Good Question, Terry! I'm not positive that any of the stepdowns came with the "Mail-slot" or small glass window with the metal frame. There was an interesting option that Frank Spring held the patent on, in which the glass rear window "folded" or was hinged in the middle to facilitate fitting into the well. I believe this was an option and the standard was the vinyl window. Orlon fabric was the other top option (along with color, to some extent).

I couldn't resist on mine and had to have the small window. Completely impractical, but very sexy!

I look forward to other's inputs.

No historical information here, but the small window is a look I associate with long, low, sleek cars.

The example Russell posted looks especially good with the contrasting trim.

I've owned and driven cars with both the small slot window, and the full soft "window" and the small one wins hands down.
Though smaller, real glass is far easier to see through, and doesn't haze over from age and scratches.
Being able to unclip, or unzip the larger "window" is nice on a hot day to allow better airflow when the top is up, though many with the small window can still be "opened up" in this manner.

Rob

Russ I was more concerned about creating a sag in the back area because of the extra weight of the frame and glass over time. Did your top maker sew the frame dimensions in or did you have to take it to another upholsterer? It is a nice look. Terry

As I recall, the small glass window was standard, the large flexible plastic window was an option. Maybe Alex's info includes an option list. I've had both types of windows, and prefer the visibility out the larger window as long as it was an option for the car.

I beleave the large window was first a option in 51 and the small window was standerd from what i was told and read and 52 and up the large window was used

Daniel-

That sounds right. I think I remember reading that in the past.

Terry-
Bob Rosol in NJ made the top for me (whom I was told recently stopped making tops and carpet sets). I got a rear window curtain that was solid. I took my window frame, laid it out, marked all of the screw holes on the fabric, punched out the holes and installed the glass and frame. Lastly, I cut the excess from in front of the glass and removed. It IS much heavier than a vinyl back window, but is not a problem when properly installed.

Russ,

Long before I had an interest in Hudson, I looked forward to the occasional Hudson I would see painted black and red as your is!
It is beautiful.

Per

visibility through one of those "mail slot" windows is terrible ,but I admit. they look cool. The two piece folding glass window that Russ mentioned, is extremely rare. there was a convertible offered on EBay recently that had one. I have never seen one in person. Sure would like to find one..

Russ, so the area that holds the frame is removable, ie zippered? I seem to be a day late and a dollar short when it comes to finding someone to fabricate items for me....Mr. Rosol and the gentleman who does the steering wheel and other plastics- Mr. Fayette (sorry if I misspelled the name) but, the project goes on! Terry

Yes, that back area where the window resides is "zipperred" (or zipped) and can be folded down in the well with the top up. The zipper hides behind the flap (the part that makes up the majority of the top).

I may be passing on heresy, so if I am, please excuse me. The part about Bob was given to me at the National, but I have not verified it.
Mr. Rob Fayette knows of another source for carpets and tops, so it would be pertinent to contact him. Email me for more information.

Thanks, Per! We didn't get a chance to visit in Colorado Springs, but I actually was shadowing you quite a bit at Glen Eeyrie. Just didn't make it happen. Will have to do that in Chatanooga, and the car will be there.

I orderd a carpet from Bob Rosol 7-8 weeks ago and got it 2weeks befor colorado springs
when I taked to him he was still selling carpet but NO TOP

Thank you, Daniel!

Bob is selling carpets but he told me he sold his patterns to someone in NY. So he no longer makes them. I guess he gets a commission on each sale? Got mine last week. I didn't ask him about tops.