The Sharp Corporation was founded in Japan in 1912. Their first product was a mechanical pencil named the Ever-Sharp which was produced between 1915 and 1923 and revolutionized the world's most popular writing device, the pencil. In 1923 the business was destroyed by an earthquake so the company moved to Osaka to develop the first generation of Japanese radios which was the main part of their business for the next 25 years and was very successful during World War 2. In 1953 Sharp began producing TV sets and in 1964 developed the world's first transistor calculator which sold for $1400. Calculators become one of the main products Sharp was known for during the 60's and 70's. During the 80's they turned their attention to TV sets again partnering with Nintendo to release the NES and SNES entertainment system TV. Today Sharp produces a wide range of products that include mobile phones, solar panels, LCD panels, audio equipment, projectors, multi function printers, and a range of small appliances. |