"Speech is silver, silence is golden," some might think in connection with the costly construction of Hamburg's Elbphilharmonie concert hall. But Maxi Hänsch, a master electroplater and entrepreneur from Hamburg's Altona district, proves that things can be different. Through the restoration and sale of high-quality silverware, her Altona silver workshop has become a veritable goldmine.
The history dates back to 1877, when the craft business, then known as "Silber Specht" (Silver Woodpecker), cared for and repaired the exquisite silverware of Hamburg's high society. Over the decades, the traditional craftsmanship has been continuously refined and brought to a unique level, so that the Altona silver workshop, renamed in 1997 and since then run by Maxi Hänsch in the second generation, is known far beyond the borders of Hamburg for its high standards of quality. Its extensive portfolio includes, among other things, silversmithing, cutlery repair, knife sharpening, and electroplating of various metals.
The master craftsman's workshop has long since expanded beyond just antiques like candlesticks, cutlery, and teapots. "In recent years, we've built up a first-class knife selection, including pocket knives, fixed-blade knives, razors , and kitchen knives." The Altona silver workshop has now become a well-established name among knife connoisseurs in Hamburg. In 2020, Maxi Hänsch added another highlight to her business for her customers: the KnifeLounge. This oasis of well-being for knife enthusiasts features comfortable armchairs and specialist literature in a cozy atmosphere. The showroom showcases fascinating knives from around the world, taking visitors on an exciting journey.
Maxi's enthusiasm for knives is no accident: "My passion for knives is deeply rooted in my DNA, as my father was a knifemaker and electroplater and instilled in me a love for knives and silver from an early age. With my first paycheck, I bought myself a Victorinox Swiss Tool." The young entrepreneur now boasts a small but exquisite collection of fine knives. This includes the Böker Daily Knives AK1 Reverse Tanto Mustard, which impresses with its perfect size and high everyday usability. "The knife's design is beautiful. Furthermore, the project is the brainchild of two young minds. Alex Kremer , the designer, and Jannik from Daily Customs are both under 25 and, through Böker, have the opportunity to showcase their designs worldwide. I think that's fantastic!"
Thanks to their long-standing partnership with Böker, the owner and her six-person team have acquired valuable background knowledge and been able to identify trends over the years, ensuring that the traditional company remains at the forefront of innovation even in dynamic times. "I believe that without our Böker sales representative, we wouldn't be the knife business we are today." In addition to the brick-and-mortar store with its attached workshop, the online shop and social media are playing an increasingly important role. "This is precisely what's helping us, especially during these difficult times of the coronavirus lockdown."
So what to do if Grandma's cutlery has tarnished? The silver lining is just a few minutes from the "Elphi" and welcomes its customers to the gleaming premises of the Altona silver workshop.
Altona Silver Workshop
Holstenstraße 188-194
22765 Hamburg
Opening hours:
Mon - Fri: 10am - 6pm
www.altonaer-silberwerkstatt.de
Are you also a Böker Premium Partner and would like to present your favorite knife here? Apply now at info@boker.de or contact your personal sales representative.