100 Years of Okatsune
As this year marks 100 years since Okatsune began we wanted to take a little walk back through history with you to discover who invented the secateur and where they originally came from! So we did a bit of research and found out that the secateur is actually 210 years old itself and dates back to 1815. The secateur has changed a little bit since then but the craft of such a clever design has stood the test of time and is still favoured by most gardeners around the world today.
Who invented the Secateur?
Invented by Bertrand de Molleville, a French aristocrat and former naval minister, in France around 1815, his invention was intended for trimming and pruning plants more effectively than knives or scissors.
Found in the aristocrats gardens around France these tools were being used back then for the same jobs that we all do today, through the years they have been cutting small branches, pruning shrubs and small trees and even harvesting fruit. It is safe to say that secateurs are still an essential tool for any gardener and will be for years to come!
Our 100th Birthday!
Since starting all those years ago we are now renowned among gardeners, landscapers, and horticultural professionals, our Okatsune tools are more than just functional—they’re an extension of Japan’s centuries-old blade-making tradition. Whether it’s their razor-sharp secateurs, precision snips, or powerful hedge shears, Okatsune’s tools are known for their strength, simplicity, and unmatched cutting performance.
But what exactly makes us so special? Let’s dig into our history, craftsmanship, and legacy of our iconic Japanese brand.
A Legacy Forged in Steel
Okatsune was founded in Hiroshima, Japan, and has its roots deeply planted in the blacksmithing traditions of the region, the craft is built on centuries of Japanese sword-making knowledge.
The steel used in Okatsune blades—Izumo Yasugi steel—is the same high-carbon steel once used for making samurai swords. It’s hard, pure, and capable of achieving a level of sharpness that rivals surgical instruments. This material choice is no accident: Okatsune blends ancient metallurgy with modern ergonomic design to create tools that are both durable and effortless to use.
Simplicity is Strength
One of the first things people notice about our Okatsune tools is their minimalist design. Unlike many other tools that feature complex locking systems, adjustable gears, or rubberized handles, we keep things incredibly simple.
Take our No. 103 secateurs, for example:
- A clean, intuitive design with just one blade, one spring, and one handle lock.
- Lightweight and balanced, with red and white handles that aren’t just for show—red for visibility in grass, and white for visibility in soil.
- No bells and whistles—just a perfectly tuned tool that works with your hand, not against it.
This design philosophy reflects the Japanese principle of “shibui”—simple, subtle, and refined.
Sharpness That Lasts
If there’s one word that best describes our Okatsune tools, it’s sharp. Our blades come incredibly sharp out of the box—and more importantly, they stay that way for a long time.
The secret lies in the forging process. We combine hard steel for edge retention with softer steel for flexibility, similar to the structure of traditional katanas. This allows the blade to maintain a fine edge without being brittle.
The result? Cuts that are:
- Clean and precise (which is healthier for plants)
- Effortless (saving your hands and wrists)
- Consistent, even after months of heavy use.
Why we at Okatsune are More Than Just a Brand
In an age of disposable tools and over-engineered gimmicks, we remain a symbol of integrity. Every tool we produce is a reminder that quality, when done right, doesn’t need to shout. It simply works—flawlessly, quietly, and enduringly.
Owning an Okatsune tool isn’t just about gardening; it’s about participating in a legacy of Japanese craftsmanship. It’s about choosing a tool that respects both the hand that uses it and the plant it touches.
