About Grobet
About GrobetPrecision Files & Tools
Grobet traces its origins to 1812, when F. L. Grobet began standardizing the shapes and cuts of Swiss precision files in Vallorbe, Switzerland, putting file-making on a production basis that delivered consistent precision for the first time. In 1836 he designed and built the first file-cutting machine, further improving uniformity, and he later joined fellow file makers David Borloz and Antoine Glardon to form Usines Métallurgiques de Vallorbe, a collaboration that helped establish Swiss precision files as an internationally recognized standard.
The American side of the business began in 1899, when Edward Grobet established the Grobet File Company of America on Canal Street in New York City, a hub of the machine tool trade at the time, to distribute Vallorbe files in the United States. The company expanded into Canada in 1952 with Grobet File Company of Canada, Ltd., and relocated its American headquarters to Carlstadt, New Jersey in 1954 to support its growing operations.
With more than 140 years of heritage in designing, producing, and distributing precision tools, Grobet USA today serves jewelers, machinists, dental technicians, and craftsmen with its line of Swiss precision files, rifflers, and hand tools. ChatMRO helps procurement teams source Grobet files and tool kits by matching exact file shape, cut, and length requirements against verified stock.
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Frequently asked questions
How old is the Grobet brand?
Grobet traces its origins back to 1812, when F. L. Grobet began standardizing Swiss precision file shapes and cuts in Vallorbe, Switzerland. That foundation makes Grobet one of the longest-running names in precision file manufacturing.
When did Grobet establish operations in the United States?
Edward Grobet established the Grobet File Company of America in 1899 on Canal Street in New York City to distribute Vallorbe files domestically. The American headquarters later relocated to Carlstadt, New Jersey in 1954.
What was F. L. Grobet's key innovation?
F. L. Grobet designed and built the first file-cutting machine in 1836, which produced Swiss precision files with far greater uniformity than earlier hand methods. This machine helped establish the production standards still associated with Swiss precision files today.
Does Grobet have operations in Canada?
Yes, Grobet File Company of Canada, Ltd. was founded in 1952 to serve the rapidly growing Canadian market. This expansion solidified Grobet's foothold across North America alongside its U.S. operations.
Who uses Grobet precision files today?
Grobet USA's precision files, rifflers, and hand tools are used by jewelers, machinists, dental technicians, and general craftsmen. The brand's more than 140 years of heritage in Swiss file-making continues to underpin its current product line.