Design Classics

Looking back at the 1980s it will be hard to miss 50 million Sony Walkmans. The machine's success is a symbol of Japan's post-war economic miracle. Why are the Japanese so good at making intricate hi-tech products? Design Classics looks at the philosophy behind modern Japanese design to reveal roots deep in the Japanese consciousness.

Supermods, skinheads, pop stars and tennis heroes - all of them have worn the shirt that takes its name from the legendary British tennis player. How did a sports shirt become a fashion icon? What does its laurel wreath emblem signify? Was it really the first casual shirt? Fred Perry , business rival Rene Lacoste and journalist Stuart Cosgrove try to solve the riddle of the old skinhead saying: 'shirt by Fred, 'nuff said'.

The red British telephone box has joined a select group of objects which have become symbols of Britain. The majority have now been removed in the name of modernisation and this classic piece of design is now sold at auction for other uses.

Most large companies adopt a symbol to identify themselves and sell their product. Shelf's is one of the most famous. But it was selected at random and had already been used as a symbol for centuries. Its casual use during this century would scandalise any of today's corporate image makers. Despite this it has become one of the most successful pieces of graphic design.

Harley-Davidson's definitive motorcycle, with a design history which goes back to the days of the wild west. The programme charts the origins and history of the Electraglide and explores the powerful mythology which surrounds it.