Vintage Gates Rubber Co \"Mystery Car Winner\" Belt Buckle Limited Edition Chad For Sale

Up for grabs is a rare piece of mid-century automotive history: an original Gates Rubber Company \"Mystery Car Winner\" promotional belt buckle.

​Back in the day, the Gates Rubber Company (a major manufacturer of automotive belts and hoses) sent secret shoppers—known as \"Mystery Cars\"—to local service stations. If a gas station attendant proactively checked under the hood and recommended a Gates fan belt, they were awarded on the spot with exclusive prizes, including this exact belt buckle.

​Design Details:

​Front: Features a highly detailed 3D relief of a mysterious masked driver in a wide-brimmed hat and windblown scarf gripping a steering wheel. The classic cursive \"Gates\" logo sits on the left, flanked by \"MYSTERY CAR WINNER.\"

​Back: Stamped with \"LIMITED EDITION BY CHAD ©\" alongside standard belt loop and pin hardware.

\"Limited Edition by Chad\" is the maker\'s mark for The Chad Manufacturing Corp, a metal foundry based in Denver, Colorado, that was highly active in the 1970s and 1980s. They specialized in heavy-duty metal belt buckles and were frequently hired by large companies to produce custom promotional merchandise and employee awards, just like this piece for the Gates Rubber Company.

​Condition Details:

This buckle is in nice vintage shape with a natural patina that perfectly accents the depth of the 3D relief. The back hardware is fully functional. Measures 3 7/8\" W and 2 3/4\" L. Please review all photos for exact condition.

​Shipping & Handling:

Ships safely and securely by SELLER within one business day. The buckle will be carefully wrapped and shipped in a protective padded mailer to ensure it arrives exactly as pictured. Any questions please reach out and thank you for looking!