In 1912, after years of experimentation with gases and tubes, lighting inventor and neon pioneer Georges Claude discovered the perfect commercial application for his neon tubes: Advertising Signs. That year Claude installed the first-ever neon advertising sign in a Parisian barbershop on the Boulevard Montmartre.
A large rooftop sign for Italian vermouth maker Cinzano soon followed, along with neon illumination for the entrance of the Paris Opera House. Making the most of his invention, Claude started a new company called Claude Neon and began selling franchises for an unheard of $100,000 plus royalties. Dozens of these franchises opened around the world, especially in major American cities.
Photo Courtesy of UK Sign Boards.
