Humbrol

For over one hundred years Humbrol has been producing superior quality paints. During that time Humbrol has become perhaps the best-known name in the modelling field and has established a world-wide reputation for excellence. Founded in 1919 as the Humber Oil Company, Humbrol initially supplied bicycle oil for Hull's growing army of cyclists. In 1935, however, the company was asked to produce paints for renovating cycles, and came up with Art Enamel. At first only black was available, but demand for other colours rapidly followed, and two years later a range of twelve colours was launched. These came in 'tinlets' sufficient to repaint a complete cycle frame and mudguards - and all for just sixpence! That emphasis on value was to become a central feature of Humbrol’s operations, and remains so to this day.

In the early 1950s the introduction of the plastic kit ushered in a new era in modelling - and Humbrol responded with One Hour Humbrol Plastic Enamel Paint in some fifty shades, and the 'Paint Locker' display cabinet that swiftly became a vital feature of any modelling shop.