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Objects From the Past n°4

Objects From the Past n°4

Classic objects that are making a comeback

August 08, 2024

Hi friends 👋

Welcome to this week’s installment of The Midmod Corner.

Isn't it funny how everything old becomes new again? Just when you thought some objects were firmly in the past, they're making a comeback!

Would you like to see more deep dives into vintage objects like these? If so, just reply to this email—I'm thinking of making it a regular series.

In the meantime, let’s dive into this week’s content.

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The Story 🗞️

Classic Designs Making a Stylish Comeback

Some designs are clever, some are beautiful, and some become an essential part of our daily lives. When these three qualities come together, they create timeless pieces that never really go out of style. Even decades later, some objects from the late 1900s remain just as relevant today as they were back then, continuing to influence our everyday lives.

Magazine Rack by Giotto Stoppino

In the digital age, the humble magazine rack might seem outdated, overshadowed by the rise of digital communication. However, as more people seek ways to unplug and enjoy moments away from screens, coffee table books have made a comeback, replacing endless social media scrolling. Enter the Magazine Rack by Giotto Stoppino, a masterclass in functional design. This elegant holder designed in 1972 features six spacious compartments and exemplifies the blend of form and function.

Ring-A-Date Perpetual Calendar

As we shifted to digital organization, our connection to physical representations of time began to fade. But perpetual calendars are finding their way back into our lives, serving as both practical tools and stylish design elements. The Ring-A-Date Calendar by Giorgio Della Beffa, a standout from the 1970s, is one of the most popular choices today, offering a tangible and timeless way to track the days.

Chemex Coffee Maker

The hourglass-shaped Chemex coffee maker, beloved by pour-over enthusiasts, was invented by Dr. Peter Schlumbohm in 1941. Inspired by glass labware and Bauhaus design, Schlumbohm created a simple yet effective piece, featuring a wood collar secured with a rawhide tie for easy handling. Today, the Chemex remains a favorite and is even featured in the permanent collections of MoMA, the Brooklyn Museum, and the Corning Museum of Glass.

Flip Clock

Many once thought that smartphones would make traditional watches and clocks obsolete. But just as wristwatches have become luxury status symbols, flip clocks have re-emerged as a favorite in modern décor. Since 1968, Hong Kong-based manufacturer Twemco has been crafting the finest fully automatic perpetual calendar digital clocks. With over 50 years of expertise and a reputation for excellent craftsmanship, Twemco's flip clocks, with their Space Age flair, have become icons among Midcentury Modern enthusiasts.

IKEA's Enetri Shelf

The ENETRI shelf has become a cult favorite among vintage collectors and IKEA enthusiasts. Recently, it has seen a resurgence in popularity, thanks to social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Originally introduced in 1985 as the IKEA GUIDE by Niels Gammelgaard, it featured colorful shelves on a metal frame. The 2002 reissue, renamed ENETRI, toned down the color palette, making it a versatile addition to modern homes. Today, it’s a must-have for anyone looking to add a touch of clean, postmodern design to their space.