It all started with the dream of one man, the founder of Ko-ken Tools, Mr. Soichiro Yamashita. As an 18 year old Mr Yamashita moved to the USA where he was discovered by Henry Ford, becoming the first foreign employee of the Ford Motor Company. On his return to Japan Mr Yamashita became the head of General Motors Japan.
In 1946 the Ko-ken Tool Company was born. Mr. Yamashita’s extensive experience and passion allowed him to design and manufacture tools that truly met the needs of the automotive industry. In 1957 Mr Yamashita’s dream came to fruition as Ko-ken began exporting tools and accessories
Mr Yamashita didn’t want to be just another tool company. He wanted to be the best. This philosophy, and commitment to quality still drives the company
Koken's Products are designed and manufactured using the latest technologies such as 3D-CAD, maching centres and computer-controlled heat treatment systems. Their production process, which focusses on extremely high-pressure forging, results in the highest quality hand tools.
