjoys international recognition, particularly in German-speaking and English-speaking markets. It relies on a selective distribution strategy, with exclusive partnerships such as Bénédikt8Fiss in France, the Netherlands, and Belgium for market development. Each forged piece carries symbols of authenticity rooted in the Herder family, with today’s generations ensuring the link between heritage and innovation. Its R&D department is especially active in improving materials and designing innovative products.
Today, Windmühlenmesser and Eichenlaub benefit from the aura of the Solingen label — a synonym for German excellence — and continue to appeal to lovers of high-end cutlery. In a world dominated by standardized products, the Robert Herder company stands as a rare model where the authenticity of the gesture and innovation merge with timeless artisanal know-how.
Source: Home Fashion News Magazine – September 2025 (HFN58)
