- Founded
- 1898
- Based in
- Cologne, Germany
- Known for
- Original, Essential
The house
About Rimowa
Rimowa was founded in Cologne in 1898 as a luggage maker. In 1937 it made its first aluminium suitcase, and the parallel grooves that became its signature were added in 1950.
Today the house makes aluminium cases, such as the Original, and lighter polycarbonate cases, such as the Essential. Sizes run from Cabin, made for the aircraft cabin, to the larger Check-In and Trunk sizes. Each listing states the condition grade and what comes with the piece.
Available now
Rimowa Pieces
3/3 Products
Signature models
Known For
Original
The grooved aluminium suitcase, the house's best-known design.
Essential
The lighter polycarbonate suitcase, made in many colours.
Cabin
The size made to fit an aircraft cabin; the larger sizes are called Check-In and Trunk.
Buying guide
What To Look At
General points worth checking on any Rimowa piece. Each listing adds the specifics: condition grade, what is included and any flaws.
01
Aluminium takes dents and scratches with travel; check the corners and that the case closes squarely.
02
Check that the wheels turn freely, the handle extends and locks, and the locks work.
03
Sizes are named rather than numbered: Cabin for carry-on, then Check-In and Trunk.
Questions
Rimowa Answered
What is the difference between Rimowa Original and Essential?
The Original is made of grooved aluminium, the house's classic material. The Essential is made of polycarbonate, which is lighter and more flexible, and comes in many colours.
How does Luxury Club authenticate Rimowa pieces?
Every piece is physically inspected by our specialists before it is listed: construction, hardware, materials and markings are checked against what is expected of the maker and the era. Nothing is approved from photographs alone, and every sale includes a Certificate of Authenticity documenting what was verified on that specific piece.
