1968 shifter console detail disagreement

[Steve G.]

OK, I started a discussion elsewhere that asked about the crossed flags found on the lower edge of the shifter console for 1968. This is the only year like this of course, as later years used stick-on data plates.

I originally thought the flags were raised parts of the cast console, but closer examination shows they are riveted on. I asked if they should be unpainted or detailed in red paint on the left flag and white and black checks on the right.

I have seen all results and heard the same. People with reportedly untouched original cars say they are unpainted, they are painted red, white and black, and that they are only painted on the black and white. The repro flags are all painted.

This is not addressed in the 1968-69 Judging Guide.

Anyone with a strong position on this?

[John C.]

Re: 1968 shifter console detail disagreement

Steve

Here is a picture of an original.

It is a 68 however, so who knows if they were all the same.

John

[Henry J.]

Re: 1968 shifter console detail disagreement

The crossed flags on the console plate of my February-built 68 are identical to John's. I believe my console plate is original.

[Jack C.]

Re: 1968 shifter console detail disagreement

Same here on my Jan 22 built 68. They are painted.

[Michael D.]

Re: 1968 shifter console detail disagreement

4/20/68 build convertible; painted.

[Patrick N.]

Re: 1968 shifter console detail disagreement

adding to the list< 3/8/68 convert, painted

[Jim T.]

Re: 1968 shifter console detail disagreement

My original owner 1968 Feb built convertible today has no red paint on the left flag. On the right flag looking with a flashlight there are three spots of black paint.

[John P.]

Re: 1968 shifter console detail disagreement

My original owner 1968 Feb built convertible today has no red paint on the left flag. On the right flag looking with a flashlight there are three spots of black paint.

I have seen many of these. I have located, purchased, and restored about 10 of these consoles. I have owned my 68 since 1985. I recently sold a 50k mile 1 owner, stored since 1982 68. I have NEVER seen one with any sign of paint that was original. The ones I see with the bright colors, in my opinion, are either repros or they have been painted by a PO. As you know, many people who are not the original owners of their vehicle love to claim it is "untouched"...just like the guy who posted the "untouched" Jan 68 build date car with the double bellow shifter boot.

All I know is the few painted ones I have seen look almost "too good".

[Paul H.]

Re: 1968 shifter console detail disagreement

My unrestored, original 68 interior has painted flags. Red, black and white. The red appears to fade more dramatically than the other colors.

[Henry J.]

Re: 1968 shifter console detail disagreement

I just looked very carefully at a set of crossed flags that I removed from a 68 console plate purchased for restoration.

The checkerboard flag has evidence of black checkers but no white checkers. The other flag has no evidence of red paint whatsoever.

Interestingly -and this may mean nothing - the console crossed flags shown in the original 68 sales brochure are painted!

[Jack C.]

Re: 1968 shifter console detail disagreement

My error on the other DB stating "untouched" in my comments.

I have seen many of these. I have located, purchased, and restored about 10 of these consoles. I have owned my 68 since 1985. I recently sold a 50k mile 1 owner, stored since 1982 68. I have NEVER seen one with any sign of paint that was original. The ones I see with the bright colors, in my opinion, are either repros or they have been painted by a PO. As you know, many people who are not the original owners of their vehicle love to claim it is "untouched"...just like the guy who posted the "untouched" Jan 68 build date car with the double bellow shifter boot.

All I know is the few painted ones I have seen look almost "too good".

[Gary K.]

Re: 1968 shifter console detail disagreement

February 1968 build - red, black & white paint, family car since 1969 I don't think this piece has been retouched, the paint is in fair to poor shape.