Thomas Edison Light Bulb: Antique Bulbs Make a Comeback

Antique Thomas Edison light bulbs are making a comeback despite the push for LED and CFL energy efficient bulbs. This apparent backlash has been growing for several years, and new designs for the filament bulbs are beginning to appear. The New York Times has followed this unique trend in the past.

Despite their vintage appearance, antique Thomas Edison light bulbs are actually still being produced and must meet current safety regulations. Recent blog posts reveal that there are multiple designs of the Thomas Edison light bulbs available. The lighting company shares that the antique style bulbs are reproductions of the original designs. Although there is still controversy about Edison’s patents, the unique filament bulbs are a designer favorite because of their soft light and gentle glow.

Apartment Therapy explains why the antique Edison bulbs are still popular. Their soft glow allows people to stare directly at the filaments “without hurting” their eyes. The New York Times highlights their popularity in restaurants. These vintage bulbs are also showing up in more place s as homeowners strive for unique spaces.

Many designers leave the filament bulbs exposed in light fixtures, so people have a greater chance of enjoying the warm light. Although CFL and LED light bulbs are more efficient, they are still not able to duplicate the light created by the antique Edison bulbs. They can instantly transform a space to make it feel like a vintage room.

The reproduction Thomas Edison light bulbs are not the same as the traditional incandescent bulbs. The filament in the antique versions is different and can vary from the oscillating carbon style to the cage shape. The designs also include double filaments, inverted shapes, single loops, double loops and other styles. This is why homeowners and business owners opt to leave the exposed bulbs alone. They do not need to be hidden inside a lamp or other fixture.