Paperclip — Three turns in a piece of wire is all you need to properly secure a stack of paper.
Swingline stapler — A solid, weighty feel combined with a timeless look. "It’s the Cadillac of staplers," Rohles says.
Bic ballpoint pen — The product is cheap while still being durable and reliable, Rohles says.
Sharpie marker — The look is sleek and crisp, not to mention iconic. "People say 'Do you have a sharpie?'" Rohles points out, "instead of 'Do you have a marker?'"
Soda can tab — Cans with stay-tabs (tabs that stay attached) emerged in the mid-1980s to replace pull-away tabs, which are pulled off a can entirely. The new tab's complex system of levers and fulcrum are widely considered a feat of design genius.
Dixon Ticonderoga No. 2 pencil — The iconic yellow and green implement offers the best writing (and erasing) experience you'll find from a pencil.
Post-It notes — An accident when it was first invented, the no-frills combination of adhesive behind a square piece of paper still has no peers.
Spoon and fork — Eating utensils have stayed mostly the same for thousands of years for one reason: they get the job done.
Colt M-1911 pistol — Just about every modern hand gun was inspired by the Colt 1911, in both its functionality and aesthetic. It is the gold standard.
KitchenAid mixer — The strength and beauty of the retro-chic mixer has kept it in every serious baker's kitchen since it was first unveiled in 1919.
Jeep Wrangler — "It's a strong looking vehicle," Rohles says. "When people think of a car they'd go off roading in, it's usually a Hummer or a Jeep."
Eames lounge chair — Instant recognition is usually a good sign in design. The combination of leather and wood are what make the product so striking, Rohles says.
Maglite — Never has there been a more durable, sturdy flashlight, Rohles explains. It is the standard by which other flashlights are judged.
ChapStick — "The shape hasn't changed in so long," Rohles says. And given its simple, effective construction, it doesn't need to.
Razor — Since the switch from straight razors, the way we shave hasn't changed in decades, Rohles says, even if companies market new products as innovative.
Chuck Taylor All-Star — At 98 years old, the sneaker recalls simpler times and offers universal appeal. It is a rare breed in fashion.
