Swisschamp 1.6795 vs 53501

[NorCalJim]

I am deliberating over the purchase of a modern Swisschamp.  Thanks to the SAKWiki, I was able to identify my recently purchased Swisschamp as the variation 2 model. I have also been trying to distinguish the difference between 1.6795 & 53501. The only thing that I found is that the 53501 is a U.S. model with red scales and the 1.6795 is not a U.S. model.  I haven't been able to find out what practical differences if any exist between these two models or why I should target one over the other.

Another component of interest is the magnifier.  I understand that the older magnifier is 8x glass with a grey frame and that at some point, it was replaced with an all-plastic magnifier.  I read that circa 2012-13, the plastic magnifier was replaced with glass and a clear plastic frame.  If this is true, how can I determine what model contains the newest magnifier.  My concerns about the plastic magnifier are derived from user reviews complaining about lack of clarity with the passing of time and some complaints about the durability.  Two of my Explorers and my Champion Plus are equipped with the clear magnifier and work very well as far as I can determine.

Any comments?

Thanks you!

Jim

[jaya_man]

There are no differences between the two model nos. To put it simply, Swisschamp 53501 sold in the Americas is known around the world as Swisschamp 1.6795

The latest catalog even mentions this... top left and bottom right



Based on experience, If your Swisschamp came with the hex handle style mini screwdriver, then chances are, mag glass would be the v.3 one (clear frame, glass lens and 6x magnification)


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[sir_mike]

Regarding the mag lens, I think it did change around 2013-2014 but there is no way to tell which one is on the Swisschamp unless you ask the seller to check prior to purchase.  That is what I do.

I simply ask it the mag lens all plastic molded together or can you move/pop out the lens from the plastic holder?

[NorCalJim]

Thanks so much for clearing things up for me!

I'm ready to make my purchases and look forward to getting my hands on the newest Swisschamp.

 

Although I seldom use either of my Climbers, I love this little emoticon and the way it captures the sheer joy of a SAK owner inspecting a new purchase.

Jim

P.S., Thanks Sir_Mike for the magnifier suggestion!

[sir_mike]

Thanks so much for clearing things up for me!

I'm ready to make my purchases and look forward to getting my hands on the newest Swisschamp.

 

Although I seldom use either of my Climbers, I love this little emoticon and the way it captures the sheer joy of a SAK owner inspecting a new purchase.

Jim

P.S., Thanks Sir_Mike for the magnifier suggestion!

Your welcome Jim.

Don't forget to post a pic of your new Swisschamp when you get one!   

[NorCalJim]

I must be suffering from Swiss Champ fever because I returned to the SAKWiki site for another look at the history of the Swiss Champ document (a link at the bottom of the page to an external document).  This document shows pictures of the original Swiss Champ that replaced the Champion in 1985.  Apparently that model repeated in 1986, after which, it underwent a series of 5 variations.  I mistakenly placed a Swiss Champ that I just purchased at the second variation.  Tonight, I realized that the pliers on the SAK I purchased are the original thin variety (2.5 mm vs 3.0 mm) with no crimp capability.  Looks like I have the original 1985/86 version that replaced the Champion!  I had planned to replace the scales to match the excellent condition of the tools but now I think I will leave the worn and pitted scales alone.  Getting a shiny new copy of the latest Swiss Champ version should help with the fever!

[jaya_man]

Here is a page that can help in dating SAKS:

http://victorinox.metodi.me/91mmtools.php

Bottle cap opener is probably non-locking at 90°, scissors with screws and no hook


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[NorCalJim]

Here is a page that can help in dating SAKS:

http://victorinox.metodi.me/91mmtools.php

Bottle cap opener is probably non-locking at 90°, scissors with screws and no hook


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Thanks for the Link!!!

I've already got it bookmarked.

Jim

[jaya_man]

Here is a page that can help in dating SAKS:

http://victorinox.metodi.me/91mmtools.php

Bottle cap opener is probably non-locking at 90°, scissors with screws and no hook


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Thanks for the Link!!!

I've already got it bookmarked.

Jim