Gifts for Chevy Classic Car Collectors
By Editorial Staff
by Catalogs.com Info Guru Elizabeth Sobiski
In November of 1911, William C. Durant incorporated the Chevrolet Motor Company.
Since then, the company has built a loyal following and many of their cars have become collectible classics. Whether it’s the Corvette (the car of America’s astronauts!), the Camaro of Transformers fame or the 1958 Impala from American Graffiti, people love owning, driving and collecting Chevys. The good news is that there are plenty of ideas for gifts to give the gearhead on your list. Here are the ten best gifts for Chevy classic car collectors:
10. A belt
Okay, this one is almost too simple and too good to be true. There’s a belt – for your pants – that looks like a classic seatbelt. The buckle is a seatbelt buckle embossed with the classic bowtie. Simply lift up on the top of the buckle and you release the catch, just like in an older car. The body of the belt is made from black seatbelt webbing and is as durable as the material used in automobiles. It should be noted that this belt is for fashion uses only and should not be installed in a car as a safety device.
9. Decals
To many classic Chevy collectors, the details are very important, especially when completing a restoration. Decal stickers, such as those used on an oil filler cap, crankcase breather or windshield washer lid are some finishing touches that will make the car stand out. Also consider the decals for air cleaners, air conditioning units or sales decals. You can buy a reproduction of the window sales sticker, just like what was in the car’s window when new at the dealership. The sales sticker can include the correct VIN number and buyer options for that genuine look that car show attendees and judges notice.
8. Apparel
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Automotive themed T-shirts, casual collared shirts, hoodies, and jackets are a few items car lovers deck themselves out in to support their passion. For the casual dresser, look for t-shirts emblazoned with their favorite Chevy model – or the one that’s sitting in the garage. And, what could be better than owning a tri-five? Wearing a Hawaiian styled shirt covered in 1955 – 57 tri-fives! Sweat shirts are great for cooler weather and a Chevy jacket will help keep them toasty in the winter months.
7. Die Casts
These car and truck replicas are perfect for the collector on your list. Die cast cars are scale models of some of the most popular vehicles around. Know somebody who has always wanted a split window Corvette from 1963? This is the perfect way to get them that car. Or perhaps they love the 1970 Yenko Nova Deuce, a car that is so rare in original form – only 175 of them were made. Die cast cars can fuel dreams and inspire future projects.
6. Cleaners and protectors
Every collector or car enthusiast is dedicated to keeping their ride clean and shiny at all times. Special formula car washes and waxes let the Chevy lover in your life know that you understand their passion. To go along with the car wash, window and chrome cleaners, toss in a chamois and some microfiber towels. These towels are lint-free and help produce a streak-free shine. Give applicator pads to go with the wax and more microfiber towels for buffing paint to a deep gloss.
5. Books
From the history of Chevy to shop manuals, there is a book for every collector. Some people love to know the detailed history of their favorite car or truck. For them, books such as Zora Arkus-Duntov: The Legend Behind the Corvette by Jerry Burton, is a gift that will melt their hearts. For others, having the real shop manuals are invaluable for understanding exactly how the car was put together. These manuals detail all aspects of the vehicle, from wiring diagrams to firing order. No mechanic or shop should be without a set for their car.
4. Furniture
When it’s time to relax and enjoy looking at your car, you’ll need something to sit on or a place to hold a drink. Chevy branding extends beyond the automotive realm and into your garage or home. What garage, man cave or backyard entertainment area would be complete without bar or counter stools featuring the signature bow tie? Also look for tables with the iconic emblem, as well as dishes and glassware. The list goes on and on.
3. Floor mats
Help them protect their investment by giving the car enthusiast on your list floor or cargo mats made just for their collectible car. The logo, name and other brand identifiers are stitched onto cut or loop pile carpet and protect the carpet underneath. Some companies also offer vinyl protector mats that are embossed with all things Chevy. To make it even more personal, consider having either their name or the name they’ve given their car put on the mats.
2. Novelty items
Life is more fun when you can carry your passion with you wherever you go. Look for items such as phone cases or purses for the Chevy lover in your life. Other ideas include themed sunglasses, hats and shoes. Clocks will help them keep track of time spent working on their car or truck. Keychains are another option. These are highly customizable and can be found in almost every parts store or automotive section in stores.
1. Garage art
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No garage is complete without posters of long admired cars. Some highlight the car or truck by itself in all its glory. Others show the car in a scene from a movie or in everyday life. And to see those posters, they will need light. Possibly even neon light from a classic dealership sign. Can’t find an original? No worries, many places offer reproductions of these signs to light up your world.