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[ BESPOKE / ACCESSORIES ]
DESIGNER METALWORKERS Besenzoni’s products embody the flair and expertise of Made in Italy production. Its series of custom-produced yacht building accessories are the result of a sophisticated alchemy that combines artisanal skill, technological innovation and sleek, essential design by Paola Bertelli
“W
e are metalworkers” is the proud boast of Giorgio Besenzoni,
skippers seats - can be found on yachts throughout the world.
president of Besenzoni Spa. He is well aware, though, that
The company, based in Paratico, in the heart of the Franciacorta
the description is a gross simplification - Besenzoni represents the peak
territory, a region of vineyards and estates, opened its doors to us to
of the industrialised artisanal production that has earned Italy its well-
reveal itself as a company built on concept of total quality. As a result
deserved place among the highest echelons of international manufacture.
it applies strict criteria when selecting suppliers. This degree of care
The company creates accessories of uncompromising quality, based on
also means that many finishing processes are carried out in-house,
design where sophistication is inspired by simplicity. Besenzoni owns 19
even though this may not be the most economical choice. Painting, for
international patents, and its innovative, high-tech products – including
example – the company takes great pride in the results it achieves – and
ladders, gangways, platforms, hatches, balconies, davits, chairs, and
pickling, the process that prepares the pieces for painting and is a crucial
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Besenzoni boasts a catalogue of over 170 products. Its success is based on its ability to personalise the technology and design of its models according to the requirements of owner and yard. Its Unica series also offers unique custom-made products for the superyacht industry
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[ BESPOKE ]
step in the achievement of a perfect finish. “Pickling and painting”,
most complex pieces are designed in collaboration with the yard,
says Giorgio Besenzoni, “Are vital stages in obtaining a surface that is
and in these cases Besenzoni becomes more than just a producer of
aesthetically pleasing while remaining tough and durable. That’s why
accessories, taking on the role of technical consultant to carry out on-
we keep these processes in-house”. The same applies to challenging
site monitoring of installation, testing and trials. The circle is closed by
tasks and delicate machine processes involving, for example, water-
the Customer Service Division, with over 160 operational assistance
jet cutters and a vacuum welding chamber for tungsten and special
and sales units across the world, staffed by technicians selected and
materials.
trained by the company.
When designing its products Besenzoni always bears the owner and
An innovative drive and creative spirit have been part of Besenzoni’s
crew in mind. It also retains a keen awareness of the requirements
DNA for 55 years, since the moment Giogio’s father Giovanni
of the yard that will be installing the company’s creations. The
launched the first platforms, ladders and gangways. These products evolved over the years, becoming hydraulically actuated, and now the company has embraced electric power with the Be-Electric line. “In recent years there has been a powerful generational handover in the company, and the young people who have stepped up have generated significant added value. Their training and familiarity with the digital world are great assets for us. Take, for example, the speed with which we organised smart working during 2020, the idea of Bluetooth control of gangways and stairs, new production planning and our new design software”. The company is constantly evolving, with over seven collections and 170 products in its catalogue, plus the custom-made equipment created by the Unica division, established to serve the superyacht industry with products like disappearing doors, aft hatches with special opening systems, multi-function platforms, drop-down balconies and personalised gangways - successful solutions to the constant challenge to find the right way to fulfil the requirements of owner, yard and designers every time, for every yacht.
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Above, left, the SP 603ladder/gangway and right, the P400 Matrix pilot chair by the Unica brand. Below, the PI 890 retracting, rotating gangway. Opposite page, an opening sunroof and below, the LP 200 ladder/platform
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