What makes a timeless logo? Is it simplicity, masterful illustration work, or referencing the Bible? Maybe a combination of all three. Regardless, the Samson Rope trademark is the oldest active registered trademark in the United States making it this week’s “Logo of the week”.
Earlier this week I met with a very nice representative from Samson. We were having an interesting conversation about rope as one would imagine. However, my ears quickly perked up when we went beyond braided synthetic fibers and she mentioned that Samson had the oldest logo in the United States. Believe it or not, the logo depicting the biblical character Samson slaying the lion was registered back in 1884. Rope may not be the first thought that comes to mind when looking at the illustration alone, however to its credit, the illustration undoubtedly signifies strength and durability. Two traits any powerful, high performance rope needs to possess. Especially one who claims to be “The strongest name in rope”.
Graphically, I love this logo! I’m usually turned off by old biblical references, but the simplicity in this woodblock-print looking illustration is really attractive in a masculine way. The type choice works well too reinforcing the sharp curvature in the black stokes of the image.
