JVC Videosphere
Television
1970 (designed), 1974 (made)
1970 (designed), 1974 (made)
| Artist/Maker | |
| Place Of Origin |
object details
| Categories | |
| Object Type | |
| Parts | This object consists of 4 parts.
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| Brief Description | 'Videosphere' television set, made by JVC, Japan, 1970. Includes white ABS plastic television, two base units (one with alarm clock) and spare ring aerial. |
| Dimensions | 270 mm (screen diameter), clock base: 100 x 185 x 185 mm, base unit: 70 x 183 x 183 mm (dimensions taken for 'Cold War Modern' - summer 2008) |
| Style | |
| Production type | Mass produced |
| Gallery Label | 20th Century Gallery label, room 72:
JVC VIDEOSPHERE AND ALARM CLOCK
Designed about 1970
Made by JVC, Japan, 1974
ABS plastic, acrylic, glass, metal
W.661-2001
This television, shaped like a space-helmet, reflected the significance of the first moon landing which took place in 1969. It was aimed at the youth market and this model was made for the UK, although it was also available in Europe and elsewhere. The choice of hardwearing durable ABS plastic and primary colours (it came in orange as well as white) were typical of 'pop' design of the period.(01/08/2002) |
| Credit line | Given by Adam Carey |
| Object history | This Videosphere television set was acquired by Pamela Powers' partner as a result of a points award scheme instigated by Alfa Romeo in the early 1970s. As an employee of Alfa Romeo he earned points for each sale he made and was able to convert the points into gifts which were selected from a catalogue. The JVC Videosphere was chosen for Pamela Powers, son, Adam Carey, in around 1970 or 1971. Adam, who was about 11 years old then, used the television in his bedroom at home in Chelsea. Historical significance: The form of the JVC Videosphere alludes to a spaceman's helmet. In the late 60s space travel had captured the public imagination and was influential on popular and high design. Dated to 1970 the Videosphere can be seen as a direct result of the popularity of the first moon landing which took place in 1969. The Videosphere is known to have been produced in both orange and white versions. Such bright primary colours were typical of pop design, as was the choice of hard wearing, durable ABS plastic. |
| Historical context | The Videosphere was aimed at a youthful market and was amongst the first television sets to be specifically styled as a second set for the home, notably the teenager's bedroom. |
| Production | The design has generally been dated to 1970. According to JVC UK the serial number of this example indicates that it was not made until 1974, and the model was apparently only available until 1976. Records at Die Neue Sammlung Museum, Munich, who also have an example of the Videosphere, suggest that the TV was designed in 1970 and produced between 1971-74. Reason For Production: Retail |
| Collection | |
| Accession Number | W.661:1 to 4-2001 |
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| record created | August 24, 2001 |
| Record URL |