The 1960s was a transformative decade for the world, marked by significant cultural, social, and technological advancements. One of the most iconic symbols of this era was the television set, which had become a staple in many American households. But have you ever wondered what a TV cost in 1960? In this article, we’ll take a trip down memory lane and explore the fascinating world of 1960s television, including the prices of these beloved devices.
The Rise of Television in the 1960s
The 1960s was a golden age for television, with popular shows like “I Love Lucy,” “The Andy Griffith Show,” and “Bonanza” captivating audiences across the country. As TV technology improved, more and more people began to purchase sets for their homes. In fact, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, the number of households with TVs increased from 12% in 1950 to over 90% by the end of the decade.
TV Prices in 1960
So, what did a TV cost in 1960? The prices varied depending on the brand, model, and features. Here are some approximate prices for new TVs in 1960:
- Black and White TVs:
- Small screen (12-13 inches): $100-$200
- Medium screen (17-19 inches): $200-$350
- Large screen (23-25 inches): $350-$500
- Color TVs:
- Small screen (12-13 inches): $500-$700
- Medium screen (17-19 inches): $700-$1,000
- Large screen (23-25 inches): $1,000-$1,500
It’s worth noting that these prices are equivalent to approximately $800-$12,000 in today’s dollars, adjusted for inflation.
TV Brands and Models
Some popular TV brands in 1960 included:
- RCA (Radio Corporation of America)
- General Electric (GE)
- Westinghouse
- Zenith
- Admiral
Some popular TV models in 1960 included:
- RCA CT-100: A 19-inch black and white TV with a price tag of around $250
- GE Porta-Color: A 12-inch color TV that cost around $500
- Westinghouse H100: A 23-inch black and white TV that sold for around $350
TV Features and Technology
In 1960, TVs were still relatively simple devices compared to today’s smart TVs. However, they did come with some innovative features, including:
- UHF and VHF Tuners: These allowed viewers to receive signals from local TV stations.
- Automatic Fine Tuning (AFT): This feature helped to improve picture quality by automatically adjusting the TV’s tuning.
- Vertical Hold Control: This feature allowed viewers to adjust the TV’s vertical hold to reduce picture roll.
In terms of technology, 1960s TVs used vacuum tubes, which were prone to overheating and had a relatively short lifespan. However, they did provide a good picture quality, especially for black and white TVs.
TV Accessories and Furniture
In the 1960s, TV accessories and furniture were also becoming increasingly popular. Some common accessories included:
- TV Antennas: These were used to improve TV reception and were often mounted on rooftops or in attics.
- TV Stands and Consoles: These were used to house the TV and often came with storage space for records, books, and other media.
- TV Trays and Snack Tables: These were used to hold snacks and drinks while watching TV.
Some popular TV furniture brands in 1960 included:
- Heywood-Wakefield: Known for their stylish and modern TV consoles.
- Thomasville: Offered a range of TV stands and consoles with a traditional look.
- Broyhill: Provided a variety of TV furniture, including stands, consoles, and snack tables.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cost of a TV in 1960 varied depending on the brand, model, and features. However, with prices ranging from $100 to $1,500, TVs were becoming increasingly affordable for the average American household. As TV technology continued to improve, we can expect to see even more innovative features and designs in the decades to come.
| Year | Average TV Price | Adjusted for Inflation |
|---|---|---|
| 1960 | $200-$500 | $1,500-$4,000 |
| 1970 | $300-$700 | $2,000-$5,000 |
| 1980 | $500-$1,000 | $1,500-$3,000 |
Note: The prices listed in the table are approximate and based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
As we look back on the history of television, it’s clear that the 1960s were a pivotal time for the industry. With the rise of color TV, improved picture quality, and more affordable prices, TVs were becoming an essential part of American life. Whether you’re a nostalgic baby boomer or a curious millennial, there’s no denying the impact that TVs have had on our culture and society.
What was the average price of a TV in 1960?
The average price of a TV in 1960 was around $200-$300. This is equivalent to approximately $1,700-$2,500 in today’s money, adjusted for inflation. It’s worth noting that these prices varied depending on the brand, model, and features of the TV.
In comparison to other household appliances, TVs were considered a luxury item and were relatively expensive. However, as technology improved and mass production increased, prices began to drop, making TVs more accessible to the average consumer. By the mid-1960s, TV prices had decreased significantly, and by the 1970s, they had become a staple in many American households.
What types of TVs were available in 1960?
In 1960, there were several types of TVs available, including black and white, color, and portable models. Black and white TVs were the most common and affordable option, with prices starting at around $150. Color TVs, on the other hand, were more expensive, with prices ranging from $500 to over $1,000.
Portable TVs were also gaining popularity in the early 1960s. These small, compact TVs were designed for use in small spaces, such as apartments or RVs. They were often more expensive than standard TVs, but offered the convenience of portability. Other features, such as built-in antennas and tuners, were also becoming more common in TVs during this time period.
What brands were popular TV manufacturers in 1960?
Some popular TV brands in 1960 included RCA, Zenith, and General Electric. These companies were well-established and reputable manufacturers that produced high-quality TVs. Other brands, such as Admiral and Westinghouse, were also popular during this time period.
RCA, in particular, was a leading manufacturer of TVs in the 1960s. The company was known for its innovative technology and stylish designs, and its TVs were often considered to be among the best on the market. Zenith and General Electric were also major players in the TV industry, and their products were widely available in stores across the United States.
What were some common features of TVs in 1960?
Some common features of TVs in 1960 included built-in antennas, tuners, and speakers. Many TVs also had rotary dials for changing channels and adjusting the volume. Some higher-end models may have had additional features, such as remote controls or built-in clocks.
In terms of picture quality, TVs in 1960 were relatively simple compared to modern standards. They typically had small screens, often around 12-17 inches in diameter, and the picture quality was not as sharp or clear as it is today. However, for the time period, TVs were considered to be a major technological advancement, and they quickly became a staple in many American households.
How did people typically purchase TVs in 1960?
In 1960, people typically purchased TVs from electronics stores or department stores. These stores often carried a variety of TV brands and models, and salespeople were available to help customers make a selection. Some people may have also purchased TVs from mail-order catalogs or through door-to-door salesmen.
Financing options were also available for TV purchases, which made it easier for people to afford these relatively expensive appliances. Many stores offered payment plans or credit options, which allowed customers to pay for their TVs over time. This helped to make TVs more accessible to a wider range of consumers.
What was the typical warranty for a TV in 1960?
The typical warranty for a TV in 1960 was around 90 days to one year. This meant that if the TV malfunctioned or broke within this time period, the manufacturer would repair or replace it free of charge. Some manufacturers may have offered longer warranties, but this was not always the case.
It’s worth noting that TV warranties were not as comprehensive as they are today. In many cases, the warranty only covered repairs or replacements for defective parts, and did not include labor costs or other expenses. Additionally, warranties may not have covered damage caused by misuse or neglect.
How did TV prices change over the course of the 1960s?
TV prices decreased significantly over the course of the 1960s. By the mid-1960s, TV prices had dropped by as much as 50%, making them more affordable for the average consumer. This was due in part to advances in technology, which made it possible to mass-produce TVs more cheaply.
By the end of the 1960s, TV prices had dropped even further, with some models available for as little as $100. This made TVs a staple in many American households, and they quickly became a central part of family entertainment. The decrease in TV prices also helped to drive the growth of the television industry, as more people were able to afford these appliances.