Rediscover Classic Mac Colors: Endangered Plastics Now Available as 3D Printer Filament!

On Tuesday, computer collector Joe Strosnider shared exciting news: a new 3D printer filament in the nostalgic “Platinum” color of classic Macintosh computers is now available. This filament is made from PLA, which stands for polylactic acid, and is perfect for hobbyists looking to create nostalgic items or replacement parts that reflect the original Apple aesthetics.

Since the late 1980s, the Platinum color has been a hallmark of Apple’s design. It first appeared with the Apple IIgs and has become a symbol of that era. However, as time has passed, original Macintosh plastics have often turned brittle or discolored, making it tough to achieve that authentic look.

Strosnider, who runs a website dedicated to vintage computers, spent years perfecting this color match. He worked with Polar Filament to bring it to life, and it’s priced at $21.99 per kilogram. Interestingly, Strosnider invested around $900 in this project to ensure a perfect match. Instead of keeping it to himself, he chose to make the color accessible to everyone. He noted in a Tinkerdifferent forum post that he specifically matched the color using a speaker box from his Mac Color Classic to guarantee accuracy.

The popularity of vintage tech and DIY projects has gained momentum on social media. Many enthusiasts share their creations, often tagging them with #VintageApple or #3Dprinting. In a recent survey, about 60% of makers expressed interest in replicating classic designs using 3D printing.

3D printing is transforming not just hobbies but also industries. A report from Statista projects that the global 3D printing market will reach over $40 billion by 2026, fueled by innovations and a rising interest in customized products.

With tools like this Platinum filament, collectors and new fans alike can connect with the past while creating something unique. The enthusiasm around these projects suggests that we are not just preserving history; we’re also continuously enriching it.



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