Paint testing for originality

[Tracker1]

Can paint be tested to determine originality? So can a sample be taken from a door jamb and be sent somewhere to determine if it is the original factory-applied GM paint from 1969?

thanks

[Schonyenko2]

I don't know that you can age date the paint. It should be laquer. Most repaints back in the day were either synthetic enamel, or later acrylic enamel. Repair work/blending was usually done in laquer. Door jambs most times didn't get repainted on a complete spray unless it was a color change.

You can wipe some thinner on a rag across an area of that jamb and see if the paint comes off. If it does, it's most likley laquer, and would point to being original,

FWIW

[TechNova]

Usually an experienced eye can tell.
Take it to a body shop that has been around for a while. they know what to look for.

[miket1]

Original factory paint is a very thin layer compared to most, but not all, repainted cars, check the thickness of the paint first to get an idea.