Dolmetsch 1291, Zurich

A trip to Zurich would not be complete without the purchase of a Swiss army knife. These intricate tools are no longer just for woodsmen and campers. Victorinox, the makers of the original Swiss army knife, now make product lines entitled “Elegant Pocket Tools” and “Victorinox USB”.

The popular “Cyber Tool” boasts the classic blades and tools with the addition of small pliers and a multi head screwdriver, for IT professionals, engineers, and other “computer freaks”. The “Cigar Cutter”, features a multi-circumference cigar blade and a sleek metallic casing, while the “Waiter” includes a corkscrew, and both bottle and can opener. Some knives come with digital clocks, engrave-able front plates, paintings of the Matterhorn, USB storage, even pink camouflage casings.

Souvenir shops selling Swiss army knives can be found throughout Zurich’s downtown, including Dolmetsch, which sells a variety of Vicorinox knives and luggage. Purchase “My First Victorinox” for 30 francs, the “Cyber Tool” for 37 francs, a knife with a painting of Lake Zurich on the front for 40 francs, up to the robust “Swiss Champ” for 450 francs.

What to buy here: Victorinox Swiss army knife.