In the Black Forest, Horl reinvents sharpening with elegance and efficiency. Combining craftsmanship, innovative design and durability, this German family-owned brand has won over chefs and enthusiastic amateurs alike.
From the peaceful Black Forest region of Germany, the Horl brand redefines knife sharpening through a unique combination of artisan craftsmanship, innovative design and patented technology. Created by a visionary family, Otmar and Timo Horl, the brand appeals to chefs and home cooking enthusiasts alike. Meet a brand that combines tradition and modernity to extend the life of blades with elegance and efficiency.
A simple, high-performance tool
Otmar Horl, creator of the sharpener that bears his name, is first and foremost a sharpening enthusiast. Frustrated by the tools available, which never fully met his requirements, he decided to design a sharpener capable of sublimating precision and edge quality. Guided by his perfectionism and love of a job well done, he created a unique tool.
The Horl sharpener is based on a simple but ingenious idea: a rotating axis with a double surface, one in diamond to reshape the blade geometry, and one in ceramic to refine and smooth the edge. " With just 3 or 4 movements, you can bring a knife back to life. If it's the first time, it can take between 5 and 15 minutes, depending on the condition of the blade ", explains Managing Director Marjorie Horl. The product guarantees professional results, while remaining accessible to all. Here's a summary of how it works, with the main stages:
Shaping the edge geometry: the sharpener uses a diamond abrasive surface to reshape the blade geometry. This process is necessary when sharpening a knife for the first time, or if the blade is particularly dull.
Finishing with the ceramic surface: oncethe edge geometry has been formed, the ceramic surface is used to smooth and refine the edge. The ceramic removes residues and refines the edge for a clean, precise result.
Magnet angle hold: the knife is held at a precise angle (between 10° /and 25° depending on the sharpener model) by magnets integrated into the sharpener base. This guarantees consistent sharpening, enabling even inexperienced users to sharpen knives professionally.
Accessories for perfect results : forthose who want a mirror finish or extreme precision, discs with finer grit are available. These accessories further smooth the cutting edge for an optimal cut.
Local, sustainable manufacturing
Each sharpener is designed in the Black Forest, with attention to detail and durability. The brand favors noble materials such as European oak and American walnut, chosen for their aesthetic appeal and robustness. " Our woods are dried longer than industrial standards, guaranteeing greater stability and exceptional durability ," says Marjorie Horl. This commitment to quality goes hand in hand with a respectful approach to the environment: " Looking after a knife means you don't have to buy a new one every three years. "
Cross-border success
Since its launch, Horl has carved out a place for itself in kitchens the world over, winning over star chefs and amateurs alike. " We've worked with the likes of Anne-Sophie Pic, Simone Zanoni and Top Chef 2023 winner Danny Khezzar. Their feedback confirms that our product is appreciated for its precision and simplicity. "Horl sharpeners are also present in prestigious cooking schools and recommended by renowned chefs.
Three questions for Marjorie Horl, Managing Director
Your sharpener is patented. Why is this important?
M.H. : "We have registered several patents to protect both the technique and the design in Europe and in several other countries around the world. Fighting counterfeiting remains a challenge. "
What types of knives can be sharpened with your product?
M.H. : "All knives can be sharpened, from simple kitchen knives to high-end models. We work closely with knife makers to ensure that our sharpeners work with different steels. Even a small Victorinox or Opinel paring knife can be sharpened without a problem. "
Why did you choose oak and walnut for your sharpeners?
M.H.: "These are very precious woods. Walnut has a deep color that's very chic, and oak is a traditional wood where the grooves are clearly visible. Our look led us to these two woods. We opted for European oak and American walnut because they offer that depth."
A promising future
With prices ranging from 99 to 399 euros, depending on model and options, Horl sharpeners can be adapted to different needs and budgets. The brand continues to innovate, notably with its Pro model, equipped with a planetary gear system for sharpening three times faster. " We want every household to be able to enjoy a perfectly sharp knife," concludes Managing Director Marjorie Horl. Horl proves that even a task as simple as sharpening can become an art. ▶ More information: www.horl.com
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