history
Victorinox developed model no. 653, like many of the 74 mm models, in the 1950s. The big difference to the models no. 650 and no. 652 was the scissors. This more complex functional part made production expensive, which also affected the price of the pocket knife. However, compared to the other two models mentioned, model No. 653 endured and is still in production. The presence of the scissors is probably largely responsible for this. This small, single-layer, very thin pocket knife is still popular.
functional parts
In addition to a large cutting blade, model no. 653 had a small nail file and scissors. The models in celluloid/ cellidor, horn and mother-of-pearl were offered both with and without a toothpick and tweezers, the variants Alox red with a cross and Cellidor red with a cross also came with a hanger (later a key ring).
blade strength
Big blade: 2.3 mm; small blade: 1.25 mm; Scissors: 2.3mm
construction
The structure was identical to model no. 652, the same pair of springs could be used. Instead of the large nail file, scissors were installed and the small blade was replaced by a small nail file. The large blade had a greater material thickness than the nail file. The lack of strength was compensated for by an intermediate layer.
scale material
Aluminum, Cellidor and steel were used as the scale material, as well as horn, mother-of-pearl and gold.
liners
The liners, which originally consisted of brass or nickel silver, were later replaced by aluminum.
Trade names: Ambassador, Windsor ( steel scales ), Lady Victoria