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Conceptual Understanding:
A classic design is not simply defined by how well it functions or its impact.
Classic designs can be recognised as from their design movement/era.
Originality, whether it is evolutionary or revolutionary seems to be the trait that makes a product “timeless”.
The word evolution˜refers to the gradual development or changes in something over a period. The word˜revolution˜means 'a turnaround'— a sudden, complete, or radical change in something
How an image makes a classic design instantly unique and recognisable and also provokes emotional reactions
Within the context of classic design, image relates to the instantly recognisable aesthetics or shape of a particular product. For example, Coca-Cola bottle or Volkswagen Beetle motor car.
Classic designs can provoke emotional reactions. Emotional responses we get from our attachment with Classic Designs. The product becomes part of our life and we start to attach emotions, feelings and experiences to the product.
Classic Designs are defined by the following:
Timeless
When a product that has been in circulation for a long time, such as the Anglepoise lamp is still widely used today. The iPhone is NOT an example of Timeless.
The Clapperboard used in movies is seen as timeless and remains in use/serves as a standard of its time
Iconic
Classic designs are often widely imitated/copied, usually with cheaper versions, so this reinforces the status of the original design and its “iconic” concept.
Status
The iconic status of classic design is often attributed to them being breakthrough products, products that set new standards or new meanings.
Products considered as classic designs often increase in value and can project a certain status as they become more desirable. The ownership of a classic design can increase the perceived status of an individual.
E.g. Status of wearing a Rolex Watch, owning a Porsche 911
Culture
In the context of classic design, culture plays an important part.
They often reflect cultural influences and mark transition points within a particular culture. The culture of concern may be national, religious or a sub-culture, such as a particular youth culture or movement.
E.g. British culture: red letterbox, red double-decker bus, union jack flag and colours, punk, rock, 60's hippies, etc.
It's important to understand the cause and effects, these following factors should help clarify:
How a classic design can defy obsolescence and transcends its original function
Classic designs tend to transcend obsolescence and become desired objects long after they have ceased to be manufactured. It may no longer be viable to produce it commercially. In such circumstances the resale value of existing products increases enormously as the number of products available lessens over time. Such products become very collectable and have investment value, for example, classic cars.
How Mass production has helped products become Classic Designs
For many centuries prior to the Industrial Revolution, “classic” evoked thoughts of artistry and craft skills, for example, classical architecture and furniture. The advent of mass production and “designing for the masses” often meant a reduction in quality of products and poor design. However, once mass production techniques became more established some designers embraced the opportunities offered by the new techniques and materials as a way of providing people with well-designed products at an affordable price due to the cost-effectiveness of production. These products became Design Classics.
How classic designs are dominant in the marketplace and difficult to change
The product becomes embedded in our life. Therefore the demand for the product continues even when new products with better function enter the market. This continued demand for the product when newer alternatives are available afford the product classic design status.
This makes a classic designs often dominant in the marketplace and difficult to change.
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