I recently picked up this striking instrument cluster:
It was originally in a 1930 Hudson:
The bold geometric shapes epitomize art deco style and represent the time period beautifully. I found a 1930 newspaper article that described the California debut of the ’30 Hudson that took place at the Walter M. Murphy building at the corner of Flower and Eleventh Streets in L.A.:
The Hudson’s premiere was apparently one auspicious occasion. It was a radio-broadcasted and star-studded event that included an orchestra, famous actors performing song-and-dance numbers and a fashion show featuring 26 beautiful models wearing everything from negligees to evening gowns.
Notice the odometer reads 90413:
That seems like a high number for the timer period, but not for this particular automobile. The Hudson was known for its reliability and won many endurance contests such as those listed in this advertisement:
The Hudson 213.8-cubic inch straight-eight was known as the “Great Eight” and was the best-selling 8-cylinder of 1930. It was offered in ten models on two chassis (119 and 126-wheel base) and prices started at $1050. Honestly, I would have bought it just for the dash.
Sources:
Film Stars Will Twinkle at Brilliant Opening of Walter M. Murphy Building Tonight.” Los Angeles Times, 15 January 1930, p. 11.
“Great Eight Novel Type in Hudsons.” Los Angeles Times, 15 January 1930, p. 11.
Hudson. Advertisement. The Santa Maria Daily Times, 11 January 1930, p. 8.
Hudson. Advertisement. Los Angeles Times, 7 August 1930, p. 7.
“U.S. Made Car Dominates in Stamina Test.” Oakland Tribune, 10 August 1930, p. 3.