The Old School model is an approximate replica of the most common Laguiole knives found in France during the mid-to-late 1800s. Stripped of modern bolsters and ornate file work, this design reflects the era when Laguiole knives were prized for their utility and accessibility. While the originals utilized carbon blades, this refined replica features high-performance Swedish steel.
Entirely handmade in Thiers—France’s historic capital of cutlery—this knife is part of the Gilles® Fontenille Pataud collection. Each piece is crafted from start to finish by a single master artisan, ensuring world-class quality and an unparalleled sense of pride in ownership.
Handle Character: This "Full Handle" model is carved from genuine Desert Ironwood (Olneya tesota). One of the hardest and densest woods in existence, Ironwood is prized for its incredible stability and rich, coffee-brown tones. The bolster-less design showcases the wood's natural chatoyancy—a shimmering, three-dimensional grain that shifts in the light—offering a rugged yet sophisticated feel. The knife pictured is the exact one you will receive.
The Forged Bee: This model features a prestigious forged bee, meaning the bee and the spring were fashioned from a single solid piece of metal. Unlike common soldered bees, a forged bee offers superior structural integrity and seamless aesthetics—a hallmark of original 19th-century craftsmanship.
| Authenticity & Warranty |
|---|
|
• 100% Made in France: Handcrafted in Thiers by Fontenille Pataud. • Lifetime Warranty: Guaranteed against manufacturer defects. • U.S. Support: Warranty and repair coordination via Jacksonville, Florida. |
Desert Ironwood (Olneya tesota) - One of the world hardest wood and most difficult to work with due to its density.
This increasingly rare wood comes from dead trees that have been left to dry in the desert heat for decades. As it starts to fossilize, the wood turns reddish brown with a golden hue and beautiful veining. The wood from this very slow growing tree can be well over 100 years old. Harvested in Arizona or Northwestern Mexico.
Good to know: Ironwood can sometimes show tiny knots or small depressions within the wood. This is not considered a defect but rather a characteristic of this wood.
Pocket knives are shipped same business day from Florida when ordered by 4 PM Eastern time. UPS delivery can be expected in 1 to 3 business days depending on destination. International shipping options are available at checkout.
The Old School model is an approximate replica of the most common Laguiole knives found in France during the mid-to-late 1800s. Stripped of modern bolsters and ornate file work, this design reflects the era when Laguiole knives were prized for their utility and accessibility. While the originals utilized carbon blades, this refined replica features high-performance Swedish steel.
Entirely handmade in Thiers—France’s historic capital of cutlery—this knife is part of the Gilles® Fontenille Pataud collection. Each piece is crafted from start to finish by a single master artisan, ensuring world-class quality and an unparalleled sense of pride in ownership.
Handle Character: This "Full Handle" model is carved from genuine Desert Ironwood (Olneya tesota). One of the hardest and densest woods in existence, Ironwood is prized for its incredible stability and rich, coffee-brown tones. The bolster-less design showcases the wood's natural chatoyancy—a shimmering, three-dimensional grain that shifts in the light—offering a rugged yet sophisticated feel. The knife pictured is the exact one you will receive.
The Forged Bee: This model features a prestigious forged bee, meaning the bee and the spring were fashioned from a single solid piece of metal. Unlike common soldered bees, a forged bee offers superior structural integrity and seamless aesthetics—a hallmark of original 19th-century craftsmanship.
| Authenticity & Warranty |
|---|
|
• 100% Made in France: Handcrafted in Thiers by Fontenille Pataud. • Lifetime Warranty: Guaranteed against manufacturer defects. • U.S. Support: Warranty and repair coordination via Jacksonville, Florida. |
Desert Ironwood (Olneya tesota) - One of the world hardest wood and most difficult to work with due to its density.
This increasingly rare wood comes from dead trees that have been left to dry in the desert heat for decades. As it starts to fossilize, the wood turns reddish brown with a golden hue and beautiful veining. The wood from this very slow growing tree can be well over 100 years old. Harvested in Arizona or Northwestern Mexico.
Good to know: Ironwood can sometimes show tiny knots or small depressions within the wood. This is not considered a defect but rather a characteristic of this wood.
Pocket knives are shipped same business day from Florida when ordered by 4 PM Eastern time. UPS delivery can be expected in 1 to 3 business days depending on destination. International shipping options are available at checkout.
