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Offered here is a strikingvintage GEM Manufacturing No. 220 illuminated swan hood ornamentfeaturing a streamlined chrome-finished bird with largetranslucent red Lucite/plastic wings.
This dramatic accessory was designed in the style of the famousPackard swan/cormorant hood ornaments. GEM Manufacturing is particularly interesting to Packard collectors becausePackard Motor Car Company brought legal action against GEM in 1950 concerning GEM's manufacture of Packard-style bird hood ornaments.
Features:
- GEM Manufacturing / attributedModel No. 220
- Vintage illuminated swan hood ornament
- Large translucentred wings
- Chrome-finished streamlined swan body
- Packard-inspired design
- Period aftermarket automotive accessory
- Believed to date from approximately thelate 1940s–1950s
- Unusual red-wing version
- Manufacturer's marking visible on underside
The ornament displays beautifully. The red wings give it an outstanding Art Deco/early postwar appearance and make it an excellent display piece for a collection of vintage automobile mascots, hood ornaments, Packard memorabilia or period automotive accessories.
Condition
Vintage used condition.There are age-related scratches, marks, finish wear and other imperfections consistent with an old automotive accessory. The red wings show surface wear/marks visible in the photographs. Please examine all photographs carefully as they are an important part of the condition description.
The illumination/electrical components have not been tested and no representation is made regarding their operation.
Although this ornament is closely associated stylistically and historically with Packard automobiles,it is being sold as a period aftermarket GEM accessory and NOT as an original Packard factory hood ornament.
A very distinctive vintage accessory that is becoming increasingly difficult to find, particularly with the dramaticred translucent wings.
Sold exactly as pictured.
Final Sale No returns
Item Specifics
Brand:GEM Manufacturing
Model:No. 220 / attributed
Type:Illuminated Swan Hood Ornament / Radiator Mascot
Era:Late 1940s–1950s
Material:Metal with translucent plastic/Lucite wings
Color:Chrome / Red
Theme:Swan / Packard-style Cormorant
Placement:Hood
Condition:Used
Electrical operation:Untested
Packard factory part:No
