The pioneers in 1924
The beginnings of the ÉCLAIR® zipper
This famous zipper, born in the United States in the 19th century, only arrived in France in 1924. In 1891, Whitcomb Judson, now considered the inventor of the zipper, created the first prototype that fastened using hooks and eyelets.
In its early days, the ÉCLAIR® ZIPPER was quite simple, but it has been refined over time to become a sophisticated product, adapted to different uses. Gradually, the zipper became an essential accessory, not only in fashion or leather goods, but also in furniture and many other sectors at the forefront of innovation.
Timeline
Over time
Wilhelm Prym establishes himself as a goldsmith in Aix-la-Chapelle.
An American named Elias Howe files a patent for his invention, which was not commercialized at the time. The purpose of his invention consisted of a series of clasps, connected by a moving link. The beginnings of the zipper were born.
First patent for snap fasteners.
Whitcomb Judson creates the first prototype that fastens using hooks and eyelets and is now considered the inventor of the zipper.
Young Gideon Sundback finds a solution to eliminate the hooks, which improves the use of the zipper and opens the door for its introduction into all fields of application.
Introduction of the zipper in fashion: bodices, baby clothes, high-end.
Exploitation of Sundback's patent in France, with the creation of the Eclair company.
Birth of the nylon zipper. With metal having become scarce after World War II, this new solution is nothing less than a revolution.
Jumbo 747, the largest nylon zipper
Creation of a joint venture between the Prym Fashion group and the Bonduel Industrie group: birth of Eclair Prym.
100% integration of Eclair Prym into the Prym Fashion group.
Global player.
At the forefront of innovation
ÉCLAIR® today
Today, ÉCLAIR® asserts its role as a pioneer at the forefront of innovation. The company designs much more than simple accessories: it develops complete solutions around zippers and complementary accessories, with mastery of the manufacturing of each component.
ÉCLAIR® serves a wide diversity of markets and uses. Its solutions are present in fashion, furniture, leather goods, automotive, workwear, sports, footwear, military or haberdashery. This diversity reflects a positioning based on technical expertise, adaptability and quality requirements.
The brand’s promise is based on clearly stated values: quality, creativity, service and innovation. These principles permeate the entire production process and guide the development of both standard and custom solutions.
A technical partner for your most specific projects
Quality and expertise
For decades, ÉCLAIR® has put its expertise at the service of zippers designed to meet the requirements of professionals. Through mastery of its know-how, the quality of its finishes and its ability to offer solutions adapted to many uses, the brand has established itself as a recognized reference. More than a manufacturer, ÉCLAIR® embodies a true technical heritage, where every detail counts to guarantee reliability, precision and consistency.
