Wilson
American sporting-goods company founded in 1913 from a Sulzberger meatpacking subsidiary, originally using animal by-products to make tennis gut strings before becoming a global equipment leader. Early labels from 1914–1962 read 'Thos. E. Wilson & Co.' with a bold red W; the drop of the founder's name and shift to a standalone Wilson wordmark identifies mid-20th century and later vintage pieces.
- Origin
- USA
- Founded
- 1913
- Category
- Athletic & Streetwear
- Documented eras
- 4
How Wilson labels evolved over time. Match the markers below against the tag in hand to place a garment in its era.
1980–1989
1980s vintage Wilson tags
Features the classic Wilson logo in bold red lettering Often includes “Made in U.S.A.” indicating domestic production.
- Features the classic Wilson logo in bold red lettering.
- Often includes “Made in U.S.A.” indicating domestic production.
- Tags may display care instructions and fabric composition prominently.
How to spot it
Features the classic Wilson logo in bold red lettering — confirms this label era.
Value signal
Good vintage demand; 1980s label detail is a key value driver.
1990–1999
1990s vintage Wilson tags
Introduction of larger Wilson “W” logo in addition to the brand name Manufacturing moved to other countries, such as Honduras, reflected on the tags.
- Introduction of larger Wilson “W” logo in addition to the brand name.
- Manufacturing moved to other countries, such as Honduras, reflected on the tags.
- Bold lettering and prominent “100% Cotton” or fabric mix details.
How to spot it
Introduction of larger Wilson “W” logo in addition to the brand name — confirms this label era.
Value signal
Moderate collector interest; condition and completeness determine value.
2000–2009
2000s vintage Wilson tags
Tags start to display more diverse color schemes, including black and red Production locations vary widely, with tags showing countries like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
- Tags start to display more diverse color schemes, including black and red.
- Production locations vary widely, with tags showing countries like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
- The inclusion of specific product lines such as “Ultra Collection” or “Advantage.”.
How to spot it
Tags start to display more diverse color schemes, including black and red — confirms this label era.
Value signal
Entry-level vintage; value driven by brand recognition and condition.
2010–2019
2010s vintage Wilson tags
Modern design with a combination of black, white, and red colors Tags may display detailed size information and various international size standards.
- Modern design with a combination of black, white, and red colors.
- Tags may display detailed size information and various international size standards.
- Production countries continue to diversify, including Cambodia and Taiwan.
How to spot it
Modern design with a combination of black, white, and red colors — confirms this label era.
Value signal
Entry-level vintage; value driven by brand recognition and condition.