Industrial Design Canon

Great industrial design—clarity, functionality, and longevity in everyday objects

  1. Braun SK 4 Radio-Phonograph (“Snow White’s Coffin”) – Dieter Rams & Hans Gugelot (1956) Minimal, functional, and beautiful—this record player set the template for modern consumer electronics.

  2. Leica M3 Camera – Ernst Leitz II (1954) The definitive 35mm rangefinder camera, built with precision and engineered for timeless usability.

  3. Eames Lounge Chair & Ottoman – Charles & Ray Eames (1956) A perfect balance of comfort, craftsmanship, and modernism—still one of the most iconic furniture designs.

  4. Olivetti Lettera 22 Typewriter – Marcello Nizzoli (1950) Compact, elegant, and highly portable—favored by writers like Hemingway and Leonard Cohen.

  5. iPhone (First Generation) – Apple (2007) The object that redefined mobile computing—combining phone, internet, and touch interface in one.

  6. Vespa 98 Scooter – Piaggio (1946) A perfect marriage of form and function, its sleek curves and efficiency made it an icon of Italian design.

  7. Anglepoise 1227 Lamp – George Carwardine (1932) The original articulated lamp, designed for balance and adaptability—still a classic in design studios.

  8. Sony Walkman TPS-L2 – Sony (1979) The first truly portable music player, revolutionizing how people listened to music on the go.

  9. Swiss Railway Clock – Hans Hilfiker (1944) A simple, bold, and legible clock design that became the standard for clarity and punctuality.

  10. Porsche 911 – Ferdinand “Butzi” Porsche (1964) A timeless sports car design that has evolved but maintained its essential character for over 50 years.

Honorable Mentions

  • Muji CD Player – Naoto Fukasawa (1999) – Minimalist, wall-mounted, designed to disappear into its environment.
  • Fiskars Orange-Handled Scissors (1967) – The most ergonomic and widely used scissors in history.
  • Rolex Submariner (1953) – The standard for dive watches, blending function with timeless luxury.
  • Nintendo Game Boy (1989) – The first truly portable gaming device that became a cultural phenomenon.
  • Dyson Cyclone Vacuum (1993) – Transformed vacuum design by eliminating bags and maximizing efficiency.

What Makes These Designs Legendary?

  • They solve real problems elegantly.
  • They have remained relevant, often for decades.
  • They balance form and function, simplicity and innovation.