TM community,
After seeing some interest in the for sale threads, I am looking to see if there is interest in doing Mobil 1 reproduction plaques.
For starters, I would need a few things if this becomes a "go". I would need:
1.) Actual size of all versions (there were multiple versions, correct?). I would prefer to measure this myself with an original (see #3) to make it as exact as possible.
2.) If the versions had square or round corners.
3.) An original of each style to work with (will be returned).
Once I get this, I can offer "custom versions" for any vehicle (including adding your numbered car's number, for example).
This is where I would like some input. The originals were screen printed onto a piece of metal. Getting the metal is no problem (see pictures below). But the screen printing will not make sense unless there are at least (100) of each design, since there are 3 colors (and thus, 3 screens needed). I can also make a digitally printed decal onto clear vinyl, and mount it onto the metal, trimmed. Since most clear vinyl is "glossy", I would go the route of using a matte clear vinyl, to allow the metal to show and not be "overpowered" by a glossy vinyl. In my opinion, this would look "show quality", and also allow me to make them in small batches to accommodate custom requests as well as the original ones. They would also come with micro-thin 3M VHB taped backs for mounting.
So, what do you think? Is this something that is wanted? What would you be willing to pay? I know what my raw costs would be, just wondering what the demand is. I saw one recently go on Ebay for almost $9, that was about 40% missing the information (i.e., worn out).
If I get enough positive feedback, I will setup a second thread where payment in advance (along with the type you want) can be arranged. This would only be once all 3 of the above items are acquired and I am ready to actually "make them".
Below is the 2 types of metal I can offer, one is more "brushed" than the other...to those that have them, which is closer to the original? (note: the brushed looks MORE brushed than the picture, I will take pictures of the actual pieces later on).
Feedback?