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Own a piece of Benchmade history with this Feb. 2003 690 Prototype, a rare and highly collectible example of one of the company’s most iconic series. The Benchmade 690 is a legendary piece of "Neo-traditional" design by Allen Elishewitz. This knife stands out with stunning carbon fiber wood handles and vibrant blue liners, a combination that is both visually striking and exceptionally uncommon. As a prototype, it represents a moment in Benchmade’s design evolution, blending form and function. The classic clip-point blade, smooth thumb-stud deployment, and secure modified liner lock deliver the craftsmanship Benchmade is known for, while the unique materials and limited production make this a knife unlike any standard 690. This particular piece comes from a personal collection of Benchmade prototypes and samples, giving it an added layer of provenance without compromising its pristine condition. Carefully preserved and never used, it is collector-grade and ready to be displayed or added to a high-end Benchmade collection. This knife is for enthusiasts who value rarity, craftsmanship, and historical significance.
While the standard 690 was part of theBlue Classfrom 2001–2005, ThisFebruary 2003 Prototypewas produced during a "refresh" period. Benchmade was testing the tolerances of thevibrant blue anodizedtitaniumlinersagainst the carbon fiber transition.The "vibrant blue" on this prototype is a hallmark of Benchmade's early 2000s "premium" experimentation, which eventually influenced the high-endGold Classaesthetic.Allen Elishewitz is one of the "Big Three" early Benchmade collaborators (alongside Osborne and McHenry/Williams). His 690 design is famous for itscontoured handles.Prototypes from this era were typically made in runs of only15–50 pieces.
