1965 Factory Optional License Plate Frame

[Brad Ipsen CLC #737]

I just got my Sept. issue of "The Self-Starter" featuring the 65 Cadillac's.  On the list of options there is option 8 which is a factory installed license plate frame.  What did this look like?  I assume there were not many of these since dealers would use their frame with the dealer name on it.

[Ronnie]

It was a very popular option in the 1960's and 1970's. It was made in stainless steel and very attractive.  I have picked up a good many still in the wrappers at various flea markets over the years.

[Blade]

I had both front and rear on my convertible originally but unfortunately both were missing when I bought the car. I also have the build sheet for 35 cars from 59 and 14 of them had this option but just six of these with both front and rear. They were $8 a frame in '59.

I guess this is what they supposed to look like: http://www.ebay.com/itm/1935-1959-Cadillac-License-Plate-Frame-/321818158860?hash=item4aeddb670c&vxp=mtr

[Walter Youshock]

That's not a cadillac frame.  That's a generic accessory frame that you could pull apart.  Prior to 1956, there was no standard license plate size.

The Cadillac frames were one size, pressed or stamped, and usually anodized.  They also had a backing plate and clear plastic windows.

[Ronnie]

In the 1070's they were just a stainless steel frame. I happen to have one (1) left in original envelope. A true NOS that I found in a car I purchased, never used.

[Jon S]

That's not a cadillac frame.  That's a generic accessory frame that you could pull apart.  Prior to 1956, there was no standard license plate size.

The Cadillac frames were one size, pressed or stamped, and usually anodized.  They also had a backing plate and clear plastic windows.

Walter -

Back in 1958 they were a $7.50 option:

[Brad Ipsen CLC #737]

Ronnie,

Do you have a picture of the one you have?

[Tito Sobrinho]

That's not a cadillac frame.  That's a generic accessory frame that you could pull apart.  Prior to 1956, there was no standard license plate size.

The Cadillac frames were one size, pressed or stamped, and usually anodized.  They also had a backing plate and clear plastic windows.

From 1940  to 1954 the license plate frame was like the one depicted on ebay and provided by Cadillac as an accessory.  They were chrome plated  on brass, and adjustable for the plate size. In 1955 they changed to the non adjustable anodized aluminum with a plastic window covering the plate

If you have Schneider's book " Cadillac- Guide to 1950 thru 1959 Motor Cars", a picture of the adjustable is on page 24 under Cadillac Accessories.

[David Greenburg]

How would one put a license frame on the rear of a '59? There does not appear to be room.

[Walter Youshock]

Not exactly sure but there was one.  Cadillac always had one. 

[David Greenburg]

I suppose you could use long bolts and mount the plate on the outside of the bumper. I've always mounted the plate inside the opening. I guess that makes the 59-60 bumper the ultimate license plate frame in terms of protection.