Original Item. Only One Available. This is a very attractive early-production German First Model Luftwaffe Fliegerdolch, also known as the Borddolch, manufactured by Waffenfabrik Max Weyersberg of Solingen and complete with its matching blue leather-covered scabbard, OLC-marked chain suspension, and silver-colored portepee. Introduced in 1934, this distinctive dagger pattern was originally intended for qualified German aviation personnel and was subsequently adopted into the uniform traditions of the newly established Luftwaffe. The present example displays the characteristic early configuration, with metal fittings, separately inset sunwheel swas. emblems, and the original-pattern chain suspension

The dagger retains its impressive, straight double-edged nickel-plated blade, with a pronounced central medial ridge and four long polished surfaces tapering toward an acute spear point. The blade's geometric lines remain well defined, and the original manufacturer's marking is deeply stamped near the base:

WMW
WAFFEN

This is the distinctive trademark of Waffenfabrik Max Weyersberg, an established Solingen edged-weapon manufacturer. The compact two-line stamped marking is particularly attractive and remains clearly legible.

The hilt is constructed around a shaped wooden grip covered in dark blue leather and wound with a continuous spiral of twisted silver-colored wire. The leather has developed a dark, nearly black appearance through age and handling, with portions of the underlying wooden grip exposed along the raised sections. The grip is enclosed by substantial silver-colored metal fittings, including the rounded pommel and distinctive downward-sweeping crossguard. Both fittings incorporate circular, separately inset sunwheel swas. emblems, retaining their raised central designs and traces of their original gilt-toned appearance. The crossguard is particularly characteristic of this early pattern, with broad, stepped wings sweeping outward from the central medallion and terminating in gently upturned tips.

The accompanying scabbard has a metal body covered in dark blue pebbled leather, fitted with a rounded ball tip and three silver-colored metal mounts. The mounts have shaped, scalloped edges where they meet the leather covering, while the upper and center fittings support the two suspension rings. Attached to these rings is the characteristic double-chain hanger, consisting of interconnected oval metal links converging at the suspension assembly and terminating in a spring clip for attachment to the uniform belt. The reverse of the clip retains two important period markings:

GES. GESCH.
OLC (within a diamond)

The OLC diamond trademark identifies Overhoff & Cie. of Lüdenscheid, an established German manufacturer of military metal fittings and uniform accessories. The accompanying GES. GESCH. inscription abbreviates Gesetzlich Geschützt, meaning "legally protected," and refers to the protected design of the suspension fitting.

Completing the dagger is an attached silver-colored Portepee, wrapped around the upper grip immediately beneath the crossguard. It is constructed from braided metallic cord and terminates in a substantial, tightly woven acorn-shaped knot with a decorative collar. The portepee remains securely tied in place, contributing considerably to the dagger's complete ceremonial appearance.

The dagger remains in very good overall condition, displaying genuine age and handling wear while retaining its important early-pattern features. The blade retains its bright nickel-plated finish and strong geometric definition, with scattered fine surface scratches, longitudinal runner marks, and localized spotting and shallow pitting near the maker's stamp. The tip remains intact, and the marking is sharply legible. The hilt fittings retain a mellow silver-gray patina, with scattered oxidation, small marks, and wear to the original finish. Both sunwheel emblems remain present and well defined, with much of their original gilded surface now worn and toned.

The grip displays the most significant wear, with considerable rubbing and localized losses to the dark blue leather covering along the raised spiral sections, exposing the brown wooden core beneath. The decorative wire winding remains in place throughout the grip, and its twisted detail is still clearly defined. The scabbard retains its textured blue leather covering, showing light abrasions, small scuffs, and minor age-related surface wear. The metal mounts are substantially intact and exhibit scattered scratches, tarnishing, and localized finish wear. The chain suspension retains its links and spring clip, including the clearly preserved markings. The silver-colored portepee has developed an even gray-gold age tone, with mild wear and darkening to the metallic threads, while its braided cord and tightly formed knot remain in very good condition.

Blade Length: 12 1/8" [30.8 cm]
Dagger Overall Length: 18" [45.7 cm]
Scabbard Length: 13 1/8" [33.3 cm]
Overall Length with Scabbard: 19" [48.3 cm]

Historical Context

The First Model Luftwaffe dagger, known in German as the Fliegerdolch or Borddolch, originated during the early reorganization of German military aviation. It was formally introduced on February 17, 1934, for flying officers (Fliegendes Führerpersonal) and qualified pilots among the NCO and enlisted ranks (Fliegendes Unterpersonal). Eligibility was linked to flying qualifications, making the dagger an important distinction within Germany's developing aviation service.

At the time of its introduction, Germany was still subject to the military restrictions imposed by the Treaty of Versailles, which prohibited the country from maintaining a military air force. Nevertheless, German authorities had already begun rebuilding aviation capabilities through civilian and paramilitary organizations. The Deutscher Luftsport-Verband (DLV), established in March 1933, played an important role in organizing aviation training and preparing personnel for the future military air arm. Within this environment, the Fliegerdolch became part of the emerging uniform regulations for German aviation personnel.

The Reichsluftfahrtministerium (RLM), or Reich Air Ministry, was established in May 1933 under Hermann Göring and oversaw the expansion of German aviation. This process accelerated following AH's rise to power, with considerable resources directed toward aircraft production, pilot training, and the organization of military flying units. On March 1, 1935, the Luftwaffe was formally established, and its existence was publicly announced later that month. The earlier aviation organizations provided much of the personnel and institutional structure upon which the new service was built.

The Fliegerdolch continued in use following this transition and became one of the earliest distinctive dress sidearms associated with the Luftwaffe. Its authorization reflected the importance placed upon the status of trained flying personnel during the service's formative years. Officers and qualified airmen wore the dagger as part of prescribed service and dress uniform arrangements, suspended from the waist by its distinctive chain hanger. The dagger's purpose was ceremonial and representational, identifying the wearer with Germany's military aviation establishment.

The introduction of a new Luftwaffe Officer's Dagger on July 15, 1937, marked the next significant development in the service's edged-weapon regulations. Beginning October 1, 1937, the new pattern superseded the earlier Fliegerdolch for the officer categories covered by the regulations. The new dagger accompanied the increasingly standardized appearance of Luftwaffe officer uniforms as the service expanded rapidly during the late 1930s.

The First Model consequently represents a short but particularly interesting chapter in German aviation history. Its development began during the period of concealed military rearmament, continued through the public establishment of the Luftwaffe in 1935, and extended into the first years of the service's formal existence. Its early authorization, association with flying qualifications, and relatively brief period as the principal aviation dagger give the pattern a distinct place in the history of German military dress and ceremonial edged weapons.