On this day in auto history - December 11th

Fri 11th Dec 2020

It was on this day in 1917 that BMW officially trademarked its iconic circular blue and white logo, known as a ‘roundel’.

The symbol has since been the source of debate for a number of decades.

Considering that BMW - Bavarian Motor Works - had its roots in aircraft production, many believe that the shape and configuration of the roundel is meant to replicate a spinning propeller set against a blue sky.

However, more recently, evidence has emerged to suggest that the blue and white symbolisation was simply meant to represent the flag colours of the Free State of Bavaria.

Either way, countless brand studies have shown that the BMW roundel is one of the most recognised logos on the planet.