About Us

Gerstner® International: The Legacy and Innovation of Gerstner Craftsmanship

For nearly 120 years, H. Gerstner & Sons has been synonymous with premium American-made wooden chests, meticulously crafted in Dayton, Ohio. Founded by Harry Gerstner in 1906, Gerstner & Sons built its reputation on rigorous quality standards and innovative design, creating a legacy of heirloom-quality tool chests, collectible cases, and specialized storage that has stood the test of time. Generations of craftsmen, hobbyists, and collectors have come to associate the Gerstner name with exceptional craftsmanship, timeless style, and unparalleled durability.

In the early 2000s, Gerstner faced an influx of cheap knockoffs flooding the market, with these low-quality imitations damaging the Gerstner name. Many of these poorly made copies bore a resemblance to Gerstner designs, and customers began associating their lackluster quality with the Gerstner brand itself. Determined to protect its hard-earned reputation, Gerstner sought a way to combat the misconception that all imported products were inherently poor in quality. Thus, in 2004, the Gerstner® International line was born—a line that would set a new standard for imported wood chests while carrying the integrity of the Gerstner name.

The Gerstner International line was not only a response to the knockoffs but a commitment to proving that a good quality wood import chest, worthy of the Gerstner name, could be achieved. Working closely with carefully selected overseas factories, Gerstner developed a line that adheres to the brand’s high standards. The Gerstner team still travels regularly to these factories, maintaining close control over both design and quality. By offering a good quality yet affordable line through Gerstner International, Gerstner has provided a legitimate, trusted alternative to inferior, poorly made imports, reinforcing its reputation for quality and craftsmanship. Over the past 20 years, many of these low-quality competitors have disappeared from the market, unable to compete with the value and durability that Gerstner International offers.

The Vision and Evolution of Gerstner International

The Gerstner International line was introduced with an initial collection crafted from Red Oak; a wood not offered in the USA-made chests and finished in a distinct color exclusive to this line. Red Oak’s durability, strength, and attractive grain made it an ideal choice for the high standards Gerstner International set for itself. In contrast to the USA line, which uses materials such as Quartersawn White Oak, Black Walnut, and American Cherry, Gerstner International products maintain their own look, feel, and purpose, distinguishing themselves with designs specifically suited for the home and office.

Differences Between Gerstner International and Gerstner USA

Gerstner International is not a replacement or replica of the USA-made Gerstner chests but rather a quality brand of its own, with distinct product offerings that do not overlap with the Gerstner USA line. Each line is built to serve different preferences and uses. Gerstner International chests are designed for high volume production, allowing them to be offered at a price-conscious level while still upholding the Gerstner name. Although they are not made to the same stringent standards as the USA-made chests, Gerstner International products are crafted with quality materials, attention to detail, and a commitment to the Gerstner tradition of reliability and durability.

Each Gerstner International chest is backed by the same support team that stands behind all Gerstner products. This ensures that every Gerstner International chest meets the standards our customers have come to expect – quality and durability. 

Please note that Gerstner International products are exclusively available through Authorized Gerstner Dealers, ensuring that each purchase is fully supported and authentic.

Celebrating 20 Years of Gerstner International

As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of Gerstner International, our product line has evolved in response to customer preferences. Originally offered in a lighter Red Oak finish, Gerstner International chests are now available in a new Dark Oak stain with rich brown felt interiors, a style shift that reflects the increasing use of these chests in home settings. Still made with Red Oak hardwood and veneers, this updated look brings a modern elegance to Gerstner International products, making them ideal for home offices, living spaces, and personal collections, all while maintaining the durability needed for workshop use. With this line, we’ve expanded the reach of the Gerstner brand to a wider audience, many of whom go on to seek out our USA-made chests, driving increased appreciation and demand for Gerstner products across the board.

OEM Manufacturing and Private Label Opportunities

In addition to our standard product line, Gerstner International offers OEM manufacturing for large-scale orders, creating custom designs to meet the specifications of our clients. With this capability, we actively seek partnerships for private label branding and have established successful relationships with several satisfied clients. Gerstner International’s OEM services are ideal for companies looking to add customized, high-quality wood storage solutions to their own brand offerings.

A Quality Brand Within the Gerstner Family

Gerstner International remains an accessible way to experience the trusted Gerstner name, offering distinctive styles and versatile storage solutions in a class of their own. While Gerstner International products are crafted differently from the USA-made chests, they are built with the same dedication to quality and thoughtful design that have defined the Gerstner name for over a century.

Whether used as a practical tool chest, an elegant home accessory, or a valued collectible, Gerstner International chests represent a proud extension of Gerstner’s legacy, providing customers with a unique, quality storage solution backed by more than a century of craftsmanship.