DOVO DOVO Solingen: Over a Century of Tradition and Quality in German Razor Manufacturing
Introduction DOVO Solingen is synonymous with excellence and tradition in the creation of razors and personal care items. Since 1906, the brand has been at the forefront of manufacturing quality products that have conquered international markets, thanks to their precision, durability and timeless design. Located in Solingen, Germany, the city known worldwide for its legacy in the production of high-quality steel, DOVO has maintained its commitment to innovation and perfection, becoming a global reference in the razor and personal care tool sector.
History and Foundation of DOVO The history of DOVO begins in 1906, when Dorp and Voos founded the company »DOVO« Stahlwaren in the free municipality of Wald, near Solingen. In its early years, the company specialised in the production of high-quality straight razors, using the hollow forging and grinding method, which ensured a precise and long-lasting finish. This manufacturing process, which has been perfected over the years, remains one of the hallmarks of the brand.
The Growth of Solingen and the Expansion of DOVO In 1930, Solingen experienced a boom thanks to the addition of new territories, which contributed to the growth and development of the steel industry in the region. The regulation on the protection of the name "Solingen", implemented in 1938, further consolidated the city's reputation as a centre of excellence in the manufacture of cutting tools.
When DOVO's founders decided to retire, Fritz Bracht took over the management of the company in the late 1930s. His strategic vision allowed DOVO to expand into international markets, especially in Western Europe and North America. Despite the challenges of World War II, the brand managed to maintain its global presence and continue to innovate.
Postwar Innovation and Product Diversification During the postwar period, DOVO reinvented itself to adapt to new market demands. The introduction of the electric razor posed a challenge for the company, but Bracht diversified production, incorporating hair scissors. In collaboration with industry professionals, he developed a model of scissors with a curved edge, which became a resounding success and catapulted the company into the 1950s.
Expansion and New Brands The 1950s and 1960s were pivotal for DOVO’s growth, as the company acquired several historic brands that expanded its product portfolio. In 1952, DOVO acquired the Tennis brand, followed by Bismarck (1957) and Ankerflagge (1957), specializing in straight razors. During the 1960s, the company continued to expand with the acquisition of Teufelskerle (1968) and Kronpunkt (1969), consolidating its presence in the high-end cutting tool market.
A Classic Catalog and Modernization Over the decades, DOVO's catalogs have been a faithful representation of the brand's evolution. The first catalogs from the 1950s and 1960s were black and white illustrations, but over time, the brand introduced color into its catalogs, showing its commitment to modernization and constant improvement in the presentation of its products.
Advertising and Marketing in the 1970s In the 1970s, the company continued to expand and consolidate its presence in the market, but the way it advertised was still traditional. Despite this, DOVO maintained a prominent presence in the international market thanks to its legacy of quality and trust.
DOVO Today: A Symbol of Quality, Precision and Style Today, DOVO continues to be a benchmark in the manufacture of razors, scissors and other personal care items. With over 100 years of history, the brand continues to manufacture its products in Solingen, using the same traditional methods combined with the latest manufacturing technologies. Each piece is a work of art that not only guarantees exceptional performance, but also becomes a legacy for future generations.
Conclusion The name DOVO is closely linked to the quality and tradition of precision cutting tool manufacturing. Throughout more than a century of history, the brand has been able to adapt to market changes, while maintaining its commitment to excellence. DOVO razors, along with its other personal care tools, are still considered some of the best in the world, capable of lasting a lifetime. Without a doubt, »DOVO« Solingen is the epitome of perfection in German razor manufacturing and remains a brand synonymous with quality, design and expertise.
