pictures of leather covered arm rests

[Tom Colitt]

Hi

Does anyone have any pictures of an original U.S. model 280SL arm rest that was covered with leather from the factory? This seems to be a commonly overlooked item by the manufacturers of leather seat kits and I'd love to verify the exact shape and thickness of the piping that goes along the edge.

Thanks,

Tom Colitt

[joelj]

I'd like to see this too.

I did not know the 280sl had an arm rest as an original factory option.

Joel-j

[Douglas]

Just sent a large photo to you via e-mail, Tom. I'll post a smaller one here later tonight.

Douglas Kim
New York
USA

[rwmastel]

You mean the arm rest on the door or a center arm rest?

Rodd
Powell, Ohio, USA
1966 230SL, Euro, Auto, Leather, both  tops
1994 E420

[114015]

No Rodd,

Tom refers to the door panel armrest which looks different from ours in US-version 280 SLs.
Those look basically like the backseat door panel armrests of a W 115 sedan.
However, Tom is right, 280ies with leather interior had also the armrests lined with leather.

Center armrest were not available from the factory. Those are always aftermarket.

Best,

Achim
(Magdeburg, Germany)

[joelj]

Door panel armrest Ok thanks. I thought it was the center armrest. i was thinking of putting one in my 280sl, but now knowing that it is not a factory option, I will just keep my pagoda stock.

Cheers,

Joel

[Mark in KS]

Well, I don't have a leather armrest, but I do have an armrest installed on my 230SL.  It was there when I bought it and I have grown accustomed to resting my arm there and keeping my fingers on the shift knob.  Frankly, I would miss it if it wasn't there.

Download Attachment: arm1.jpg
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Download Attachment: arm2.jpg
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[RBurg]

Mark - what height did you find comfortable for your arm rest.  Nice Job!

Ron - Minnesota
71 280SL Tobacco "O GIGI"
97 E420 Silver Mist

[n/a]

I have exactly the same thing in mine and I definitely concur that it makes the cruising so much more comfortable. It is a very nice option to have.

Louis 70 280sl Red Auto

[Mark in KS]

The "arm rest" comes up about 4 1/2 to 5 inches above the top of the tray top.  It depends on the height of the driver, but this is very suitable for me and I'm 6' 0" tall.  My insert frame is designed to be pressed into the tray so that it will stay stable.  It works quite well.

[Douglas]

Here's a small photo of a factory leather-covered armrest on the driver's side:

Download Attachment: 132.jpg
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Douglas Kim
New York
USA