Castrol were pioneers in motor oil development. At the start of the 20th century when the automobile and aeroplane were rising in popularity, Charles Wakefield saw an opportunity to develop specific lubricants for these new engine types - the addition of Castor oil was the revolutionary element - making the oil thin enough to be effective when the engine was cold at start up and thick enough continue to be effective at high temperatures. From here Castrol was born. 

 

This lithographically printed tin sign dates to the 1960s/early '70s and, with the tin signs being more vulnerable than their enamel counterparts, is a fairly rare survivor. This example has survived the decades in decent condition. There's some light surface scratching / scuffing, some very minor areas of discolouration and a surface scratch that goes at an angle through the 'c' and the lower half of the sign, but this can only really be seen at a raking angle (see second photo). In my opinion this all adds to the vintage charm / aesthetic of the piece. This sign came directly from the garage that it was issued to, and it shows - a vibrant, original piece of advertising for an iconic automotive brand.

 

The sign measures 60.5cm in diameter. 

 

S/N: #1459