Recreating an Icon of the Indy 500
Parts count: 306 pieces
Dimensions (cm): 10(W) x 13.7(L) x 21.1(H)
There’s always a little extra pressure when a designer has to recreate something that is VERY well known, not just in its niche, but in general. When it’s something as popular and intricate as the Borg-Warner Trophy(TM), the trophy for the Indianapolis 500, there is zero room for failure. Needless to say, when Second Story Collections came to Playwell Bricks to see if the team could create this special custom playable bricks set, the Playwell designers shifted into high gear.
THE WINNING DRIVERS
The Borg-Warner Trophy(TM) evolves with every race. First introduced in 1936, every winning driver of the Indy 500 since 1911 has had their face added to the trophy in a checkerboard pattern, along with an engraving of their name, winning year, and average speed. This gave this custom set’s designer, James May, their first big challenge. In real life, the trophy has great detail, in bricks, this set was limited to the client’s specification of 5-7 inches.
It took some time to develop the best way to represent the checkerboard winners’ faces. James quickly determined that printed, round tiles would be best, and team member Kostik Poloskin created graphics of the winners' faces that would be printed onto those tiles.
THE WINNING DETAILS
The trophy complete, the client also requested a winner’s wreath around the trophy with traditional white orchids. Fun fact: white orchids are used so that the flowers don’t clash with the suit the winning driver is wearing.
The wreath designed and approved, Playwell Bricks shifted gears into production of the (Indy) 500 sets required. With 4 decals and 56 printed pieces per set, the graphics “pit crew” had to work fast.
Once the sets made it through the checkered flag, our contact at Second Story Collections got back to the team with their feedback: “I would highly recommend Playwell Bricks for anyone looking for a custom bricks set. You guys were on budget, great design team, finished before the deadline, always responsive and innovative in approach for some minor changes throughout the process.”
conclusion
If you’re company is looking to recreate an iconic symbol of your brand, Playwell Bricks specializes in production sets for corporate gifting. Our team of gifted designers work with your brand, your budget, and your ideas to help you gift well, with Playwell. Contact us today!