Retro Style Switches

Although previously household switches were perceived merely as functional elements, today they have become an important detail that emphasizes the character and tuning of the entire interior. The First Republic style typical of previous generations, or a modern interpretation? The RETRO collection of household electrical installations corresponds to both of these styles with its appearance! Its design was inspired not only by rotary ceramic switches from the First Republic era, but also by the unique functionalist architecture of Zlín, where its author and manufacturer – OBZOR – is based. The specific construction of the RETRO switches provides an unusual control element for turning on the lighting: a rotary knob in the center of the switch, which additionally "clicks" when turned. "When we were thinking about the RETRO switch collection, we realized that it should not only be about appearance, but we would also try to give the switch the typical sound of First Republic switches – a click… For this purpose, we utilized electro mechanisms from classic industrial cam switches, with which we have a long tradition of production," explains Lenka Vodicová, head of marketing at OBZOR Zlín, a Czech manufacturer of household electrical installations.

CERAMICS, WOOD, CONCRETE, AND GLASS!

The round RETRO frame, with a thickness of 13.5 mm, is available in two basic materials that reflect the earlier style – ceramics or wood. The ceramic option comes in black or white, while wooden variants are offered in beech and light or dark-stained oak. Last year, however, OBZOR Zlín introduced the RETRO collection with original concrete and glass frames! The frame made from a special concrete mixture breaks all barriers and establishes a completely new style for switches. "All our frames are created through precise handwork, and the concrete frame is no exception. The concrete mixture from which the frame is made is enriched with polyvinyl alcohol fibers, which contribute to its reinforcement. The attractive appearance of the concrete frames is also enhanced by the characteristic porous structure of this material. The mixture is characterized by water resistance and UV stability,” describes Lenka Vodicová from OBZOR. The timeless beauty of glass also beautifully stands out on the round shape of the RETRO frames, lending the switches a luxurious look. The color of the glass frame in neutral shades of white and black is ensured by a high-quality colored lacquer on the underside, which is abrasion resistant and guarantees a consistent shade.

ceramic frame	oak frame
concrete frame	glass frame

TIP: Painted switches

A unique novelty in the RETRO range is the ceramic frames with hand-painted motifs inspired by folk patterns. The ceramics are hand-painted, making each piece an original. The glaze is then fired in a kiln. This is a specific type of pottery production, known as faience, sometimes also referred to as majolica, which is typically characterized by plant and heraldic motifs depicted on a white background. There are four traditional Habán patterns available.

THE RETRO COLLECTION MEETS MODERN DEMANDS

However, the RETRO collection is not just about switches. The round frames also offer sockets, a modern LED dimmer, a thermostat, and communication sockets with USB, HDMI, TV, and SAT connections. Thus, it is not a problem to harmonize the household electrical installation in the same style – in color and material.


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