1988 Kodak Kodacolor Gold 400 Film Vintage Advertisement
In the late 1980s, the photographic industry was in the midst of a technological shift aimed at democratizing high-quality imagery for the everyday consumer. The marketing of Kodak’s Kodacolor Gold 400 film during this period was a watershed moment. This specific print advertisement brilliantly distills a complex technical specification—a higher ASA/ISO film speed—into an easily understandable lifestyle benefit, famously declaring: "With 'Kodacolor' Gold 400 film, you get an extra hour at either end of the day." Before the widespread adoption of 400-speed film, most amateur photographers relied on standard 100 ASA film, which demanded ample daylight or the use of harsh, artificial flash photography to prevent underexposure. By significantly increasing the film's sensitivity to low light, K
Category: Cameras & Optics
Year: 1988
Rarity Class: A
Paper & Print Condition
Printed on medium-weight glossy magazine stock characteristic of late-1980s premium publications. The piece exhibits exceptional color retention, particularly in the critical warm amber, gold, and deep shadow tones required to convey the dawn lighting of the original Paul Wakefield photograph. There is minimal edge wear and no visible foxing, indicating careful archival preservation.
Provenance & Rarity
Sourced from a premium, historically significant international publication from 1988. While Kodak consumer film advertisements enjoyed high circulation during the late-20th century analog boom, surviving examples featuring the specific 1988 Olympic Games co-branding and Paul Wakefield’s Isle of Skye photographic campaign are increasingly uncommon. This artifact is classified as Class A due to its dual cultural significance in sports history and the evolution of consumer photography, making well-
Rarity & Condition Summary
This artifact is designated as Class A rarity. It is a highly well-preserved and culturally significant artifact of late-1980s photographic history. The piece perfectly represents the pinnacle of the analog film era prior to the digital transition. It is elevated from standard consumer promotional material by its pristine print condition, the significance of Paul Wakefield's photography, and the highly specific 1988 Olympic Games co-branding, making it an exceptional acquisition for archival stu
