Pipe wrench, also known as Stillson wrench was invented by a mechanic working at the Walworth Company, back in 1869. The mechanic was Daniel C. Stillson. Thus, the tool is called Stillson wrench.

Later, in 1888, a Swedish inventor Johan P. Johansson invented adjustable pipe wrenches.  The reason that invigorated him to invent this version is interesting. Back then, the nuts and bolts size standards were poorly maintained. Often, a mechanic would have to go to a job with a full set of fixed pipe wrenches. So the invention of adjustable pipe wrench that can work with different nut dimensions was a need of the hour