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Bernd and Debra Dressler begin distribution of German and Japanese products as DAMCO (Dressler American Marketing Company).
Kirsten, Debra and Chelcea Dressler
Bernd Dressler, co-founder of Messermeister
1981
Bernd and Debra Dressler begin distribution of German and Japanese products as DAMCO (Dressler American Marketing Company).
1984
DAMCO debuts at the Gourmet Housewares Show in San Francisco, California.
1985
DAMCO launches their first exclusive knife design and integrates Messermeister as the company name.
1986
The business moves to Ojai, California.
1988
Messermeister patents the first Edge-Guard.
1992
Company redefines German knife design, introducing demi-bolster construction so the entire edge can be sharpened from heel to tip.
New sharpness standard is set with polished 15º edges, making Messermeister the sharpest German cutlery on the market.
1993
Two commercial knife lines are added to the Messermeister assortment, Park Plaza and Four Seasons.
1995
DAMCO Australia is started by Bernd's brother, Bruen Dressler, distributing the Messermeister range throughout Australia.
2004
Daughters, Chelcea and Kirsten Dressler join Messermeister management team. Messermeister becomes incorporated.
2006
Messermeister is selected by the highly regarded culinary school, Le Cordon Bleu, as exclusive knives supplier.
2010
Chelcea and Kirsten Dressler assume company leadership roles, becoming the only fully Women-owned and operated knife company in the world.
2011
Messermeister innovates traditional drop-forged knives with lighter-weight “Stealth" Chef's knife.
2012
With pioneering sustainability initiative, Messermeister commits to create more natural and organic design.
2013
Messermeister launches Oliva Elite, which boasts an exquisite, natural Italian olive wood handle.
2015
Continuing with small batch, artesian craftsmanship, new Royale Elite line launched with hand selected, California Walnut handle and best German steel.
2018
Messermeister introduces the next generation of kitchen knife technology with Kawashima collaboration. Called, ”best knife ever tested” by Bon Appetite.
2019
First outdoor full-sized folding kitchen knives introduced, with Adventure Chef line, named as Men’s Journal’s best new product at Outdoor Retailer show.
2020
Messermeister Custom knives launch with innovate modular design and changeable handles which can be personalized
TODAY
Many companies have moved in different forging processes, but Messermeister remains one of the few companies in the world to produce hot-drop, hammer forged knives the traditional way. Messermeister's unique process and attention to detail make it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike. After more than four decades, the Messermeister brand of knives and culinary accessories continues to win the hearts of cooking enthusiasts worldwide.