The 1956 Ford F-100 Pickup remains a favorite for customizers, but few examples possess the historical gravity of the truck known as Reflections. This all-steel masterpiece was born from a ten-year labor of love between a father and son in Portland, Oregon. Completed between 1966 and 1976, the project resulted in a one-off rotisserie build that defies traditional classification. It stands as a time capsule of elite show-truck culture from the mid-twentieth century. The truck is now prepared to find a new home at the Glendale 2026 auction.
Hall of Fame Pedigree and Show Success
Since its debut, this 1956 Ford F-100 Pickup has dominated the competitive circuit with thirty-four total wins. It earned an induction into the Portland Roadster Show Hall of Fame in 1986 after securing seven sweepstakes titles. Furthermore, it received a prestigious invitation to the very first Hot August Nights indoor show. There, it walked away with trophies for both Best Truck and Best Hand-Built vehicle. These accolades confirm its status as a significant piece of American custom car history.
Intricate Craftsmanship and Gold Inlays
The level of detail found on this F-100 goes far beyond modern bolt-on restorations. Artisans canted the front fenders and pulled them in nearly five inches to sharpen the profile. All body seams were meticulously lead-filled rather than using modern plastic fillers for a seamless look. Most notably, the truck features 18-carat gold inlays in seven distinct locations throughout the door jambs and engine bay. Even the windows are hand-etched and beveled, featuring lead-lined glass to match the gold leafing.
A Cabin Defined by Custom Luxury
Opening the doors reveals a specialized interior designed for the ultimate 1970s show experience. The cabin features diamond-tucked leather swivel seats that allow for easy entry and a dramatic display. A built-in bar highlights the social nature of vintage car shows, while pinstriping adorns the door jambs and frame rails. Modernized touches like power windows, power door poppers, and a power antenna provide a sense of luxury. Custom gauges and a functional original heater ensure the interior is as practical as it is stylish.
Chrome Components and Mechanical Detailing
The undercarriage of this 1956 Ford F-100 Pickup is just as impressive as the glossy black exterior. Nearly every component, including the driveline, axles, and leaf springs, features a high-quality chrome finish. Even the brake drums and the entire exhaust system were chromed to meet strict show standards. To ensure long-term durability, the builders color-coded the wiring and encased it in surgical tubing. This prevents rust and corrosion while maintaining a clean appearance for judges and spectators alike.
Rocket Power and Performance Specifications
Under the hood sits a 371 CI Rocket V-8 engine sourced from a 1956 Oldsmobile for period-correct power. It features an Edelbrock intake manifold paired with dual Carter AFB 650 CFM carburetors for maximum performance. This setup sends power through a rugged Top Loader 4-speed manual transmission. For a adjustable stance, the truck utilizes four-corner air shocks and Oldsmobile true-spoke wheels with knock-offs. The engine bay itself is a work of art, featuring extensive pinstriping and chromed headers.
Summary of a Custom Legend
Reflections is more than a 1956 Ford F-100 Pickup; it is a monumental achievement in hand-built automotive art. From the lead-filled seams to the gold-lined glass, every inch reflects a decade of dedicated craftsmanship. Its PHS records, show fliers, and Hall of Fame status make it a highly documented investment. This truck offers a rare chance to own a vehicle that helped define the custom truck movement. It remains a timeless example of what can be achieved through vision and persistence.
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Source: mecum.com
