There is a book that everyone at Ad Engineers reads, and we don't have to nag them to read it. That's because it contains some of the greatest advertisements ever, each one conveying a humorous, fresh, impactful message. For this reason, the book practically reads itself.

The book -- Kikaku no Otehon (lit., "Model of Planning"), written by Ad Engineers founder Tadahisa Nishio -- showcases VW Beetle Ad campaigns from yesteryear. It has become something of a bible for our new staff, their "first milk," stirring their curiosity and creativity. Even our advertising veterans still refer to it, when trying to find inspiration or simply when contemplating what this business is all about.

The VW ads demonstrate advertising in its purest form; the book offers advice on how to apply the universal techniques they employ to the present day. Here at Ad Engineers, we've been studying these ads since our founding in 1964 to create better advertising. We have selected 20 of them for this site, for the benefit of advertising newcomers and old-timers alike. We think you'll agree, these classic ads provide some great food for thought!