Topic: Re: RtR #001 Solved - Coach/Opera lamps for identifying limousines

[RayTheRat]

My first puzzle.  I don't know what this lamp is and I've been trying to find info on it for quite a while.  The purpose of this puzzle isn't to play guessing games, but for one point, please enlighten me (pun not intended) as to its proper name and use.  I have a hunch that since there are different shapes/figures on the lenses, they might have different meanings.  If someone knows the "codes" and meanings, I'll award another point.

I don't need to warn about Google Image Search, since I've already tried it with several of these lamps and I haven't gotten anywhere.

RtR

[RayTheRat]

 

[Otto Puzzell]

 

[RayTheRat]

 

Professional help needed.

Here's a hint...for what it's worth.  The lamp in question was mounted atop a 1938 Packard 1608 Twelve All-Weather Cabriolet by Brunn, shown in this photo at Pebble Beach.

[guido66]

I think it was meant to give the car right of way, just like a police car with flashing blue lights. Probably for a high ranking government official.

[Otto Puzzell]

I read something in Hemming's Classic Car recently, that mentioned the upper crust affixed colored lamps to their chauffeur driven steeds, in order to quickly discern which was their own, should a grouping of such be lined up at an event or venue.

[Otto Puzzell]

Here's the text - July 2012 issue:

[RayTheRat]

We have a winner!  Thank you for the explanation.

RtR

[Oguerrerob]

I've found this VW ad with a lamp

[RayTheRat]

Kool!