★★★ Antique Giesen & Forsthoff TIMOR Advertising Multi-Tool Knife ★★★
Up for sale is a rare and exceptionally well-preserved antique German advertising gentleman’s multi-tool pocket knife, manufactured by the respected Giesen & Forsthoff cutlery works of Solingen under their historic TIMOR trademark. The knife was specially produced as a promotional piece for Eugen Millauer & Co. A.G. of Landsberg–Warthe and dates to approximately the 1920s–1930s.
This elegant Solingen knife combines four practical folding implements with richly embossed, gold-tone brass handle scales. Both sides are covered with exceptionally detailed scrolling ornament, geometric borders and stylised floral motifs. One side carries a central advertising plaque engraved “EUGEN MILLAUER & CO. A.G. / LANDSBERG–WARTHE”. The quality of the relief, the darkened recessed background and the warm aged brass finish give the piece an especially attractive period appearance.
The knife retains its large main blade, smaller pen blade, long grooved manicure file with pointed nail-cleaning tip, and a fourth slim manicure/utility implement. The tools fold neatly into the compact handle. The main blade is clearly stamped “GIESEN & FORSTHOFF / SOLINGEN” on one side and “ROSTFREI / STAINLESS / INOXIDABLE” on the other. The smaller blade bears the TIMOR trademark, while another tang displays the distinctive Giesen & Forsthoff diamond maker’s emblem.
Giesen & Forsthoff was established in Solingen in 1920 and became known for fine pocket knives, razors, scissors and prestige advertising articles. Eugen Millauer & Co. became an A.G. in 1923, while the city name Landsberg an der Warthe ceased to be used after 1945. These details securely place this remarkable promotional knife within the pre-WWII period, most probably circa 1925–1935.
Key Features
- Type: Antique gentleman’s advertising pocket knife / folding multi-tool
- Manufacturer: Giesen & Forsthoff
- Brand: TIMOR
- Origin: Solingen, Germany
- Advertising Client: Eugen Millauer & Co. A.G., Landsberg–Warthe
- Period: Pre-WWII, circa 1925–1935
- Style: Art Deco-period German advertising and gentleman’s accessory
- Handle Material: Richly embossed gold-tone brass with darkened recessed decoration
- Blade Material: Stainless steel, marked “Rostfrei / Stainless / Inoxidable”
- Implements: Large main blade, small pen blade, grooved manicure file with pointed cleaner, and slim manicure/utility blade
- Maker’s Marks: “Giesen & Forsthoff Solingen,” TIMOR trademark and G&F diamond emblem
- Advertising Inscription: “Eugen Millauer & Co. A.G. / Landsberg–Warthe”
- Weight: 40 g / 1.41 oz, knife only
- Closed Length: Approximately 7.2 cm / 2.83 inches
- Main Blade Length: Approximately 5.8 cm / 2.28 inches
- Length with Main Blade Open: Approximately 13 cm / 5.12 inches
- Small Blade Length: Approximately 4.6 cm / 1.81 inches
- Included: Fitted vintage brown genuine leather slip case
Condition
Mint antique condition with light wear consistent with age. In my opinion, this knife has seen little, if any, practical use. The blades and implements remain exceptionally full, clean and bright, with crisp profiles and only very light surface marks visible under close inspection. The ornate brass scales retain sharp, well-defined relief and an attractive natural age patina. All four implements are present and fit neatly into the handle. The fitted leather slip case is also in excellent antique condition, showing only light age-related wear. Please examine all photographs for the precise cosmetic condition and details.
⚠ PLEASE STUDY THE PHOTOS CAREFULLY — THEY ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE DESCRIPTION. WHAT YOU SEE IS EXACTLY WHAT YOU WILL RECEIVE.
Why This Piece Is Special
This is far more than an ordinary vintage pocket knife. It is a beautifully made Solingen advertising object that preserves the names of both its renowned cutlery manufacturer and a historic German company from a city whose name and national identity changed after WWII. Its exceptional state of preservation, complete selection of implements, ornate brass construction, multiple original factory marks and fitted leather case make it an outstanding addition to a collection of antique knives, Solingen cutlery, German advertising memorabilia or gentleman’s accessories.
I carefully select distinctive antique and vintage pieces with genuine character, craftsmanship and historical interest. This rare TIMOR advertising knife is a particularly attractive survivor from the interwar period and will be securely packed for its new owner.
Shipping & Returns
- Worldwide tracked shipping.
- Combined shipping is available for multiple purchases; any excess postage will be refunded.
- Handling time: 3 business days, although I usually dispatch sooner.
- International delivery may take up to 21 business days.
- 30-day return policy; buyer pays return shipping.
SHIPPING & CUSTOMS (UNITED STATES ONLY)
This item is shipped using DELIVERY DUTY PAID (DDP) service. For US customers, ALL import duties, customs fees, and taxes are fully prepaid. You will receive your item with NO additional charges due upon delivery.
★★★ Please see my other antique items for sale ★★★.
Related Items:
Antique Solingen Germany Made Small Penknives - Mother of Pearl Handles - Used
$55.00
Rare Antique Hermann Schulder Solingen Bronze Airplane Pilot Cigar Cutter German
$1169.99
Rare Antique Boker BPOE Elks Knife Tree Brand Solingen Germany 2.75” 1916-39
$189.95
