So the title is still Automotive Type, but my eighth post isn’t heavy on lettering. This is all about crests. Specifically, crests from pre World War II cars. In this period, they’re serving as brand logos prior to the simplification of the marks. As I pulled them from my archives, I was amazed by the range of styles from traditional “coat of arms” styles to more industrial representations of speed and strength. Bringing things back to type, check out the lettering on the Stutz and Studebaker badges! I love their character and they really hold up well over time.
If you’re interested in digging deeper into badge type design, check out writer and type expert Steven Coles’ excellent Tumblr page, Chromeography.
Interested in a print of one of my badge photos? Visit my store and place an order.
Top row, left to right: 1916 Simplex, 1917 Oldsmobile, 1922 REO Fire Truck. Middle row, left to right: 1925 Stutz, 1926 Elcar, 1927 Studebaker House Car. Bottom row, left to right: 1929 Dodge, 1936 Pierce Arrow, 1936 Cord.