The Etch A Sketch turns 50
The Etch-a-sketch turns 50 today. Well, sort of. Invented by Andre Cassagnes in the late 50s and named L’Ecran Magique, every kids favorite dual knobbed drawing toy was bought by the Ohio Art Company and relaunched officially as the Etch A Sketch in 1960.
It’s silver screen, red frame, and patented dual knobs controlling a black line are iconic. And while most are frustrated with their apparent lack of artistic talent, many have made a career moving the knobs and making stunningly accurate works of art.
With a steady hand and artistic flair, some have used the Etch A Sketch as a serious art tool.
The two knobs work together, left controlling horizontal and right controlling verticle movement. The stylus is embedded in very fine silver powder which plows an uninterruptable black line through it. To erase the screen, merely turn it over and shake several times.
Now the Etch a Sketch is 50 years old, it shows no sign of slowing down, making it truly a classic, and coolest toy.
Hat Tip – Toy Detectives