Flying Junction's Vintage Subway Signs Are Living History

I have long been a fan of the signage of the NYC Subway system. From their early days, through their absolutely perfect Vignelli-designed 70's incarnation, through to today, much of the signage has been and continues to be a living, breathing work of art as environmental typography. AIGA has a brilliant article about the evolution of the NYC Subway system here.

Ace Harrison also loves old subway type, which is what drove him to begin faithfully recreating it for his Flying Junction company.

From Flying Junction:

A Flying Junction is a railway junction at which one ore more diverging or converging tracks in a multiple-track route cross other tracks on the route by bridge to avoid conflict with other train movements. My prints and canvas signs are inspired by original subway signs and bus scrolls dating back to the early 1900's. I use hand-lettering techniques to create authentic, vintage looking reproductions of the original signs and scrolls. I believe that taking the time and care in my work to come as close to the originals as possible gives the viewer a more powerful feeling of connection with the cities and times represented.

They are relatively inexpensive - $19 through $129. And wow, do they look legit.

Buy them here.

Derringer Cycles Are The Coolest Thing On Two Wheels

In the past I wrote about the RatRod cycling industry, and the inspired retro-styling of RatRod bikes. Derringer Cycles utilizes some of the same vintage styling but goes to a new level through their products.

Derringer Cycles are absolutely more motorcycle than bicycle, and the difference is obvious upon first glance. The designs are absolutely gorgeous, and by all reports they are all around killer machines to ride. And like alot of other great inventions from history, necessity was the mother of invention in inspiring their function.

From Executive Edits:

Derringer Cycles neo-classical interpretation of the old board track racers, place the rider in an aggressive riding position without compromising safety. In this way, style plays a more active role in the vehicles function. “You feel as though you are riding 100mph when in reality you are moving much slower.” In truth, a custom Derringer tops out at 35mph. They have a lot of torque and are quicker. Lighter. “A Derringer Cycle has ‘it’ when it comes to mopeds”.

For lots more, go here. Also, Executive Edits has a great interview with Derringer Cycle maker Adrian Van Anz - go here to check it out. It is a very worthwhile read.