At TB-1648, we believe a knife can be much more than just a tool. It can be an expression, an emotion, a collector's item. Some of our creations embody this philosophy with particular force. They combine impeccable cutting performance with aesthetic boldness and technical innovations that push the boundaries of traditional cutlery.
We invite you to discover the design secrets of three of our most iconic collections: Louis, Absolu, and Privé. Each tells a unique story, that of a quest for perfection where function enhances form, and vice versa.
Our design masterpieces in a nutshell
- Louis: The warm elegance of walnut without any rivets, a true feat of fitting that enhances the wood.
- Absolute: The purity of a timeless design, combined with the exceptional performance of a razor-sharp concave edge.
- Private: The radical innovation of a contactless magnetic mechanism, encapsulated in cutting-edge materials such as ceramics.
Louis: How does walnut wood reinvent elegance?
The Louis range was born from a desire: to create an object of pleasure using a noble wood, walnut. The technical challenge was immense: how to make a solid wood handle without any visible rivets? The solution is a discreet and patented innovation: the blade does not pass through the handle, it clips onto it with absolute precision, giving the impression of "floating".
To achieve this "extreme precision" in the fit between wood, a living material, and metal, we collaborated with a partner experienced in instrument making, where precision is measured to a hundredth of a millimeter. The result is a line of rare purity. The blade, perceived as a "block of steel hewn from a single piece," is forged from the excellent Nitrox steel for a perfect and lasting cut.
Absolutely: why does this design remain so modern and efficient?
Launched in the early 2010s, Absolu marked a turning point, being the first range where design was placed at the heart of the concept. More than ten years later, its "very beautiful, very pure" aesthetic remains "completely contemporary." But its beauty is not its only asset.
Absolu is one of the few ranges to feature a concave edge, meaning it's hollowed out on both sides. This specific grind produces an incredibly fine edge, offering an "absolutely remarkable cutting quality," often compared to that of a razor. A true work of art, Absolu has even been released in exceptional limited editions, with lacquered handles and Swarovski crystals, celebrating its iconic status.
Private: Can technology create the purest knife in the world?
The Privé range is our laboratory for the future. It embodies our desire to explore disruptive manufacturing technologies to achieve a striking visual simplicity. This collection is available in two interpretations.
Prive|e 7/24: The pocket knife with a magnetic secret
This folding knife is a "monolith of absolute simplicity," striking in its purity. Its secret? A revolutionary mechanism inspired by a child's toy, using seven magnets with opposing polarities. There are no springs, no friction. The blade seems to levitate, it "floats" when opening and closing. The ceramic handle, exceptionally smooth after a week of polishing, reinforces its status as an extraordinary object.
Privee Table AM|PM: the "ultra-chic" table knife
Following in the footsteps of the pocket knife, the table knife version takes minimalism to its extreme. The lines are perfect, the mirror-polished blade hand-finished by our artisans. The acrylic handle, with its piano lacquer finish, is enhanced by a discreet, asymmetrical red trim. Beneath its apparent simplicity lies immense technical complexity, making this knife a true jewel on a beautifully set table.
Your questions about these exceptional knives
Is a wooden handle without rivets (Louis range) really that strong?
Absolutely. The patented clip system has been designed and tested for exceptional strength. The fit is so precise that the wood and steel form a single, extremely durable unit, while also offering a unique aesthetic.
What difference does a concave cutting edge (Absolu range) make to me in the kitchen?
A concave cutting edge penetrates food with minimal resistance. This results in a smooth, effortless cut, especially beneficial for delicate foods. Furthermore, it makes sharpening simpler and more intuitive.
Are the ceramic or acrylic handles (Privé range) fragile?
Ceramic is an extremely hard and scratch-resistant material, far more so than steel. High-quality acrylic is also very robust. Their only weakness, as with glass objects, would be a violent impact against a very hard surface like tile. With normal use, their beauty is made to last for decades.
