This is a series of Classic SDs featuring beautiful solid sterling silver scales with a number of different textured patterns in the metal work.
They have a solid feel to them, weighing 40-50g depending on the model.
Scales Manufacturer
Victorinox reported the scales to be handcrafted by one of the world's most prestigious silversmiths - without identifying them by name.
Subsequent research appears to identify the companies as Lunt Silversmiths for some of the models, and Reed & Barton for the basket weave pattern.
Note: Both these companies are no longer operating as of 2010 and 2015 respectively (Source Wikipedia).
Patterns in the Series
- Polished - not shown in image
From left to right
- Basketweave
- Barleycorn
- Hammered
- Swirl
Model and Tools
This series features Classic SD models that omit the tweezers and toothpicks.
Engraving Panel
The original documentation states that the polished and barleycorn versions have an engraving plate on the back. However, versions of the basketweave and swirl have also had the engraving panel. Which would seem to leave the hammered version as the only one without an engraving panel; however, the polished version has also been available without an engraving panel, which suggests that maybe the original documentation was wrong!
Availability
This series came out in the mid 2000s (tbc) and was not known to be a limited series, but is no longer being produced. However some models were still available from certain dealers in November 2008, possibly later.
Notes:
- Given that both the companies that manufactured the scales were US companies - It is possible that this series was a Victorinox US (Swiss Army Brands Inc. - aka. SABI) initiative (tbc).
- Other/older special edition sterling silver models have been produced by Victorinox in partnership with other silversmiths.
- It also seems that some silversmiths manufacture their own scales and attach them to the Classic frame and toolset.