Unique and historically significant archive that provides a comprehensive look behind the scenes of one of Apple Inc.'s most iconic projects: the 1984 Annual Report. This collection, originating from the personal archive of Dennis Gobets, Apple's Production Manager from 1982 to 1997, offers unparalleled insight into the meticulous planning, coordination, and execution of this landmark publication.
This extensive archive contains printed meeting notes, budget and mailing information, preliminary design sketches, and, most importantly, a group of six releases signed by well-known Macintosh users Jim Henson, Stephen Sondheim, Kurt Vonnegut, Ted Turner (2), Maya Lin, and Dianne Feinstein, who granted Apple permission to use their photographs and stories in the report. The Sondheim and Turner releases include TLSs from the respective figure, the Lin includes an ALS, and each release includes the original form letter that was sent to the participant. In overall fine condition.
The 1984 Annual Report is renowned not only for its detailed financial and operational review of a pivotal year in Apple's history but also for its innovative design and influential content. This year marked the release of the original Macintosh, a revolutionary product that redefined personal computing. The report is a testament to Apple's commitment to excellence and innovation, overseen by Dennis Gobets, whose role was crucial in bringing this project to fruition. This comprehensive archive not only documents the production of the 1984 Apple Annual Report but also encapsulates a significant moment in the history of technology and design. A unique opportunity to own a piece of history that highlights the intersection of technology, creativity, and strategic communication.
A sampling of quotes pulled from the archive:
- "Meeting Scheduled for Aug. 6 with Sculley/Jobs to get buy off on concepts. Next steps are full sized prototypes."
- "Presentation of concept to Jobs/Sculley 7/20. Begin contact of participants, distribution of Macs and orientation immediately after."
- "We will make it really easy and simple to the participants. We need to induct them with Apple values and get them very excited about Macintosh."
- "East Coast trip week of 9/3/84 - Rockefeller, Pei, Vonnegut, Letterman?"
- "1984, a banner year for Apple. This is the year we turned the wave around and laid building blocks/the foundation for the future for the company. We’ve taken big risk and we’ve pulled through; we’ve proven we can succeed."
- "We must illustrate the importance and significance of our products through the 'portfolio' concept, and not end up with a variety of cute drawings generated on Macintosh."
- "We must focus upon the people of Apple who were responsible for our success, and not just focus upon the executive staff."
- "The first section would focus upon the people who have been so instrumental in the successes mentioned above. We would execute this photographically."
- "The second section would be a 'portfolio' containing the work of a cross-section of 10 to 15 famous as well as not famous people. These people either are currently using our products, or would be given new products to use."
From the collection of Dennis Gobets.
