Robert Slezák

A trained locksmith originally from Bystřice pod Hostýnem, he founded a small locksmith's workshop in his hometown in 1908 for common locksmith products, furniture and building fittings, the so-called Slezák factory. The workshop grew rapidly, production was first expanded with the popular brass fittings, and new galvanic plating technology was introduced in the new premises. In 1911, he was one of the first manufacturers to provide a galvanic coating of copper, nickel and chromium on the surface of products. From 1913, the production of metal chairs and brass furniture began, especially beds, tables and chairs according to their own designs in a combination of metal and wood. The original Slezák plants were part of the Kovona company after 1948, and since 1992 it has been called Kovonax.