Since this model was the top-of-the-line for many years, it evolved with the changes to the tools. Over the years, the actual tools included in the knife, and the tool versions, changed, based on the current tools being manufactured at the time ... however it retained its name.
Another change to normal naming conventions, was that models that included the backspring Phillips screwdriver, as well as those that included the corkscrew, were both, somewhat confusingly, referred to as a Champion. Typically knives would have different names for this tool change.
Six-layer Models
The early models had six tool layers and included a long nailfile on the back.
The Corkscrew/Phillips versions are referred to as the 'Champion a/b' respectively in the SAKWiki pages.
Seven-layer Models
The most significant change to the Champion was the introduction of a new tool layer in 1973, consisting of a Magnifying Glass and the in-line Phillips screwdriver.
This model is referred to as the 'Champion c' in the SAKWiki layer pages, and Related Tools sections.
See also: Champion Plus
Discontinued Model.Table of contents
Main Layer Tools
Champion circa. 1985 |
Both versions:
- Large Blade
- Small Blade
- Cap-Lifter/Large slotted screw-driver - with wire-bender
- Can Opener/Small-slotted screw-driver - that also works with Phillips screws
- Scissors
- Metal File with Saw
- Wood Saw
- Fish Scaler
Additional tools - Seven-layer model:
- Magnifying Glass
- Phillips Screwdriver - inline
Seven-layer Champion tool-guide post 1977
Seven-layer Champion tool-guide post 1985 - Note omission in diagram!
Back Layer Tools
Both versions:
Additional tools - Six-layer model:
- Corkscrew -or- Phillips Screwdriver - The early square Phillips drivers include a file.
- Long Nail-file
Additional tools - Seven-layer model:
- Corkscrew
- Fine Screwdriver - Not on all knives, later addition ('77)
- Chisel - Not on all knives, even later addition ('85)
Scale Tools
- Tweezers
- Toothpick
- Bail/Shackle - Only on older vintage six-layer models
Scales
Red Cellidor, black Cellidor was also available.
Variations
Available as luxury versions with buffalo horn, stag, or mother-of-pearl handles (model 1.5793 and earlier).
History
The Champion was the top of the range 91mm Victorinox Swiss Army Knife, containing all the tools Victorinox produced at the time of manufacture, until it was replaced as the top model by the SwissChamp in 1985.
The six-layer models (Champion a/b) were introduced in 1952 and were manufactured up until 1974, following the introduction of the seven-layer model (Champion c) in 1973. The long nail-file was removed from the seven-layer model, and the scissors changed to pivot from the 'tail-end' of the knife. The six-layer models evolved into the Craftsman and Handyman, although neither of these models included the long nailfile.
Note: Model names as opposed to model numbers/codes were only fully introduced in the mid '70s - So the earlier Champions would have been known primarily by their product codes (see Identifiers section below), however descriptive names (possibly such as Champion) were introduced from the '50s.
Over the years the tools included on the Champion have changed and the tools themselves have evolved, so there are a number of slightly different tool configurations. Versions with the long nail-file are usually actively sought by collectors.
The Champion was still offered and updated after the release of the SwissChamp, it just did not have the same prominent position in marketing. The seven-layer model eventually evolved into the Champion Plus was still produced for several years - Although as of 2017 appears to be withdrawn.
Identifiers
- 1.5793: Prior to 1986: Seven layers; 16 implements, comprising 24 official functions; no long-nailfile -
- 1.5793.JU: 1984 centennial
- 1.6783: 1986-2001: Adds the chisel and updated fine-screwdriver; versions after '91 include the hook
Original Format Product Codes - Victoria/Victorinox
From the 1960s and early 1970s – All are six-layers and feature the long nail-file
- 146fma: Cellidor scaled, Phillips, no shackle
- 146fmaU: Cellidor scaled, Phillips, shackle
- 246fma: Cellidor scaled, corkscrew, no-shackle
- 246fmaU: Cellidor scaled, corkscrew, shackle
- 246fmaU HH: Stag scaled, corkscrew, with shackle
Related Knives
- Handyman - Six layers with a corkscrew
- Craftsman - Six layers with a Phillips screwdriver
- SwissChamp - Adds the pliers, and later the hook, to the seven-layer Champion
- Champion Plus - The seven-layer Champion brought back to life with current tools and 'Plus' scales