PRESS: Retrospekt and Sanrio® Make a Splash with ‘90s-Inspired Keroppi FC-11 35mm Camera
July 12, 2024
Retrospekt, a product design and development studio dedicated to creating unique experiences through new and refurbished retro tech products, has once again joined forces with global lifestyle brand Sanrio, diving into their archive of past products to unearth unique character art from 1996 and turn it into the new "Let's Get Hoppin'" Keroppi-themed FC-11 35mm film camera.
Starring Keroppi, the beloved frog character who recently hopped his way to No. 7 on the list of most popular Sanrio characters, this Retrospekt FC-11 35mm camera boasts a fixed-focus lens and built-in flash, that makes capturing bright, analog film photos as simple as playing leapfrog.
The camera's design is a visual celebration that would make even Keroppi's snail pal, Den Den, dizzy with delight. Adorned with a kaleidoscope of bold colors, playful shapes and Keroppi-inspired imagery, it's a handheld party that's always ready to snap. The vibrant teal, yellow and red color scheme is punctuated by playful icons and bold typography to create a visual feast that perfectly encapsulates the '90s design aesthetic. The packaging is equally impressive, with a clear display box decorated with eye-catching graphics showcasing the product.
"Keroppi was first introduced in 1988 and really blew up in the ‘90s, so when people think ‘Keroppi’ it’s usually product designs from this era defining the mental image — and that’s what we wanted to capture with this release." said Retrospekt Creative Director Michael Kempen. "We went digging through old products looking for unique takes on the character and hit on this really cool series of designs from 1996 used for some backpacks, lunchboxes, wallets and other similar items. Items children at the time would have treasured in a way that would also create a strong connection to the artwork.”
This isn't the first time Retrospekt and Sanrio dipped into the Keroppi universe together. The two recently collaborated on the Polaroid 600 Keroppi Kam Instant Film Camera, which quickly became a must-have item among Keroppi enthusiasts and instant photography fans.
Blending ‘90s Sanrio charm and user-friendly analog photography, the "Let's Get Hoppin'" Keroppi FC-11 35mm camera will be available on Retrospekt's website and Sanrio.com starting July 12.
So, hop to it! This camera will sell faster than Keroppi can swim across Donut Pond.
Full Resolution Photos and Other Assets
via Google Drive
(These assets are available for media use)
About Retrospekt
Retrospekt is a highly specialized workshop and product design studio in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, committed to exploring, restoring and curating retro technology. The company started its foray into the world of retro tech by supplying Polaroid with refurbished and restored vintage instant cameras and now offers a full line of vintage camera models in addition to developing official Polaroid camera collaborations with both national and international brands, such as Peanuts, Mattel, Sanrio and FENDI.
Since 2008, Retrospekt has pursued vintage electronics and the delight of analog technology, breathing new life into cameras, portable cassette players, classic gaming consoles and other retro tech oddities. Over the last decade, its team has saved over 300,000 devices with a comprehensive refurbishment process that faithfully restores each item to perform like it did the day it was originally manufactured.
In an increasingly fast-paced world, it can be easy for digital convenience to become digital overload. Retrospekt hopes the items they offer will allow people to slow down, step back and enjoy a more tactile and intentional experience. Visit Retrospekt.com for more information on the company and its offerings.
About Sanrio
Sanrio® is the global lifestyle brand best known for Hello Kitty® who was created in 1974, and home to many other beloved character brands such as My Melody™, Kuromi™, LittleTwinStars™, Cinnamoroll™, Pompompurin™, gudetama™, Aggretsuko™, Chococat™, Badtz-maru™ and Keroppi™. Sanrio was founded on the philosophy that a small gift can bring happiness and friendship to people of all ages. Since 1960, this philosophy has served as the inspiration to offer quality products, services and activities that promote communication and inspire unique consumer experiences across the world. Today, Sanrio’s business extends into the entertainment industry with several content series, gaming offerings and theme parks. Sanrio boasts an extensive product lineup which is available in over 130 countries. Sanrio hopes to bring smiles to everyone’s faces with their vision of “One World, Connecting Smiles.” To learn more about Sanrio, please visit www.sanrio.com and follow @sanrio and @hellokitty on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Pinterest and subscribe to the Hello Kitty and Friends YouTube Channel.
Media Contacts
Lexie Capperella, for Retrospekt
lexie@gregoryfca.com
Val Hernandez, for Sanrio
Golin
vhernandez@golin.com