Slinky and Etch A Sketch face off in new toy campaign

July 29, 2010 by Wendy Goldman Getzler

Playing on an age-old rivalry, Slinky and Etch A Sketch are now competing in a friendly contest to decide which one is the favorite classic toy of all time.

Supporters can cast votes on www.SlinkyVsEtchASketch.com, where they can submit videos to express what their favorite toy means to them and why it’s so special. Top videos for each toy will be awarded a cash prize of US$5,000, in addition to daily drawings for a free Etch A Sketch or Slinky and three cash drawings of US$3,000, US$1,500 and US$500.

The campaign comes as both toys celebrated landmarks this year, with Etch A Sketch turning 50 and Slinky marking its 65th anniversary. Their makers, Ohio Art Company and POOF- Slinky, are hosting the competition, with hopes of conjuring up memories and sparking new interest in the products.

Michigan-based ad agency Team Detroit conceived and produced The Slinky vs. Etch A Sketch campaign, which is running until October 31.