SWISS-TECH - THE COMPANY
The Swiss+Tech Micro-Tech represents a substantial advancement in the art of
tool making. For many years, tool makers have strived to make tools that were
more compact for field applications. The basic multiple tool with belt sheath
developed by the Leatherman Co. was seen as a major advancement in the art of
tool making. For many years following the introduction of the Leatherman tool,
no major advances were made in the multiple tool category. Most designers felt
that the category was tapped out and no room existed for a new multiple tool
design. Many companies tried to copy the Leatherman design, but no original
ideas would come forth during this period.
It wasn't until 1996 that a young machinist from Ohio would draw world wide
attention with a totally new design. The Swiss+Tech Micro-Tech would define
a totally new category now referred to as the "Micro Tool". The initial
intent of the Micro-Tech project was to produce a pocket tool for personal use.
From humble beginnings in a garage utilizing an aging CNC Mill, the design was
perfected 1,000 pieces were produced for test marketing. Following a successful
test market, the young machinist caught the eye of his employer, a self-made
businessman with an eye for innovation, who did not hesitate to provide capital.
Thus started a new venture that has far exceeded the most optimistic expectations.
The Micro-Tech
would combine five of the most popular tools in a compact (17/8" x 1"
x 1/4") folding design. The "icing on the cake" was a patented
folding design that could easily self-lock to any key chain. With its compact
size and ultra light weight (1.6 oz.), the tool could easily be carried in a
pocket. This concept would soon tap worldwide demand for a smaller, lighter
pocket tool. Now it was possible for anyone from the blue collar worker to the
executive to the female consumer to have basic tools as close as their key chain.
In the few short years since its inception, the company has become the recognized
leader and innovator in micro tool design, distributing the Micro-Tech worldwide.
Using the same patented integral lock, the company has designed additional tools
for specialty markets. A second patent was applied for in 1997 for the new Utili-Key,
the smallest, most compact multiple tool ever developed.
Although other
companies may try to copy the micro-tool concept, the unique folding lock design,
protected by U.S. Patent No. 5,491,856, sets the Micro-Tech apart. The company
continues to expand upon its initial concept and invest in new products and
development for innovative Micro-Tools.
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