Longines Symphonette

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Longines Symphonette may refer to:

• A record label (the Longines Symphonette Society), owned by the Longines watch company, which specialized in releasing classic radio programs and multiple-record box sets [1];
• A symphony orchestra sponsored by Longines, which produced many recordings for the record label;
• A trade name of electronic devices, including transistor radios [2] [3], televisions [4], and electronic calculators (produced by Texas Instruments) [5] [6].
• A watch produced for the 1964 World's Fair [7]

The name "Longines Symphonette" is often known through being referenced in the song "Birdhouse in Your Soul" by They Might Be Giants, as something that is "infinite" and "doesn't rest." It may refer to the record label's prolific output, the orchestra's numerous recordings, or to the longevity of devices of that brand.

[edit] See also

• List of record labels

The Longines Symphonette Society was a direct marketing company working out of Larchmont and, later, New Rochelle, New York. It was in operation from the late 1960s to 1974. Its President was Alan Cartoun, son of Longines Watch Company Chairman, Fred Cartoun.

The Longines Symphonette Society was a direct marketing pioneer that used personalized computer letters early on to promote long playing records, eight track tapes, electronic products, books, and collector's medallions. It made vintage recordings available again and, by so doing, was a major contributor to a wave of nostalgia that swept the country in the 1960s and 70s.

A magnet for advertising talent, The Longines Symphonette Society was an incubator for talented marketers and copywriters who helped to shape direct marketing in the 1980s and 90s.