SNR Bearings – A Legacy Forged with a Blacksmith’s Hammer
The history of SNR dates back to the late 19th century when Jacques Shmid, a Swiss blacksmith, established his workshop in Annecy, France. Recognising the potential of modern transportation, Shmid began manufacturing rolling bearings in 1916, initially catering to the French army during World War I.
After the war, the company expanded, supplying ball bearings to the rapidly growing automotive and aviation industries. Over time, SNR products became widely used by manufacturers across France and gained recognition among mechanics throughout Europe.
In 2010, SNR merged with the Japanese NTN corporation, forming NTN-SNR, one of the world’s largest rolling bearing manufacturers. Today, SNR operates as a prominent brand in Europe, Africa, and the Americas.
From the hammer of a Swiss blacksmith to its position as a global leader, SNR’s journey reflects its dedication to quality and innovation.
SNR Products – Comprehensive Automotive Bearing Solutions
SNR manufactures a full range of bearings and bearing components found in modern vehicles. These include wheel bearings, MacPherson strut mounts, engine bearings, and gearbox bearings. The product line also features pulleys, rollers, and tensioners for V-belts and timing belts.
SNR products are especially popular among mechanics specialising in rear axle beam repairs for Citroën and Peugeot vehicles. Many of these models are equipped with rear beams featuring torsion bars mounted on needle bearings.
Worn needle bearings can cause stability and comfort issues, a common problem that has led to the emergence of specialist workshops dedicated to repairing such suspensions. These workshops often choose SNR products to ensure durability and reliability, meeting customer expectations.
Given its origins, SNR products are the most widely available for French vehicles. However, the range extends beyond French brands to include bearings for most popular European, Japanese, Korean, and American car models. For French classics from the 1970s and 80s, SNR offers tailored solutions that cater to vintage vehicle enthusiasts.
SNR – Products You Can Trust
Leveraging experience in automotive, aerospace, railway, and industrial bearing design, SNR products stand out for their use of cutting-edge production methods and materials.
SNR brand products are renowned for meticulous quality control, a legacy enhanced by the influence of its Japanese partners. SNR was the first in the industry to receive ISO 9001 certification. Combining European innovation and Japanese precision, SNR embodies a unique industrial culture that ensures exceptional product quality.
While often overlooked, bearings are vital components that enable most car systems to function smoothly. By choosing SNR products, you ensure long-lasting reliability, enhancing your vehicle’s overall performance.
SNR prioritises innovation, ensuring that its bearings surpass the quality of those originally installed in your vehicle. Advanced materials, surface hardening techniques, and anti-friction coatings combine to create state-of-the-art bearings that meet the highest standards.
Trusted by a growing number of individual and corporate clients, SNR bearings are also favoured by automotive manufacturers for first-fit installations in passenger and commercial vehicles worldwide.