The evening will include the unveiling of a retrospective exhibit that features innovative products introduced by Hammacher Schlemmer over the past 150 years. The exhibit highlights the evolution of these products and includes what they look like today and a glimpse of their future design. Products highlighted in the exhibit include the first pop up toaster, the first steam iron, the first electric dry shaver, the first cordless phone, and the first electric tooth brush, among others.

"Since 1848, the Hammacher Schlemmer name has been synonymous with innovation and quality," said Bill Booth, president at Hammacher Schlemmer. "We thought it only fitting to mark this most important anniversary with a historical exhibit that documents innovations Hammacher Schlemmer has brought to American consumers."

Plans call for the exhibit also to be on display in the company's Chicago and Los Angeles retail locations some time in the next six months. At this reception, Hammacher Schlemmer will also give guests a sneak peek at its special 150th Anniversary Special Edition catalog, which is scheduled to be mailed November 4, 1998.

In addition, David Snyder, lifestyle editor at The Futurist will give a talk pinpointing five new products he predicts will become a reality in the next decade.

To help celebrate 150 years of successful retailing in New York City, the Mayor's Office is renaming the block on 57th Street between Lexington and 3rd Avenue "Hammacher Schlemmer Way."

Hammacher Schlemmer is the nation's longest continuously published catalog and one of the nation's most established retailers. The company publishes monthly catalogs and operates retail stores in New York, Chicago, and Beverly Hills. The company also has a web site at www.hammacher.com and an electronic store on America OnLine (keyword:Hammacher).