Ford Aquamarine (C (1960)) Touch Up Paint

The Look

1960 was the year of the "Square Bird," and this color is the definition of that mid-century aesthetic. It is a bright, cheerful blue-green that looks just as good on a Galaxie as it does on the iconic Thunderbird. Because this shade was part of the Diamond Lustre line, it was designed to provide a deep, enamel-like gloss that captured the optimism of the new decade. It is a vibrant choice that makes the heavy chrome of the early sixties pop, though like most pastels, it requires a clean surface to keep the color from looking muted by road film.

Technical Details

This is a solid finish, meaning it contains no metallic flakes or pearls. The lack of sparkle makes this an easier project than the "Poly" colors of the same era because you do not have to worry about particles bunching up or creating dark stripes. However, solid colors are honest. They show every detail of your technique and any shift in the original paint. Since your car has likely spent decades in the sun, the original finish may have faded. This makes thin, controlled layers vital so you can build the depth of the color to match the surrounding panels.

Best Practices

You can find your data plate on the driver's side door pillar, usually located between the hinges. Before you spray or dab Ford Aquamarine (check for code C (1960)), you need to shake it for 60 seconds to ensure the pigments are mixed. Test the color on the included card before you touch the car to confirm the shade is right for your specific level of fade. When you begin, keep the container moving to prevent the paint from pooling in one spot. Use multiple light coats and allow plenty of drying time between each one to ensure the finish stays flat and smooth.