Industrial Design Canon

Mar 19, 2025

Great industrial design isn't just about aesthetics—it's about clarity, functionality, and longevity. These designs have stood the test of time, shaping how we interact with objects in everyday life.



01. 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.

02. Leica M3 Camera – Ernst Leitz II (1954)

The definitive 35mm rangefinder camera, built with precision and engineered for timeless usability.

03. Eames Lounge Chair & Ottoman – Charles & Ray Eames (1956)

A perfect balance of comfort, craftsmanship, and modernism—still one of the most iconic furniture designs.

04. Olivetti Lettera 22 Typewriter – Marcello Nizzoli (1950)

Compact, elegant, and highly portable—favored by writers like Hemingway and Leonard Cohen.

05. iPhone (First Generation) – Apple (2007)

The object that redefined mobile computing—combining phone, internet, and touch interface in one.

06. Vespa 98 Scooter – Piaggio (1946)

A perfect marriage of form and function, its sleek curves and efficiency made it an icon of Italian design.

07. Anglepoise 1227 Lamp – George Carwardine (1932)

The original articulated lamp, designed for balance and adaptability—still a classic in design studios.

08. Sony Walkman TPS-L2 – Sony (1979)

The first truly portable music player, revolutionizing how people listened to music on the go.

09. 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)

One of the most enduring car designs, evolving over decades while maintaining its unmistakable identity.


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.