Aemmitaler Oergeli Manufaktur

The accordion from the Emmental region since 1966

The history of Aemmitaler Oergeli Manufaktur

Over the decades, Aemmitaler Oergeli Manufaktur has established itself as a major player in the construction of Schwyzerörgeli. Its beginnings date back to Rudolf Reist, who was born in Sumiswald in the Emmental region in 1926. Even as a child, he developed a fascination for the Schwyzerörgeli. With curiosity and craftsmanship, he took apart his first instrument to understand how it was constructed, thus laying the foundation for his later work.

In the 1960s, Rudolf Reist founded his first workshop in Wasen. There, he crafted Schwyzerörgeli with great care from selected tonewoods and fitted them with specially made porcelain buttons. The high quality and clear sound of the instruments quickly made them famous. Production rose to 250 instruments per year, supported by a growing team and a well-organized workshop.

In 1974, his son Fritz Reist joined the company, followed by other employees such as Peter Wisler. The next generation brought new ideas, but remained true to the tried-and-tested principles of craftsmanship. In 1987, Rudolf Reist and his team handed over responsibility to Fritz Reist and Peter Wisler, who also established a trade in used Schwyzerörgeli.

Since 2018, Hans Ulrich Wermuth has continued the manufacture under the name "Aemmitaler-Oergeli Manufaktur" with the same proven quality. The instruments stand for precision and a deep connection to the Swiss folk music tradition. The manufacture combines individual advice, craftsmanship expertise, and musical passion.