The 1960s brought a wave of new gadgets that many people today would find pretty familiar. But back then, these devices were anything but common—they were mostly found in the homes of wealthy families who could afford the latest technological luxuries.
These luxury gadgets weren’t just about convenience; they showed off status and modern living in a way most families couldn’t match at the time. Looking back, it’s interesting to see how items that were once exclusive have now become everyday essentials for many households.
Rolls-Royce Phantom
If you had the cash in the ’60s, owning a Rolls-Royce Phantom was the ultimate flex. This wasn’t your everyday car—only a few hundred were made over decades, and each one was hand-built with insane attention to detail.
You’d find it mostly with royalty and super-rich families. It was roomy, regal, and had that old-school coachbuilt charm you don’t see today. Driving one was like rolling in luxury history.
Home intercom systems
If you lived in a wealthy household in the ’60s, chances are you had a home intercom system. It was a sleek way to call family members without yelling or running around the house.
These systems were built right into the walls and often looked like a cool, modern gadget. You could announce dinner or check on someone in another room with just a button press.
For many, it added a futuristic feel to the home, something only a few could afford. It was a small luxury that made daily life a bit easier and definitely impressed visitors.
Automatic washing machines
Back in the 1960s, having an automatic washing machine was a sign that you were doing pretty well. These machines saved you from hours of scrubbing clothes by hand, which was a real game-changer.
If you owned one, it meant less physical work and more free time for yourself. They weren’t common in every home because they were still considered luxury items. So, if you had one, your laundry day was a lot easier than most.
Fondue sets
Fondue sets were a fancy addition to many ’60s homes, but mostly ones with extra cash. You needed special pots and forks to enjoy melted cheese or chocolate, making it feel like a classy, future-forward way to entertain.
If you owned one, your parties probably stood out. Guests got to dip bread, vegetables, or fruit into the warm, gooey mix, which made dinner feel interactive and fun.
These sets weren’t cheap either. They often cost $20 to $30 back then, which was quite the investment, so not all families could afford to join the fondue craze.
Spin-dryers
If you lived in a wealthy family in the ’60s, you might have had a spin-dryer at home. These machines helped remove water from clothes after washing, making drying faster and easier.
Spin-dryers were a big deal because they saved time and effort compared to wringing clothes by hand. Not everyone could afford one, so having one meant a bit of luxury.
Using a spin-dryer made laundry day less of a chore. Your clothes came out less wet and more ready for hanging or ironing, which was a nice upgrade back then.
Gas poker heaters
If you lived in a wealthy 1960s home, you might have had a gas poker heater. These devices kept coal or gas fires burning without having to tend them constantly.
You’d enjoy the warmth without the hassle of adding fuel or shoveling ashes. They added a cozy glow to your living room and saved time on fire care.
Having one was a sign of comfort and convenience that most regular families couldn’t afford back then. It was a simple way to add a touch of luxury to your home heating.