A century of innovation
1920s
The first years
In 1923, two young engineers, Josef Strausak and Wilhelm Arber, establish the partnership that will one day become Strausak.
Operating out of a small workshop on Josef Strausak’s farm, the company originally specialises in producing creating equipments parts for the local watch industry.
1923
Strausak+Arber Maschinen-Fabric is founded in Lohn
1927
Development of its first proprietary machine, for gear-cutting
1930s
Innovation & expansion
Increasing demand from the watch industry pushes Strausak to innovate, with the company releasing multiple proprietary machines over the decade. This technological edge allows Strausak to expand internationally, with the first international orders coming in 1932.
1932
Strausak launches its first grinding machine
1932
First international customers
1940s
Overcoming turmoil
While war and chaos engulf the rest of Europe, Strausak benefits from the relative strength and stability of the Swiss market, continuously expanding over the decade. Following the passing of both company founders, the company modernises its structure, anticipating the challenges of a rapidly changing world.
1943
The company name is changed to Strausak & Cie
1946
Major extension of the production facilities
1948
Death of company founder Josef Strausak
1950s
Diversifying the business
Facing a decrease in demand from the watch sector, the company expands into instrument-making with new, more adaptive machines, and even ventures into fruit packaging.
1951
Launch of the Type 119 double roller burnishing machine. Over 3000 units sold over 46 years.
1952
New extension of the production facilities
1955
New packaging machine for the fruit and vegetable industry
1960s
Technological & Commercial breakthroughs
The company diversification strategy pays off, with rapid growth forcing the company to expand its manufacturing plant several times over the decade. Demand is global, with Strausak being one of the first companies to export to the People’s Republic of China in 1969.
1962
Launch of the Type 30 series hobbing machines. Over 2600 units sold over 35 years.
1969
First machines exported to the PRC
1969
Launch of a postcard vending machine
1970s
Foray into tool-making
As the quartz revolution continues to affect the watch industry, Strausak continues to diversify, launching its first automated machines and acquiring the licensing rights for a universal and tool grinding machine, a precursor of the machines it produces today.
1971
Development of the first numerical controlled machine
1972
Introduction of the first tool grinding machine
1973
The company celebrates its 50th anniversary
1975
STRAUSAK set up new representative offices worldwide
1978
Delivery of 16 units of ceramic grinding machines to IBM
1980s
Digitalization and Automation
The launch of several CNC machines during the decade marks a turning point for Strausak. New levels were attained in precision, versatility, and ease of use, enabling the company to attract new, larger customers like Krupp or Philips.
1980
Launch of the Type 81 CNC Ceramic Grinding Machine
1987
First NUM unit installed on a Strausak machine
1990s
A specialist in tool-making
Following the sale of its watch division, Strausak was able to focus exclusively on developing modern tool-making machines. This helped the company weather a weak economy and multiple restructuring efforts.
1990
Launch of the Type 91 CNC machine, or Fleximat, compatible with both IBM and NUM software
1996
Strausak sells its watch division
1999
The company is sold to PRO KMU, an investment firm
2000s
Saved by its customers
Following a failed takeover by an investment firm, the company is rescued by a descendant of the founder. Thanks to the support of loyal Strausak customers, maintenance and repair operations on old equipment help finance the development of a new generation of machines.
2002
Erwin Strausak rescues Strausak from bankruptcy
2010s
A new beginning/era Geared for growth
The acquisition of Strausak by ROLLOMATIC, a world leader in industrial machines, sets the company on a sustainable path for growth. New machines and a strong culture of service help the company reconquer past customers, and aim for new global opportunities.
2011
Strausak AG is bought by ROLLOMATIC
2013
Launch of the U-grind machine
2015
The new W-dress machine is awarded a Reddot Design Award
2016
Integration of Stäubli robot
2020s
Always Adapting
2021
The new STRAUSAK ONE set a new reference in the tool production industry
2023
A Centennial of Strausak.
We celebrate a century providing modern & innovative technology along with world class service