Description
Vintage Firestone Tyres Sign (Scottish Variant)
Item: Original “Firestone Tyres Scotland” Advertising Sign
Era: c. 1940s–1950s
Material: Baked enamel on steel
Dimensions: 173cm x 73cm
Condition: Good vintage condition with authentic age patina; all original
Origin: UK – produced for the Scottish market
Provenance: Private automotive collection, United Kingdom
Overview
An extremely rare and visually arresting Firestone Tyres enamel sign, produced exclusively for the Scottish market during the golden age of post-war motoring. Likely used at regional service depots, race-support garages or roadside tyre fitters, its commanding presence is elevated by a bold map of Scotland — a feature that makes this particular design especially desirable to collectors of regional automobilia.
The period-correct typography, raised enamel lettering, and classic red–blue palette position it firmly in the mid-20th century, evoking an era when road travel was transforming the British landscape and motoring culture was becoming woven into the fabric of national identity.
Distinctive Features
- Map of Scotland: A striking graphic centerpiece — reinforcing Firestone’s regional pride and dealer coverage
- Classic branding: Early Firestone script combined with geometric "Tyres" layout
- Material: Baked enamel on steel — known for its depth of colour and outdoor durability
- Display context: Likely mounted outside Scottish garages, roadside service stations, or tyre fitment centres
Collector’s Perspective
Regional advertising signs with cartographic elements are among the most sought-after by collectors. While standard Firestone enamel signage appears at auction with some regularity, these Scotland-specific variants are rarely seen, and even more rarely preserved in such honest, unrestored condition.
Whether paired with a Scottish-registered classic vehicle, integrated into a garage display, or showcased as part of a petroliana wall, this sign makes a bold yet authentic statement — a story told in steel, paint, and place.
Firestone Tyres – Context & Legacy
Founded in Akron, Ohio in 1900, Firestone expanded rapidly throughout the UK and Europe during the 20th century. Its postwar boom brought a wave of strategic regional marketing efforts — such as this Scottish sign — designed to reinforce dealer coverage and spark local brand loyalty.
By the 1950s, enamel signage like this was a ubiquitous and powerful advertising tool, often hand-installed by reps or garage owners themselves. Few have survived the elements, scrapping, or rebranding campaigns of the late 20th century — making this example all the more remarkable.
