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Domed Labels and the Model T:

A Look Back at How It All Started

When I think about the legacy I’ve had the privilege to carry forward at Auld Technologies, my mind often goes back to one iconic symbol of American ingenuity: the Model T.

Not because we built it. But because the Auld name helped brand it.

Let me explain.

Back in the early 1900s, while Henry Ford was revolutionizing transportation, the Auld company was already deep into what they did best: crafting decorative enamel nameplates and badges that elevated machines into icons. This wasn’t just labeling...it was brand storytelling in metal, built to last.

By the 1920s, Auld was producing nearly 80% of all nameplates in the automotive industry. That kind of footprint doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when you care about the quality of your work and the meaning behind it.

When I acquired Auld Technologies years ago, it was that same commitment to craftsmanship that drew me in. I didn’t start this company but I’ve always had deep respect for what the Auld name stood for then, and what it continues to represent today.

From Metal to Modern: The Rise of Domed Labels

Domed labels came onto the scene later as a way to deliver that same premium look and feel without the limitations of traditional metals. With a clear polyurethane dome, brands suddenly had a way to stand out, last longer, and look better in nearly any environment.

To me, domed labels are the modern-day equivalent of those original enamel nameplates. They offer depth, texture, and a tactile sense of identity. Whether you're applying one to a motorcycle fuel tank, a commercial appliance, or a product that’s going to live outdoors for 10+ years, it makes a statement.

That’s why Auld continues to invest in them. Because the power of a first impression hasn’t changed even if the tools have.

Honoring the Legacy While Building What’s Next

People often ask me what it’s like to lead a company that’s been around for over 150 years. Truthfully, it’s humbling.

I didn’t build Auld but I’m proud to be part of its ongoing story. Every label we make today carries with it the spirit of those early decades: precision, pride, and the belief that small details matter.

The Model T didn’t need touchscreens or LED logos to feel like a revolution. It just needed to look the part—and back then, Auld made sure it did.

That mindset still drives us. Whether we’re crafting domed labels, backlit overlays, or decals for today’s market, we aim to elevate the brand behind the product. Just like Auld always has.

If you look around, chances are you’ll still spot one of our emblems from the ‘90s to early 2000s out in the world—still looking as sharp as ever. That kind of thing isn’t just cool to see, it’s a reminder of the legacy we’ve been trusted to carry on.

Thanks for letting me share a piece of our history and a piece of what inspires us to keep pushing forward.

Robert Pantonella Signature