WTB: OEM-style 13" Alloys

[pzaver]

I'm looking for a set of four, decent (straight, no curb-rash or serious corrosion or bends) OEM/FPS/Cromodora-style alloy wheels with or without center caps. Must be willing/able to ship to Toronto, Canada at my expense of course. Thanks, Peter

[wegweiser]

The wheels themselves are are available and not too gonzo expensive... and they're reallllly nice. The center caps are a bit precious though... and I can get OEM lug nuts for them for $2.85 each (you will need new lug nuts if you're going from steel wheels to alloys...the taper / shape is different)

http://www.bmwmobiletradition-online.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=2581&mospid=47131&btnr=36_0363&hg=36&fg=15

[pzaver]

Thanks Paul!

[Conserv]

3 hours ago, pzaver said:

Thanks Paul!

FPS (Fratelli Pedrini Sarezzo) was the manufacturer for both the period versions (1971-74-ish) and the modern duplicates (1999-ish through today) — I’ve seen a modern set dated 2001, but I believe there are even earlier examples of the modern version. Same great quality and finish for both versions. The biggest difference — “biggest” with tongue-in-cheek — is that the period version says “FPS” on the reverse while the modern version says “FPS” on the face. That’s it. The photo in your original post is of a modern version... ?

 

I find that the cost of good period set, restored nicely, is about the same as a new set — unless you get an absolute steal on the period set.

 

That’s it!
 

Regards,

 

Steve

 

 

 

[wegweiser]

The finish on the new ones is actually FAR BETTER and smoother.

[Conserv]

20 hours ago, wegweiser said:

The finish on the new ones is actually FAR BETTER and smoother.

I have both, Paul, and don’t see that difference. Of course, my period versions have been refinished — who knows how many times? — and that may certainly have improved on the original finish.

 

Back in the early 1970’s, the early OEM alloys were virtually unknown and unseen here in the States, at least where I lived, in southeast Pennsylvania.

 

Best regards,

 

Steve

 

[wegweiser]

The original production run were a much rougher sand cast finish. The new ones have a much smoother finish with loads of delicious clear on them.

 

[shermanmartinez]

The casting of the original wheels as well as the finish is not as smooth as the reproduction wheels.  I have the original alloys from my one owner previous to me 73tii.  The wheels have never been refinished.