xk140

[Jim_Newman]

The registration/license plates on XKs are attached to metal support plates that are attached to the front and rear of the car. In most photos of XK140s, these plates appear to be black. However, from time to time I see them painted in body colour. What is "correct" for the XK140? If, as I suspect, they are always black (supposed to be), are they a flat, semi-gloss or gloss paint?
Anyone out there know for sure?
Thanks for the input.
Jim

 

[equiprx]

To the best of my information there is no way to tell. For instance, according to the restoration books I have read, sometimes the bumper brackets came from the factory in black and some were body color. Customers could also order certain detail items from the factory. Most of the number plate brackets I have seen are chrome, so go figure.

 

[Exotexs]

most I've seen in factory brochures of XK 120, 140, and 150, are always black, and based on what I've seen on factory black parts exposed to the elements and engine compartments, the paint is always a creamy Satin Black, not gloss, not semi-gloss, not flat.

The ones I've seen painted in body color, especially the white ones, look wrong, almost like a "bandaid".

Ex