discover rimowa heritage 1898

Our Story

Redefining travel since 1898

From vintage wood to classic aluminium to high-tech polycarbonate: at RIMOWA, we've always looked for ways to make travel better. We've seen a lot of change across three centuries but our philosophy has always stayed the same: expert travellers need expert travel solutions.

discover rimowa heritage 1898

1898

It all began with our Koffermanufaktur in Cologne

Our small family-run business opens its doors. Our very first cases are crafted in hardwearing wood, with an emphasis on lightweight construction and superior stability.

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1920s

The very first aluminium trunk is created by our founder's son, Richard Morszeck. Abbreviating his name gives us our enduring name RIMOWA.

1950

Our iconic groove design is born

Inspired by the golden age of aviation, we add distinctive grooves to our aluminium suitcases. They become a symbol for the international jetset and pay homage to the world's first all-metal aircraft. (Made in Germany, of course.)

 

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1978

We develop waterproof cases to protect pro equipment

Our design guards the sensitive equipment of film crews, photographers and reporters from tropical humidity or arctic cold.

 

discover rimowa heritage 1950 discover rimowa heritage 1950

2000

'Handmade Meets High-Tech':
our first polycarbonate luggage

Resists extremes

from Arabian heat to Icelandic cold

Light and durable

easy to move, always stays tough

Certified safe

two seals of approval from TÜV Rheinland

2006

RIMOWA perfects the patented Multiwheel system. We make sure all eight wheels on RIMOWA suitcases turn effortlessly through 360°.