Vespa Visions

Happy Monday everyone.

After recently watching half of the final series (7) of Madmen, and whilst eagerly awaiting the next 7 episodes, I’ve been missing my hit of the 1950’s/1960’s retro vision. So I decided to buy the series ‘Pan Am’ to see if it matched up to Madmen. Sadly, whilst it has been enjoyable viewing for it’s nostalgic look at the era, it doesn’t quite compete with Madmen’s complex characterisation and amazing sets. Also I couldn’t believe that the series has been compiled rather badly and that the episodes have to be watched in this sequence (1, 4, 3, 2, 5 ..to.. 14)  in order for the story to make sense (erm yeah, scratches head). However, I’m so glad I discovered that fact before I started watching them ! Anyone interested in the background to the Pan Am series should look here.

I came across this illustration of a stewardess riding her Vespa to work and thought I’d check out a little about this ‘uber cool’ vehicle and see how it’s been depicted through old adverts. I discovered some great illustrations.

I love the ‘wind in your hair’ feel of this first Pirelli for the scooter ad.

This family going for a holiday jaunt also made me smile.

Vespa’s are so easy to park and even come in shades of red, orange and ‘invisible’  : )

Also featured in the movies, the Vespa has iconically been used as a cool way to get around. From the absolute classic ‘Roman Holiday’ to ‘Quadrophenia’, ‘Ratatouille’, ‘ The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’ and ‘Amilie’, amongst others.

More about Vespa on their official site and more the airline Pan Am here. Does anyone out there own a Vespa ?

or perhaps have any other (‘ Madmen quality ‘) retro recommendations for a tv series to watch ? : )