Phaidon Design Classics

Phaidon Design Classics is an impressive three volume collection of classic design objects. 999 industrially manufactured products have been carefully selected by a group of experts ranging from Airplanes to Egg Cups to Motorcycles to Televisions to Watches.

Phaidon actually shipped the tomes to us from Europe and we were so impressed that we asked some of the kids who sit in the office space we share to pick their fave products:

861 – Spine Chair By Andre Dubrieuil
"An interesting interpretation of the spine produces a pleasing marriage of art and anatomy.  Probably more uncomfortable to sit in than it looks, especially if the person has back problems." Sara B (link)

237 – The Spitfire
"It’s said that great design affects the way we live our lives, in this case it affected the outcome of the WWII. Developed, tested & into production in such a short period of time without it the world may have been a dramatically different place." Chris W (link)

807 – Maglite
"I don’t know what it is about this thing – you will only need one because it is built to last forever, but for some reason I have about six. Every time I see one at a store, I can’t help but convince myself that I need another. I’m currently working on creating a lighting fixture using a bunch of the smaller ones." Ryan V (link)

042 – Acme Thunderer
"The sound of the referee. Its sound conjures up some of the best & worst footballing moments whether it be hanging from brian glover’s neck in one of my favorite movie scenes ever from Kes, to signaling the end of the game when england beat belgium in the quarter finals 1990 world cup after extra time." Chris W (link)

582 – Max Bill Wristwatch
"This wristwatch by Junghans is a great representation of the aesthetic of a bygone era. Historically Junghans is one of the first companies to invite popular artists and product designers for a collaborative piece, which today is a very common occurrence. Its humble design having only the most necessary tick marks and elements showcase a classic elegance and sophistication that are hard to find these days. The Phrase “they don’t make them like they used to” comes to mind when you see a Max Bill watch." Gino R (link)

118 – Rawplugs
"I never knew someone actually designed these. I just thought they were there from the beginning with the snake, the apple and that couple. should be and on the 7th days god did a bit of D.I.Y – indispensable." Chris W (link)

Phaidon Design Classics On Amazon