Anglepoise 1227 Collection

Few designs achieve the rare status of being both instantly recognisable and endlessly relevant. The Anglepoise Original 1227 is one such object, a lamp that has illuminated homes, studios and offices for nearly a century while maintaining its place as a benchmark of functional design.

Created in 1935 by British engineer George Carwardine, the 1227 was the refined successor to his earlier industrial models. At its heart lies Carwardine’s ingenious constant-tension spring mechanism, originally developed from his experiments in vehicle suspension. This innovation allowed the lamp to hold almost any position with remarkable precision, offering a level of flexibility and usability that was revolutionary at the time.

The design is deceptively simple: a slender arm, balanced on springs, leading to a perfectly proportioned shade. Yet within this minimal form lies a masterclass in engineering and ergonomics. The 1227 delivers focused, adjustable light without fuss, a quality that has endeared it to generations of designers, artists and writers.

Over the decades, the Anglepoise 1227 has transcended its role as a mere desk accessory. It has appeared in art galleries, on film sets, even as part of national iconography, cementing its status as a symbol of British ingenuity. Its silhouette remains virtually unchanged, proving that true design classics do not date—they endure.

Today, whether in its original finish or reinterpreted through limited editions, the 1227 remains as relevant as ever: a perfect balance of engineering brilliance and timeless aesthetic appeal.

As recognisable as the Mini or a bright red phone box, the Anglepoise desk lamp is known worldwide and the distinctive silhouette has become the universal shorthand for this kind of lamp.