The ALPINE "Hurricane" snow ski represents a rare example of mid-20th century ski manufacturing linked to the SUWE company, founded by Siegmund Werner in Vienna, Austria. This New Old Stock (NOS) ski is a highly collectible piece, notable for its quality construction and historical significance within the vintage ski market. Although currently sold and archived for reference, it remains a valuable point of interest for collectors and historians alike.
Brand and Model Context
SUWE was an Austrian company established around 1931 by Siegmund (also spelled Sigmund) Werner, who specialized in metal products for sporting goods, particularly ski bindings and related equipment. The name "Suwe" is likely a contraction of Werner’s name. While the company held numerous patents for ski bindings, it appears that the ALPINE "Hurricane" skis were produced by an external ski factory, possibly in the late 1950s.
The "Hurricane" model name is of particular interest, as it is a term more commonly used in North America and the Caribbean, rather than Europe where terms like cyclone or typhoon prevail. This suggests the skis were designed or marketed primarily for the North American market. There is some ambiguity regarding the manufacturing location; although SUWE was based in Austria, the skis are not marked as Austrian products and may have been produced in Canada. This theory is supported by historical records indicating that Siegmund Werner spent the World War II years (1939-1947) in Canada, possibly due to his Jewish heritage and the political climate in Europe at the time. Canadian patents in his name and advertisements in the Canadian Jewish Chronicle from 1944 further support this connection.
The SUWE company does not appear in records after approximately 1969, and the "Hurricane" skis are extremely rare, especially in unmounted condition. The skis are associated with high-quality craftsmanship, featuring lacquered bases and a top skin made from premium veneer. The skis are over 210cm in length, aligning with the long-ski category and are considered investment-grade by collectors.
Condition and Details
This ALPINE "Hurricane" ski is offered as New Old Stock (NOS), meaning it remains in factory condition, never drilled or mounted. The skis retain their original lacquered bases and high-quality veneer topskin, which are indicative of the meticulous manufacturing standards of the period. The skis have never been used, making them museum-quality artifacts and highly sought after by collectors interested in pre-war and post-war ski equipment.
These skis are constructed from premium materials including ash and hickory wood, with bamboo poles often paired in sets from this era. The skis are designed for downhill racing and giant slalom disciplines, reflecting their intended use in competitive skiing. The "Hurricane" model is linked to the legacy of Siegmund Werner and his contributions to ski technology, particularly in bindings and race ski design.
Given the rarity and historical significance of this model, the ALPINE "Hurricane" ski is considered a valuable addition to any vintage ski collection, especially for those focusing on Olympic, champion, or classic race skis. Its undrilled condition and factory wrap status further enhance its appeal as an investment-grade collectible.
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