Grey or faded black?

[1911Ron]

I have two grey colored kettles, that some say they are faded black.  My question is if they are faded black how is it that they are faded so even?  Both of my kettles are from different eras so it couldn't be a bad prep (as Dodge trucks in 2001 and Chevys have had bad paint jobs) so what is the story on these?  To me it doesn't matter but would love to clear it up. Thanks

[Craig]

As time goes by, the more I think of the faded or "sage" black kettles, I've got to think that it's from a combination of high heat from inside the kettle, oxidation, and possibly from being uncovered for years. My red 1960s kettle has grey porcelain inside, yet my 1978 brown and 1979 red 22's have black porcelain on the inside....my 1995 red 22 is slightly greyer inside than my '70s kettles, but not as grey as my 60s 18.5. I really think that its a combination of factors with the outside of the black kettles. Having said all that, I like the grey fades, it gives them character. I've seen anywhere from '70s to early '00s kettles in various stages of fading....my neighbor across the street has a 2000 OTS that has never been covered and it's greying a tiny bit.

[G]

that black 18 with the thumbscrews is sweet......

I agree with Craig.  I think sun and oxidation are the culprits.

[javahog2002]

Ron ,

That last picture looks like my "grey" fade 18.  I also just picked up a 22 that I thought was supposed to be green.  It turns out to be "grey" fade also. I will post some pictures.  I think it will be the same as yours.   The 18 is a '77 and the 22 is a '80

[1911Ron]

As time goes by, the more I think of the faded or "sage" black kettles, I've got to think that it's from a combination of high heat from inside the kettle, oxidation, and possibly from being uncovered for years. My red 1960s kettle has grey porcelain inside, yet my 1978 brown and 1979 red 22's have black porcelain on the inside....my 1995 red 22 is slightly greyer inside than my '70s kettles, but not as grey as my 60s 18.5. I really think that its a combination of factors with the outside of the black kettles. Having said all that, I like the grey fades, it gives them character. I've seen anywhere from '70s to early '00s kettles in various stages of fading....my neighbor across the street has a 2000 OTS that has never been covered and it's greying a tiny bit.

Both of my interiors are black, the 22" (Ethel ) is an early 60's so......  Both of them are the same shade, that had me wondering if they didn't come that way from the factory, i don't know?  For both to fade (different eras) the same has me confused

[Kirk Fortin]

Yeah i just picked up one of these too today about 2 hours ago for $20, not sure they age yet. There is alot to read on

[pbe gummi bear]

Post a pic. If its undated, we can get you close!