Zwilling J.A. Henckels Vintage 1876 23-Piece Flatware Set, Service for 4

 (49 customer reviews)

This set looks and feels simple, casual, sturdy and classic. The forks and spoons (especially the spoons) are weighty in the hand. They feel like hotel or cruise line flatware, heavy and solid.

The knife is the odd one out, a bit. It feels hollow in the handle. They could have left a little bit more metal inside for weight. However, the shape is so good in the hand, the unexpectedly light weight is soon forgotten. Don't be afraid of the short blade, it puts as much "knife" into the food as you'd use anyway. It cuts nicely and is balanced well enough.

The spoons are notable. They are smooth on the edges and extremely firm, you never have to worry about spooning out ice cream, these handles won't bend.

Another notable: the shine. Most people exaggerate when they say something is polished like a mirror. In this case, it's true. I bought this set for use at beaches and parks but I now use them daily.

The design and heft are worth the money.

I purchased this set of flatware for my sister's family after some research on the premium utensil company of Zwilling JA Henckel. Surprisingly, this company has decided to dilute its image by selling a secondary quality line under the "JA Henckel International" label which is made in China using inferior materials. I had a choice between this (already discounted) set for another set of the "International" brand which held nearly twice as many utensils for a cheaper price, but the numerous negative reviews of the "international" version set me straight - usually complaining of he inability to wash it in the dishwasher without heavy scratching due to the inferior butter-soft quality of the secondary label's stainless steel. So overall, I recommend this product especially over its inferior brethren.

The Vintage silverware by J.A. Henckels is just beautiful. The feel of the silverware when eating is really nice - very smooth and not tinny feel or taste. I like the true antique style of this one.