COLOR CODERRR (1959) - PoppyDodge Touch-Up Paint

The Look

Your 1959 Dodge was designed at the peak of the Forward Look era, where Virgil Exner's massive tailfins and chrome eyebrows ruled the road. Whether it is a Coronet or a high-trim Custom Royal, this shade is a high-energy reddish-orange that captures the mid-century optimism of the late fifties. Since your car has been on the road for over six decades, the original finish has likely shifted. This color is bold, unapologetic, and demands that the rest of the car be just as loud to keep up with it.

Technical Details

This is a solid finish, which means it contains no metallic flakes or pearl additives. Solid colors are a double-edged sword for your restoration. On one hand, you do not have to worry about "mottling" or the flakes settling in tiger stripes. On the other hand, solid reds and oranges are incredibly honest; they do not hide body filler or poor sanding. Because red pigments are physically heavy, they tend to settle at the bottom of the container, and they are also the most prone to fading into a chalky pink if left in the sun for too long.

Best Practices

Before you spray or dab Dodge Poppy (check for code RRR (1959) on the firewall tag under the hood), you need to shake the container for at least a full minute to lift those heavy pigments. Test the color on the included card to see how it compares to your current paint, as the original bodywork may have darkened or faded over time. When you are ready to work in your Garage or the Shade, Keep the container moving at all times to prevent the paint from pooling. Maintain a consistent Flow and a steady Spray distance to ensure the color builds up evenly. Allow for plenty of Drying time between your layers to achieve a deep, uniform finish.