Lighting History: The Legacy of Anglepoise

The Original 1227™ Desk Lamp in Bright Chrome on a minimal workspace.

The Archetypal Articulating Lamp

There are some designs that have the power to transcend their functionality and purpose: they become the archetype. Take Anglepoise’s iconic articulating desk lamps, for example. If you’ve ever envisioned burning the midnight oil, diligently toiling away in your office, studio, or workspace, chances are, the image that comes to mind — perhaps without even realizing it — features Anglepoise’s timeless design.

The Original 1227™ Desk Lamp, off and on

What began as a stroke of ingenuity in a British garden shed in 1932 has since evolved into a timeless symbol of innovation and functionality. The story of Anglepoise is one that intertwines the brilliance of engineering with the whimsy of design, resulting in a product that has illuminated homes, offices, castles, iconic fictional creations, and even the depths of the Loch Ness in Scotland for nearly a century.

Origin Story

The Anglepoise saga begins with British automotive engineer George Carwardine, whose inventive mind sparked a revolution in lighting. In 1932, Carwardine stumbled upon a groundbreaking formula for a new kind of spring mechanism. Originally conceived for vehicle suspension systems, this ingenious invention possessed a remarkable quality – it could be positioned at any angle with the lightest touch. Recognizing its potential beyond the automotive realm, Carwardine saw an opportunity to harness this flexibility in a lamp.

George Carwardine, the British automotive engineer who invented the spring mechanism featured in Anglepoise lights

And so, in the confines of his garden shed, the blueprint for the iconic Anglepoise was born. Carwardine's creation embodied both elegance and responsiveness, with its pivoting arms forming a flexible mechanism that defied convention. The debut of the Original 1227™ in 1935 marked the official launch of Anglepoise into the world, establishing it as the archetypal embodiment of form meeting function.

The Legacy Continues

As the years passed, Anglepoise continued to evolve under the stewardship of the Terry family, the brand's founders. Collaborations with luminaries such as Sir Kenneth Grange, Paul Smith, and Margaret Howell ensured that Anglepoise remained at the forefront of British design, pushing boundaries while staying true to its quirky spirit. Despite the passage of time, the unique functionality and playful form of the Anglepoise lamp remained steadfast, a testament to its enduring appeal.

British fashion designer Margaret Howell working at her desk, illuminated by the special Margaret Howell Edition of the Type 75™ Desk Lamp in yellow ochre

The Paul Smith Editions in the fashion house’s colour blocking signature

A Lamp of Enduring Quality

The Anglepoise journey is not merely one of innovation, but also of resilience and longevity. In 1985, a remarkable discovery showcased the durability of Anglepoise craftsmanship when a World War II plane fitted with an Anglepoise navigator's lamp was salvaged from the depths of Loch Ness in Scotland. Astonishingly, despite the years submerged underwater, the lamp still worked, serving as a testament to the brand's unwavering commitment to quality and reliability. It’s also good to know that Scottish sea monster Nessie had something to light her underwater adventures.

Today, Anglepoise lamps can be found illuminating spaces around the globe, from humble abodes to prestigious offices, royal residences, movie sets and scenes, and beyond. Passed down through generations, these iconic fixtures continue to captivate with their timeless design and unparalleled functionality. One can only imagine the pride that George Carwardine would feel knowing that his invention has brought light to countless lives, transcending time and leaving an indelible mark on history.

A number of Type 75™ Lamps on every desk at MI6’s offices in the James Bond film, Skyfall (2012)

The Type 75™ Lamp in James Bond Film, No Time to Die (2021)

Sustainability and Lifetime Guarantee

Anglepoise has made a significant commitment to sustainability by offering a lifetime guarantee on all lamps purchased since 2020. This guarantee ensures that customers have access to expert assistance, spare parts, and repairs, ensuring their lights remain functional for generations to come. More than just a warranty, this initiative underscores Anglepoise's dedication to environmental responsibility. By designing lamps to last a lifetime, Anglepoise aims to reduce waste and minimize its environmental footprint. This lifetime guarantee reflects the brand's ethos of creating products that are not only functional but also destined to become cherished heirlooms, much like their vintage counterparts.

The Original 1227™ Collection as a Desk, Floor, and Mini Table Lamp

In the ever-changing landscape of design, Anglepoise stands as a beacon of innovation and inspiration. From its humble origins in a garden shed to its status as a global phenomenon, Anglepoise’s lighting designs remain a shining example of how a simple yet ingenious idea can illuminate the world in more ways than one.

Explore more of Anglepoise’s lighting collections.