Vest-Pocket Adding Machine Print Ad

Print Ads
Oct 10, 2018
vest-pocket-adding-maching-old-ad
This old ad showcases a "cool technology of the time"....an adding machine for your vest-pocket! The copy interestingly talks in the first person tense, so it's the machine speaking to you in the ad. Clever and hilarious!

Image Description

The image is a vintage advertisement for the "Harmon Vest-Pocket Calculator" by Erie Calculator Co. It features bold text and a picture of the compact adding machine, emphasizing its portability and simplicity.

Positive Aspects

  • Unique Voice: The ad cleverly uses first-person narrative, making the calculator seem like it's speaking directly to the reader. This engaging approach adds personality and charm.
  • Features Highlighted: The ad lists practical features like its light weight, ease of use, and durability, appealing to both business professionals and everyday users.
  • Emotional Appeal: By claiming to be "simplicity personified" and "fool-proof," the ad reassures potential buyers of its user-friendliness and reliability.

Key Takeaways

  • The Vest-Pocket Adding Machine was marketed as a revolutionary, portable technology for its time.
  • The ad uses a first-person narrative to create a personal connection with potential buyers.
  • It emphasizes durability, simplicity, and ease of use, making it accessible to a wide audience.

Additional Insights

Imagine whipping out this tiny calculator to impress your colleagues at a 1915 meeting. It's like the smartphone of its day! The ad's confidence ("I am as accurate as any $400 machine on the market") is a testament to the bold marketing strategies of the era.