Celebrating 120 years, Weiser marks a significant milestone in its storied history, reflecting a legacy of transformative advancements in home security. From pioneering the first electronic lock to developing the rapid rekeying SmartKey technology, Weiser has consistently set the standard in residential door locks. This anniversary not only honors a remarkable journey through technological milestones and industry shifts but also highlights Weiser's enduring commitment to adapting to and shaping the future of home security. Let’s delve into the incredible journey of Weiser.
Early beginnings (1904-1945):
Weiser was founded in 1903 as a family-owned foundry in Los Angeles, California, manufacturing decorative handle sets and other trim. Early on, Weiser's locks gain recognition in films, highlighting their craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal. In the 1930s, during the Great Depression, Weiser diversifies into specialty casting for the movie industry and begins producing a lock line. The company also takes on defense contracts during WWII, manufacturing essential brass fittings for military use, earning the designation as a "War Production Manufacturer”.
Post-War Growth and Expansion (1946-1960s):
In 1946, Fred Russell, David Weiss, and Phil Meltzer bought Weiser Manufacturing Company for $45,000 and renamed it Weiser Lock. By 1952-1954, Fred and Frank Russell expanded to Vancouver, B.C., setting up Weiser Canada and later a 100,000 sq. ft. facility in Burnaby, B.C., with the first tray and trim assembly line. By 1960, Weiser Lock had expanded internationally, establishing profitable operations across Europe, Belgium, Singapore, Spain, North Africa, and the Philippines, and setting up sales distribution centers globally, excluding Russia and China.
Innovations and Acquisitions (1967-2003):
In 1967, Fred Russell sold Weiser Lock to Norris Industries for $12.9 million, enhancing its global presence in the lock industry. Norris Industries, based in Los Angeles and employing 10,000 people across 18 plants in the U.S. and Canada, further strengthened Weiser's position with a new 504,000 sq. ft. facility in Huntington Beach, CA, built in 1976. By 1981, Weiser Canada had introduced the dual-latch entrance set, followed by the WeiserBolt and FalconBolt in 1984, which simplified lock technology. That year, Masco Corporation acquired Weiser, adding it to its portfolio of brands.
Between 1995 and 1996, Weiser continued innovating with the Brilliance Anti-Tarnish Finish and the Powerbolt Keyless Home Access System, which featured a touchpad electronic deadbolt. The Prestige Series, launched in 1997, brought high-end forged brass products, while a new 285,000 sq. ft. facility in Nogales, Mexico was established in 2000. The expansion continued in 2001 with new products and styles. In 2003, Black & Decker Corporation acquired Weiser Lock, integrating it into their global portfolio of home improvement products
Modern Advancements (2007-2024):
In 2007, Weiser Lock transformed the industry with its SMART Series, introducing SmartKey for rapid rekeying and SmartScan biometric technology for keyless entry via fingerprint scans. By 2010, Stanley’s acquisition of Black & Decker marked a phase of expansion and diversification.
Spectrum Brands then acquired Weiser Lock in 2012, integrating it into a new Hardware & Home Improvement portfolio. In 2017, Weiser launched Premis, its first Apple HomeKit™-compatible smart lock, offering Siri-controlled convenience and advanced security features like SecureScreen™ and updated SmartKey technology. The Halo Touch lock debuted in 2022, accompanied by the Smarter Kind of Simple campaign featuring Adam Savage to promote the latest in biometric and SmartKey innovations. In 2023, ASSA ABLOY Group acquired Weiser, enhancing its global access solutions with advancements in biometrics and mobile security.
As Weiser celebrates 120 years, this journey through history stands as a testament to the relentless pursuit of excellence in home security and innovation. The rich legacy of growth and adaptation not only highlights Weiser’s pivotal role in shaping the industry but also reaffirms the commitment to leading with cutting-edge solutions. Looking to the future, Weiser remains dedicated to pioneering new advancements, ensuring that it continues to provide the highest standards of security and innovation for generations to come.
