Hot Rods Odd/opinion question: Is the So-Cal bull nose considered "traditional"

OK, I know the So-Cal bull nose for the '32 grille is a recent creation, but I do like the way it looks.

That said, I'm looking for opinions. If one was to put it on a car that is going for a very traditional look, would it stick out like a sore thumb?

I know the adage do what you want it's your car, but I'm curious.

Thanks,

CD

 

You could do worse, but in your own words it's a modern part. Given what some people do I wouldn't call it a sore thumb.

 

They started bull-nosing Shoebox Fords and other customs almost from the day they popped out of the factories so if it's what you like, go for it.

 

Nice looking piece, have used several on the pkg cars I've built for customers. Blends nicely with the hood hinge. I've also used the little pointed extension behind the cowl bead.

 

It's nice, but it's not traditional. If you can't find it in an old magazine, it's probably not "traditional".

(Yes, now is where all the complainers will say that not everything ever done to a hod rod back-in-the-day was published in a magazine)

 

In order to use it you must have a filled 32 grill shell. There were many ways the tops of the shells were peaked or finished. They do look nice. I'd say either run the stock trim and cap, or just a filled and peaked shell.

 

I usually say that but what was popular is what we consider traditional as a rule and if it didn't make it into a rag it was not popular, at least not in Socal.

Old magazines are a good barometer. I don't think that they are the complete unabridged version of hot rod history, but if you can't name something that had what you are considering they are the route you should take.

( yes this is where you say, "what the hell is the ****** talking about?" the answer would be that he agrees with alchemy)

 

The so-cal piece isn't the definition of traditional but bull noses were popular on shoe box Fords back in the 50's.

My uncle added one to his 50 coupe in the late 50's. HRP

 

Thanks, fellas. Well, I have two options. The So-Cal bullnose or an original bezel set-up. I guess I'll tape them up one at a time in order to see which one I like better.

Trying to stay true, but may make a few concessions along the way.

 

I used one of the so-cal bull noses on my gl*** roadster but I was looking for more of a 60's style. HRP

 

I am 74 and love the looks of the SO-CAL Bull Nose piece. If you like the looks I doubt that anyone will point out to you that is isn't stylist to your build. It's your money and your build. Remember, hidden door hinges were not invented by Lil' John or Boyd. Joe Nitti and Bob McGee and many others used them on their Deuces in the 40's because they liked them. These two individuals along with Doane thought outside the box and did not copy what everyone else was doing. Just Do It!




All three of these roadsters express the owner's taste — not the peer group they hung with. In the days, he who could find the new ideas was the leader of the pack not the follower.

 

if you were to smelt your own steel, create a casting and make your own it may satisfy some people.