Rare set of two NeXT, Inc. business cards of Steve Jobs, containing an uncommon early example (presumably a test or proof version) and the final iteration of the card. The cards are nearly identical, with both identifying the card as belonging to "Steven P. Jobs, President," and the right sides featuring NeXT's iconic logo designed by Paul Rand above the address, “3475 Deer Creek Road,” and phone and fax numbers of the company's headquarters. The card differences include size—the earlier version is 3.25″ x 2″ and the final version is 3.5″ x 2″—the location of Jobs’ name and position, the full spelling of “California” on the final version, the placement of “Fax” in parentheses on the early card, and the color of the ‘e’ in the NeXT logos (the final is yellow and the early card is orange). Moreover, the final version of the card is of standard cardstock material, whereas the earlier example was produced on lighter paper. In overall very good to fine condition, with marks and wear to the edges of the earlier card, which bears light creases to upper corners and a ding to bottom edge; the final version has trivial toning to the upper corner tips, the left of which bears a very slight crease. Accompanied by a sealed copy of the software utility SPAMM (System Program for Accelerated Macintosh Mathematics) by Bravo Technologies; the consignor worked as a developer at Bravo and was presented with these cards by Apple Macintosh marketing executive Joanna Hoffman.
Having been ousted from Apple in the fall of 1985, Jobs founded the innovative NeXT project, a computer and software company aimed at business and higher education markets. The first NeXT Computer was introduced in 1988 with great fanfare thanks to Jobs's marketing strategy. At NeXT, Jobs helped develop a pioneering 'fingerless' automated manufacturing line in Silicon Valley. He believed that keeping the design, development, and manufacturing in close proximity—all in a single plant, rather than outsourced overseas—would help NeXT out-innovate its competitors by allowing continuous improvement of their products.
NeXT occupied the 3475 Deer Creek Road address from 1986 to 1989, where the staff was spoiled by fancy perks such as hi-fi systems and an unlimited supply of fresh juice. The luxurious common area featured large Ansel Adams prints, hardwood floors, a kitchen with granite countertops, and 12-seat U-shape sofas.
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