In praise of vintage tech

Earlier this month, Apple announced the end of the iPod. The device that revolutionized digital music – and became a gateway drug to the iPhone for so many, including me – is officially out of production. In similar news, New York City removed its last public pay phone earlier this week. Our tech landscape never stays still for a moment.

That's why turning to obsolete devices can be so consoling. There's a calming effect in the presence of antiquated technology. Suddenly we're far, far away from the world of snaking line-ups for the latest upgrade and repositioned in a place where things change more slowly – or not at all.

I gave up my landline ages ago, but for some reason couldn't resist buying a retro telephone recently. Part of the allure was the quirky shape and colour, but the rest was just the bizarre appeal of owning an analog phone to begin with. Here's the item that stole my heart at inabstracto, one of my favourite vintage dealers in the city:

I suppose I could try putting it to actual use and getting a monthly plan to go with it. But I like it as it is, serving no purpose but to create ambience. In our always-on world of texting, the mere thought of calls that begin and end is grounding. And I have to admit, the Slinky-like cord is a delight.

It's like the typographizing move I wrote about last week. Displaying words as decor is great fun, but letters are just as attractive on their own, not spelling a thing. In off-duty mode they relax into their true selves, giving us a glimpse of a less pressured way of being.

So if you feel tempted to start writing a novel on the vintage typewriter you picked up, no need to go that far. Just show it off on a shelf and make your home office come alive with the vibe of great writers from decades past.

I confess, this line of thinking led me to acquire an unusual vase a few weeks ago:

Evoking the era of brick-sized cell phones – in Flintstones-like clay – is enough to make me smile.

What obsolete tech would brighten your day? I hereby give you permission to tune out the latest implorations to upgrade and revel in what's outmoded. You may find yourself strangely happier.

Affectionately,