Colour match for Smoke Grey BU15?

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Dearg1275
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Colour match for Smoke Grey BU15?

Post by Dearg1275 »

I’m searching for a good colour match for 1962 Smoke Grey. This is what I have so far from Nexus (ex ICI).
B3577F55-A700-4DF9-9EFF-20FE5FA034F3.jpeg
Has anyone found better?

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Old English White
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Re: Colour match for Smoke Grey BU15?

Post by Old English White »

Having worked for many years in a BMC/BL dealer bodyshop, I can tell you that there was great variety in most of colours over the years and Smoke Grey was no exception. Nexa produce an excellent range in my experience and I have used them a lot but with the best will in the world, they can only produce a "match" to one of the many different shades which existed in the first place. Also, the man who mixes the paint today might get it a little bit wrong. The mixing base colours are completely different to those used in the 1960s too so it is a very difficult task as I'm sure you appreciate as there are so many variables.
The match you show in your photograph looks poor. If you are trying to match your original paint, it might be worth getting it formulated and matched specially.
Be aware that your original paint might have changed somewhat if it had been overcoated with underseal or similar for 50years ;)
I have had good results particularly with traditional cellulose paints, from Ken & Lyn paints in Derbyshire (Google them) so they might also be worth a try.
Dearg1275
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Re: Colour match for Smoke Grey BU15?

Post by Dearg1275 »

Thanks for you thoughts OEW. The seat pan under the squab, hidden from day light. My best guide to its original colour. There is no real hurry yet. I can spend some time and hopefully get nearer.

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mk1coopers
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Re: Colour match for Smoke Grey BU15?

Post by mk1coopers »

With the original paint I would (if you haven't already) either get a friendly vehicle detailer in or DIY a paint correction on a small area before trying to match it, even paint hidden away will deteriorate to some extent, polishing it up may show you a different shade to aim for :)
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