Despite a history of making tractors that dated back to 1847, Allis-Chalmers had as little as four percent of the market in the early 20th century. But 1939 changed all that with the their introduction of the famed Model “B”. At 2085 pounds, it was light in weight and powerful enough for farms of 100 acres or less. The price of $500 was affordable, especially considering the rubber tires alone were usually an extra at $150 or more.
But it was the new colour of Persian Orange that sealed the deal: farmers loved the Model “B” and bought it like hotcakes. The company rose to become the third largest tractor manufacturer in North America, rivalling John Deere and Massey-Harris and setting a new standard with their combination of performance, price and style. From then on, every piece of equipment they made was painted Persian Orange.
“Orange is the colour of positive thinking and optimism.” ~ Remez Sasson
