21 objects that are perfectly designed and can't be improved any further
Paperclip — Three turns in a piece of wire is all you need to properly secure a stack of paper.
Microplane — Essentially an oversized nail file, the sharp, lightweight device is perfect for zesting citrus fruits or grating spices directly over a dish, Formosa says.
Levi's 501 Jeans — The original Levi's cut is roomy enough for any wearer to move in comfortably. It was as good for a ranch hand 100 years ago as it is for anyone today, Draplin says.
Bic ballpoint pen — The product is cheap while still being durable and reliable, Rohles says.
Spoon and fork — Eating utensils have stayed mostly the same for thousands of years for one reason: they get the job done.
A memo book— "In a world of data, clicks and dinging bells that embarrassingly has us in its grips, a pencil and a blank page in a memo book are limitless," Draplin says.
A pocket t-shirt — "We hold things. And a t-shirt with a pocket on the chest? Perfection. Good for a wad of cash and an I.D. card, that iPhone you can’t put down or that memo book I was going on and on about," says Draplin.
OXO double-bladed cheese grater — Formosa says his favorite grater slices both ways, since the blades face up and down, resulting in twice the grating power.
Swingline stapler — A solid, weighty feel combined with a timeless look. "It’s the Cadillac of staplers," 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 taken 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 and a square piece of paper still has no peers.
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.
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