IBM Selectric Type Balls, 1961-1980

01

Artifact Overview

In the mid-1950s IBM hired prominent designers to rebrand the company, to develop a corporate image that matched its vision for the future. This packaging for IBM's Selectric typewriter components features Paul Rand's "Medium City" logotype, used 1956-1972, and the "Eight-Bar," used 1972 to present. Rand's logo was applied to IBM's entire product line, creating a coordinated corporate identity.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Type (Composition equipment)

Date Made

1961-1980

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

2014.16.9

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Plastic
Metal

Color

Blue
Black (Color)
White (Color)
Silver (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 1 in (type ball)
Diameter: 1.375 in (type ball)
Height: 1.75 in (case)
Width: 6 in (case)
Length: 2.5 in (case)

Inscriptions

on top of case: IBM / Selectric
IBM Selectric Type Balls, 1961-1980