It's that moment that sheds the hustle and bustle of everyday life and fills the silence with a mysterious fascination. Thoughts drift away, contentment surges, with a smile as the inevitable result. Between contemplative tranquility and imposing sonic power, it's just a press of a button away that brings anticipation and the record player to full speed within seconds – for unfiltered listening pleasure as soon as the stylus engages the first groove of the record. Detailed, timeless, and full of character – the sounds of rock to electronic music are right up his alley, including the charm of the characteristic crackle. Switch on to switch off – that's Michael Rohlf's motto. Whether enjoying music, on his motorcycle, or fishing – the outdoor enthusiast and manager of the Böker knife shop is always fully committed. The affable family man reveals below how he creates a buzz among knife enthusiasts and why he's a driving force in the Böker team.
How did you come to work for Böker?
From 2014 to 2022, I ran my own shop selling outdoor and tactical gear, including clothing. A key part of my business was the diverse Böker knife range, managed by my current colleague, Hajo Wilkes. I had to close the shop in September 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While browsing Instagram, I saw a Böker post advertising for a shop assistant. I quickly wrote my application, called Hajo, and found myself with a new job.
What did you do before?
For over 20 years, I worked in the equestrian industry alongside my father. We had a large warehouse in Wuppertal with approximately 120 horse-drawn carriages and numerous harnesses. At that time, we were one of the world's largest carriage suppliers. Our clients included, for example, the Swedish and Dutch royal families, the Sultanate of Oman, and many others. The carriages were manufactured in Poland, a place I visited often and with great pleasure.
How does your experience benefit you in your tasks at Böker?
With over 20 years of experience in purchasing and sales, I've developed a knack for quickly and accurately assessing and understanding customers. I enjoy catering to the diverse range of customer types. For example, I often know in advance which new products and innovations will interest my regular customers.
What do you enjoy about your job?
The collaboration within the Böker team is fantastic. It's amazing to see what we can achieve together. There's always something going on here in my shop, lots of new people to talk shop with and learn new things from. And the best part: I can combine some of my passions with my job.
What does the knife shop offer its visitors?
An incredible variety of knives in all areas. This includes pocket knives, fixed blade knives, kitchen knives, razors , knife sharpeners, and related accessories. All areas are covered: outdoor, bushcraft, collecting, tactical, kitchen, shaving, etc. Anything not currently on display in the shop is quickly retrieved from the large warehouse next door and can then be viewed in a pleasant atmosphere. Collectors will be in their element, able to choose their favorite knife from a selection of knives.
What is important when dealing with customers?
Friendliness is our top priority. Every customer has different needs, interests, expectations, and price ranges. My colleagues and I treat all customers equally. Active listening and friendliness are essential, even when dealing with complaints or exchanges.
Do you carry knives in your private life?
Sure, it feels like it's always been that way. I immediately feel like something's missing if I leave the house without a knife. I have to turn around and take one with me.
How do you use knives?
I change my knives depending on the situation: work, my ponds, motorcycling, dining out. My Böker Vigtig vs Wild is my most frequently used knife and shows its age – an absolutely reliable, full-blooded workhorse. I carry a gentleman's knife in a stylish leather case. It would be a shame to leave a knife unused in a display case.
Do you have any hobbies for which you use knives?
I've leased fishing ponds for private use. I use them as a biotope and for relaxation. On my motorcycle rides, I always have the Tech Tool Fork with me for a welcome currywurst break. Besides the Nature Sons, the Trymacs/Rumathra team from the last 7 vs. Wild season was also equipped with a Böker knife, the Böker Vigtig vs. Wild.
This knife wouldn't exist without you. What was your role?
A friend of mine, a former soldier, is an expert in survival and living in nature. He owns a large forest and offers training courses and weekend workshops for individuals and groups. Well-connected in the scene, he received a request from Rumathra to prepare him for the 14-day 7 vs. Wild challenge. Together, we paved the way for the later Böker Vigtig vs. Wild knife.
Do you have any other hobbies?
On weekends, I spend time at my ponds or enjoy riding my motorcycle, now often with my eldest son, whom I've passed on this passion. Once a year, we take off on our motorcycle for a week, simply following our noses. To relax, I like to listen to music, preferably vinyl records. Rock and electronic music from the 1970s and early 80s. Played on this medium with its impressive depth of sound and the characteristic crackle and pop: pure goosebumps!
What is your current favorite knife and why?
Based purely on how often it's carried, it should actually be the Böker Vigtig vs Wild, but it's actually the Böker 98K Damascus steel from our own workshop. The blade steel carries a rich history, it's legal to carry, an absolute classic, and a real eye-catcher.
Weather permitting, you prefer to commute to work by motorcycle. What kind of motorcycle do you currently ride?
The weather doesn't matter, I always go for a New Year's ride on January 1st. Currently it's a Harley Davidson XR1200, we'll see which Harley comes next.
Michael, thank you so much for giving us these interesting insights.
Click here to go to the Böker knife shop.