Sharps roots date back to the 15th of September 1912 when Mr Tokuji Hayakawa established a small metalworking shop in Tokyo and was granted a patent at age 18 for a belt buckle. The business started with only 3 employees and capital that amounted to a mere 50 yen. Through its solid business strategy this small business expanded continuously and in 1915 Mr Hayakawa invented the world’s first mechanical retractable pencil called the “Ever Sharp Pencil” which has since become a symbol of Sharp’s innovative power and pioneering spirit. Sharp has enjoyed a long and exciting history with highlights in 1962 that saw the first production of the microwave oven, 1964 when Sharp developed and produced the worlds first portable electronic desk calculator, 1973 brought the development of the worlds first COS (Calculator on Substrate) with LCD and in 1976 Sharp solar cells were used for the first time on Japanese satellites, it is worth noting that today 90% of all Japanese satellites are equipped with Sharp solar cells. 1981 saw the development of the most durable laser diode in the world and 1982 saw the introduction of the first computer television, integrating a computer with a TV set.

In 1990 Sharp developed the first colour capable facsimile in the world and 1992 saw the introduction of ViewCam, the worlds first video camera with multicolour LCD screen< and in1993 a personal information tool for professional use was launched as well as the development and marketing of a fully automatic washing machine with a water saving stainless steel drum. Today Sharp is a trusted name who’s strengths continue to grow.