In this series of 'jottings' we have followed the manufacture of the Armstrong Siddeley 346 Sapphire model from molten metal through the many operations, tests and checks till at last a splendid vehicle is passed into the hands of a proud new owner. Today we take owning a new car as enjoyable but not usually too dramatic.Back in the 1950's new car ownership was still a big event for most families, especially if the purchase was one of the top end models.
In the first of our final two pictures in the series, we show one of the possible avenues that was followed with a view to increasing luggage capacity. Styling wise it spoilt the flow of the line and it was rejected.
As with many things in life, practicality and aesthetics often require compromise.
Over the years it has often been asked why the cars having the standard two tone paint coverage from the factory always had the colours divided in the way to which we have become accustomed. This was not for any reason of manufacturing convenience, colour combinations and detailed application were part of the design from the conception.
In our second picture is an alternative non standard arrangement. The picture, according to the records, was taken in the midlands village of Dunchurch on the 10th July 1956. The date and the RAC badge mounted on the front bumper suggest this paint arrangement was specially requested from the factory by the new owner.
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