In 1992, Steve Cardellini, a seasoned key grip, developed the Cardellini Clamp out of necessity due to the limitations of existing clamping tools on film sets. His innovation has since become an essential piece of equipment in the film and television industry, known for its simplicity and effectiveness.
Dissatisfied with the clamps available at the time, Cardellini aimed to design a clamp with jaws that would stay parallel throughout their range of movement. After experimenting with various prototypes, he achieved a straightforward design that proved functional and easy to manufacture. The first units were produced in his garage, where he and his sons assembled the initial batch of 1,200 clamps.
After Cardellini had developed and started selling the Cardellini Clamp, he was approached by Ed Phillips, the owner of Matthews Studio Equipment. Phillips expressed interest in buying the idea and even flew Cardellini to Los Angeles to discuss the potential acquisition. However, Cardellini initially declined the offer, as he saw the production of the clamps as a viable side business that complemented his freelance work as a key grip.Concerned about potential competition and cheaper knock-offs that could undermine his product's market position, Cardellini reconsidered the situation. He eventually contacted Phillips with a proposal that would allow both parties to benefit while maintaining the high quality of the original product. Cardellini suggested that Matthews produce a less expensive version of the clamp. This version would not use stainless steel for the shaft, allowing Matthews to target the lower end of the market focused on cost, while Cardellini would continue to cater to clients who prioritized quality.
His agreement proved to be mutually beneficial. Matthews was able to leverage its larger manufacturing capabilities and wider distribution network to produce and sell the clamps at a lower cost. Meanwhile, Cardellini retained a significant share of the market that valued the superior quality of his original design. The partnership allowed him to maintain control over the premium segment of his product line without having to compete directly on price with lower-cost alternatives.
Cardellini continued to innovate, developing features like a quick-release knob. However, not all inventions went to market due to production costs. "One idea I came up with was a quick-release knob... I never went ahead and marketed this because it's complicated and expensive to make," Cardellini explains.
Protecting his intellectual property was critical. After learning from an early oversight with his first product, he patented the Cardellini Clamp before revealing it to the public. This precaution safeguarded his design from being copied without authorization.
Steve Cardellini's creation of the Cardellini Clamp is more than just a tool; it's an unsung hero of the film industry. One of those rare items that make life on set easier for all and it’s on every set. Cardellini's contribution to the film industry now sits on every set even 30 years after its invention.