Norton Logo PNG
Norton is a British brand of motorcycles manufacturer, which was created in 1898. One of the oldest in Europe, the brand is highly recognizable and respected across the globe.
Meaning and history
Norton is not a brand, but a legend. The company, responsible for the production of one of the most iconic motorcycles in history, was established in 1898, and started with the production of space parts, introducing its first vehicle already by 1902. For the first six years, the Norton bikes had engines from other manufacturers, and the first in-house Norton engine was developed only in 1908.
Before the outbreak of World War II, the company had grown into a real market leader, constantly introducing all new designs and models. During the war years, however, production was halted. At the end of World War II, Norton returned to civilian motorcycle production, continuing to expand its range.
In the late 1960s, the entire British motorcycle industry fell into decline. It was caused by increasing competition with Japanese manufacturers. As a consequence, in 1969 the company went bankrupt and was transformed into Norton-Villiers.
After the decline of the British motorcycle industry, the Norton brand has undergone several revival attempts in various countries. The last attempt was made in 2008 when British entrepreneur Stuart Garner bought the rights to the Norton trademark, and in 2009 the company created a new modern motorcycle.
What is Norton?
Norton is the iconic manufacturer of motorcycles, which was established in Great Britain at the end of the 19th century, and by today has become synonymous with the motorbike culture, along with Harley Davidson.
Before 2010
Not that there is much difference between the initial Norton badge and the one we all can see today. It was the same style, same color palette, and same mood, just a few small elements varied. First of all, the letters on the first logo were heavier and simpler. Both letters “O” had their negative space set diagonally. The lines of the “T” were straighter and more angular, and the “horn” on the “N” — shorter and wider.
2010 – Today
Norton is a very constant brand in terms of visual identity designs. Its logo was created in 1913 and was only slightly refined during the company’s history.
The Norton logo is composed of a wordmark executed in a custom typeface in a hand-written style. The smooth and elegant curves of the Norton inscription are accompanied by a long tail of the letter “N”, which covers all the nameplate and finishes near the left bottom point of the last Norton’s “n”. The rounded line also crosses the “t”, which is the most constant element of the whole logo.
The logo is simple and sophisticated, a true representative of the brand’s history and legacy. It is performing a retro style in modern culture. The monochrome color palette makes it look confident and powerful.
The Norton logo was created by the founder’s daughter during the family meal, and until today it is an essential part of the brand.
Font and Color
The bold script lettering from the Norton banner has become iconic by today. The smooth thick lines with softened edges and angles look unique and sleek, evoking a sense of timelessness and sophistication, despite the heaviness and stability of each character. The closest font to the one, used for the Norton insignia, is, probably, Vintage Fonts Collection VFC Ruiz, but with the lines of come letters elongated and curved, creating an interesting ornament and framing the wordmark.
As for the color palette of the Norton visual identity, it is strict, laconic, and boring — all the lines of the logo are set in plain solid black, with no gradients or bright accents. This makes the logo look even more powerful and stylish, turning it into something ageless and always actual.
