Classic/Antique Car Repair: original paint color 1952 Packard, packard cars, paint color

Question
I'm restoring a 1952 Packard for my dad as a surprise gift, and I'd like to have it repainted its original color. I looked on the inside driver's side door as instructed, and the color code lists the letter R and the number 7. However, my research online shows that the color R (sardonyx) didn't appear on the Packards until 1955. Can you help me figure out this discrepancy? Thanks!

Answer
Hello Rebecca,

Sorry for the delayed reply but I researched this myself and came up with the same information as you. With what I have, one explanation could be that the purchaser ordered this paint color special order which did occur more commonly than you might think during this time. For luxury and high line makes especially, this request was fairly common.

To investigate more deeply, I'd suggest contacting one or both of the national Packard clubs and talk to their model year experts. Packard Cars International is one and have been very helpful to me in the past.

Good luck!

Bob