Consumers wish companies would leave certain classic products alone, whether because of nostalgia, a love for simplicity, or the belief that the original can’t be meaningfully improved. These products are prime examples of items people hope will stay just as they are.
Classic Coca-Cola
The New Coke debacle of the 1980s is a prime example of an attempt to improve a beloved product that backfired, leading to consumer demand for the original formula. According to History, “Within weeks of the announcement, the company was fielding 5,000 angry phone calls a day.” People made it known that they wanted nothing to do with a new formula.
Vintage Video Game Consoles
Enthusiasts often prefer the original hardware and games over remakes or modern versions that may lack the charm of the originals. People reach for the classics for a sense of nostalgia, not to have some revamped modern version of their childhood. Sadly, as the desire to relive our childhood rises, so do the prices of the games.
Classic Cars
While safety and efficiency improvements are important, many enthusiasts value the original design and performance characteristics of classic models. There is also something special about being able to work on your car in the garage with a buddy or loved one instead of having to get the computer checked in the shop.
Original Levi’s 501 Jeans
Attempts to modernize the fit or fabric can alienate loyal customers who value the original design and durability. Levi’s chief product officer Karyn Hillman says, “We’re really thoughtful and respectful of the tenets of the 501—the button-fly closure, the shrink-to-fit fabric, the tabs, the copper rivets.” When something works, don’t try to change it; fashion may change, but the 501 is a classic.
Tabasco Sauce
When you ask for a bottle of Tabasco sauce at a restaurant, there’s only one version you want and expect to show up at your table. The recipe for Tabasco’s original red pepper sauce hasn’t changed since 1868; however, while the brand has expanded with new flavors, the classic still rules.
Analog Watches
Analog watches provide a unique and intimate understanding of time. With the smooth movement of watch hands sweeping around the dial, you gain a deeper connection with the passage of time. Attempts to add digital features can detract from the simplicity and elegance that many users appreciate in traditional watches.
Guinness Stout
When Guinness tried to introduce a new, smoother stout in the 1990s, drinkers rejected it, as they preferred the iconic, rich taste of the original Guinness. In 2011, in what should have been an April Fool’s joke, they released a bigger flop with Crystal Guinness, a clear, low-calorie version. The Drum reports, “As one critic put it, the taste could not have been less appealing—it was enough to drive you to drink!”
Oreo Cookies
Oreo has introduced many novelty flavors, shapes, and sizes since the classic sandwich cookie debuted in 1912. However, the true controversy is the “Double Stuf Oreos with just a normal amount of creme and even less in the original-sized versions,” according to the Wall Street Journal.
Film Cameras
Photography enthusiasts often celebrate the unique qualities of film photography and may resist digital features added to new models of classic cameras. Hybrid cameras can be great for people who want to dabble and have the convenience of seeing a photo as you take it while still having the joy of developing film. If you’re a purist and want to wait to see the masterpiece, these cameras ruin the experience.
Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar
The classic Hershey’s chocolate bar recipe dates back to 1900. However, in 2008, Today reported, “Products such as Whatchamacallit, Milk Duds, Mr. Goodbar and Krackel no longer have milk chocolate coatings, and Hershey’s Kissables are now labeled ‘chocolate candy’ instead of ‘milk chocolate.’” This was because they changed the key ingredient of cocoa butter to vegetable oil and consumers noticed the difference.
Cast Iron Skillets
Cast iron is a simple, traditional staple for anyone who truly loves to cook. It can be daunting for those who are scared of cleaning them. Attempts to innovate with coatings or materials to make them more approachable can overlook the valued cooking properties and durability of traditional cast iron.
Wooden Furniture
Old-school wooden furniture is timeless and feels like it could last forever. Modern materials and construction techniques can sometimes detract from the craftsmanship and longevity valued in classic wooden furniture designs. Buying some wooden furniture these days can feel like it’s going to fall apart or be thrown away after a year.
Board Games
Classic board games are often cherished for their original gameplay, and attempts to modernize or digitize them can lose the appeal of the shared physical experience. In games like Monopoly Here and Now World, adding credit cards can take away from the feel and learning opportunities of board games.
Acoustic Guitars
Acoustic guitars are meant to be raw and basic, without a lot of flair. Innovations in materials and electronics can sometimes ruin the tonal qualities and craftsmanship of classic acoustic guitars.
Manual Tools
Power tools offer efficiency, but there’s a valued precision and control in manual tools for certain crafts and repairs. Attempts to make manual tools more high-tech can complicate their use for those used to working with their hands.
Notebooks
Digital note-taking devices offer convenience, but many users prefer the simplicity and tactile experience of paper notebooks. Companies have even tried to win over those who love the feel of pen to paper with “reusable notebooks” like Rocketbook that blend paper feel with cloud technology.
Natural Leather Products
Companies have been working to appease and please consumers who are against the use of natural leather. However, synthetic materials can sometimes miss the durability, patina, and sensory experience valued in natural leather goods. Vegan leather may save the cows, but it may have to be replaced sooner than true leather would.
