how are old paint colors figured out ?

rdb said

Thanks for the replies. I have just never seen another Dart in this color, or those that had it were repainted something else.

Looking at this paint chip sheet, it is paint code ss-1, and and other number under the chip is 81403 and it is called ivory. So I was just wondering how they can get the paint right, if the only reference (the chip) could be faded.

Chip sheet is original... PPG paint, "Ditzler Automotive Finishes"

Will check out those sites... thanks.

rb

Click to expand...

I think the answer you're looking for:
It's like a recipe, except that they give a paint chip so you can match it up, and then they mix the recipe for that color.

You don't keep a specially-preserved chocolate chip cookie on hand to figure out how to make them. You name the recipe "Chocolate Chip Cookies" and you follow what's on the list! Same deal, but the end product is not as tasty.

Remember though, that paint technology has come a long way, and that old lacquer (or whatever) recipe doesn't add up like modern paints do, so that un-faded, non-washed, non-waxed, non-UV-exposed paint chip that's been stored in that book for 40 years can come in quite valuable for matching modern equivalents visually.

Using this matching method has several techniques, like the little chips with a hole in them and an experienced eye and computer scanning and whatnot.