Vintage Gulf “Multi-G” Multigrade Motor Oil Cardboard Garage Sign 1970s / 80s

Vintage Gulf “Multi-G” Multigrade Motor Oil Cardboard Garage Sign 1970s / 80s

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Displayed with other items illustration only for sale separately

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A bold and nostalgic piece of vintage petrol station advertising, this Gulf “Multi-G” Multigrade Motor Oil sign showcases the iconic orange and blue branding that became synonymous with motoring culture in the mid-to-late 20th century.

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The sign is printed on lightweight cardboard, a material commonly used for temporary garage and forecourt promotional displays. Such signs were typically hung in workshops, windows, or near oil displays to advertise new lubricants and special offers. Because they were made from cardboard rather than metal or enamel, relatively few survive in good condition today — making examples like this particularly appealing to collectors of petroliana and automotive advertising.

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The sign is double-sided, with the classic Gulf logo on one side and advertising for “Multi-G Multigrade Motor Oil” on the reverse. Its bright colour scheme and simple graphic design perfectly capture the era when service stations were filled with bold promotional signage.

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This piece would make a wonderful decorative item for:

A garage or workshop

Classic car enthusiasts

Man-cave or automotive themed interiors

A petroliana collection

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Maker History

The sign advertises products from Gulf Oil, one of the most famous petroleum brands in the world.

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Founded in 1901, Gulf Oil grew rapidly during the early automobile age and became a major global oil company. By the mid-20th century Gulf was known for its strong marketing presence and distinctive branding.

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Key historical highlights include:

Opening one of the world’s first drive-in service stations in 1913

Developing advanced motor oils and additives as engines evolved

Introducing the instantly recognisable orange disc Gulf logo

Becoming a legendary name in international motorsport, particularly endurance racing

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The Multi-G motor oil range was part of Gulf’s development of multigrade lubricants, designed to perform efficiently across a range of temperatures — a major advancement compared to earlier single-grade oils.

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Approximate Date

Likely 1970s–1980s

(The typography and “Multi-G” branding are typical of Gulf’s marketing from this period.)

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Condition

Vintage condition consistent with garage display:

Light surface marks and staining

Minor edge wear

Slight creasing typical of cardboard signage

Original hanging hole present with metal hanging hook included

These signs were never designed for long-term durability, so surviving examples naturally show some age.

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Approximate Size

36 cm wide

32 cm round

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Why We Love It

At Objet d’Art Stuff, pieces like this capture the working history of everyday life — the era of forecourt service, oil racks, and classic engines.

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The bright Gulf colours and bold typography make this sign instantly recognisable and wonderfully nostalgic.