LIGHT WORK
Make light work of reading with this banker’s desk light that is a study in manufacturing and design expertise, delivering a new take on the early 20th century classic
The epitome of form and function, the streamlined bone china shade of the banker’s light is hand cast at Original BTC’S Stoke-on-Trent factory, the brass base and details are precision-machined at the manufacturer’s Birmingham metal works and for the first time, the light is completed with patented LED technology courtesy of the group’s LED lighting arm, Beadlight.
Launched in the early 1900s, the banker’s light was quickly embraced by financial institutions, academics, libraries and law offices worldwide. A century later, the iconic shape has been stripped back to showcase Original BTC’s simple elegance and attention to detail, whilst retaining – and increasing – the light’s gravitas, authority and appeal. While the materials, finish and function have been updated, the essence of the banker’s light remains – the short stem and perfectly angled rectangular shade, designed to illuminate a larger surface than a standard circular shade. Increasing the light’s efficiency, the uniform, glare-free LED is further diffused by the bone china shade, creating the perfect concentrated pool of light by which to work and study.
Original BTC Directors Peter and Charlie Bowles, explain: “Synonymous with hard work and industry, our aim was to create a contemporary, more functional version of the banker’s light, that would sit equally well on grand mahogany desks as clean-lined work spaces. With the inclusion of Beadlight technology, we have created the ultimate desk light. A true investment piece that will last for generations to come.”
Bought by Original BTC in 2013, Oxford-based Beadlight has been at the forefront of LED technology since its beginnings, designing, engineering and manufacturing the first ever low-heat, low-power, LED reading light for commercial aircraft in 1997.
“Incorporating Beadlight technology into an Original BTC design for the first time is an exciting step for us and we’re delighted to combine Beadlight’s pedigree of engineering excellence and impeccable eco-credentials with Original BTC’s manufacturing expertise and timeless aesthetic,” concludes Peter.
Bankers desk light: £575
www.originalbtc.com
