Founded in 1848, HAMMACHER SCHLEMMER is regarded as one of the oldest mail order retailers in the United States. It first began as a hardware store specializing in high-quality, hard to find products in New York City under the sole ownership of William Tollner, until a German investor and close family friend, Alfred Hammacher invested $5,000 into the company, giving it the name Hammacher & Tollner. It wasn’t until 1867 that his nephew, William Schlemmer, bought out his uncle’s share of the company after arriving from Germany to be employed at the store, thus changing the name to what we are today familiar with as HAMMACHER SCHLEMMER. Upon the changes in ownership, HAMMACHER SCHLEMMER diversified to become more than just a hardware store and carried products from pianos to children’s toys and home appliances to automobiles.
Despite holding the reputation of a catalogue retailer, Hammacher Schlemmer also has a landmark location in New York City. But, their largest catalogue was printed in 1912, panning out to be as long as 1,112 pages. Within their catalogues, HAMMACHER SCHLEMMER would often feature new experimental inventions, for example, the pop-up toaster and the microwave oven. It was, and continues to be, strategic in selling products, considering what will be most appealing to consumers. The catalogue carries award-winning products, as well as the most unique and innovative creations. ChameleonJohn.com offers many Hammacher Schlemmer offers for optimal savings when looking through the infamous catalogue.
Products
HAMMACHER SCHLEMMER takes pride in their slogan “Offering the best, the only and the unexpected for 167 years” but staying true to their words, their catalogue is filled with endless options. They ship internationally, overseas and even duty free to Canada. You can use a Hammacher Schlemmer promotions for many of the products. Their selection includes: