Iconic Logo Designs Through the Ages

Dreamkatcha’s selection of recognisable identities offers inspiration for thoughtful logo design.

A great logo needs to be instantly recognisable, must work well in black and white as well as colour, and use typography consistently. Some of the greatest logo designs have been in use for well over fifty years, give or take minor changes. Some have been revived, due to the power of their previous logos.

This article, originally published in 2017, looks at four iconic logo designs.

1. BMW

The BMW logo is one of the most iconic logo designs due to its modernist design. Its basic design has had subtle changes since its introduction in 1917. These changes have included typography and bevel effects. It is based on the Rapp Motorenwerke logo and the Bavarian flag. BMW’s official history explains that the propeller interpretation came from advertising in the late 1920s.

2. Volkswagen

Sticking with cars, the Volkswagen logo comes a close second to the BMW one for recognition. The badge has evolved through several versions while keeping its distinctive arrangement of letters. The ‘V’ stands atop a ‘W’ inside a circle. Previous versions of the logo have seen a turreted circular border and a stylised swastika.

3. The Co-op

Before the late 1960s, the Co-op and its constituent shops had a variety of logos. The beehive was a constant feature. The cloverleaf identity emerged in the late 1960s and became a familiar feature of the organisation’s visual identity. After later changes, the Co-op revived its classic logo in 2016, working with North on the new identity. The revival illustrates how a familiar symbol can reconnect a brand with its heritage while supporting a refreshed presentation.

4. British Rail

British Rail introduced its double-arrow symbol in January 1965. Network Rail’s design manual credits Gerry Barney of the Design Research Unit with designing it in 1964. With a new bespoke typeface (Rail Alphabet) and clean design, the BR corporate look has stood the test of time. So much so that BR’s double arrows are synonymous with train travel well after privatisation, and used in National Rail publicity.

Dreamkatcha, 14 June 2017.

London Euston logo designs image by Mike C. Photos (via Shutterstock).

Contact Dreamkatcha today to discuss a startup business,  web design or logo design project.

For practical lessons to apply to your own identity, read what makes a good logo.