I think the key to the knife ID is the collar. Does it rotate to lock the blade open like Opinel? If it doesn't rotate & lock; Never Mind. But the Opinel patent of 1955 is centuries later than the design perhaps used on the Nontron. Here is AI's take on the issue:
AI Overview
The Nontron knife features a rotating metal collar (or "virole") that acts as a ring lock, first invented in the 17th century by Parisian master cutler Guillaume Legrand.
Key Characteristics & UseHow It Works: You manually twist the brass or nickel-silver ring over the pivot area when the blade is fully opened. This blocks the blade from closing, keeping your fingers safe.Historical Significance: While it operates similarly to modern rotating rings (like those on an Opinel), the Nontron locking ring predates them by centuries.
Maintenance: Over time, humidity or wood swelling might make the ring lock either too stiff or too loose. If the ring becomes too loose, it can be carefully removed and gently pinched in a vise to re-establish a snug friction fit.
Regards,
Ed
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