5 Retro Accessories to Highlight Your Automobile Style

Owners of retro cars know that the real magic of these cars lies in their appearance but more in the atmosphere they create.  That is why decorating such a car is a creative process where every detail is important. Due to interesting accessories you may create an atmosphere that reminds you of the past and adds to your individuality.

When looking for unique accessories for your car, you may come across interesting pieces like retro-coins that add a special charm to the design. So, for example, if you take famous World War II coins (like a penny) as a decoration, then the 1944 wheat penny value can become not just a historical accent, but also a subject of conversation among experts and lovers of antiques. It would seem that accessories are trifles that do not need to be paid so much attention to, but it is these little things that emphasize the taste of their owner. So today we will talk about five accessories that will turn your car into a true symbol of the period.

A close-up of a retro car dashboard showing a leather organizer with antique coins neatly placed inside, a brass compass attached to the dashboard, and a vintage lighter with engraved details.

Best Accessories for Your Classic Car

Want your classic car to stand out, catch the eye and be special, but don't know where to start? Just check out the list of tips and unusual accessories below to get the most attention and emphasize your unique style.

Retro Compasses: Pointers for Travelers

There was a time when compasses served as the main assistant for automobile drivers. Of course, with the advent of GPS, many models lost their functionality but they still remain an interesting decoration. Tabletop or pendant models made of brass or steel will add a vintage charm to your car's interior.

Why choose a compass?

  • It reflects the spirit of adventure and a period when traveling the roads was a real challenge.

  • It's a versatile accessory that will fit perfectly into the interior of any retro car.

Tip: Look for compasses with additional features (i.e., with thermometer or barometer). Mount them on your dashboard or attach them to your rearview mirror with stylish leather straps.

Example of a compass for a retro car:

Model

Material

Features

Pathfinder 1935

Brass

Vintage design, hand engraved

North Star

Stainless steel

Barometer built-in

 

Vintage Lighters: A Spark of Style

A real find for lovers of stylish details - vintage lighters. Such accessories can be both functional and decorative. For example, Zippo models with engraving will perfectly complement the atmosphere of a retro car

What are they for? You can use lighters as a decorative element on the dashboard or in the cup holder. Moreover, they will be the perfect option for thematic photo shoots, additionally showing and highlighting the style of the retro car. At the same time, you should not forget about their functionality, i.e. they can be a great and useful addition during picnics.

How to choose:

  • Give preference to models from well-known brands such as Zippo or Dunhill, which symbolize quality and style.

  • Look for lighters with unique engravings, such as car manufacturer logos or retro designs.

Tip: Buy a lighter with original packaging - this will add value to the accessory. Besides, these models can become a good investment or even an addition to your collection.

Unusual Coins: History in Every Detail

Coins are more than a means of payment, they are also a great decorative element to emphasize the unique style of your retro car. Interesting coins can be used as talismans or decorative elements.

How can they decorate your car?  You can put them in a stylish case and fix them on the dashboard. Another good idea is to use them as part of a key holder or keychain.

Table of interesting retro coins:

 

Coin

Year of Issue

Material

Feature

Morgan Dollar

1880-е

Silver

Was a symbol of wealth, large size

Sovereign Victoria

1890-е

Gold

Portrait of Queen Victoria.

French “Angel”

1871

Gold

Considered a symbol of good luck

 

Lifehack: Download and use the Coin ID Scanner app to find and identify interesting coin variants and get detailed information about them. With the app, you can easily determine the value, rarity and historical significance of your selected coins.

A close-up of a car key showing a retro coin as a keychain.

Leather Organizers: Functionality and Style

Leather organizers are a stylish way to keep the interior of your car tidy. They are practical and aesthetically pleasing, especially when made of aged leather.

They are suitable for:

  • For storing documents such as registration, travel cards or insurance.

  • For accessories such as a lighter, compass or coins.

  • For keeping things neat in the glove compartment or backseat.

To choose worthy options pay attention to the material (high quality genuine leather, which will acquire a beautiful patina over time); design (organizers with compartments of different sizes for convenience); color (classic colors such as cognac, black or dark brown harmonize with retro style).

Lifehack: Buy an organizer with hand stitching - this will emphasize its uniqueness. If you use it to store coins, add a special padded compartment to the accessory.

Retro Thermoses: Road Trip Atmosphere

Enamel-coated thermoses with brightly colored patterns take you back to the time when every trip was a little adventure. They are similar to organizers, i.e. they are both practical tools and beautiful decorative elements that additionally create a retro charm.

You can use them directly for their intended purpose of storing hot or cold drinks on long journeys. Moreover, they will fit perfectly into the overall styling as part of the composition on the front seat, picnic or themed photo shoot and create a cozy atmosphere in the car.

How to choose:

  • Pay attention to enameled models with a metal base.

  • Look for thermoses with bright patterns, retro brand logos or themed drawings.

  • Choose the volume depending on your needs, from compact options to large thermoses.

Details Matters

Creating a retro vibe is more than just about choosing the right car, it's also a question of attention to detail. Compasses, lighters, coins and leather or travel accessories help to personalize your car and create a unique style. Do not be afraid to experiment with accessories to emphasize the character of your car and make it an object of admiration and discussion.