Martin Wanner has been putting his passion and expertise to good use at HEPP for over four decades. In our interview, we got a little insight into the everyday life of the trained belt maker.
"Decorative metalworkers have been around since the Middle Ages. The craft originates from the metalwork that was carried out for the production of belts and belt fittings. But the same craftspeople also made cutlery. In the meantime, the profession no longer exists, but the skills are still relevant. I’m delighted that I’ve been able to contribute my expertise and passion to HEPP for over four decades."
"Many HEPP items are no longer produced today, which makes their preservation all the more important. In addition, as a craftsman, it’s particularly important to me to preserve things that tell a story. Reconditioning pays tribute to the craftsmanship of yesteryear. For example, we once refurbished a historic roast beef serving trolley for the Bayerischer Hof. The result is a gem that probably no other hotel in the world possesses. The reconditioning and repair of such pieces also has a sustainable aspect: Letting an old piece shine in new splendour conserves resources. With appropriate care, our long-lasting products can be used for another 30, 40 or even 50 years."
The preparation and preservation of the HEPP pieces are particularly important to Martin Wanner.
"It fascinates me to see again and again what can be achieved by repairing and reconditioning cutlery and silverware. Many years ago, a private customer found her way to us. She brought us a HEPP pot made of silver, which was very close to her heart, but was almost completely destroyed. In tears, she asked us to repair the lovely piece – no matter the price. We thought it was impossible, but accepted the challenge. We worked on the pot for many days, welding on a new handle and replacing the bottom. The end result was flawless and the customer was overjoyed. These are the moments that motivate me the most."
When the Hotel Adlon opened in 1907, the fine silverware of the brothers Carl and Otto HEPP was already an essential part of the sumptuously set tables at the establishment on Pariser Platz. After the great fire in 1945 and the reopening as part of the…
We are pleased to announce that our latest cutlery collection, CUTTING EDGE, has won the prestigious German Design Award 2025 in the category "Excellent Product Design – Tabletop". This award recognizes outstanding design quality and sets new standards…
