Robert Martinez' 1949 Ford

Robert's Ford was featured in Trend Book 122 Custom Cars 1956 Annual.

Robert's Ford as it appeared when it was featured in Trend Book 122 Custom Cars 1956 Annual. Photo by Bob Hardee, courtesy of Trend Books.

Photo by Bob Hardee, courtesy of Trend Books.

1949 Ford owned and restyled by Robert Martinez of San Diego, California. Around 1955 - 1956, Robert worked with Carroll "Red Eye" Gentry at Styler's Custom Shop. By November of 1956, he had started his own shop, Broadway Auto Body Shop in Chula Vista, California. Robert did everything on the Ford himself. He started up front, where the hood was nosed, and the corners rounded. A new grille opening, that housed a 1953 Chevrolet grille was made, and the front of the hood was lowered 3 inches before dechromed and frenched 1951 Mercury headlights were installed. The rear fender seams were filled and the taillights were frenched. The doors and trunk were shaved for handles and operated electrically. The rear of the car was lowered by de-arching the springs. The bumpers were shaved for bumperettes, for a cleaner appearance. Custom accessories included dual spotlights and fender skirts. Once the bodywork was done, the car was painted in a striking red and white enamel. A rolled interior was made to match the paint job. Robert's Ford was featured in Trend Book 122 Custom Cars 1956 Annual, featuring photos by Bob Hardee. According to the text, Robert had been interested in cars for 15 years.

Magazine Features and Appearances

Trend Book 122 Custom Cars 1956 Annual