The History of TOPLICHT

Are you looking for the best for your ship? For the classic vessel or the modern yacht? Then you’ve come to the right place. We know from decades of experience what is truly needed on ships. Good materials—durable, aging gracefully, and reliable. And ideally, also beautiful. Take a look into the history of TOPLICHT. You’ll see how the expertise that helps us support you with all your questions today was developed.

The Late 70s: The Era of "Projects"

"Where do the fine ash blocks come from?” “Where can I find copper rivets?” “Do you have Marineglue?” The late 70s were the era of "projects." Old ships were rediscovered and restored with passion. People reconnected with their maritime heritage. Good materials were desperately sought.

Michael Thönnessen, co-founder of the Museum Harbor Oevelgönne in Hamburg, became known as a resourceful tinkerer. He sourced what the classic ship scene needed. Initially for friends and enthusiasts, but soon for a larger customer base. What began as a favor at the kitchen table developed into a business idea in 1980 (today we might call it a "startup"). Since 1981, this has been known as “TOPLICHT Ship Supplies for Traditional Sailing Ships.”

In the 80s, there was no all-knowing Internet. Searching for manufacturers and suppliers was a task for persistent sleuths. Sources were found that produced items for traditional ships, all around the world—from the small blacksmith in Funen to the bronze foundry in New Zealand, from the fittings manufacturer in the Sauerland to the Dutch paint factory. Ship nails, shackles, oil stoves, lamps, and kerosene lanterns, blocks, and ropes: all the unique items that couldn’t be found elsewhere and were coveted by shipowners, craftsmen, and shipyards.