20 Retro Products You Can Get on Amazon Right Now
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Quick: Do you know the childhood "It Toy" of the year you were born? For some, it was the Slip n' slide. For others, the Game Boy or the Barbie Dream House. The Cabbage Patch doll will forever be claimed by 80s babies, while I? A little owl-like robotic creature known as Furby.
There's a reason you probably recognize the names of these toys, despite defying decades and generations, and — chances are — you also probably circled one or two of them in a Sears Wishbook. There's also a strong possibility that you've recently gifted them to a child that'll love them as much as you did — or gifted some collectibles to yourself not so long ago. After all, collecting toys that remind you of your formative years is hardly child's play.
In fact, collecting retro items, in general, is less passé and more on-trend than ever before. Antiques and vintage décor have taken over the design scene, while Art Deco and nods to mid-century and early-American interiors are on the rise. And as for nostalgic products, retro products like pressure cookers and tea kettles have re-entered the kitchen scene, while those with a knack for memorabilia and vintage home accents have more places than ever to shop online for them.
In fact, Amazon has a huge selection of retro toys and classic products that'll take you right back to the good 'ole days. Below we've scoped out some of the best to shop now:
Etch A Sketch
If you're going to buy a toy, it might as well be one that was inducted into the National Toy Hall of Fame. This 1950s favorite has appeared in everything from Toy Story and The Big Bang Theory to your living room on Christmas morning.
50's Retro Style 2 Slice Toaster
With vibrant colors from playful pinks to pastel mint, this retro-inspired toaster from SMEG has modern features so that you can toast your morning bagel to the perfect degree while also adding the ideal degree of sleekness and cheerfulness to your kitchen.
Beanie Baby
The Beanie Baby craze — known as the world's first internet sensation for their demand by collectible enthusiasts — lives on with this plush, golden kitten from the TY brand.
Dreamhouse Dollhouse
Greta Gerwig's much-anticipated Barbie is set to hit theaters in July 2023 but, if that wait is too long for you to enter Barbieland, you can buy the architectural fantasy on Amazon now.
Coke 6 pc Coaster Set
Protect your surfaces in (retro) style with these vintage-inspired Coca-Cola coasters. Each pack comes with 6 metal coasters with cork backings and measure 4" in diameter.
Mid-Century Modern 37" Vinyl Record Display Stand
In a digital age, the music-lover will tell you that analog sound is superior to anything you can get on Spotify or Apple Music. Records are rising, with modern musicians from Adele to Taylor Swift releasing on vinyl. But no matter your favorite artist, this player stand is the perfect nod to the past, transforming a space with retro-modern intrigue.
Magic 8 Ball Toy
Ah, the novelty fortune teller of generations. This Magic 8 Ball might not be as accurate as we once thought, but it is still a great conversation piece.
Black Vintage Typewriter
Another piece to place upon a vintage trunk or a dresser nook, this vintage typewriter is a functional yet quirky addition to any space. Even if your interior taste is modern, it's a fun throwback piece that adds an antithetical charm to any room.
Rock 'Em Sock 'Em Robots
The Rock 'Em Sock 'Em bots' inventor Martin Glass was inspired by an amusement arcade game in the 1960s, and it's a beloved boxing-inspired classic enjoyed by both children and their parents — and now, you can get Mattel's version with next-day shipping with Prime.
The Secret of the Old Clock (Nancy Drew, Book 1)
The Secret of the Old Clock is the mystery book that started it all for America's favorite amateur detective. The Nancy Drew franchise has been adapted into everything from video games to feature films, all because of acharacter's enduring appeal that was first introduced in 1930. Over 80 million copies of the books have been sold — add to that impressive number by buying this copy for under $10. Your inner child will thank you.
Lite-Brite
Create glowing pictures with this iconic and illuminating toy named one of the top 100 Toys of All Time, according to Time. This bundle from Amazon includes more templates and pegs than the original, so you can keep that creative spirit going as this toy has for over 50 years.
16 oz. Mason Jars
Used for canning food and storage purposes or for drinking sweet tea during the summer, mason jars are almost two centuries old but still remain a relevant and versatile home product today. Try potting plants and herbs in these from Peaknip if you're looking for yet another new way to use 'em.
Classics Retro Chatter Phone
You might recognize this Chatter Telephone from its character in Toy Story, and it earned its spot in the moving for being a literal familiar face. It's a rotary dial phone that transcends generations, a favorite among preschoolers and beyond.
Now I-Type Instant Camera
No amount of filters and photo apps can give a more vintage lens than the original itself. Instant film cameras are all the rage again, and it's for a good reason — they have a distinct style and an organic feel, proving that everything that once old is new again. This Polaroid is the original brand that revolutionized photography as we know it, and for that reason, it makes our list.
The Original Slinky
The enduring success of the Slinky can be attributed to its affordability, and its acclaim as the original "fidget toy" — children love it because it's fun, while adults love it because it's relaxing to watch its spirals go back and forth.
Worlds Smallest Retro Uno
Despite its tiny size, this groovy and ultra-miniature take on America’s #1-selling card game plays just like the regular full-sized version of the game. Now, you can take the fun anywhere, so you never have to stall the next time a party host asks if anyone has a deck of cards.
Medium Gumball Bank, 12"
Invented in the late 19th century, some of the first gumball machines were filled with traditionally flavored tutti frutti gum and action figures. This nostalgic charm of being able to customize the contents continues today; because of its transparent globe, you can DIY the carousel classic into anything you'd like (think snow globes around the holiday). But, hey — you can never go wrong with adding some colorful flavored gum.
Desktop Alarm Clock
Old-fashioned alarm clocks are officially back in style, particularly due to the health benefits of slow mornings and distraction-free bedrooms. It's true — looking at your phone before bed can really mess with your sleep schedule, and its default alarm might not be your ideal wake-up anymore, especially after years of hearing its chime. So, what's the solution? Embrace a technology-free alarm clock that not only serves its purpose but also adds a delightful charm to your nightstand, just like this one.
Blue Lava Lamp
A signifier of all things counterculture and psychedelic, the lava lamp has illuminated homes for over 50 years. Its maximalist design has been seen alongside sectional sofas, shag rugs, and wood paneling. Still, it has remained a quirky novelty piece that can be styled however the buyer likes, whether as a funky nightlight or an ode to late 60s and 70s decore.
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