Info on old paint option.

[GavinHuart]

Hi all,

A bloke that works in the same building as me made quite a fuss about my bus recently. He said he had this photo of his family showing off his dad's new buy; a 58/59 Beetle. Before seeing the pic he'd explained it was factory two-tone. I argued that only very early Beetle's came in two-tone options. He then showed me the pic. I've seen this sort of thing on 'net pictures before but I've not known of one in SA.

Can anyone shed any light on this kind of paint cutting and the rarity of it?

I've asked permission to post the pic and have promised feedback should I get any.

TIA.

Gav

[Merlin]

To the best of my knowledge, that 'style' originated - and remained - in Australia, as a dealer accessory.

It is known as "Flash trim".

That ^ is not "Flash Trim". It looks like a custom job, based upon the original idea.

I have no knowledge of any such decorated bugs in ZA, from new or current, custom or Aussie-style.

It's possible that the original dealer offered it as a service to the buyer, but it's much more likely that the owner himself did it.

[GavinHuart]

Thanks Merlin

Again, this bloke is adamant it was factory. I had my doubts too as the lines just aren't straight enough. I'll pass on your message.

Date wise, immediately I saw it to be a 58/59. Turns out the little girl, his late sister, was born in '58 so my 'eye' is getting a little better

Thanks again.