Vintage Böker Solingen Barlow Pocket Knife – Tree Brand – Wooden Handles – Germany – Late 20th Century

This Böker Solingen Barlow-style pocket knife is a beautifully executed example of late-20th-century German cutlery that deliberately echoes much earlier traditional designs. Marked with Böker’s iconic Tree Brand logo enclosed in a circle and stamped “BÖKER SOLINGEN” with the umlaut, this knife reflects Böker’s continued commitment to classic patterns well into the modern era.

The knife features a single spear-point blade with a long pull, finished in a distinctive darkened factory finish that gives it a subdued, vintage-styled appearance rather than a bright polish. The substantial nickel silver front bolster defines the Barlow profile, while the dark wooden handle scales add warmth and traditional character. At 3 3/8 inches closed, it sits squarely in the ideal size range for a classic pocket Barlow.

The blade opens and closes with strong, confident snap in both directions and sits tight with no side-to-side play, reflecting Böker’s Solingen-era build quality.

🔧 Specs

Maker: Böker (Tree Brand)

Origin: Solingen, Germany

Era: Circa late 1970s–early 1990s (based on tang stamp and blade finish)

Pattern: Barlow-style pocket knife

Blade: Spear point with long pull, darkened finish

Handle Material: Wooden scales

Bolster: Nickel silver, long Barlow bolster

Closed Length: Approx. 3 3/8"

Action: Strong snap, open and close

🔎 Condition Note

This knife is in very good vintage condition. The blade shows light wear and natural patina consistent with age, but has not been overused. Blade action is excellent, with strong snap and no wobble. The wooden handle scales are solid and well-preserved, showing only minor handling wear with no cracks or chips. Bolsters are clean with light surface marks from normal carry.
This knife ships wrapped in acid-free archival tissue to help preserve both the blade and handle during transit and storage.

📜 Historical Note

While the Barlow pattern originated in England and became a staple of early American cutlery, Böker’s Solingen-made interpretations are known for their precise heat treatment and refined fit and finish. During the late 20th century, Böker continued producing traditional pocket knives like this one—often incorporating subtle design cues, such as darker blade finishes, to evoke the look and feel of earlier working knives while benefiting from modern production consistency.

🧲 Collector’s Note

This Böker Barlow is ideal for collectors who appreciate traditional forms without over-romanticizing age. It offers the aesthetics of a classic mid-century pocket knife with the reliability of later Solingen manufacture—making it equally suitable for a curated collection or a refined vintage-style carry.

⚠️ Disclaimer

All knives in this shop are vintage or pre-owned unless stated otherwise. While many are in excellent condition, they may show normal signs of age or handling such as scuffs, blemishes, patina, or blade wear. I try to document condition as accurately as possible in both the description and photos.

By purchasing this knife, you are confirming that you are 18 years of age or older and are complying with all applicable laws and regulations regarding knife ownership in your area.