Coca-Cola Advertising Clock 1940
This is a metal advertising clock from Coca-Cola, Circa 1940s. This clock is not considered rare but certainly commands a visual respect with its contrasting red colors.
Coca-Cola is the leader of all the old-time soda advertisers. Rare memorabilia from popular brands such as Coca-Cola can generate the most value but overall the worth of the soda relics depend on condition, the brand and how unique it is.
Coca-Cola originated in 1886 when a pharmacist Dr. John S. Pemberton, from Atlanta, Georgia developed a unique beverage formula. It was originally considered a medicinal tonic that he called “French Wine of Coca”. He did not add alcohol like other elixirs at that time had, instead he created a dark brown syrupy drink. He took his drink to Jacob’s Pharmacy which was a successful business for that time. He persuaded the owner to offer this new tasting soft drink. Early on he also added soda water to the syrup blend. The beverage became very popular and was a hit at soda fountains. Dr. Pemberton’s accountant, Frank M. Robinson, is credited with naming the beverage “Coca‑Cola” and designed the fancy script trademark that is still known today. The name was not a registered trademark until 1893.
The first print advertising for Coca-Cola was included in the Atlanta Journal. The ad described the beverage as “Delicious, Refreshing, Invigorating”. The very earliest forms of advertising Coca-Cola were drink tickets, horse-drawn wagons with advertising signs and newspaper ads.
